EMBARKING ON AN EASTERN EUROPEAN ADVENTURE
Picture strolling along cobblestone roads where medieval legends live on, indulging in robust meals that speak volumes of generations, and walking amid landscapes that have given birth to myths. Welcome to Eastern Europe—a land where each corner promises a new surprise, mixing deep history with dynamic cultures.
From Budapest’s monumental architecture to Tallinn’s charming old towns, Eastern Europe is a patchwork of experiences waiting to happen. Whether history buff, foodie, or adventurer in search of off-the-beaten-path experiences, this region guarantees memories that will last a lifetime.
In this book, we’re going to take you on a trip through some of Eastern Europe’s most engaging places, discover secrets, and share tips to ensure your trip is smooth and enjoyable.
WHY VISIT EASTERN EUROPE?
Eastern Europe is full of experiences:
- Cultural depth: Places such as Kraków and Riga have impeccably preserved medieval architecture and thriving arts communities.
- Natural beauty: The Plitvice Lakes in Croatia and the Carpathian Mountains in Romania feature stunning vistas.
- Affordability: In comparison to Western Europe, most Eastern European destinations are a great value for money, with low-cost accommodations, eating out, and attractions.
TOP PLACES TO VISIT
-
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, nicknamed the “Paris of the East,” is famous for its beautiful architecture, historic thermal baths, and lively nightlife. Top attractions are the Buda Castle, Parliament Building, and the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
-
Kraków, Poland
Kraków is a historic city with the Wawel Castle, ancient Old Town, and the somber Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial nearby.
-
Riga, Latvia
Riga, Latvia’s capital, boasts Art Nouveau architecture, a lively central market, and easy access to beaches in Jūrmala.
-
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn’s intact medieval Old Town, cobbled streets, and IT savvy combine history with modernity.
GETTING AROUND
Travelling in Eastern Europe is easy with several transportation choices:
- Train Travel: Eurail Pass allows traveling between several nations by train.
- Budget Airlines: Budget airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air offer cheap flights between major urban centers.
- Bus Services: Operators such as FlixBus and Eurolines serve multiple destinations at economical prices.
ACCOMMODATION CHOICES
Eastern Europe has various types of accommodations for varying budgets:
- Hostels: Best for backpackers and solo travellers.
- Boutique Hotels: Offer a combination of comfort and local character.
- Apartments: Sites like Airbnb provide local living experiences.
CULINARY DELIGHTS
Eastern European food is rich and savory:
- Hungary: Have goulash and chimney cakes.
- Poland: Have pierogi and bigos.
- Latvia: Have grey peas with bacon and rye bread.
- Estonia: Have smoked fish and kama dessert.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
Get to know local culture through some of the various festivals:
- Budapest Spring Festival: Commemorates music and arts.
- Kraków Film Festival: Presents international cinema.
- Riga City Festival: Features concerts and cultural events.
- Tallinn Old Town Days: Celebrates medieval heritage.
TRAVEL TIPS
- Currency: While many countries use the Euro, others have their own currencies (e.g., Hungarian Forint, Polish Złoty).
- Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic local phrases is appreciated.
- Weather: Summers are warm, while winters can be cold and snowy.
- Safety: Eastern Europe is generally safe, but always stay aware of your surroundings.
Traveling to Eastern Europe is a diverse and bountiful experience. No matter what your interest is, history, nature, or food, there is something for everyone in Eastern Europe.
About The Author
