Eastern Europe

Armenia captivates visitors with its ancient monasteries like Geghard and Noravank, breathtaking Mount Ararat views, and Lake Sevan’s serene waters. Known as the first Christian nation, its history shines in sites like the Temple of Garni, while Yerevan offers vibrant cafes and cultural landmarks.

Azerbaijan, the “Land of Fire,” intrigues with Baku’s modern Flame Towers, the ancient Icherisheher, and Gobustan’s mud volcanoes and petroglyphs. Visitors enjoy Caspian Sea beaches, the alpine beauty of Gabala, and rich Azerbaijani cuisine, including aromatic plov and tea ceremonies.

Belarus enchants with the UNESCO-listed Mir and Nesvizh Castles, Minsk’s Soviet-era charm, and the serene Braslav Lakes. Explore the Pripyat National Park or learn about the country’s heritage through its traditional crafts, folk music, and vibrant festivals.

Bulgaria combines the ancient and modern with landmarks like the Rila Monastery, Thracian tombs, and Sofia’s Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Explore Plovdiv’s Roman ruins, the sunny Black Sea beaches, and Bansko’s ski slopes while savoring rich Bulgarian wines and yogurt-based cuisine.

The Czech Republic is a fairytale destination with Prague’s Gothic Charles Bridge, medieval Český Krumlov, and Karlovy Vary’s spas. Renowned for its castles, Pilsner beer, and scenic countryside, it’s a haven for history buffs and culture seekers alike.

Georgia beckons travelers with Tbilisi’s old-world charm, Kazbegi’s stunning mountain views, and ancient wine traditions in Kakheti. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Vardzia cave monastery, and hearty Georgian cuisine like khachapuri and khinkali.

Hungary dazzles with Budapest’s iconic thermal baths, the Parliament building, and Danube River cruises. Beyond the capital, visitors explore Lake Balaton, historic Eger wine region, and Hortobágy National Park, while savoring traditional goulash and sweet chimney cakes.

Moldova charms with its world-class wineries like Cricova and Milestii Mici, Orheiul Vechi’s dramatic monastery, and Chisinau’s tranquil parks. Visitors enjoy local hospitality, hearty dishes like placinte, and unspoiled countryside dotted with quaint villages.

Poland offers Kraków’s historic Old Town, Warsaw’s vibrant culture, and Gdańsk’s Baltic coast charm. Visitors explore Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Tatra Mountains, and Wieliczka Salt Mine while indulging in pierogi, hearty soups, and world-class vodka.

Romania enchants with Transylvania’s Bran Castle, the painted monasteries of Bucovina, and Bucharest’s grand Palace of Parliament. Visitors can explore the Carpathian Mountains, the Danube Delta, and medieval towns like Sibiu and Brașov.

Russia boasts Moscow’s Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral, St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum, and Lake Baikal’s stunning wilderness. Visitors enjoy Siberian adventures, the Golden Ring’s historic towns, and world-renowned ballet and literature.

Slovakia delights with Bratislava Castle, the High Tatras’ hiking trails, and UNESCO-listed Spiš Castle. Visitors savor local dishes like bryndzové halušky, explore charming medieval towns, and relax in natural thermal springs.

Turkey fascinates with Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, and Ephesus’ ancient ruins. Visitors unwind in Pamukkale’s thermal pools, explore the Mediterranean coastline, and savor flavorful kebabs and baklava.

Ukraine impresses with Kyiv’s golden-domed Lavra, Lviv’s café culture, and the scenic Carpathians. Visitors explore Odessa’s Black Sea charm, Chernobyl’s eerie history, and hearty cuisine like borscht and varenyky, rich in tradition and flavor.