10 Best Eastern European Cities to Visit on Your Next Trip

Ready to discover more destinations in Europe? This guide gives you our top 10 best Eastern European cities to visit on your next trip. Beyond the usual tourist trails lie cities brimming with vibrant life, architectural marvels, and stories waiting to be told. From Prague’s romantic spires to Sarajevo’s resilient spirit, each town offers a unique glimpse into the past and present of this fascinating region.

Pack your bags and prepare for a journey through the top 10 best Eastern European cities to visit—destinations that promise to enchant, educate, and inspire you.

📌 Additional Reads:
– How to Plan A Trip to Europe For First-Timers
– How to Live in Europe For a Year: An Insider’s Guide
– Ultimate Guide on Choosing the Best Sim for Europe Roaming
– Getting Flexible Travel Insurance for Any Length of Trip in Europe

No. 1: Prague, Czech Republic – Our Top Choice for the Best European Cities to Visit

Why Visit Prague?

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, often referred to as “The City of a Hundred Spires,” is a perfect blend of history, culture, and romance. Known for its picturesque architecture and vibrant atmosphere, Prague invites travelers to step back in time while enjoying the comforts of a modern European city.

Main Attractions

1. Prague Castle: Dominating the city’s skyline, Prague Castle isn’t just any castle. It’s an impressive complex dating back to the 9th century and is recognized as the largest ancient castle in the world. Inside, you’ll find palaces, museums, and the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral.
2. Charles Bridge: Possibly the most iconic structure in Prague, the Charles Bridge boasts 30 statues of religious figures and offers unmatched views of the Vltava River. Walking this bridge at sunrise or sunset provides a magical experience, with the Gothic towers framing the historic cityscape.
3. Old Town Square: At the heart of Prague’s historic core is the Old Town Square. This bustling square is surrounded by architectural jewels like the Astronomical Clock, Tyn Church, and the Old Town Hall. It’s also a great spot to taste local Czech specialties at nearby cafes and restaurants.
4. Astronomical Clock: The Prague Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, is a medieval clock first installed in 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still operating. Every hour, crowds gather to watch the fascinating mechanical performance that includes the procession of the Twelve Apostles.

Cultural Insights

Prague is a cultural hub with an endless array of theater shows, opera, live music, and art galleries. The city’s historical narrative is compelling, influenced by its survival through various occupations, wars, and revolutions. For a deep dive into the local culture, visit during one of the many festivals, like the Prague Spring International Music Festival or the Prague Christmas Market.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Prague is enchanting year-round, but the spring and early fall are ideal for comfortable weather and fewer tourists. Winter in Prague is cold but magical, especially during the Christmas season when the city lights up with festive decorations.
• Getting Around: Prague’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. The city is also highly walkable, especially the historic areas where you’ll want to explore every charming alley.
• Language: While Czech is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, making it easy for travelers to navigate the city.

Budget Guide for Visiting Prague

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $15-$25, Budget Hotels $30-$50	Mid-Range Hotels $60-$120, Boutique Hotels $100-$150	Luxury Hotels $150-$300, High-End Suites $300+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $5-$10, Grocery Store $10-$15	Casual Dining $15-$25, Nice Restaurants $25-$40	Fine Dining $50-$100, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $100+
Transportation	Public Transit $5 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $15 (daily)	Taxi/Uber $20-$30	Private Driver $100+, Luxury Car Rental $150+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Free Museum Days $0	Paid Tours $20-$50, Museum Entries $10-$20	Private Guided Tours $50-$100, Exclusive Access Events $100+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$15, Snacks/Drinks $5-$10	Shopping $20-$50, Specialty Items $30-$60	Designer Goods $100+, Spa Services $50-$150

No. 2: Budapest, Hungary

Why Visit Budapest?

Straddling the majestic Danube River, Budapest is a city of thermal baths, historical buildings, and a nightlife that’s as vibrant as its history is profound. Known as the “Paris of the East,” this city effortlessly combines its fascinating past with an energetic present, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Eastern Europe.

Main Attractions

1. Buda Castle: This historic castle and palace complex of the Hungarian kings in Budapest was first completed in 1265, but the massive Baroque palace today occupying most of the site was built between the 1740s and the 1760s. It provides a panoramic view of the city from its location on the Castle Hill.
2. Széchenyi Thermal Bath: One of the largest spa complexes in Europe, its water is supplied by two thermal springs. It’s not just a major bathing facility but a cultural icon, having been a bathing destination since 1913.
3. Hungarian Parliament Building: A stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture, this is one of the largest buildings in Hungary, and the tallest in Budapest. It’s a magnificent sight, especially when viewed from a boat on the Danube at night.
4. Fisherman’s Bastion: For the best views of Budapest, head to this terrace in neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque style situated on the Buda bank of the Danube, on the Castle hill in Budapest, around Matthias Church.

Cultural Insights

Budapest has a thriving cultural scene, with numerous theatres, museums, and a bustling music scene ranging from classical music and opera to jazz and modern pop. The city is also known for its significant festivals, including the Budapest Spring Festival and Sziget Festival, one of Europe’s largest music and cultural festivals.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Budapest are from March through May and from September through November. These seasons offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Getting Around: Budapest has an excellent public transportation system, including metros, trams, and buses. The city is also compact and great for walking.
• Language: Hungarian is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Budget Guide for Visiting Budapest

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $10-$20, Budget Hotels $25-$40	Mid-Range Hotels $50-$100, Boutique Hotels $80-$150	Luxury Hotels $120-$250, High-End Suites $250+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $3-$8, Grocery Store $10-$15	Casual Dining $10-$20, Nice Restaurants $20-$35	Fine Dining $30-$70, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $70+
Transportation	Public Transit $4 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $10 (daily)	Taxi/Uber $15-$25	Private Driver $80+, Luxury Car Rental $100+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Museum Free Days $0	Paid Tours $15-$40, Museum Entries $5-$15	Private Guided Tours $40-$80, Exclusive Access Events $80+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$10, Snacks/Drinks $3-$7	Shopping $15-$45, Specialty Items $20-$50	Designer Goods $50+, Spa Services $40-$120

No. 3: Kraków, Poland

Why Visit Kraków?

Kraków, one of Poland’s oldest cities, presents a picturesque window into the past with its well-preserved medieval core and Jewish quarter. Known for its artistic vibrancy and historical significance, Kraków offers a unique blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, making it a cultural gem in Eastern Europe.

Main Attractions

1. Wawel Castle: This iconic castle, a symbol of national pride, sits atop Wawel Hill and is a mix of nearly every architectural style from medieval to baroque. Inside, you’ll find several museums containing important Polish art, the Royal Private Apartments, and the impressive Crown Treasury and Armory.
2. Main Market Square (Rynek Główny): The largest medieval town square in Europe, bustling with life and surrounded by historic townhouses, palatial museums, and the Cloth Hall, where traders offer a variety of wares as they have for centuries.
3. Kazimierz: The historic Jewish quarter of the city, now a vibrant area buzzing with galleries, cafes, and pubs, and also known for its significant historical sites like the Old Synagogue and Galicia Jewish Museum.
4. Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum: Located just outside Kraków, this museum and memorial serve as a stark reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust, providing profound insight into one of the darkest chapters of human history.

Cultural Insights

Kraków is famed for its cultural festivals, including the Kraków Film Festival, the Jewish Culture Festival, and the Kraków Live Festival featuring international music acts. It’s also a city that takes pride in its academic and artistic achievements, housing numerous theaters, opera houses, and a thriving underground music and art scene.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Kraków are the spring months of April through June and the fall months of September and October when the weather is pleasant and the city isn’t overwhelmed by tourists.
• Getting Around: Kraków is compact and most of its historic sites and attractions are best explored on foot. Public transport is reliable for reaching outer districts.
• Language: Polish is the official language, but English is commonly spoken, especially among younger people and in tourist areas.

Budget Guide for Visiting Kraków

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $10-$20, Budget Hotels $20-$40	Mid-Range Hotels $45-$90, Boutique Hotels $90-$140	Luxury Hotels $140-$200, High-End Suites $200+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $3-$7, Grocery Store $10-$15	Casual Dining $8-$15, Nice Restaurants $15-$30	Fine Dining $25-$50, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $50+
Transportation	Public Transit $2.5 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $10 (daily)	Taxi/Uber $10-$20	Private Driver $60+, Luxury Car Rental $80+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Free Museum Days $0	Paid Tours $10-$25, Museum Entries $3-$10	Private Guided Tours $30-$60, Exclusive Access Events $60+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$10, Snacks/Drinks $2-$5	Shopping $10-$40, Specialty Items $20-$45	Designer Goods $40+, Spa Services $30-$100

No. 4: Ljubljana, Slovenia

Why Visit Ljubljana?

Ljubljana, the capital and largest city of Slovenia, is renowned for its rich history, abundance of green spaces, and vibrant cultural scene. As a city that prides itself on sustainability, Ljubljana offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern eco-friendly initiatives, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate the harmony between urban life and nature.

Main Attractions

1. Ljubljana Castle: Perched on a hill above the city, this medieval fortress offers panoramic views of Ljubljana’s charming streets and green landscapes. The castle’s history stretches back over a thousand years and today, it serves as a major cultural venue.
2. Triple Bridge: An architectural marvel designed by the famous architect Jože Plečnik, this trio of picturesque bridges spans the Ljubljanica River, marking a gateway to the historic city center and its lively cafes and boutiques.
3. Tivoli Park: The largest park in Ljubljana, it’s a perfect example of the city’s green ethos. Featuring extensive lawns, playgrounds, and walking paths, the park also hosts numerous cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
4. Central Market: Designed by Jože Plečnik, the market is a bustling hub of activity where locals and tourists alike can explore stalls filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and traditional Slovenian crafts.

Cultural Insights

Ljubljana is a cultural hotspot, hosting several festivals throughout the year, such as the Ljubljana Jazz Festival and the Ljubljana Festival, which feature a range of international and local performances. The city’s commitment to sustainability is also evident in its cultural initiatives, promoting eco-friendly events and green urban spaces.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ljubljana is during the spring (April to June) or early fall (September and October) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded.
• Getting Around: Ljubljana is a highly walkable city, and its center is largely pedestrianized. Bikes are widely used and available for rent. Public transportation is efficient and includes buses and a unique electric vehicle called Kavalir.
• Language: Slovenian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in the tourist areas and among younger people.

Budget Guide for Visiting Ljubljana

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $15-$25, Budget Hotels $30-$50	Mid-Range Hotels $60-$120, Boutique Hotels $100-$150	Luxury Hotels $150-$300, High-End Suites $300+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $5-$10, Grocery Store $10-$15	Casual Dining $15-$25, Nice Restaurants $25-$40	Fine Dining $50-$100, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $100+
Transportation	Public Transit $2 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $8 (daily)	Public Transit $2 (daily pass), Taxi/Uber $15-$25	Private Driver $80+, Luxury Car Rental $90+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Free Museum Days $0	Paid Tours $15-$30, Museum Entries $5-$10	Private Guided Tours $40-$75, Exclusive Access Events $75+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$15, Snacks/Drinks $5-$10	Shopping $20-$50, Specialty Items $30-$60	Designer Goods $100+, Spa Services $50-$150

No. 5: Tallinn, Estonia

Why Visit Tallinn?

Tallinn stands out with its remarkable preservation of medieval history meshed seamlessly with its status as one of the most technologically advanced cities in Europe. Known for its picturesque Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its vibrant tech scene, Tallinn offers a unique duality that captivates both history enthusiasts and modern-day tech aficionados.

Main Attractions

1. Old Town: Explore the winding cobblestone streets of Tallinn’s Old Town, where you’ll find historic buildings, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. The area is dominated by the impressive Toompea Castle and the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
2. Kadriorg Palace: Designed by the Italian architect Niccolò Michetti for Peter the Great, this Baroque palace is surrounded by meticulously sculpted gardens and houses the Kadriorg Art Museum, with a focus on foreign art in Estonia.
3. Telliskivi Creative City: The heartbeat of Tallinn’s contemporary arts scene, this former industrial complex has been transformed into a lively cultural hub with studios, galleries, boutiques, and cafes.
4. e-Estonia Showroom: Experience Estonia’s digital society firsthand at this showroom, where visitors can learn about the country’s pioneering e-governance and digital public services.

Cultural Insights

Tallinn is celebrated for its cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Tallinn Music Week, which showcases a variety of musical genres and acts from around the globe, and the Black Nights Film Festival, one of the largest film festivals in Northern Europe.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Tallinn are from May to August when the weather is warmest and the days are longest. However, winter brings its own charm with the magical Christmas market.
• Getting Around: Tallinn is compact and highly walkable, especially the Old Town area. Public transport is reliable and includes buses, trolleys, and trams. For longer distances, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
• Language: Estonian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas and among the younger population.

Budget Guide for Visiting Tallinn

Tallinn, Estonia:

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $15-$30, Budget Hotels $30-$60	Mid-Range Hotels $60-$120, Boutique Hotels $120-$180	Luxury Hotels $180-$350, High-End Suites $350+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $5-$10, Grocery Store $10-$20	Casual Dining $10-$20, Nice Restaurants $20-$40	Fine Dining $40-$80, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $80+
Transportation	Public Transit $3 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $10 (daily)	Public Transit $3 (daily pass), Taxi/Uber $10-$30	Private Driver $100+, Luxury Car Rental $120+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Free Museum Days $0	Paid Tours $10-$25, Museum Entries $5-$15	Private Guided Tours $50-$100, Exclusive Access Events $100+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$15, Snacks/Drinks $5-$10	Shopping $20-$50, Specialty Items $30-$60	Designer Goods $100+, Spa Services $50-$200

No. 6: Dubrovnik, Croatia

Why Visit Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik, a stunning city located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Renowned for its remarkable old town encircled with massive stone walls completed in the 16th century, Dubrovnik offers breathtaking views, rich history, and a pristine maritime setting that has attracted visitors for centuries.

Main Attractions

1. City Walls: Walk along the ancient city walls that stretch over 2 kilometers around Dubrovnik’s old town, offering spectacular views of the city and the sea. These fortifications are among the best-preserved in Europe.
2. Stradun: Dubrovnik’s main street, Stradun, is a vibrant promenade lined with historic buildings, charming cafes, and boutique shops. It’s the heart of the city and a perfect place to feel the pulse of Dubrovnik’s lively atmosphere.
3. Lokrum Island: Just a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is a nature reserve and a haven for peacocks and exotic plants. It also houses a monastery and a small salt lake known as the Dead Sea.
4. Rector’s Palace: A stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, the Rector’s Palace now serves as a museum showcasing Dubrovnik’s history through art and artifacts.

Cultural Insights

Dubrovnik’s rich cultural heritage is showcased through its numerous festivals and events. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is a highlight, featuring live plays, concerts, and games. The city is also a modern-day hotspot for film and TV series locations, most notably for scenes from the popular series “Game of Thrones.”

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Dubrovnik are late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October) to avoid the peak summer crowds while still enjoying warm weather.
• Getting Around: Dubrovnik’s old town is pedestrian-only, making it perfect for exploring on foot. Public buses are available for longer distances around the city.
• Language: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Budget Guide for Visiting Dubrovnik

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $20-$35, Budget Hotels $40-$80	Mid-Range Hotels $80-$160, Boutique Hotels $160-$250	Luxury Hotels $250-$400, High-End Suites $400+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $10-$20, Grocery Store $20-$30	Casual Dining $20-$40, Nice Restaurants $40-$60	Fine Dining $60-$100, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $100+
Transportation	Public Transit $2 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $12 (daily)	Public Transit $2 (daily pass), Taxi/Uber $20-$40	Private Driver $150+, Luxury Car Rental $200+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Free Entry Days to Museums $0	Paid Tours $20-$50, Museum Entries $10-$25	Private Guided Tours $50-$150, Exclusive Access Events $150+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$20, Snacks/Drinks $5-$15	Shopping $30-$70, Specialty Items $40-$80	Designer Goods $100+, Spa Services $100-$300

No. 7: Riga, Latvia

Why Visit Riga?

Riga, the capital of Latvia, serves as a cultural and economic hub of the Baltic states. Known for its rich heritage of Art Nouveau architecture and a vibrant modern arts scene, Riga offers an intriguing mix of historical grandeur and contemporary energy. Its historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its impressive collection of Art Nouveau buildings more than any other city in Europe.

Main Attractions

1. Old Town Riga: Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where you can explore historic sites such as the House of the Blackheads, Riga Cathedral, and the St. Peter’s Church with its stunning panoramic views from the tower.
2. Art Nouveau District: Take a guided tour or simply stroll through the streets of the Art Nouveau district to admire the elaborate building facades that make Riga famous in the architectural world.
3. Central Market: One of the largest and most visited markets in Europe, Riga’s Central Market is housed in giant Zeppelin hangars and offers a vast array of local foods and goods—a perfect spot for foodies wanting to taste traditional Latvian cuisine.
4. Museum of the Occupation of Latvia: This museum provides a poignant look at the difficult periods in Latvian history under Soviet and Nazi occupations, offering insights into the resilience of the Latvian people.

Cultural Insights

Riga is a city with a robust cultural life, hosting numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Riga Opera Festival, the Baltic Ballet Festival, and the Riga International Film Festival. The city is also known for its lively nightlife and burgeoning craft beer scene.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Riga are during the late spring (May) and early fall (September) when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are thinner.
• Getting Around: Riga is well served by public transportation including buses, trams, and a trolleybus system. The city is also compact enough to explore on foot, especially the Old Town and central areas.
• Language: Latvian is the official language, but Russian is also widely spoken, and English is commonly used in tourist areas and among younger people.

Budget Guide for Visiting Riga

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $10-$25, Budget Hotels $30-$50	Mid-Range Hotels $50-$100, Boutique Hotels $100-$200	Luxury Hotels $200-$350, High-End Suites $350+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $5-$10, Grocery Store $10-$15	Casual Dining $10-$20, Nice Restaurants $20-$40	Fine Dining $40-$80, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $80+
Transportation	Public Transit $2 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $8 (daily)	Public Transit $2 (daily pass), Taxi/Uber $10-$30	Private Driver $100+, Luxury Car Rental $120+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Free Museum Days $0	Paid Tours $10-$25, Museum Entries $5-$15	Private Guided Tours $40-$75, Exclusive Access Events $75+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$15, Snacks/Drinks $5-$10	Shopping $20-$50, Specialty Items $30-$60	Designer Goods $100+, Spa Services $50-$150

No. 8: Sofia, Bulgaria

Why Visit Sofia?

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history that stretches over seven millennia. Set against the backdrop of the Vitosha Mountain, Sofia offers a rare blend of ancient ruins and modern city life, providing visitors with a unique cultural and natural experience. Its streets are a mix of Ottoman, Soviet, and European influences, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and urban explorers alike.

Main Attractions

1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: One of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, this stunning architectural marvel is known for its gilded domes and intricate interior mosaics.
2. Boyana Church: Located on the outskirts of Sofia, this tiny medieval church is included on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its exquisite and well-preserved frescoes dating back to the 11th century.
3. Vitosha Boulevard: Sofia’s main commercial street, lined with fashionable boutiques, charming cafes, and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
4. National Historical Museum: Housing over 650,000 items, the museum is one of the largest in the Balkans and offers a comprehensive overview of Bulgarian history from prehistory to modern times.

Cultural Insights

Sofia is not only rich in historical sites but also vibrant with cultural activities, including international film festivals, the Sofia Opera and Ballet, and numerous live music venues. The city also hosts the Sofia Science Festival, showcasing the region’s commitment to education and scientific advancement.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Sofia is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.
• Getting Around: Sofia has an extensive public transportation network including metros, trams, and buses. The city is also quite walkable, especially the historic center.
• Language: Bulgarian is the official language. English is commonly spoken within the tourist industry and by younger people.

Budget Guide for Visiting Sofia

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $10-$20, Budget Hotels $20-$40	Mid-Range Hotels $40-$80, Boutique Hotels $80-$120	Luxury Hotels $120-$200, High-End Suites $200+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $3-$7, Grocery Store $10-$15	Casual Dining $10-$20, Nice Restaurants $20-$35	Fine Dining $30-$60, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $60+
Transportation	Public Transit $1.50 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $5 (daily)	Public Transit $1.50 (daily pass), Taxi/Uber $5-$15	Private Driver $50+, Luxury Car Rental $70+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Free Museum Days $0	Paid Tours $5-$15, Museum Entries $2-$10	Private Guided Tours $20-$50, Exclusive Access Events $50+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$10, Snacks/Drinks $3-$5	Shopping $15-$40, Specialty Items $20-$50	Designer Goods $50+, Spa Services $30-$100

No. 9: Belgrade, Serbia

Why Visit Belgrade?

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, stands at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, a symbolic crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe. This city is known for its vibrant nightlife, rich history, and diverse architecture, ranging from ancient to modern. Belgrade is a dynamic urban center that pulses with energy and is increasingly recognized for its artistic and cultural scenes.

Main Attractions

1. Belgrade Fortress: This historic fortress offers panoramic views of the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers and contains centuries of Belgrade’s history. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to gather and enjoy the extensive park areas and cultural events.
2. Knez Mihailova Street: A pedestrianized zone and shopping street protected by law as one of the oldest and most valuable landmarks of the city, lined with historical buildings, high-end shops, and restaurants.
3. St. Sava Temple: One of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, notable for its imposing size and the white marble and granite that dominate its exterior.
4. Nikola Tesla Museum: Dedicated to honoring and displaying the life and work of Nikola Tesla, this museum holds numerous personal items, exhibits, and interactive displays that explore his contributions to modern science and technology.

Cultural Insights

Belgrade is known for its diverse music scene and festivals. The Belgrade Summer Festival features various cultural events such as opera, theatre, and dance performances. Additionally, the city has a strong café culture, with numerous bars, pubs, and cafes that are almost always filled with lively conversations and music.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Belgrade are late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October) when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the city.
• Getting Around: Belgrade’s center is quite walkable, but the city also has an extensive bus and tram network for reaching farther districts.
• Language: Serbian is the official language. English is widely spoken within the tourist sector, especially among younger people.

Budget Guide for Visiting Belgrade

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $10-$20, Budget Hotels $20-$40	Mid-Range Hotels $40-$80, Boutique Hotels $80-$120	Luxury Hotels $120-$250, High-End Suites $250+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $3-$7, Grocery Store $10-$15	Casual Dining $10-$20, Nice Restaurants $20-$35	Fine Dining $30-$60, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $60+
Transportation	Public Transit $1.50 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $5 (daily)	Public Transit $1.50 (daily pass), Taxi/Uber $10-$20	Private Driver $60+, Luxury Car Rental $80+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Free Museum Days $0	Paid Tours $10-$25, Museum Entries $5-$15	Private Guided Tours $30-$60, Exclusive Access Events $60+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$10, Snacks/Drinks $3-$5	Shopping $15-$40, Specialty Items $20-$50	Designer Goods $50+, Spa Services $50-$150

No. 10: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Why Visit Sarajevo?

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is renowned for its unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. Known as the “Jerusalem of Europe” due to its historical religious diversity, Sarajevo offers a poignant mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic heritages, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and culture. Despite its turbulent past, including the siege during the 1990s, Sarajevo today is a vibrant and welcoming city.

Main Attractions

1. Baščaršija: Sarajevo’s old bazaar and the historical and cultural center of the city, Baščaršija is filled with narrow alleyways and small shops, offering everything from traditional crafts to local foods like ćevapi and burek.
2. Latin Bridge: The site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which sparked World War I. This historic bridge over the Miljacka River is a significant landmark for those interested in the pivotal events of European history.
3. Sarajevo War Tunnel: Built during the Siege of Sarajevo, this tunnel served as a crucial lifeline for the city, transporting food, war supplies, and humanitarian aid. The museum attached to the tunnel provides a powerful insight into the resilience of Sarajevo’s citizens.
4. Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque: Built in the 16th century, this is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans and a key religious site in Sarajevo.

Cultural Insights

Sarajevo is a city that celebrates its multicultural heritage through various festivals, including the Sarajevo Film Festival, one of the largest film festivals in Europe. The city is also known for its vibrant café culture, traditional music, and the warmth of its people.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Sarajevo are from May to September when the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities and exploring the city.
• Getting Around: Sarajevo is relatively compact and can be explored on foot, especially the central areas like Baščaršija. Public transportation includes trams, buses, and trolleybuses.
• Language: Bosnian is the official language, but many locals also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Budget Guide for Visiting Sarajevo

Expense Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation	Hostels $10-$20, Budget Hotels $20-$40	Mid-Range Hotels $40-$80, Boutique Hotels $80-$120	Luxury Hotels $120-$200, High-End Suites $200+
Meals	Street Food/Inexpensive Meals $3-$7, Grocery Store $10-$15	Casual Dining $10-$20, Nice Restaurants $20-$30	Fine Dining $30-$50, Gourmet/Michelin Star Restaurants $50+
Transportation	Public Transit $1.50 (daily pass), Bicycle Rent $5 (daily)	Public Transit $1.50 (daily pass), Taxi/Uber $10-$20	Private Driver $50+, Luxury Car Rental $70+
Attractions	Free Walking Tours, Free Museum Days $0	Paid Tours $5-$15, Museum Entries $2-$10	Private Guided Tours $20-$40, Exclusive Access Events $40+
Miscellaneous	Souvenirs $5-$10, Snacks/Drinks $3-$5	Shopping $15-$40, Specialty Items $20-$50	Designer Goods $50+, Spa Services $30-$100

Our Final Thoughts on our Top 10 Best Eastern European Cities to Visit

As we wrap up our journey through Eastern Europe’s top cities you should visit, it’s clear that each destination has its unique charm and treasures. Whether it was Tallinn’s medieval allure or Riga’s bustling markets, these cities offer many experiences suitable for every type of traveler. So why not add these hidden gems to your travel list? Immerse yourself in the rich history, savor the delicious cuisines, and let the unique cultures of Eastern Europe transform your travel expectations.

Adventure awaits in every corner of this vibrant region—each city promising memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!