Europe is inarguably rich in historical and cultural heritages, especially Eastern Europe. Many people have underrated Eastern Europe. However, you should not judge this region without learning more about it or making arrangements to travel there. The region is mainly diverse, with different languages and cultures, making it worth visiting. Moreover, many cities in Eastern Europe are very distinctive, each with its charms. Are you curious about them? We have compiled the best must-visit cities in Eastern Europe that will blow your mind.
Cities in Eastern Europe and Its Charms
Minsk, Belarus
If you are really interested in history and architecture, then you must visit Minsk because Minsk holds many beautiful historical Soviet architecture in every building around the city. At the same time, you will also be surprised by how modern Minsk is from its futuristic designs.
Besides, Minsk is also evolving to be one of the must-visit cities in Europe for luxury entertainment. Thanks to its growing casino industries, Minsk is getting popular to attract many new customers worldwide. Considering that the costs for goods and services in this city are relatively low compared to other European countries, Minsk also provides you with lavish yet cheap hotels to complete your luxurious vacation.
What to visit: Minsk Old Town, Trinity Suburb, National Library, Botanical Garden, Loshitsa Park, Independence Avenue, Stolitsa Underground Mall, Grand Opera and Ballet Theater, Gorky Park, The Red Yard, and Oktyabrskaya Street.
Best time to visit: You must visit Minsk during summertime since the climate conditions are favorable to explore the city. Moreover, if you want to visit the city on a tight budget, you can also consider visiting Minsk during spring and autumn.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Many of you might not think Bulgaria is worth visiting; in fact, the country offers a lot of new experiences that you will not get from other European countries. Its capital city, Sofia, is one of the most diverse cities in Eastern Europe, based on the mix of culture, art, history, food, and nature.
It has been a public secret that Sofia has been a safe haven for people from different religious beliefs. Although the Eastern Orthodox church is prevalent in the city, people living in this city respect each other beliefs, be they Catholic, Jewish, or Muslim, building a sense of tolerance. In this very city, you will see how beautiful living together despite differences. Besides its harmonious society, you can also enjoy Sofia by doing outdoor activities such as snowy mountain climbing at an affordable price.
What to visit: St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Vitosha Boulevard, St. George Rotunda, Ivan Vazov National Theatre, Park Vrana, The Synagogue, Banya Bashi Mosque, Central Mineral Baths, National Institute of Archaeology, National Historical Museum, Vitosha Mountain, and Boyana Church.
Best time to visit: Summer is definitely the best season to visit Sofia since you can enjoy the city with longer days. However, you can also visit Sofia during wintertime if you want to do outdoor activities such as skiing or snowy mountain climbing.
Prague, Czech Republic
You all know that Prague is famously renowned as one of the cities in Eastern Europe, or even Europe, that you must visit before you die. In fact, Time Out magazine announced that Prague is the seventh-best city in the world for its sustainability and culture. This is true because once you set foot on its cobblestone streets and incredible bridges, you will be in awe, adoring its Gothic cathedrals and abundant art scene.
Moreover, the capital city also offers you one of the best nightlife spots. Even more, the prices for alcohol in Prague are considerably lower than in many other European countries. Not only that, but you also need to try its unique cuisines such as vepřo knedlo zelo, grilované klobásy, knedlík, palačinky, and goulash, which are so tempting and mouth-watering.
What to visit: Staromestske Namesti, Old Town Hall with Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Lesser Town, Lobkowicz Palace, Franz Kafka Statue, Letná Park, Spanish Synagogue Jewish Museum in Prague, Hradčany, Museum of Senses, Wallenstein Palace Gardens, and Petrin.
Best time to visit: You should visit Prague during spring and early fall since the weather is nice and there will be fewer crowds.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is the next city in Eastern Europe that offers fun nightlife, rich cultural heritage, and good food. It has beautiful pedestrian streets and the lovely look of the Danube river. Similar to Prague, Budapest’s goods and services prices are cheap. Therefore, the city is perfect for tight-budget travelers. The city is known globally for its wonderful thermal springs, which its citizens and tourists often visit to relax.
Budapest was also a safe haven for Jewish refugees during World War II. The Jewish cultures and traditions have integrated into the city’s life. Therefore, you will find many Hungarian-Jewish restaurants throughout the city. This is very good for food travelers to enjoy various cuisine during their stay.
What to visit: Buda Castle, Széchenyi Baths, Children’s Railway, Memento Park, Dohány Street Synagogue, St Stephen’s Basilica, Varhegy, Halászbástya, Hungarian Parliament, Heroes Square, Central Market Hall, Royal Postal Savings Bank, Margaret Island, Hospital in the Rock, and Szimpla Kert.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall are two seasons perfect for visiting Budapest. This is because the weather is mild, and many festivals are happening around these seasons.
Chisinau, Moldova
There is one way to call the capital city of Moldova, which is the green capital. There is no other reason that the fact that Chisinau is strategically located on the Bic River. This is where fertile land teeming with vineyards surrounds the area and makes the city looks stunning. This has made the city to be a popular destination for travelers who are searching for wine tours. Moreover, Chisinau is also well-known for its cognac and its award-winning beer. Therefore, you will love this place if you love alcohol!
As a former part of the Soviet Union, Chisinau still retains Soviet-style architecture in many city buildings. That makes Chisinau rich in architectural attractiveness of a rare artistic significance. You will also notice hills covered with forests and tranquil alleys with extensive fields of sunflowers encompassing the city.
What to visit: Nativity Cathedral Chisinau, National Museum of Fine Arts, Cricova Winery Underground Wine Cellar, Zentrum Aparthotel, Parliament Of The Republic Of Moldova, National Museum Of History Of Moldova, Chișinău Botanical Garden, Aqua Magic, and Chisinau Zoo.
Best time to visit: The best time to go for a vacation in Chisinau is April or May because the temperature is still mild. Besides, the city’s countryside is covered with colors, perfect for bird-watching and sightseeing.
Krakow, Poland
If you are looking for cities in Eastern Europe that resemble fairylands, Krakow is the answer to your wonder. The second-largest city in Poland has a lot to offer where travelers seek from visiting cities in Eastern Europe. The city is full of various styles of architecture decorating the buildings, including Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic styles. They are ingrained in Krakow’s old towns, stunning architecture, adorable cafes, and cute strolls.
You can explore the tall Wawel Castle or even people-watching in Florianska Street to Market Square. The city life of Krakow will take you on an adventure for its fun nightlife, history, and food. In addition, Krakow also holds a historical journey, especially when it comes to Word War II. There are many museums and memorials for people to reflect on and learn about the Holocaust and World War II.
What to visit: Wawel Royal Castle, St. Mary’s Basilica, Krakow’s Old Town, Wawel Dragon, Auschwitz, Krakow Main Market Square, Wieliczka Salt Mine, and Oskar Schindler’s Factory.
Best time to visit: Early summer and early fall are two times you should go if you consider visiting Krakow. The temperature is still warm, and you will only find fewer tourists than in the other two seasons of the year. During these times, you can also hike together with your friends around Krakow.
Bucharest, Romania
Do you know that Bucharest was called “Little Paris” around the 1900s? Yes, this enchanting city actually has an interesting story about that. At that time, the locals greeted each other in French and wore the newest Paris fashions. Many of them also went traveling to and studied in Paris. Besides, it is also said that many buildings in Bucharest at that time resembled those in France. Is that true? Maybe you should find out by yourself and prove it.
The atmosphere in Bucharest is really magical. The cute cobblestone streets will show you the way to fantastic places to explore and discover. With much elegant architecture spreading around the city, you can also find friendly people smiling at you. As a matter of fact, Bucharest is also a city for young people. Therefore, you will find people there enjoying their time with friends and loved ones by doing many activities.
What to visit: Herăstrau Park, Ceaușescu Mansion, Muzeul Naţional al Satului “Dimitrie Gusti,” Palace of Parliament, Stavropoleos Monastery, Romanian Kitsch Museum, Museum of Senses București, Old Town, Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History, and Cismigiu Parc.
Best time to visit: Locals say that spring is the best time to visit Bucharest. At that time, you will find parks and gardens full of colors, birds singing cheerfully, and the weather is pleasant and warm.
St. Petersburg, Russia
Saint Petersburg is a stunning city to visit in Russia. Why not? The city has many canals and waterways situated at the mouth of Neva River. Through these canals and waterways, there stand magnificent palaces and beautiful cathedrals, sparking its grandeur and elegance.
Founded by Tsar Peter I, Saint Petersburg was once considered Russia’s “window on Europe.” The city also holds the unofficial status as Russia’s cultural capital with an influence of European style, and that distinguishes them from Moscow. Saint Petersburg is a premier cultural hub, offering people unlimited options for artistic delights from 200 museums to opera and classical music.
What to visit: State Hermitage Museum, Peter and Paul Fortress, Palace Square, Peterhof Palace, Eliseyev Emporium, Vasilyevsky Island, Nevsky Avenue, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Mariinsky Theater, Rivers and Canals, Cruiser Aurora, and Saint Isaac’s Cathedral.
Best time to visit: Spring to summer is the best time to visit Saint Petersburg as the daylight is near 24 hours, and there are White Nights Celebrations during the summer. However, you must pay attention that during the summer, expect the costs to fluctuate since it is its peak season.
Bratislava, Slovakia
If you are looking for new experiences of traveling in Europe, Bratislava must be on your travel bucket list. This city is for you if you’re seeking a budget-friendly destination yet brings an unforgettable experience. The city is calm so that you can do slow travel throughout the city happily.
This charming city, located along the Danube River, has a rich history, culture, and nightlife. This city is great for hanging out with friends and having hassle-free, laid-back activities. Even more, you can also explore the taste of Middle European cuisines at an affordable price in many restaurants.
What to visit: Bratislava Castle, St. Martin’s Cathedral, Old Town Hall, Primate’s Palace, Eurovea Waterfront, Grassalkovich Palace, Blue Church, Slavín, Devín Castle, and UFO.
Best time to visit: We recommend going to Bratislava during spring and summer. In April, there is an occasional stag party held in the city. At the end of the month, some restaurants, pubs, and cafes have a big open-air cafe in the Old Town area.
Travel tips for visiting cities in Eastern Europe
One fun fact about cities in Eastern Europe is that every country has relatively close proximity, making it convenient for an Eastern Europe tour. You do not need to worry about making a very long itinerary for that. Why? Because JoinMyTrip has some trip packages you can choose from for fulfilling your nomadic desire. Do you want to know more about it? Check all the Eastern Europe tours with JoinMyTrip below!