Eastern Europe Map With Countries

Discover the Best of Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is a fascinating region that offers a mix of ancient and modern cultures, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. From the bustling streets of Prague to the picturesque villages of Romania, there’s so much to explore in this part of the world. In this travel guide, we’ll help you discover the top attractions, hidden gems, and budget-friendly tips to make the most of your trip to Eastern Europe.

Top Attractions to Visit in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural diversity. Some of the top attractions to visit in this region include:

Prague Castle, Czech Republic

Prague Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Czech Republic. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest ancient castle in the world. Visitors can explore the castle’s many buildings, including the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.

Old Town Square, Poland

Located in the heart of Krakow, the Old Town Square is a must-visit attraction in Poland. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, colorful buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. The square is also home to the Cloth Hall, an iconic Renaissance-era building that houses a variety of shops and restaurants.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a beautiful city that straddles the Danube River. It’s known for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife. Some of the top attractions in Budapest include the Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament, and the Fisherman’s Bastion.

Hidden Gems in Eastern Europe

While the top attractions in Eastern Europe are certainly worth visiting, there are also many hidden gems to discover. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path experiences to add to your itinerary:

Rila Monastery, Bulgaria

Located in the Rila Mountains, the Rila Monastery is a hidden gem in Bulgaria. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important cultural and spiritual centers in the country. The monastery is known for its beautiful frescoes, intricate wood carvings, and stunning mountain views.

Brasov, Romania

Brasov is a charming medieval city in Romania that’s often overlooked by tourists. It’s known for its Gothic architecture, cobbled streets, and beautiful scenery. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, churches, and restaurants, or take a hike in the nearby Carpathian Mountains.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is a picturesque alpine lake in Slovenia that’s surrounded by mountains and forests. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, who come to hike, bike, and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also explore the medieval castle that overlooks the lake or take a boat ride to the island in the middle of the lake.

Food Scene in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is known for its hearty and delicious cuisine. From pierogies in Poland to goulash in Hungary, there’s something for everyone in this region. Here are a few must-try dishes:

Cevapi, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Cevapi is a traditional Balkan dish that consists of grilled minced meat served with onions and bread. It’s a popular street food in Bosnia and Herzegovina and can be found in many restaurants and cafes throughout the country.

Sarmale, Romania

Sarmale is a traditional Romanian dish that consists of cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices. It’s often served with polenta and sour cream and is a staple of Romanian cuisine.

Bigos, Poland

Bigos is a hearty stew that’s made with sauerkraut, various meats, and spices. It’s a popular dish in Poland and is often served with bread or potatoes.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Traveling in Eastern Europe

Traveling in Eastern Europe can be a budget-friendly experience if you know where to go and what to do. Here are a few tips to help you save money on your trip:

Stay in Hostels or Airbnb

Hostels and Airbnb are great options for budget travelers in Eastern Europe. They offer affordable accommodation and the chance to meet other travelers from around the world.

Take Public Transportation

Public transportation in Eastern Europe is often cheaper than taking a taxi or renting a car. Buses and trains are reliable and efficient, and they can take you to many of the top attractions in the region.

Eat Street Food

Street food is a great way to try local cuisine without breaking the bank. Many cities in Eastern Europe have street food markets or food trucks that offer a variety of dishes at affordable prices.

Outdoor Adventures in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking in the mountains to swimming in the lakes, there’s something for everyone in this region. Here are a few outdoor adventures to add to your itinerary:

Hiking in the High Tatras, Slovakia

The High Tatras is a mountain range that straddles the border between Slovakia and Poland. It’s a popular destination for hikers and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Swimming in the Black Sea, Romania

The Black Sea is a popular destination for beach lovers in Romania. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters or relax on the sandy beaches.

Cycling in the Danube Delta, Romania

The Danube Delta is a beautiful wetland area in Romania that’s home to a variety of wildlife. Cycling is a great way to explore the area and see the many species of birds and animals that live there.

Family-Friendly Activities in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is a great destination for families, with many attractions and activities that are suitable for all ages. Here are a few family-friendly activities to consider:

Visit the Prague Zoo, Czech Republic

The Prague Zoo is one of the best zoos in Europe and offers a variety of interactive exhibits and animal encounters. Visitors can see everything from elephants to penguins and learn about the importance of conservation.

Explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a fascinating attraction in Poland that’s suitable for all ages. Visitors can take a tour of the salt mine and see the beautiful underground chambers and salt sculptures.

Take a Boat Ride on Lake Balaton, Hungary

Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe and offers a variety of activities for families. Taking a boat ride is a great way to explore the lake and see the many beaches and towns that surround it.

Natural Wonders in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is home to many natural wonders, from stunning mountain ranges to crystal-clear lakes. Here are a few natural wonders to add to your itinerary:

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s known for its stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes. Visitors can hike through the park and see the many species of flora and fauna that live there.

Tatra Mountains, Poland and Slovakia

The Tatra Mountains are a stunning mountain range that straddles the border between Poland and Slovakia. They offer some of the best hiking and skiing in Eastern Europe, as well as stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Rila National Park, Bulgaria

Rila National Park is a beautiful park in Bulgaria that’s home to a variety of wildlife and natural wonders. Visitors can hike through the park and see the many lakes, waterfalls, and forests that make it so special.

Vibrant Nightlife in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many cities offering a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues. Here are a few destinations to consider:

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs staying open until the early hours of the morning. Visitors can enjoy a variety of music, from traditional Hungarian folk to modern electronic beats.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow is a popular destination for nightlife in Poland, with many bars and clubs located in the Old Town. Visitors can enjoy a variety of music, from live jazz to techno.

Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is known for its legendary nightlife, with many bars and clubs located along the riverfront. Visitors can enjoy a variety of music, from traditional Serbian folk to modern pop and rock.

Local Markets in Eastern Europe

Local markets are a great way to experience the local culture and sample the regional cuisine. Here are a few of the best markets to visit in Eastern Europe:

Kalnciema Quarter Market, Latvia

The Kalnciema Quarter Market is a weekly market in Riga that offers a variety of local food, crafts, and souvenirs. Visitors can sample traditional Latvian cuisine and shop for handmade goods.

Naschmarkt, Austria

The Naschmarkt is a famous market in Vienna that’s known for its international cuisine and fresh produce. Visitors can try everything from Austrian schnitzel to Turkish kebabs.