As a tourist destination, Eastern Europe has largely remained under the radar compared to Western Europe. However, the region is now starting to come into its own. Covering a wide swathe of countries, Eastern Europe offers some of the most intriguing experiences, featuring cities with amazingly ancient histories, extraordinary architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Travelling through these places will give you a chance to experience a unique blend of cultural influences that differs from the Western region, such as the impact of the Ottoman Empire and the Socialist Regime. With a rather extensive list, it can be daunting to pick out destinations, which is why we have here the best places to visit in Eastern Europe, so you can dive right in!
1. Prague, Czech Republic (from USD 205.93)
The capital city of Czech Republic, Prague, is rightfully counted alongside Paris as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The City of a Hundred Spires hosts an incredible array of remarkable cultural attractions, including a stunning range of historic architecture, grand churches, medieval castles, and world-class museums. Explore the city’s old quarter and enjoy its charming atmosphere, take a cruise on the Vltava for some sensational views, or relax in one of the happening bars to enjoy its celebrated beer. Top sights include Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge, Jewish Quarter, and Petrin Hill.
Prague: Private City Tour by Minivan
Duration: 3.0 hour
2. Brasov, Romania (from USD 92.13)
Located in the famed Transylvania region of Romania, Brasov is a colourful and attractive city with a history that dates back to the Saxons. Explore its past via its range of ancient buildings, churches, and castles. Stroll through the historic main square, Piaţa Sfatului, where you will find brightly painted buildings with red roofs, the majestic, Gothic-style Black Church, and one of the narrowest streets in Europe, Strada Sforii. Bran Castle and Râșnov Citadel are other major sights. The city also retains its medieval fortification walls and gates that are also a must-visit. Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, this destination offers splendid mountain views. Postăvarul Massif and Tâmpa Mountain are top options to explore the city’s natural sights further.
From Sibiu: Day Tour to Brasov and Dracula's Castle
Duration: 1.0 day
3. Budapest, Hungary (from USD 39.02)
Hungary’s capital and one of Europe’s most magnificent cities, Budapest showcases its rich history with a collection of ancient monuments, museums, and historic avenues. Ride the Castle Hill Funicular to reach Buda Castle, where you can explore its stunning interiors and enjoy spectacular views. Head to the nearby fort, Fisherman’s Bastion, for more wonderous views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. The Hungarian Parliament Building and the towering St. Stephen’s Basilica are other not-to-be-missed attractions, as is Andrássy Avenue, which boasts wonderfully preserved buildings with elegant facades and grand architecture. Walk down the 19th century Széchenyi Chain Bridge that goes over the famous Danube River and connects the cities of Buda and Pest. Make time to relax and rejuvenate in one of the popular thermal springs centres.
Budapest: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Extras
Duration: 1.0 to 3.0 day
4. Krakow, Poland (from USD 19.12)
A relatively lesser-known destination, Krakow boasts the largest main square in Europe. Rynek Glowny Square is the perfect place to enjoy the city’s chic atmosphere. Step into one of the local boutiques, relax at one of the outdoor cafes, or even take a horse carriage ride. The square is also where you can visit the Basilica of the Virgin Mary and take in the spectacular Gothic-style altar and ceiling. Other monuments to check out include Royal Wawel Castle and Clock Tower of Sukiennice. Get to know about Krakow’s role in World War II by visiting Oskar Schindler’s factory, now a museum, and planning a day trip to the concentration camps of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Another great day trip is to the awe-inspiring Wieliczka Salt Mine, where you will find huge natural halls with dozens of intricate salt carvings.
Krakow: City Sightseeing Tour by Electric Golf Cart
Duration: 1.5 hour
5. Belgrade, Serbia (from USD 96.46)
The capital of Serbia, Belgrade, has a tumultuous history but today is a booming city. Sitting on the confluence of Europe’s two large rivers, Sava and Danube, Belgrade is often known as the Gateway to the Balkans and features an intriguing mix of influences. Belgrade Fortress is a majestic fort complex that overlooks the city and offers amazing views. Check out the Temple of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches worldwide. Walk around the old city, particularly Knez Mihailova Street quarters, to appreciate its historic buildings and try the famous kafa or coffee. Closeby are many of its attractions, including National Museum and National Theater. If you a science buff, then drop by Nikola Tesla Museum. Belgrade’s nightlife is counted among the best in Europe, so explore the Skadarlija district or check out one of the floating ‘splavs’.
Belgrade: 3-Hour Sightseeing City Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
6. Bratislava, Slovakia (from USD 17.34)
Though one of the smaller capital cities in Europe, Bratislava is a city teeming with options. The town’s dominating landmark is the centuries’ old Bratislava Castle that sits atop a hill overlooking the Danube River. Explore Bratislava Castle and the Museum of History inside it. Yet another interesting historical landmark to check out are the ruins of Devín Castle. Walk around Old Town to admire the pretty buildings around Main Square, and stop by one of the many chic cafes and restaurants. The museum inside Old Town Hall showcases the history of Bratislava, but what you must do is climb up the tower to admire a view of the city. The UFO Tower on SNP Bridge also offers panoramic views of the river and the city.
Bratislava by Sightseeing Bus
Duration: 1.0 to 95.0 hour
7. Riga, Latvia (from USD 52.02)
Located on the River Daugava, just off the Baltic Sea, is the capital city of Latvia. Though relatively unknown, this destination has a lot to offer. Its historic city centre, Old Riga, has a timeless beauty with many architectural gems and a charming atmosphere. Particularly known for its art nouveau architecture, there are several breathtaking buildings you can admire, starting from the House of Blackheads and St. Peter’s Church. Walk down Alberta Street for the best examples of Art Nouveau. Riga Central Market, known as one of Europe’s largest shopping markets, has five Zeppelin hangars filled with vendors offering fascinating local specialities. Just outside the city is the lakefront Open Air Ethnographic Museum that showcases Lativian culture and lifestyle.
Riga: Private Tour with a Local Guide
Duration: 2.0 to 6.0 hour
8. Warsaw, Poland (from USD 48.77)
Warsaw, the capital of Poland, has rebuilt itself as one of the most entrancing cities in Europe despite its tumultuous past. Walk down the famous Royal Way to explore some landmark attractions like the Copernicus Statue, Church of the Holy Cross, Chopin Benches, and Old Town Observation Tower. Head to the Royal Castle to see its extraordinary interiors. To experience the city’s famed charm, stroll around the cobblestone streets of Old Town and spend time in Old Town Market Square, where you will see the famous Mermaid Statue. As the cultural capital of the country, Warsaw has several museums and a lively music scene and nightlife. In terms of museums, you must include the Fryderyk Chopin Museum in your itinerary, as well as POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews and Warsaw Uprising Museum.
Warsaw: Afternoon Public City Tour with Pickup and Drop-off
Duration: 3.0 hour
9. Sibiu, Romania (from USD 27.1)
The Romanian city of Sibiu is an unexpected gem with winding streets, colourful buildings, and cosy cafes. Located in southern Transylvania, the city was named one of the most idyllic places to live in Europe. Explore the beautiful Upper Town and Lower Town, two parts of the city’s Historic Center that features some of the most gorgeous examples of Old Town’s Germanic architecture. A walk down Strada Nicolae Balcescu is recommended so you can take in the lovely, ornamented pastel houses that line the street. For art lovers, Brukenthal National Museum hosts an enviable collection of art, while the ornate Catholic Basilica and the Gothic Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral features stunning architecture. For fantastic views of the city, climb up the Council Tower.
Sibiu: City Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 2.0 hour
10. Olomouc, Czech Republic
Still relatively undiscovered, Olomouc in the Czech Republic is a surprisingly appealing destination. Though it features some of the most ornate architectural sights, Olomouc Old Town also offers a wonderful mix of Gothic and Modernist. Of particular interest are its fountains - there are seven scattered around the city, six of which are in the Baroque style. The ornate, 18th-century Holy Trinity Column is a major landmark here. Try visiting the nearby Olomouc Astronomical Clock when it goes off. Church of Saint Michael is another structural masterpiece with a host of stunning paintings and sculptures. Other monuments to check out include St. Wenceslas Square and Olomouc Castle.
11. Ljubljana, Slovenia (from USD 128.98)
Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana is a classical European city with a gorgeous castle, a beautiful historic city centre, great ocean views, and colourful buildings. Old Town is where you will find the historic attractions. Walk around Cankarjevo Nabrezje, a pedestrian-friendly street that goes along Ljubljianica River, as well as other streets like Stari Trg, Mestni Trg, and Gornji Trg. Enjoy the ambience, admire the views, and stop for a bite at one of the chic cafes there. Prešernov Trg is the city square where you will find eye-catching art nouveau buildings and Franciscan Church of the Annunciation. Triple Bridge, or Tromostovje, is an iconic landmark, but there are other must-see bridges here, particularly the Dragon Bridge that features striking statues of fierce dragons.
Ljubljana: Slovenia Day Tour to Bled, Postojna, and Predjama
Duration: 10.0 hour
12. Berat, Albania (from USD 143.0)
Sometimes called the ‘Town of a Thousand Windows’, Berat in southern Albania is an attractive European city yet to be discovered by tourists. The city’s Old Town showcase influences from a number of cultures, from Romans to the Ottoman Empire. You will have a wide gamut of architectural wonders to admire, like Berat Castle, St. Trinity Church, and Red Mosque. Enjoy a striking view of beautiful white houses stacked on top of each other by walking across the Gorica Bridge over the river Osum.
Berat Full Day Trip from Tirana
Duration: 7 to 9 hours
13. Skopje, Macedonia (from USD 82.0)
The capital city of Macedonia lies in the heart of the exotic Balkan Peninsula. The Vardar River cuts through the city - to the south is the new town, with strong Orthodox Christian influences, while the north is centred around Turkish culture. Walk down the connecting 15th-century Stone Bridge for a view of both sides. The central square in the new town Plostad features the Statue of the Warrior and a fountain of Alexander the Great. The older part still retains its Ottoman influences, so you can walk around the Old Bazaar, stop for a cup of traditional coffee, and admire the ancient Mustafa Pasha Mosque. Other must-visit places are Kale Fortress for fabulous sunsets and a birds-eye view of the city, as well as the gorgeous Matka Canyon. Don’t forget to shop for Macedonian rubies while you are here.
Day tour to Skopje, North Macedonia - Small Group
Duration: 12 hours
14. Sighişoara, Romania (from USD 139.81)
Located in central Romania, this tiny medieval city in Transylvania is Europe’s last inhabited citadel. The home of the infamous Vlad Dracula, the city is among the most well-preserved, so you can enjoy the true charm of an old European city with cobblestoned streets, pretty coloured houses, and a range of astonishing monuments and welcoming cafes. Walk around Citadel Square to soak in the atmosphere. The 14th-century Clock Tower that offers amazing city views is a major stop, as is the Church on the Hill, for its frescos, and the Church of the Dominican Monastery, for its ornate altarpiece.
Transylvania Gems: Sighisoara, Medias, Biertan & Gypsy life
Duration: 11.0 hour
15. Podgorica, Montenegro (from USD 174.5)
Heavily damaged during World War II, much of Podgorica, the capital city of Montenegro, has been newly built. However, the city’s rich history can still be seen through its historic monuments, like Osmanagića Mosque, the ruins of Doclea and Nemanjica Grad, and Ribnica Fortress. Two must-visit locations just outside the city are the beautiful Lake Skadar National Park with beaches and natural wildlife, and the famed Ostrog Monastery, one of the most revered religious sites for Christians.
Great Montenegro tour Kotor & Budva Old Towns & Skadar Lake
16. Dubrovnik, Croatia (from USD 66.11)
Dubrovnik is an ancient walled city steeped in old-world charm, and it is one of the prettiest places in the Mediterranean. Set on the Adriatic Sea in southern Croatia, the city’s narrow cobbled streets, well-preserved baroque buildings, and gorgeous ocean views are a delight to experience. Walk around the wall that encircles the city for amazing views of the ocean and the city itself. Be sure to explore the Old Town, particularly Stradun, where cafes and boutiques line the street. Take the cable car for breathtaking aerial views of Dubrovnik. Additionally, there are numerous historic buildings you should check out like the grand Dubrovnik Cathedral and the fascinating Sponza Palace.
Dubrovnik: Cable Car, Walking Tour and City Walls Combo
Duration: 3.0 to 4.5 hour
17. Zagreb, Croatia (from USD 23.84)
Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, offers an interesting mix of Austro-Hungarian architecture and socialist-era monuments that can be seen in Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mark’s Church. Croatian National Theater is yet another monument with opulent Neo-Baroque design. The city has several absorbing museums, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and the offbeat Museum of Broken Relationships. Head out to Tkalčićeva Street in Upper Town, as well as Lower Town’s Ban Jelačić to enjoy the city’s nightlife.
Hop On Hop Off Panoramic bus - Zagreb City Tour
Duration: 1.0 hour
18. Sofia, Bulgaria (from USD 107.3)
Bulgaria’s capital city of Sofia features influences from a number of cultures - Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Soviet. A visit to this city must include Boyana Church, with its stunning 13th-century frescoes. Enjoy the architecture of St. George Rotunda Church that has medieval and Ottoman decorations, as well as the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral with its onion dome. A visit to the National History Museum and Sofia History Museum will tell you more about the country’s history and cultural heritage.
Sofia: Full-Day Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
19. Piran, Slovenia (from USD 117.54)
Piran is one of the three coastal towns of Slovenia. It is full of beaches with shimmering blue waters, exceptional Venetian architecture, and divine cuisine. Venetian House on the main square is a prime example of the city’s unique architecture. Behind it is the Church of St. George, sitting atop a hill and a great place to appreciate views of the city and the coast. You can also choose to climb up the Bell Tower for more spectacular views. A fun way to discover the city is to walk around the surrounding medieval walls and explore the old town quarter that still retains much of its charm. Remember to sample the city’s speciality: seafood.
Piran: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Duration: 2.0 hour
20. Wroclaw, Poland (from USD 144.02)
Rising in popularity as a tourist destination, the Polish city of Wroclaw is an appealing option for a short vacation. The top attraction in this pretty city is Market Square in the old quarters. Walk around to enjoy the sight of beautiful townhouses featuring some of the best Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Next, head out to Ostrów Tumski where you will have a clutch of fascinating monuments to explore, like the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and the Archdiocese Museum. Another architectural gem is the city’s Train Station. As you walk around, be sure to look out for tiny statues of gnomes scattered about - a quirky touch that you will come to love! There are over 200 gnomes, and each comes with a story. Yet another delightful option is the ornamental and musical Wrocław Fountain that operates during the summer months.
Wrocław City Tour with Gondola or Boat Ride
Duration: 2.0 hour
21. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic (from USD 83.51)
Nestled inside a horseshoe bend of the Vltava River, the old city of Český Krumlov perfectly encapsulates the wonder of a medieval town. Situated in the southern Bohemian region of the Czech Republic, this city has largely escaped damage from WWII bombings and has retained many of its original features. The picture-perfect streets and squares will definitely give you a fairytale vibe! Plan to visit Český Krumlov Castle, with its grand interiors, rococo garden, and theatres. The entire city showcases a charming mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque influences.
From Prague: Full-Day Trip to Český Krumlov
Duration: 11.0 hour
22. Tallinn, Estonia (from USD 255.77)
The capital city of Estonia, Tallinn, is a wonderful mix of medieval and modern culture. The well-preserved old town with its encircling wall and cobblestoned streets hosts an awesome collection of historic buildings, including medieval churches, grand houses, and warehouses. Visit Kadriorg to explore the palace and the art museum located inside, and take a stroll around the beautifully landscaped Kadriorg Park. Museums to visit include Estonian History Museum to know all about the country’s rich history, and Estonian Open Air Museum which recreates a rural Estonian village. For breathtaking panoramic vistas, head to the observational deck atop Tallinn TV Tower.
From Helsinki: Tallinn Guided Full-Day Tour by Ferry
Duration: 12.0 hour
23. Moscow, Russia (from USD 10.93)
For many, Moscow needs no introduction - its iconic landscape and complex history already make it a top European destination. The presidential complex Kremlin and Red Square are prime attractions with well-known landmarks, like Lenin’s Mausoleum, St. Basil’s Cathedral with its onion-shaped domes, and State Historical Museum with its extensive collection. A cultural hotspot, the city has top-class places like Pushkin State Museum and Bolshoi Theatre. Its nightlife is also equally vibrant - head out to the Garden Ring district for a fun evening.
Moscow: 2-Hour Historical Sightseeing River Cruise
Duration: 2 hour
24. Lviv, Ukraine (from USD 68.9)
Located close to the Polish border, Ukraine’s popular tourist destination Lviv is a picturesque city with castles, churches, and striking buildings. A walkable city with several architectural gems, Lviv bears clear influences of its strong Polish heritage and also of its Austro-Hungarian past. You will find a host of Renaissance, Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architectural styles as you walk around. The ornate Lviv Opera House in Svobody Square and the Renaissance-style buildings on Rynok Square in the historic old town area are fantastic examples. There are also numerous churches each bearing its own style, like the impressive Dominican Cathedral and the Greek Catholic Church of the Transfiguration. Head out to High Castle Park, the ruins of a 14th-century castle complex that offers superb views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Lviv: Guided Panoramic Rooftop Tour
Duration: 2 hour
25. Saint Petersburg, Russia (from USD 72.0)
Situated along the Baltic Sea, Saint Petersburg is the second-largest city in Russia and among the most grandiose cities in the world. It boasts numerous world-class theatres and museums. Mariinsky Theatre is considered one of the best in the world, so try catching a music or ballet performance here. In terms of monuments, Bronze Horseman is perhaps the city’s most well-known landmark, but there are several other notable monuments to explore here. The dazzling, gilt-edged Winter Palace on Palace Square is a phenomenal sight, as is Peterhof, a seafront palace in the suburbs. Among churches, Church of the Savior on Blood with its ornate domes and St. Isaac’s Cathedral and Colonnade top the list. Be sure to visit the Hermitage Museum, a place that has an incredible collection of paintings, sculptures, and collectables from around the world. If you have time, plan a visit to the sprawling Peter and Paul Fortress located in the suburbs.
Saint Petersburg: Private Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 8 hour
26. Kotor, Montenegro (from USD 25.01)
Located on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, Kotor is an incredibly attractive medieval town. Situated on the bottom of a hill on the mesmerising Bay of Kotor, the city’s Old Town is where you can explore the architecture and the important monuments like Drago Palace or Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas. For sensational views of this picturesque city and the bay, climb up to the Castle of San Giovanni on the outskirts of the city. An offbeat option is the Cat Museum - this place perfectly captures just how much cats are loved by the city! Want to spend some time amid the bay’s pristine blue waters? Blue Cave is the place to go.
Kotor: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus and Walking Tour
27. Gdansk, Poland (from USD 20.75)
One of the top tourist destinations of Poland, the port city of Gdansk is located on the Baltic coast and comes with a great list of sights. Walk down Dlugi Targ (Long Market or Royal Way), where you can catch several major attractions like the Golden Gate and, of course, the famed Neptune Fountain - a popular photo-op spot! Stop by Main Town Hall to visit the museum inside and to climb up the tower for a birds-eye view of the Royal Way and the city beyond. The massive St. Mary’s Church is also a must-visit attraction. Spend a pleasant evening walking along the busy waterfront on Motlawa River. As Gdansk is famous for its amber jewellery, you may want to check out Mariacka Street since this is the best place to shop for it.
Gdansk: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket
Duration: 1 day
28. Vilnius, Lithuania (from USD 17.66)
Known as the Baroque City, the capital of Lithuania Vilnius is another delightful European city that boasts an astonishing range of medieval treasures. The city’s vibrant Old Town showcases several Baroque-style buildings, as well as other styles like Neoclassical and Gothic. Gate of Dawn, with the shining painting of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Anne’s Church, and Vilnius Cathedral are some outstanding examples. Vilnius Castle Complex hosts some of the city’s top sights, including the Royal Palace - now the National Museum. Situated just outside of Old Town is the Museum of Genocide Victims, housed inside the former KGB headquarters. This site captures some of the horrors the country faced during the Soviet era. As a student town, it has a rocking nightlife with delicious food and beer guaranteed. For some panoramic vistas of the city, head out to Vilnius TV Tower.
Vilnius: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Audio Tour
Duration: 2 day
29. Ionian Coast, Albania (from USD 316.0)
The coastline along the southwestern border of Albania offers spectacular views that rival that of the Amalfi Coast. Go on a cruise on the Northeastern Ionian Sea that borders Albania and get to see unique, mountainous landscapes set against the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea. On the coast are dreamy beach towns like Sarandë, and intriguing historical attractions like the ancient city of Butrint that showcase the area’s rich past.
Three Day Albanian Coast Tour from Tirana
Duration: 3 days
30. Plovdiv, Bulgaria (from USD 159.07)
One of the oldest cities in Europe, Plovdiv is located in southern Bulgaria. Built around seven hills, it incorporates influences from several cultures, including the Romans and the Ottoman Empire, which is reflected in the city’s landscape. Some of the monuments to check out include the Roman-style Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, Dzhumaya Mosque, and the Ancient Stadium. Other attractions are the Tsar Simeon’s Garden, a lovely, landscaped garden with a musical fountain, and Old Town itself with its distinctive buildings. The top museums that showcase Plovdiv’s complex history are the Regional Archaeological Museum and Regional Ethnographic Museum.
Plovdiv Private Walking Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
Explore the relatively hidden side of Europe
As you can see, Eastern Europe has no dearth of amazing destinations. In these best places to visit in Eastern Europe, you can experience ancient cultures, arresting landscapes, bustling café and nightlife scenes, and exquisite cultural treasures. Given that many of these destinations are not that large, they can be combined or visited on short, weekend trips.
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