I have always wanted to explore the hidden corners of Eastern Europe. I finally packed my bags and flew to a country that most people forget to put on their maps. Belarus is a land of massive forests, blue lakes, and giant castles. It is a place where history feels alive. Soviet buildings stand next to grand palaces. I spent weeks wandering through its cities and woods. I want to share my journey with you. This is my guide to the Best Places to visit in Belarus.
First of all, I need to tell you about the vibe of this country. It is quiet. It is incredibly clean. People are friendly, but they also value their peace. I felt safe the entire time. Belarus tourism is growing fast because the visa rules became much easier. Most travelers can now stay for up to 30 days if they fly into the capital. You do not even need a visa for that month! It is the perfect time to go before the crowds arrive.
Minsk: The Soviet Sun City
My journey started in Minsk, the capital city. It is definitely the best city to visit in Belarus if you love big avenues and history. I stepped out of the train station and saw two massive towers. They are the Minsk City Gates. These towers were built after World War II to show off Soviet power. Minsk was almost totally destroyed in the war. Therefore, the city you see today is a masterpiece of post-war planning.
I walked along Independence Avenue. It is one of the longest streets in Europe. Huge buildings in the Stalinist Empire style line the road. They have high ceilings and stone carvings of Soviet symbols. Plus, the avenue is perfectly symmetrical. It felt like a movie set. I visited Independence Square. It is one of the largest squares on the continent. I stood next to a giant statue of Lenin in front of the Government House. It is one of the few buildings that survived the Nazi occupation.
However, Minsk is not just about old concrete. I found a lot of places to visit in Minsk, Belarus that felt modern and cool. Trinity Hill is a beautiful area by the river. It has pastel-coloured houses and tiny cobblestone streets. I spent an afternoon there drinking coffee in a quiet cafe. I also crossed a small bridge to the Island of Tears. This is a sad but powerful memorial. It honours soldiers who died in the Afghan War. I saw a statue of an angel crying. It stays with you long after you leave.
Additionally, I must mention the National Library. It looks like a giant glass diamond. At night, it lights up with different colours. I took the lift to the 23rd floor. The view of the city was stunning. Trust me, it is worth the small fee.
Later, I explored the nightlife. I went to Kastrichnitskaya Street. This is the hipster heart of the city. Old factories are now filled with street art and trendy bars. I saw a mural of Lenin with a hipster beard. I laughed out loud. It is a great place to see the local youth hanging out.
The Fairy-Tale Castles: Mir and Nesvizh
I left the city and headed to the countryside. Belarus has some of the most beautiful places in Belarus, especially its castles. First of all, I visited Mir Castle. It looks like something from a dream. It was built in the 16th century by the Radziwill family. This family was incredibly rich and powerful. The castle has five red brick towers that reflect in a nearby pond. I explored the dungeons and the lavish halls. If you visit in summer, you might see a medieval festival. Knights actually joust there!
On top of that, Nesvizh Castle is only 30 kilometres away. Most locals say it is the most beautiful palace in the country. It is a massive yellow building surrounded by gardens. The architecture is a mix of many styles like Baroque and Renaissance. I walked through the English-style park. It is one of the largest in Europe. I heard a legend about the Black Lady. She is a ghost who is said to haunt the halls. I did not see her, but the palace interior was still spooky and grand.
Brest: The City of Heroes
Finally, I reached Brest on the border with Poland. This city has a very different feel. It is famous for the Brest Hero-Fortress. This fortress is a symbol of bravery. In 1941, Soviet soldiers defended it against the Nazis for a whole month. I walked through the giant star-shaped entrance. I saw the ruined walls filled with bullet holes. There is a huge stone statue called “Valour”. It shows a soldier with a very serious face. I felt the weight of history there.
I also visited the Museum of Railway Equipment. It is a paradise if you love old trains. I saw steam engines from the early 1900s. You can even climb inside some of them. On top of that, I walked down Sovetskaya Street in the evening. It is the main pedestrian street. Every night, a man dressed in an old uniform lights the oil lamps by hand. It is a beautiful tradition. I stood there and watched him for a long time.
Grodno: A Royal Gem
I travelled north to Grodno. Many people told me this is their favourite city. I agree. It was not destroyed during the wars, so the old buildings are original. It feels more like a Western European city. It is often called the “Town of Kings”. I visited the Old Castle and the New Castle on a hill over the Neman River. They offer a great view of the water.
Additionally, Grodno is home to the oldest pharmacy in Europe. It has been open since 1687. I saw old glass jars and medieval medicine tools inside. I also visited the Kalozha Church. It was built in the 12th century. One wall is made of old wood because the stone part fell into the river long ago. It is the oldest functioning church in the country.
Into the Wild: Bison and Blue Lakes
Belarus tourism is not just about cities. I wanted to see the nature. I went to Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park. This is one of the last primeval forests in Europe. It is home to the European bison, or zubr. These animals are huge. They were almost extinct, but now they roam free here. I saw three of them standing near the trees. They look like ghosts of the ancient world. I also visited the Residence of Father Frost. It is like the Belarusian version of Santa Claus. Children love it there.
Later, I headed to the Braslav Lakes. This is a network of over 300 lakes. The water is crystal clear. I hiked up Mayak Hill. I saw lakes stretching in every direction. It is so peaceful. I did not see another tourist for hours. If you love fishing or camping, this is the place for you.
Gradually, I moved south to the Pripyatsky National Park. They call it the “Lungs of Europe”. It is a massive area of swamps and oak forests. I went on a photo safari. I saw wild boars and rare birds. The river floods every year and creates a landscape like the Amazon. It is a wild and beautiful place.
The Oldest Roots: Polotsk and Vitebsk
I could not skip Polotsk. It is the oldest city in the country. It was founded in 862 AD. I visited the St. Sophia Cathedral. It has white towers and sits on a high bank above the river. I also saw a monument that marks the geographical centre of Europe. I even got a certificate for visiting it! It is a fun little stop for history buffs.
Similarly, Vitebsk is a must for art lovers. It is the birthplace of the artist Marc Chagall. I visited his old house. It is a small red brick building where he grew up. I also went to the Art Centre. I saw hundreds of his drawings and paintings. Every July, the city hosts the Slavianski Bazaar. This is a huge music and arts festival. The city becomes very lively and full of colour.
What to do in Belarus: Off the Beaten Path
If you want something unique, I suggest the Stalin Line. It is an open-air military museum outside of Minsk. I saw bunkers and trenches from World War II. On top of that, you can actually ride in a tank! I heard the loud bang of guns being fired. It is a bit like a military theme park. It is very popular with visitors who like history.
Additionally, I explored the “Belarusian Maldives”. These are old chalk quarries near the town of Volkovysk. The water is a bright turquoise colour because of the minerals. It looks like a tropical paradise in the middle of Europe. However, you have to be careful. It is not an official tourist spot, so there are no hotels there yet. You can only stay in a tent.
Finally, I suggest trying agritourism. Belarus has over 1,300 farm estates. I stayed in a small village house. The hosts cooked me traditional food. I tried draniki, which are delicious potato pancakes. They serve them with thick sour cream. I even learned how to bake bread in a traditional oven. It was one of the most honest and warm experiences of my life.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
I want to help you plan your journey. First of all, the belarus currency is the Belarusian Ruble (BYN). At the time of my visit, things were very affordable. A hostel bed costs about 22 BYN. A dinner in a nice restaurant might be 30 to 100 BYN. I spent around 85 BYN per day as a backpacker. You can definitely travel here on a budget.
Getting around is easy. I used the trains. They are a bit old but very cheap. A trip between cities might only cost 8 to 15 BYN. I also used the marshrutka. These are small minibuses that go everywhere. They are faster than the trains.
As for safety, I have never felt more relaxed. The streets are incredibly safe even at night. Though, I did see a lot of police officers. They take security very seriously. Just follow the rules and you will be fine. Also, do not drink the tap water unless you have a filter. Most people buy bottled water.
Why You Should Visit Now
Belarus is a country that will surprise you. It has fairy-tale castles and dark history. It has the last of the ancient forests and hundreds of blue lakes. Plus, the people are some of the most welcoming I have met. It is still a place where you can find solitude. You can walk for miles without seeing another tourist.
I suggest you come in the summer. The weather is warm and the festivals are in full swing. July is the best month. However, winter is also beautiful if you like snow and “Narnia” vibes. The best places to visit in Belarus are waiting for you. Start planning your trip today. You will not regret it.
Some quick stats for your journey:
- Total Lakes: Over 11,000.
- Total Rivers: Over 20,000.
- Farm Estates: Over 1,300.
- Oldest City: Polotsk, founded in 862 AD.
- Tallest Obelisk: 45 metres in Minsk.
- Visa-Free Stay: Up to 30 days via Minsk Airport.
I hope this guide helps you. Belarus is a hidden treasure in the heart of Europe. Go and discover it for yourself. Safe travels!
“Keep exploring and remember, the world is full of wonders, one destination at a time.” [Voyago]
FAQ
Is Belarus good for tourists?
Yes, Belarus is an often overlooked gem that offers a unique mix of medieval history, pristine nature, and Soviet architecture. It has been recognized as a top country to visit by travel experts due to its relaxed visa rules and growing tourism infrastructure.
What is famous in Belarus?
The country is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, particularly the fairytale-like Mir Castle and the grand Nesvizh Palace. It also boasts Belovezhskaya Pushcha, one of Europe’s last primeval forests where European bison roam freely.
What are the top 3 cities in Belarus?
The top three cities frequently recommended for visitors are the capital Minsk, the historical city of Brest near the Polish border, and Grodno, which is celebrated for its well-preserved architecture.
Is Belarus cheap or expensive?
It is considered a very budget-friendly destination with affordable accommodation, transportation, and dining options compared to Western Europe.
Is Belarus safe right now?
International SOS and Control Risks evaluate it as a low-risk destination, similar to countries like the UK or USA. However, tourists are advised to avoid political demonstrations as it is an authoritarian state where security and police presence are taken very seriously.
What is not allowed in Belarus?
Participation in political rallies or demonstrations is strictly prohibited and can lead to imprisonment. Additionally, travelers should be cautious when photographing sensitive government structures, such as the KGB headquarters.
What is the religion in Belarus?
The dominant religions are Belarusian Orthodox and Roman Catholicism, though there are also Lutheran and Jewish communities.
What is Minsk famous for?
Minsk is famous for its grand Stalinist architecture, expansive squares like Independence Square, and the futuristic, diamond-shaped National Library.
What is the main currency of Belarus?
The main currency is the Belarusian ruble (BYN).
What should I buy in Belarus?
Popular purchases include Belarusian vodka, artisan handicrafts from the Trinity Suburb, and traditional items like flax or local sweets.
Is Minsk worth visiting?
Yes, it is described as a vibrant, photogenic hub of art and culture that perfectly blends a somber history with modern charm.
What is Belarus’ famous food?
The most iconic dish is draniki, which are traditional potato pancakes. Other popular foods include machanka (a meat and gravy stew), beetroot soup, and high-quality dairy products.
Concluding words
Belarus offers a diverse travel experience that combines stunning medieval architecture, like the Mir and Nesvizh castles, with the monumental Soviet grandeur found in its capital. Nature lovers can find peace in the ancient Belovezhskaya Pushcha forest or among the serene Braslav Lakes.
Whether witnessing the historical resistance at Brest Fortress or enjoying the vibrant nightlife in Minsk, this budget-friendly destination provides an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with cultural hospitality and natural wonders.
