Eastern Europe boasts a vibrant past, a rich tapestry of cultural influences, and a dynamic blend that continues to captivate us with new discoveries: It remains an endless source of pleasure, and these splendid cities provide additional incentives for repeated visits.
Featuring clearly delineated boundaries, the region commonly referred to as Eastern Europe encompasses a series of areas with a common history—comprising countless narratives—a distinctive collection of customs and environments, and numerous cities worthy of exploration.
Planning a stay in Europe? Here are some articles t o help you plan out your trip:
- The Top 10 European Cities Perfect for a Day Trip
- Top European Cities to Explore During Winter Season
- This city has been named Europe’s top spot for culture (and you might be shocked!).
The top 5 must-visit cities in Eastern Europe
Prague, Czech Republic
In theory, the captivating city of Prague (where you could spend just one day) rightfully earns its spot as the leading entry on our roster of the most stunning urban areas in Eastern Europe. Often called the "City of a Hundred Spires," each return trip offers fresh opportunities to be charmed anew by Prague’s charms—from its eclectic mix of architectural styles ranging from Baroque and Medieval to Gothic, Art Nouveau, and even Brutalism—to its undeniably romantic ambiance or its historically significant center recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
What to visit in Prague?
- Prague Castle the biggest medieval fortress globally, standing tall above the city next to the massive St Vitus Cathedral.
- Charles Bridge Prague's famous Gothic-style bridge, adorned with statues and offering breathtaking vistas of the river and the castle.
- The Old Town ( Staré Město ): situated in the center of Prague, home to the renowned astronomical clock that attracts throngs of visitors each time the hour changes.
- The Jewish Quarter ( Josefov ): With its ancient synagogues and centuries-old cemetery, evidence of Prague's profound Jewish heritage.
Budapest, Hungary
Get prepared to be equally captivated by Hungary's majestic capital, Budapest And its cohesive blend of architectural styles, renowned thermal baths, and the bridges spanning across the Danube—this city divides the "Pearl of the Danube" into two distinct areas: Buda, which boasts historical quarters atop rolling hills, and Pest, known for its flat terrain and impressive neo-Gothic structures.
Where should you go sightseeing in Budapest?
- The stunning Széchenyi Thermal Baths: one of the largest hot spring facilities in Budapest In Europe, you have the option to unwind at both the indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
- The Hungarian Parliament Building: A stunning neo-Gothic structure situated along the shores of the Danube.
- The Fisherman's Bastion: A Neo-Romanesque pavilion providing sweeping vistas of the city from its turrets and fortifications.
- St Stephen's Basilica, Pest: One of the highest structures in Budapest.
Krakow, Poland
Among the earliest established and most picturesque urban areas in Poland, Krakow boasts numerous distinctive attractions that render it an essential destination in Eastern Europe: its historic center encircled by vegetation with traces of ancient defensive structures, its vibrant cultural scene, and its singular ambiance, which is simultaneously enchanting and celebratory.
What attractions should you visit in Krakow?
- The Market Square ( Rynek Główny ): The biggest medieval square in Europe, encircled by historical structures, coffee houses, and the famous Renaissance-styled Cloth Hall ( Sukiennice ).
- The Wawel Castle: The magnificent royal compound perched above the Vistula River, featuring its own cathedral where Polish monarchs were anointed.
- The Jewish Quarter ( Kazimierz ): A neighborhood steeped in history, featuring its synagogues, Jewish cemetery, and museum, alongside modern cafes and distinctive boutiques.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia stands as one of Europe’s most ancient capitals, boasting origins over 7,000 years old, and has been shaped by various cultures including the Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Its remarkable mix of architecture makes it truly captivating.
Where should you go when visiting Sofia?
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: One of the emblems of Sofia, this cathedral is designed to awe visitors with its grand scale and striking gold-domed roofs. As one of the biggest Orthodox churches globally, it has the capacity to accommodate as many as 10,000 individuals.
- The Market Hall ( halite ): a delightful neo-Renaissance enclosed market, offering an opportunity to sample Bulgarian cuisine and explore local products.
- Boyana C hurch On the periphery of Sofia, this medieval church—a UNESCO World Heritage site—is renowned for its 13th-century frescoes. th -one of the most extensive collections of medieval art, featuring century-old frescoes.
- Vitosha: This peak reaches an elevation of 2,290 meters, providing a view over Sofia. It presents many chances for hiking and outdoor pursuits, along with skiing during the colder months.
Belgrade, Serbia
It might surprise you how much history hides behind the lively scenes and varied architecture of Belgrade – ranging from Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman structures to the modernist edifices built during the communist times. Its key location where the Danube and Sava rivers meet has turned this city into both an epicenter for cultural interactions and a frequent battleground throughout numerous historical clashes.
What is there to visit in Belgrade?
- The Belgrade Fortress: situated within the highly frequented Kalemegdan Park, this historical location provides a sweeping vista of both the Danube and Sava rivers.
- The Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade: This magnificent Orthodox church, completed in 2020, contains the biggest domed mosaic globally.
- Skadarlija: A Bohemian, artsy neighborhood characterized by its cobblestone lanes and traditional eateries. Stepping into this area makes you sense the genuine essence of Belgrade.
- Ada Ciganlija: Occasionally referred to as the "Sea of Belgrade," this man-made island on the River Sava has been transformed into a recreational zone featuring beaches, watersports, cafes, and lush green areas.
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