Map Of Eastern Europe 2020: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re planning to explore the charming and diverse region of Eastern Europe, you’re in for a treat. From the stunning natural wonders and vibrant cities to the rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, this part of the world has something for everyone. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve created a comprehensive travel guide that covers all the top attractions and hidden gems. Whether you’re a budget traveler, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and practical tips in our guide.
Top Attractions
Eastern Europe boasts an impressive array of landmarks and sights that are sure to leave you awestruck. Among the most popular attractions are the historic cities of Prague, Budapest, and Krakow, each of which has its unique charm and character. You can also explore the old town of Tallinn, take a stroll along the Danube River in Belgrade, or marvel at the beauty of the Wawel Castle in Poland. For a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty, head to the Carpathian Mountains or the Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Eastern Europe has plenty to offer. You can explore the quaint villages of Transylvania, visit the eerie Bone Church in Kutna Hora, or take a dip in the thermal baths of Lake Heviz in Hungary. For a taste of the local culture, check out the traditional craft markets in Romania, or enjoy a folk music concert in Bulgaria.
Food Scene
Eastern Europe is known for its hearty and flavorful cuisine, which features a mix of Slavic, Germanic, and Mediterranean influences. Some of the must-try dishes include pierogi in Poland, cevapi in Serbia, and goulash in Hungary. You can also indulge in the sweet treats like chimney cake in Romania or strudel in Austria. Don’t forget to wash it all down with some local beer or wine!
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? No problem. Eastern Europe is one of the most affordable regions in Europe, with plenty of options for budget accommodation, food, and transport. You can save money by staying in hostels or Airbnb apartments, taking public transport instead of taxis, and eating at local eateries instead of fancy restaurants. You can also make use of discount cards and free walking tours to save money on attractions.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Eastern Europe won’t disappoint. You can go hiking in the Tatras Mountains in Slovakia, skiing in the Carpathians in Romania, or kayaking in the Danube Delta in Serbia. You can also explore the stunning national parks like the Bieszczady in Poland or the Rila in Bulgaria.
Historical Landmarks
Eastern Europe has a rich and complex history, with influences from various civilizations and empires. You can learn about the region’s past by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Medieval Town of Torun in Poland, the Rila Monastery in Bulgaria, or the Historic Center of Prague. You can also visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum in Poland or the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? No problem. Eastern Europe has plenty of options for family-friendly activities, from interactive museums and zoos to amusement parks and water parks. You can take a ride on the Budapest Eye Ferris wheel, visit the Prague Zoo, or explore the Ljubljana Castle in Slovenia.
Natural Wonders
Eastern Europe is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Europe, from the fjords of Norway to the beaches of Croatia. You can explore the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia, the Bled Lake in Slovenia, or the Krka National Park in Serbia. You can also visit the Danube Delta in Romania, which is home to over 300 species of birds.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a lively night out, Eastern Europe won’t disappoint. You can party till dawn in the clubs of Belgrade, Prague, or Budapest, or enjoy a drink in one of the many bars and pubs. You can also catch a concert or a theater performance in Warsaw or Sofia.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by visiting the traditional markets. You can taste the fresh produce and local delicacies, buy souvenirs and crafts, and mingle with the locals. Some of the best markets in Eastern Europe include the Wroclaw Market Hall in Poland, the Central Market Hall in Budapest, and the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.
Beaches and Mountains
Eastern Europe has a diverse range of landscapes, from the sandy beaches of Croatia to the snow-capped peaks of the Carpathians. You can soak up the sun in the beaches of Dubrovnik, Montenegro, or Albania, or go skiing in the resorts of Zakopane or Bansko. You can also enjoy the stunning views from the cable cars in the High Tatras or the Rila Mountains.
Cultural Immersion
To truly experience the local culture, you need to immerse yourself in it. You can learn about the traditional music, dance, and art by attending the festivals and events like the Sziget Festival in Budapest or the Exit Festival in Serbia. You can also volunteer in the local communities, stay with a host family, or take a language course.
Art and Music Scene
Eastern Europe has a vibrant and eclectic art and music scene, with influences from various styles and genres. You can admire the works of the local artists in the galleries of Prague or Krakow, attend the classical music concerts in Vienna or Budapest, or enjoy the underground music scene in Belgrade or Sofia.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore the cities of Eastern Europe is by taking a walking tour. You can discover the hidden corners and secret spots, learn about the local history and culture, and meet fellow travelers. You can take a free walking tour in most cities or book a private tour with a local guide.
Architectural Marvels
Eastern Europe is home to some of the most impressive and diverse architectural styles in Europe, from the Gothic cathedrals to the Art Nouveau buildings. You can admire the colorful facades of the Old Town in Prague, the ornate palaces of Vienna, or the futuristic buildings of Skopje. You can also visit the impressive castles like the Bran Castle in Romania or the Malbork Castle in Poland.
Historical Sites
Eastern Europe is steeped in history, with traces of various civilizations and empires. You can explore the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire in Bulgaria, the medieval fortresses in Croatia, or the Ottoman heritage in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You can also visit the poignant memorials and museums like the Warsaw Uprising Museum or the Museum of Yugoslav History.
Biking Routes
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, Eastern Europe has plenty of scenic biking routes to explore. You can ride along the Danube River in Serbia, Hungary, or Romania, or tackle the challenging mountain trails in Slovenia or Slovakia. You can also join the EuroVelo network, which offers over 70,000 km of cycling routes across Europe.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, Eastern Europe has plenty of wellness retreats and spas. You can soak in the thermal baths of Budapest, enjoy a massage in the Czech Republic, or practice yoga in the scenic surroundings of the Carpathians. You can also try the traditional treatments like the honey massage in Poland or the wine therapy in Bulgaria.
Adventure Sports
Eastern Europe is a paradise for adventure seekers, with plenty of options for adrenaline-pumping activities. You can go bungee jumping in the Czech Republic, rafting in the Tara River Canyon in Montenegro, or paragliding in the Julian Alps in Slovenia. You can also try the winter sports like snowboarding or skiing in the resorts of Romania or Bulgaria.
With so many amazing things to see and do, Eastern Europe is a traveler’s dream destination. We hope our guide has inspired you to plan your next adventure and explore this fascinating region of Europe.