Top 10 Eastern Europe Vacation Destinations

Do you desire to explore new countries but don’t want to break the bank? Don’t worry! Eastern Europe has lots to offer at an affordable price.

There are plenty of cities in the Old Continent that are well known for their epic architecture, cuisine, and rich history. Most of the destinations are not crowded with tourists which is an added bonus.

We at Wander Globe have prepared a list with top places to visit in Eastern Europe.

VISIT ZAGREB, CROATIA

The capital of Croatia is an excellent destination for a weekend break. Known as the “City of Museums”, it has a great atmosphere. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets lit by gas lamps or enjoy the vibrant food markets and outdoor cafes. What’s great about the Old Town is that it can be easily explored on foot. Most of the restaurants and coffee shops located in the post-World War II area of Novi Zagreb offer a great, relaxing atmosphere.

VISIT KRAKOW, POLAND

Referred to as one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Krakow is a tоp destination in Poland. It is among the few European cities to escape the destruction of WWII thus many of the streets and buildings remain as they were before the war.

It is a great vacation destination that offers beautiful squares surrounded by majestic buildings and churches, streets lined with carriages and a castle that gives Cinderella’s castle a run for its money.

There’s a lot to see and do in Krakow. From sites of great historical importance to lively pubs serving great craft beer. Restaurants, transportation, and accommodations are quite affordable.

VISIT SOFIA, BULGARIA

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria is another great destination that won’t burn a hole in your wallet. It is located in the foothills of mountain Vitosha, so if you are in the mood for winter sports, this is the perfect place. You can go skiing directly from Sofia airport with a convenient transfer.

The city is home to the Alexander Nevski Cathedral which is the third-largest in the world. The capital is known for its great opera house and if you are an opera fan, it is worth checking it out. Sofia has numerous fascinating museums and galleries which provide a better understanding of Bulgaria’s past and present. Entrance fees for the city’s sights are affordable and some of them are even free. Public transportation is inexpensive too.

VISIT KYIV, UKRAINE

If you are looking for a last-minute getaway destination in Eastern Europe be sure to check Kyiv. For American citizens, visiting the capital of Ukraine is an easy and Visa-free process.

Kyiv is the center of Ukrainian culture – occupied with ancient ruins, museums, and monasteries. Be sure to visit the majestic 11th-century Saint-Sophia Cathedral with its green and gold domes.

If you are not much into history and architecture, you can tour the local breweries serving great craft beer and fantastic local dishes. Compared to other European cities, Kyiv is not crowded and is affordable. Public transportation costs only $.18 per ticket and the entry fees for most sites are cheap.

VISIT BUCHAREST, ROMANIA

Nicknamed “Paris of the East” Bucharest is another amazing Eastern European destination. It will win you over with its beautiful Cișmigiu Garden, tasty cuisine and parts of the former elegance from the decades before WWII.

The capital of Romania is home to the world’s largest parliamentary building – three-million-plus square feet. Impressive right?

As an added bonus, accommodations, sights, food, and transport are totally affordable.

VISIT BELGRADE, SERBIA

Belgrade, also known as the “White City”, is no less captivating from the other destinations with its tumultuous past, combining colorful culture with a fun-loving spirit. Belgrade is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, so if you want to have some fun, make sure to visit the Serbian capital.

The city provides an interesting setting for parties –  splavovi – permanently anchored barges on the Danube and Sava river turned into nightclubs.

Coffee is taken very seriously in Belgrade, hence the numerous cafes all over the city. Food and hotels are inexpensive which makes it even more appealing.

VISIT BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

The Hungarian capital, known as “the Heard of Europe” is another worthwhile city to visit. It offers stunning architecture and dramatic history. Budapest is home to lots of healing thermal springs and unmatched nightlife in Eastern and Central Europe.

Airlines provide low-rate flights to Budapest which makes for an affordable holiday. Many of the sights are budget-friendly or even better – free.

VISIT SKOPJE, NORTH MACEDONIA

When you are Eastern Europe make sure to check out Skopje, the capital of Macedonia. It is a highly attractive destination with its architecture, historical monuments, and archaeological sites – such as the 15th-century Kameni Most (Stone Bridge).

Skopje is home to the biggest market in the Balkans – Old Bazaar and it is believed that its the birthplace of Mother Teresa. Don’t forget to visit the 1500-year-old fortress of Kale which offers a great view and the entry is free.

VISIT VILNIUS, LITHUANIA

Book a tour to Vilnius for an amazing and inexpensive holiday. The capital of Lithuania has the largest medieval old town in Eastern Europe. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful gothic cathedrals, baroque-style churches, and renaissance buildings.

Often touted as one of the cheapest holiday destinations in Europe, Vilnius offers great value accommodations and dining. Most of its main sights have no entrance fee, including Bernardine Church, Vilnius Cathedral, and Money Museum of the Bank of Lithuania.

VISIT RIGA, LATVIA

The largest city in the Baltics presents a proud blend of the Latvian tradition and notes from various countries that have ruled in the past. With its 800-year tempestuous history, the Latvian capital is an exciting destination, placed at the crossroads of Eastern and Northern Europe.

Relish Riga’s glory as you straw through the grand boulevards and enjoy stunning buildings in the Art Nouveau style. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site of stunning river views, towering church spires, and cobbled streets.

Tickets for public transport are cheap. However, if you prefer walking, the distances are short.

SUMMARY

Eastern Europe provides a huge variety of cultures with architecture from different eras, delicious cuisines, and great outdoor activities. In conclusion, no matter which city you choose from the listed above, it is certain that you will have a great and relaxing holiday.