Eastern Europe Travel Planner

So much to see, so little time

From the Baltics to the Balkans, Eastern Europe has some of the continent’s most underrated cities and unforgettable hidden gems. Full of fascinating history, awe inspiring artwork and spectacular architecture, these bucket list worthy nations are waiting to be uncovered. Whether its secluded forests and mountains, imposing castles and fortresses, or the everyday history of the diverse peoples of the region, you will find what you are looking for in Eastern Europe.

The Baltics, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, are surprisingly lively. Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, celebrates 700 years in 2023, and its beautiful Old Town, with the commanding Gediminas Castle Tower, is one of the best kept secrets in Europe. Artsy Kaunas, the 2022 European Capital of Culture, is also amazing, full of medieval buildings, a beautifully preserved castle and tons of interesting museums. With over a thousand castles and manors dotting the country, Estonia offers many unique experiences and places to experience history firsthand. Latvia’s pristine beaches and expansive forests are the perfect base for hiking and experiencing the wilderness. Places like Pape Nature Park and Lake Engure Nature Park offer places to see wild horses and cattle, along with bison and hundreds of bid species. Focus on one or tour all the Baltics and experience their unique flair.

Continuing south, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia are the heart of Eastern Europe. The most well-known of the eastern European nations, they still have many hidden wonders waiting for visitors. In Poland, history buffs looking for WWII history will not want to miss the Warsaw Uprising Museum, the remains of bunkers, or the many concentration camps spread through the country. Lighter history, such as the beautifully preserved castles, fortresses, such as the Barbican in Warsaw; or Biskupin, a reconstructed prehistoric settlement, offer plenty of history lovers of all ages. In the Czech Republic, venture outside Prague and its beautiful Astronomical Clock and Prague Castle to see the real charm of the country. From Brno’s Museum of the Romani Culture to the hot springs and delicious wafers of Karlovy Vary, you won’t be disappointed. Hungary’s dazzling capital of Budapest is rightfully famous for its intricate and magnificent architecture, such as Buda Palace, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the parliament building. While few visit other areas of Hungary places like Lake Batalon are attracting more and more visitors with places like Szigliget Castle.

Romania, Slovenia, Serbia, Croatia, and Moldova serve as the border to the Balkans, with stunning mountains, shining lakes, and fascinatingly complex history.  Timisoara in Romania has been known by dozens of names and been part of several countries over the centuries. Now it is home of beautiful rose gardens and an open-air historical museum. Bucharest’s famously ostentatious Parliamentary Palace and the ornate Trajan’s Column, detailing the Roman conquest over the Dacians who once inhabited the region, are must sees. Slovenia’s peaceful capital of Ljubljana with its brightly colored medieval buildings is a lovely introduction to this beautiful country. Lake Bled, which features a strikingly white church that stands out in stark contrast to the vividly turquoise water. Postojna’s famous Predjama Castle built into a cave and the story of the siege against Erazem of Predjama are beautifully unique slices of history. Croatia’s unique and wonderous nature and architecture have made it the filming location for many films and TV shows. Dubrovnik, especially, was the setting for many scenes in “Game of Thrones,” from King’s Landing to the Red Keep.

As you travel deeper into the Balkans, the smaller countries that make up the peninsula remain in seclusion, aside from Greece, which has been a tourism powerhouse for centuries, the smaller nations to its north are largely ignored. While cruising has introduced some to the coastal gems of the Balkans, so much is unseen. In Northern Macedonia, Skopje offers fascinating museums and an outstandingly varied array of statues by numerous modern artists Ohrid, home to a 5th century Basilica, the 11th century Samuel's Fortress, and remarkable views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Montenegro’s dramatic coastline and natural parks are unsurpassed in the area. Adventure lovers will be thrilled by the mountain biking paths of Durmitor National Park or rafting the River Tara, and with tons of beautiful villages and old historic centers, history and culture buffs will also be delighted.

Eastern Europe is full of beautiful locations, hospitable people, and unmissable experiences. Experience the folklore, legends, and history of these fascinating countries the best way, by immersing yourself in them. Whether you are looking for a customized independent trip, or an escorted tour, I would be happy to help you discover the memorable nations of Eastern Europe.