A short hop by plane from the UK, Eastern Europe makes an ideal city break destination with its fascinating history, tasty food and drink, warm welcome and affordable prices.
From the shores of the Baltic in the north to the Balkans in the south, the region covers a vast swathe of the continent, so choosing your getaway destination could be tricky. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with this guide to the best Eastern European city breaks. Whether it’s beer halls or basilicas you’re after, read on to find the ideal city for you.
Eastern Europe has long enjoyed a reputation as a cheap city break destination, and although some spots are now on the pricier side, there are still plenty of bargain getaways to be had. Bucharest offers electrifying nightlife and delicious traditional food at great prices. Belgrade has a flourishing cultural scene amidst socialist-era tower blocks and charming old town boulevards. Sofia is immediately striking with its domed church roofs, which rub shoulders with equally impressive mosques. Gdansk is just as Instagram-worthy with its colourful waterfront facades in the Dutch style, while Riga boasts ornate Art Nouveau architecture and a thriving creative scene.
Prague is known as one of the best city breaks in Eastern Europe for good reason. Big-name sights include the 14th-century Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square with its famous Astronomical Clock, which puts on a charming show every hour. The Klementinum is another stunning building with a jaw-dropping Baroque library and an Astronomical Tower offering 360-degree skyline views. For something more modern, the Dancing House is an iconic sight that will have you questioning your vision. When it’s time to refuel, head to Kozlovna Apropos in the old town, which serves traditional dishes like goulash and pork knuckle alongside a staggering array of Kozel beers.
Don't miss: Walk across the iconic Charles Bridge at sunset.
Budapest is an architecture-lover’s dream, with majestic monuments including the riverside Parliament building. It’s a city of two halves, with bustling Pest on one side and the quieter hills of Buda on the other. The latter makes for a nice change of pace, with stunning views from Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion. Budapest is also famed for its spas, none more so than Széchenyi, with indoor and outdoor pools making it a year-round relaxation hotspot. The city’s fascinating history is brought to life at the House of Terror, formerly a Secret Police headquarters, and Memento Park, with its array of communist-era statues.
Don't miss: Relax in the historic Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
The picture-postcard beauty of Krakow’s old town revolves around Rynek Glowny, the main square, and the twin towers of the exceptionally beautiful St Mary’s Basilica. If it’s culture you’re after, Wawel Castle combines aesthetically pleasing architecture with an enormous art collection. History looms large here, and visitors can learn more about life during World War II at the expansive Schindler’s Factory Museum and the historic Jewish district of Kazimierz. When evening rolls around, pay tribute to Poland’s most famous tipple at Wodka Café, where you can sample flavoured flights.
Don't miss: Explore the medieval charm of Rynek Główny, Europe’s largest market square.
Dubrovnik is a gorgeous city encircled by the famous medieval walls – get up early to walk the mile-long fortifications and enjoy the panoramic views before the crowds arrive. There are more monuments than you can shake a stick at, and Game of Thrones fans will want to book onto a walking tour to see locations from the series in the flesh. If you’re craving some sea air, hit up Banje Beach or take a short ferry ride to Lokrum Island, a peaceful nature reserve. For the ultimate aerial view, take the cable car up to Mount Srd and soak in the beauty.
Don't miss: Stroll along the ancient city walls for breathtaking views.
Estonia has risen to fame as an innovation powerhouse in recent years, giving birth to companies including Skype and TransferWise. Yet the country’s capital also boasts one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in Europe. Take a stroll down picturesque Pikk Street, lined with charming boutiques, and stop off at the main square to check out the Gothic town hall. History buffs will love Kiek in de Kök Museum, where you can explore mysterious 17th-century tunnels. For an atmospheric dinner, visit Olde Hansa, a medieval-themed restaurant that serves hearty fare and drinks with a kick, all accompanied by traditional music.
Don't miss: Wander through the fairy-tale streets of the Old Town.
Like many Eastern European cities, Warsaw has a gorgeous old town, but with a difference: this one was meticulously rebuilt after being almost totally destroyed during World War II. Visitors can learn more about this intriguing history at the Warsaw Rising Museum and in the Jewish Quarter. Take a trip further back in time at the Royal Castle, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Canaletto as well as beautiful gardens. The green banks of the Vistula River are lined with al fresco restaurants serving traditional dishes like pierogi and barszcz (beetroot soup) as well as international cuisine.
Don't miss: Discover the rebuilt beauty of Warsaw’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Riga is both affordable and easy to get around on foot – perfect ingredients for an Eastern European weekend break. The heart of the city is Rātslaukums, a square home to the impressive town hall and the House of the Blackheads, a former guild meeting place. Central Market, the largest of its kind in Europe, spans five repurposed Zeppelin hangars selling all kinds of produce. For a birds-eye view, ascend to the top of St Peter’s Church, or visit scenic Bastejkalna Park for some fresh air. The country’s complex history comes to life at the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia.
Don't miss: Marvel at the stunning Art Nouveau architecture in the city centre.
Slovakia’s capital is another compact and walkable treasure trove. A free walking tour is a great way to see the sights including the main square, cathedral and castle, which offers fantastic hilltop views. Quirky architecture abounds: check out the gorgeous hues of the Blue Church, or decide for yourself whether the Slovak Radio Building is a monstrosity or a masterpiece. In the evening, the so-called UFO Bridge is the perfect spot for a sundowner with epic views of the Danube from the observation deck. Foodies will love Bratislava Flagship, a cavernous restaurant serving generous portions of traditional dishes like cabbage soup and homemade sausage.
Don't miss: Visit Bratislava Castle for panoramic views of the city and the Danube River.
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