Eastern Europe is becoming more and more popular among tourists because there are many best cities to visit in Eastern Europe and many hidden gems to be explored.
We have some insider tips on the best cities in Eastern Europe.
Diverse and dramatic Eastern Europe may share a continent with Western Europe, but it offers a very different experience.
Eastern Europe is a warehouse of art, history, and architecture with world-class museums, festivals, and galleries.
The past is preserved in magnificent palaces, churches, and plazas; the variety of landscapes is mind-blowing.
Discover Europe’s most secret and exciting destinations in a slow-paced journey through bohemian country places mostly unspoiled by the ravages of mass tourism or World War 2 devastation.
Famous for its colorful history, elegant cities, most of which are UNESCO heritage sites, magnificent scenery, fascinating folklore, and more.
Furthermore, stroll the cobbled streets; partake in local entertainment, and indulge yourself in beautiful landscapes that you have never experience before.
What is the Most Beautiful City in Eastern Europe?
Head to Eastern Europe for unique experiences and unforgettable adventure.
From hidden gems in Hungary, Russia, and Latvia to the historic architectures of the Czech Republic, Romania, and Ukraine.
Eastern Europe is a fabulously exciting part of Europe, and it has a lot to offer to travellers, and it’s also home to some of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Before diving into the best eastern European cities, let’s take a look at a few helpful travel tips.
Tips on Travel to Eastern Europe
High season runs July through August is spring and falls crowd and prices drop-off.
Travel cost in Eastern Europe can range from less than 40 Euros a day if you choose a hostel bed and overnight trains to over 150 Euros a day at top-end hotels and restaurants.
For getting around, buses are a great option for travellers they cover almost all areas of Eastern Europe and trains are classic to get around the region.
These Are Some of the Best Cities to Visit in Eastern Europe
1- Krakow, Poland
Grabbing the attention of tourists around the world more than ever, Krakow has become one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Krakow lies on both sides of the upper Vistula River and is one of the largest cities in Poland.
It is known primarily for its grand historic architecture, cultural leadership, and interesting attractions with its old town area, a UNESCO world heritage site.
The market place and main square one of the largest medieval square in Europe.
Have existed since the 13th century, and a newly landscaped area is laid out on the site of past fortifications.
Another remarkable site in Krakow is Wawel Castle, a monument of immeasurable national importance the UNESCO-listed Wawel Castle has the wow factor.
The Castle has the architecture of every style from Romanesque to Baroque and was the seat of the King of Poland from the 13th century to the 17th century.
The city’s history is rich, its destinations are fascinating, and the costs are some of Europe’s lowest.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Krakow, Poland
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2- Dubrovnik, Croatia
If you are thinking of taking a short relaxing but eventful break then Dubrovnik Croatia might just be the ticket.
Between its white limestone buildings, bright terracotta rooftops, and cobalt blue waters that sparkle under the sunlight.
It’s understandable if you end up having a camera glued to your hands your whole visit.
Nestled in a sea of red rooftops and charming cobbled streets lies the old city surrounded by the obligatory wall walk which is a must
And when people talk about Dubrovnik, they mostly are referring to this walled-in mini.
After you visit the old town, you can move forward to the Dubrovnik cable car.
The journey lasts just under 4minutes, covering 800 meters of cable gaining altitude at a steady pace.
Once on top, you will see the beautiful views of the surrounding mountain, the sea and the town below this cable car journey is a must for anyone visiting the area.
Moreover, if you love to go on a cruise, there are countless options for day cruises in Dubrovnik.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Dubrovnik, Croatia
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3- Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is without a doubt one of the best cities to visit in Eastern Europe, made up of two cities Buda and Pest, is divided by the majestic River Danube.
Although the number of spectacular bridges joins them, they are two very different places, each with a unique character and each offering plenty for visitors to see and do.
Much of Hungary’s capital city has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
And many visitors consider the city to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
The iconic chain bridge is the city’s most famous bridge that connects Buda and Pest, the Western and Eastern sides of Budapest.
Also, the bridge is known for its historical significance and beautiful architecture a footpath allows pedestrians to walk across the suspension bridge, enjoy views over the Danube.
Furthermore, the Hop-On Hop-Off tour of Budapest allows you to discover one of Europe’s greatest cities at your own pace.
Making your site seeing experience hassle-free and flexible.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Budapest, Hungary
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4- St Petersburg, Russia
What do you imagine when you think of St Petersburg?
Beautiful palaces, museums, grandiose architecture, canals, and it have a lot of history and culture.
St Petersburg is simply one of the most beautiful cities in the world founded by the Great Peter in 1703, he dreamed of building a city that rivals Europe’s greatest capital.
His dream has finally come true as St Petersburg overwhelm opulent palaces and fine art, architectural splendor, and majestic landmarks.
This city offers a lot to visitors, and most visitors start their adventures right in the heart of historic St Petersburg and admire its beauty.
Another gem of St Petersburg is the Hermitage museum, which homes to the world’s largest collections of art.
It is said that if you truly appreciate each of the three million pieces of art will take 11 years.
Moreover, a river cruise is one of the best activities to do in St Petersburg.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in St Petersburg, Russia
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5- Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is one of the oldest cities in Europe; it is a charming and green capital city with plenty of tourist attractions to explore.
Initially established by the Thracians, it was later an important city of the Roman Empire.
Sofia became the capital of Bulgaria in 1879; a year after the country was liberated from 500 years of Turkish slavery.
Although the main attractions are concentrated in the city centre and can be seen within 24 hours, still there is a lot to do in Sofia.
Bulgaria sits on the historic floor, from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the terrible Slavic warriors, to the Ottoman pashas, to the Cold War communists, everyone left their marks.
With approximately a population of a million people, Sofia is a livable place.
And has an open street plan, beautiful old buildings, luxurious parks, and a comfortable lifestyle.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Sofia, Bulgaria
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6- Kiev, Ukraine
Kiev, one of the best cities to visit in Eastern Europe and the capital of Ukraine, is a vibrant city that offers many unique experiences, and visitor numbers are on the rise.
Kiev, one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, passed through several stages of great prominence and relative obscurity.
While it’s troubled past still puts some people off, Kiev is just as safe as other European cities provided you follow usual common sense.
The main airport Boryspil is around a one hour drive outside of the city, use either a public bus or a taxi.
Additionally, Kiev offers a lot to see and do to its visitors; it has many small parks, botanical gardens, and the Museum of World War II.
Which showcase the historical war equipment and military history both indoors and outdoors.
And the 102 meters tall The Motherland Monument facing towards Moscow is made from stainless steel statue dominates the sky.
Near The Motherland Monument, you will pass by Heroes Alley a series of Soviet-era installations, depicting the struggle of the Soviets.
They are themselves very impressive, the amount of detail is worth stopping and photographing.
Kiev is definitely worth a visit in eastern because there is a lot to see and do.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Kiev, Ukraine
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7- Riga, Latvia
Riga is the capital of Latvia, an Eastern European country covered in forests and lined by miles of sandy coastline.
Its compact size rich history and low cost make it an excellent alternative short break or as part of a more fabulous tour of the Baltic States.
Besides that, the city has an exciting history to uncover and is considered a cultural center that is home to a variety of museums and concert halls.
The city is also known for its wooden buildings, Art Nouveau architecture and medieval old town.
Riga’s old town at the centre of the city is a UNESCO world heritage site famous for its medieval Churches, magnificent Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture, and traffic-free cobbled streets.
The majority of the city’s most famous landmarks, attractions, shops, cafes, and restaurants are in or near the small historic centre.
Meaning everything can be reached within 10 to 15 minutes’ walk.
There are some interesting attractions to visit in Latvia. Still, the best way to see what Riga has to offer is by Hop-On Hop-Off bus.
It is a specially designed bus route covering every major sightseeing destination in the city.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Riga, Latvia
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8- Prague, Czech Republic
Without a doubt, Prague is among the best cities to visit in Eastern Europe.
It is the capital and largest city in the Czech Republic; it is situated in the north-west of the country on the Vltava River.
The city boasts some of the most picturesque architecture landmarks in Europe.
And with its medieval streets, world-class museums, and baroque style Churches and bridges.
Prague is an excellent tourist destination!
What makes this charming medieval city stand out is the St Wenceslas square, one of Prague’s most instantly recognizable tourist spots and makes a great starting point for any day trip in the city.
Wenceslas square is a vibrant area full of hotels, apartments, bars, restaurants, and shops.
Moreover, at the bottom of the square, the Mustek metro station Prague is situated, which acts as a hub between the metro’s green and yellow lines.
And that is why Wenceslas Square makes a great central point for any day trip in the capital.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Prague, Czech Republic
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9- Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a great place and a hidden gem with one of the world’s most beautiful cafes and a striking city center.
The historical city center and the old castle invites for long walks.
Bratislava may be the smallest capital in Europe, but it offers more than one would expect.
Its river location and well-conserved old town have made Bratislava and famous Danube metropolis, the river temp visitors for a water excursion.
Four bridges connect the two halves of the city that lay on board shores of the Danube River, and the first bridge visitors see there is the New Bridge.
The asymmetrical suspension bridge is an architecture specialty, and its only pillar has the UFO tower-like restaurant called UFO.
One of its beautiful tourist attractions is Hlavne Nam, the city’s small but splendid Main Square, a popular meeting place.
Surrounded by the city hall and several palaces, it’s like being taken back in time into a rich and glorious past.
Besides that, the city offers visitors many options for a unique short holiday break.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Bratislava, Slovakia
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10- Brasov, Romania
Brasov, a city, set in the very heart of Romania in the famous region of Transylvania. Brasov is renowned for its medieval Saxon architecture, which dominates the old town.
The Teutonic Knights found the city in 1211, is among the incredibly preserved cities in all Europe.
Brasov is incredibly pretty, with lots of photogenic cobbled streets, its bastions, and fortifications, its Churches, and museums.
There are many vital local attractions which luckily are within a short walk from each other.
One of the most prominent local buildings is The Council House.
The original Council house was built in the 164th century and stood on its place until the 20th century.
When it was demolished and replaces with a more modern building which you can see today, and it has housed a local history museum.
Moreover, you can hike or ride the cable car up to Tamps Mountain with its Hollywood-style sign rises right above the heart of Brasov’s old town.
There is a viewing platform near the top, which is accessible by both a cable car and hiking path.
There is plenty to see and do in Brasov, Romania.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Brasov, Romania
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11- Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius is the capital and largest city in Lithuania, and the second-largest in the Baltic States.
It is a melting pot of different cultures and styles of baroque, gothic, renaissance, and classicism.
It is famous for its unique architecture, and UNESCO listed cozy old town.
The city is a fantastic blend of old and new and offers a wide selection of attractions.
The city’s main landmark is Castle hill red tower that crowns the steep hill and marks the beginning of the city’s history.
But the best way to explore the Vilnius is with the Hop-On Hop-Off tour bus because it is an excellent possibility to see the city within a short period.
The whole trip without stops takes one and a half hours, or you can get off at any interim stop located near the most famous places to visit and continue your tour later.
Vilnius is one of the best Eastern European cities to visit with families.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Vilnius, Lithuania
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12- Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar is one of the great gems and most popular destinations of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Its exceptional natural beauty, architecture, stone buildings, and the Old Bridge (Stari Most) makes it one of the best cities to visit in Eastern Europe.
It’s almost impossible not to find a picture-perfect street in Mostar and its beautiful bridge across the stunning Neretva River and with dramatic mountain views.
This fairytale town is big on beauty, and it is also surrounded by stunning landscapes waiting to be explored.
The old bridge is the city’s main landmark; this 16th-century Ottoman bridge joins the two parts of the town across the River Neretva.
The original bridge was destroyed during the Croat-Bosnian War, however, when the war ended, plans to rebuild the bridge were put in motion.
And the new bridge was built in 2004 since then it became the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Where to stay: Best Hotels in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Final Thoughts
Although there are many best cities to visit in Eastern Europe and every place has its charm, but these were my top 12 picks according to tourists’ ratings.
Eastern Europe is filled with old-world charm, incredible scenic beauty, or perhaps both.
From old world palaces and quaint country cottages to the sun-splashed Mediterranean, Eastern Europe has a lot to offer, and it is becoming more and more popular for tourists to visit.
So what do you feel about these picture-perfect Eastern European cities? Comment below your favorite place and also let me know if I miss something.
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