Many people might not choose to visit Eastern Europe for their travels because of factors such as buildings from the Communist era, conflicts in the 1990s, and recent border disputes. However, they are missing out on a hidden gem.
Eastern Europe is filled with stunning old towns painted in charming pastel colors, fascinating ancient history, vibrant nightlife, and diverse natural landscapes including expansive lakes and majestic mountains.
This region surprises and delights its visitors with a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and ethnic diversity, making it increasingly popular as a vacation destination.
25. Butrint National Park
Butrint National Park is located in Albania, in the southern region of the Balkans, which is often not visited by many tourists. The park offers a wide range of natural features such as lakes, marshes, grassy plains, wetlands, and even archaeological sites. Among these sites is the ancient city of Butrint, also known as Buthrotum in Latin.
It is known for its well-preserved Roman-era theater and a Greek acropolis with remarkable ancient architecture. Additionally, the park is home to remote and rocky islands, one of which has a 15th-century Venetian fortress called Ali Pasha Castle. For those planning to stay in Butrint, there are only a few informal, family-run accommodations available.
24. High Tatras
The highest range of mountains in the Carpathian Mountains is located on the border of northern Slovakia. Mount Krivan, the tallest peak, is a symbol of pride for Slovaks and attracts many climbers. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, including over a hundred emerald lakes, breathtaking waterfalls, and picturesque Alpine meadows.
It is a perfect destination for hiking, and during the winter, skiers come to enjoy the snow-covered slopes of the High Tatras. Fortunately, there is a variety of accommodation options available, including lodgings by the lake or cozy retreats in the mountains.
23. Kyiv
Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, is a fascinating city with a rich history. It was founded in the 5th century AD and is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe. Kyiv was once the center of the federation of Kievan Rus’, adding to its historical significance.
Visitors can explore various historical sites, such as the Pechersk Lavra complex, which is an important Orthodox Christian church, and the Saint Sophia Cathedral, known for its stunning interiors and golden domes. Additionally, the Motherland Monument, a remarkable Soviet structure made of concrete, leaves visitors in awe. On weekends, Khreschatyk Street becomes a bustling pedestrian area where people can relax and enjoy their time off.
22. Prague
Prague earned the nickname ‘City of 100 Spires’ because it has a lot of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture with tall spires that give the city a unique skyline. It is the capital of the Czech Republic now, but it used to be the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia in the past.
Prague has many historical sights, such as the Prague Castle from the 9th century. The Charles Bridge, built in the 14th century, is another notable attraction with its impressive Gothic towers. In the old town square, you can find the Prague Astronomical Clock, which is the oldest working clock of its kind in the world.
Prague is a popular city destination in Europe, offering a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, bars, and nightlife options for visitors to enjoy.
21. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Located in central Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park is known for its breathtaking 16 terraced lakes, connected by waterfalls that cascade into a mesmerizing limestone canyon. This magnificent destination offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventurous individuals who appreciate stunning landscapes, including invigorating hikes.
As you explore the park, you will encounter well-maintained boardwalks and hiking trails that meander through captivating limestone formations and cliffs, providing panoramic views of the vibrant waters of the lakes. The unique colors of the lakes can be attributed to the varying mineral contents of each one.
It is not surprising that this enchanting area was selected as Croatia’s first national park and has become an incredibly popular destination, particularly during the summer months.
20. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, located in the south of Croatia by the Adriatic Sea, is well-known for its old town. This historic part of the city has walls dating back to medieval times and although it was damaged during the Balkan Wars in 1991, it has since been restored to its original splendor. Exploring the old city walls offers the chance to admire the beautiful Baroque architecture and relaxing at restaurants along the streets is a great way to soak in the city’s magnificence.
For a taste of local life, taking a leisurely stroll along the main pedestrian walkway called Stradun, visiting the market in Gundulic Square to shop for fresh produce, and finding accommodation to rest at are all recommended. Additionally, fans of popular TV series like Game of Thrones and Star Wars will be delighted to discover that the fortress has served as a filming location.
19. Riga
Latvia’s capital, situated on the Baltic Sea, offers a blend of traditional and modern lifestyles. The city is vibrant and has a lively atmosphere with a mix of culture and charming cobblestone streets. Riga’s old town showcases stunning Art Nouveau architecture and Gothic spires.
Additionally, the central market is bustling, offering a variety of tasty treats like cheese, sausage, and black bread, perfect for enjoying a picnic in one of Riga’s beautiful parks. As the night approaches, you can unwind with a refreshing cocktail or enjoy a local beer at one of the numerous pubs in the city.
18. Budapest
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and it is located on the Danube River. It used to be the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city is actually made up of three different parts: Buda, Pest, and Obuda. Pest is found in the eastern part and is known for its stunning Neo-Gothic spires, especially the magnificent Parliament Building.
Buda, on the other hand, has a medieval Castle Hill, a historical Matthias Church from the 13th century, and the beautiful Fisherman’s Bastion. This area has a long history dating back to the Roman era. Obuda is even older and was the capital of Pannonia during Roman times, established around 106 AD.
In Budapest, you can relax and enjoy the famous thermal baths, attend an opera performance, explore Margaret Island by bike, and visit the unique and renowned ruin bars.
17. Cesky Krumlov
Cesky Krumlov is a beautiful and historic city located in the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. The city has a picturesque setting with orange-tiled rooftops, a pretty riverside along the Vltava River, and green, rolling hills surrounding it.
It is known for its Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with an impressive 13th-century castle overseeing the town. The castle showcases a blend of different architectural styles from various periods, and there is also a stunning Baroque theatre to admire. The town is incredibly charming and captivating, making it a must-visit destination. During summer, it comes to life in the evenings with vibrant bars and restaurants.
16. Lake Balaton
The holiday spot of Lake Balaton in western Hungary has many beautiful beaches and resort towns. It is the largest lake in Eastern Europe and is known as the ‘Hungarian Inner Sea.’ On the northern shores, you can visit Szigliget, a town with a medieval fortress, and Tihany, the oldest medieval town in the area.
Tihany is especially known for its stunning Baroque abbey. If you enjoy wine, Lake Balaton is famous for its vineyards scattered throughout the surrounding hills. Windsurfing and sailing are popular activities in the summer.
15. Lake Bled
Slovenia has a stunning lake called Lake Bled which is located in the Julian Alps. The lake looks incredibly beautiful, like a mirror, and is surrounded by hills covered in trees and mountains with snowy peaks. It is considered as one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Eastern Europe.
In Lake Bled, you can find Bled Castle, which is perched high on a cliff above the lake, as well as Bled Island in the middle of the lake. To reach the island, you can take traditional wooden boats known as pletna. There are many hiking paths that wind through forests and villages around the lake.
The town of Bled is a popular place to stay and explore the lake, but you can also easily reach Lake Bled by staying in the capital city of Ljubljana.
14. Krakow
Krakow, a city in southern Poland near the Czech Republic, used to be a former royal capital. It offers a captivating blend of medieval architecture and vibrant nightlife perfect for younger crowds. One of Krakow’s famous attractions is its old town, which includes the magnificent 13th-century Rynek Glowny.
This bustling market square is lined with cafes and features the iconic Cloth Hall at its center. Additionally, Krakow is known for its Old Jewish Quarter, called Kazimierz. Previously inhabited by the Jewish community, Kazimierz has undergone a revitalization and now boasts trendy boutiques and excellent restaurants.
Visitors can also explore the locations showcased in the movie Schindler’s List. If planning a trip to Krakow, it may be helpful to consider the recommended accommodations.
13. Moscow
Moscow, the Russian capital, is a must-visit place with its fascinating attractions. One of the main highlights is the Kremlin, which was originally a castle but now serves as the presidential complex.
Red Square, a symbol of Russia’s power, is another must-see, along with Lenin’s Mausoleum where you can observe the resting place of the former Communist leader. Additionally, the vibrant and colorful onion domes of Saint Basil’s Cathedral are simply breathtaking.
If you want to learn more about Moscow’s history, museums like the Pushkin State Museum and the State Tretyakov Gallery are worth exploring. A visit to the iconic Bolshoi Theatre will give you the opportunity to witness world-renowned ballet performances. For those seeking a lively nightlife scene and enjoyable bars, the Garden Ring District is the place to be, as it reflects the vibrant energy of Moscow’s younger generation.
12. Tallinn
Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is a captivating place. Its old town, which was built hundreds of years ago as a defensive structure, gives you a sense of history as soon as you pass through the impressive Viru Gates. Some parts of the city wall can still be walked on, offering views of the beautiful city below.
From the Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform on Toompea Hill, you can also enjoy stunning panoramas of the city skyline. Additionally, Tallinn boasts historic churches like Saint Olaf’s Church, which has been standing since the 1200s. Moreover, Tallinn has a trendy side too. Telliskivi Creative City, made up of former warehouses, is now home to fashionable restaurants, bars, and shops.
11. Transylvania
The region of Transylvania in Romania is famous for stories about Dracula and vampires, even though they are not entirely true. However, the area is known for its beautiful natural scenery. Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, visiting Transylvania feels like traveling to a peaceful medieval world.
The countryside is filled with picturesque villages and local life, with pastures and hills covered in trees. Transylvania is home to many historic fortresses built by medieval German settlers, including the well-known Bran Castle, often called Dracula’s Castle.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the colorful city of Sighisoara, with its Saxon medieval architecture. Additionally, make sure to experience the region’s numerous thermal springs.
10. Minsk
Minsk is the capital city of Belarus, though it was completely destroyed during World War II. Unfortunately, there aren’t many historical monuments or buildings left in the city. Instead, Minsk primarily consists of Stalinist architecture such as Independence Square and the former KGB headquarters, as well as newer, impressive churches.
Nowadays, Minsk is a modern city with trendy cafes where you can relax and have a coffee, restaurants serving international cuisine, and captivating art galleries. It’s a cosmopolitan capital that appears to be keeping up with the current times, offering a variety of nightclubs and bars to enjoy in the evenings.
9. Warsaw
Warsaw, the capital of Poland, has a rich and intricate history that has been shaped by war and conflict throughout the years. During World War II, the city was heavily damaged, resulting in the destruction of its old town.
Nevertheless, it has been meticulously reconstructed to resemble its original medieval beauty, showcasing vibrant and colorful townhouses. Although the overall ambiance may feel somewhat artificial, it remains an enchanting place to explore.
The city boasts a diverse range of architectural styles, which includes contemporary cafes and bars waiting to be discovered. Additionally, Warsaw offers numerous outdoor spaces for visitors to relax and enjoy.
Food enthusiasts will also find delight in the vast array of restaurants and culinary brilliance the city has to offer, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a gastronomic experience.
8. Mostar
Mostar is a famous city in Bosnia and Herzegovina known for its Old Bridge that goes over the Neretva River. The city’s name, Mostar, actually comes from the word “mostari,” which means “bridge keeper.” This bridge was constructed in 1556 by the Ottomans, who were in control of the area at the time.
However, it was sadly destroyed by Croat forces in 1993 during the Balkan Wars, after standing for 427 years. Although it is possible to visit Mostar as a day trip from Croatia, it is recommended to stay overnight for a more fulfilling experience.
By staying longer, you can avoid the crowds of tourists who visit during the day, and have the opportunity to enjoy the charming restaurants located on the cobblestone streets high above the river.
7. Lake Ohrid
Located on the borders of Macedonia and Albania, Lake Ohrid is known for being both one of the deepest and oldest lakes in Europe. The majority of the lake is situated within Macedonia, making it the ideal place to stay if you want to experience its beauty.
The town of Ohrid itself is filled with ancient architecture, cozy family-run accommodations, and charming narrow streets made of cobblestone that are perfect for exploring. Moving south along the lake, you will come across the Sveti Naum Monastery, which was built in 905 AD. Its stunning structure offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the lake.
6. Golden Ring
This area, located northeast of Moscow in Russia, is known for its collection of ancient Russian cities. These cities are considered open-air museums due to their historical importance in the early days of Russia and the Rus tribe. The main towns in this region are Sergiyev Posad, Kostroma, Ivanovo, Vladimir, Suzdal, Yaroslavl, Pereslavl-Zalessky, and Rostov Veliky.
Visitors can explore religious landmarks like the 14th-century Troitse-Sergieva Lavra monastery and admire stunning buildings such as Yaroslavl, while also learning about a thousand years of Russian Orthodox history through the various churches in the area.
5. Belgrade
Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia, has a rich and diverse history that includes influences from various civilizations such as the Romans, Slavic tribes, Ottomans, and Habsburg royals. It was also once the capital of Yugoslavia.
Despite not always being considered beautiful, Belgrade has its own unique charm with a mixture of Soviet blocks and elegant Art Nouveau buildings reflecting its historical journey. The city boasts a vibrant atmosphere and is often recognized as one of the trendiest capitals in Eastern Europe.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely moments in charming cafes, take a stroll along the pedestrianized boulevard named Knez Mihailova, and experience the lively atmosphere of the bustling bars in the riverside Savamala quarter.
4. Bay of Kotor
The Bay of Kotor, also known as Boka, is a stunning area located in southwestern Montenegro. It is characterized by its picturesque surroundings of green hills and medieval towns, with houses that have red roofs leading down to the coastline.
One of the best ways to explore the region is by car, as it allows for driving along its scenic and winding roads. There are numerous remarkable sights to be discovered, including old citadels and islands with monasteries on top.
The Bay of Kotor stands out as a serene and charming destination, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious seafood and dine by the sea. Additionally, the city of Kotor’s old town is a magnificent example of Venetian architecture, surrounded by walls and backed by mountains. It is highly recommended to use it as a base when visiting the area.
3. Sofia
Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is located in the western part of the country. Throughout its 2,000-year history, it has been a meeting point for different cultures, attracting both invaders and settlers. The city’s architecture and landmarks showcase the region’s past, including Ottoman mosques, Greek temples, Roman ruins, and Soviet monuments.
Despite its long history, Sofia has a youthful vibe and a relaxed atmosphere, where locals enjoy spending time in green parks and walking along the boulevard. Visitors can explore numerous museums and galleries, or indulge in the vibrant nightlife with plenty of restaurants and nightclubs to choose from.
2. Saint Petersburg
St. Petersburg, the former capital of Imperial Russia, is known for its rich cultural heritage. Peter the Great established the city in 1703, and it boasts splendid imperial buildings.
Visitors can enjoy world-class ballet and opera performances at the renowned Mariinsky Theatre, marvel at the opulent 1880s Church of Spilled Blood, and appreciate the artistic creations of Kandinsky at the State Russian Museum.
The Hermitage Museum, located in the majestic Winter Palace and spread across six buildings, houses an astonishing collection of antiques. St. Petersburg, with its canals and Baltic coastline, also offers great shopping, dining, and nightlife opportunities.
1. Vilnius
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has a stunning old town that is worth exploring. The old town is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and charming cobblestone streets. However, there’s more to see than just Baroque buildings.
You can also visit the Gothic Saint Anne’s Church, the Gate of Dawn from the 16th century, and the Neo-Classical Vilnius Cathedral. Besides its architectural beauty, Vilnius is also known for its hidden bars and cafes that can be found in quaint alleys and atmospheric courtyards.
The city has a large population of students, with over 20,000 of them, which gives Vilnius a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of beer and live music.