Guest Post by Maxwell Donovan
Whenever people hear about Europe they immediately think of Paris. Very few know that there’s more to this vast continents than just Disneyland and great wine.
Lots of amazing attractions and places of interest are spread all around Europe. You just need to know where and when to go to see them. Eastern Europe in particular, boasts outstanding cities, and the array of things to do here is endless.
Some of the finest places to explore are off-the-beaten path - the castles, secluded beaches, ancient cities, unusual natural phenomena, insane wildlife and remote lakes will make you forget all about “the city of lights”. Here’s a closer look at some of the most notable – but not that well-known – wonders of Eastern Europe.
6. Estonia - Muhu Island
The tiny but enticing island of Muhu – which can only be accessed in winter through an iced road – is one of the best travel spots you can explore in Estonia.
Onsite, the thatched cottages, working windmills and old-fashioned allure of the place will make you go back to the 18th century. Only 2,000 people live on the island, and most of the locals still abide by centuries-old customs and traditions. This is exactly what makes Muhu an incredible destination.
The peace and tranquility of the place, the hospitality of the locals and overall wild surroundings will make your getaway truly unforgettable. Dating back to the 13th century, Muhu Island is located just 100 miles from Tallinn, so it’s definitely worth checking out, at least for the thrill of driving a car on ice.
5. Poland – Lodz
Poland’s third largest city – Lodz – comes from the country’s industrial roots.
Once known as Manchester of East, Lodz is famous today for its cultural aspect. Very few cities in Eastern Europe can be compared with it. One of the longest and most agglomerated roads in Europe is in Lodz. It packs nearly 100 bars and café where travelers can enjoy the wildest nightlife.
The restaurants feature traditional Polish food, whereas most cafes have live music almost every night. It’s certainly a pleasure to check out Lodz if you’re traveling with friends and can’t really find a convenient place to party in Poland.
All roads in Lodz a final destination – Manufaktura, a 19th-century industrial campus spread on 74 acres of land. Filled with cinemas, museums, party spaces, and carousels, this place is a must-see by those traveling for entertainment purposes.
4. Romania – Bucharest
Romania’s capital and largest city is also one of the most beautiful. Dynamic, busy and proud of its history, Bucharest is often called “Little Paris.” Famous for its hip cafes, dramatic architecture (both modern and historic), and impressive boulevards, the metropolis prides with one of Europe’s finest cultural palaces – the Parliament Palace. Incredibly ostentatious and quite mind-blowing, the landmark blends beautifully with the surroundings parks and recreational areas. Bucharest has an architectural splendor that very people can understand. You need to see it to believe it!
Several other interesting places of interest you can’t miss out while in Bucharest are Herastrau and Cismigiu Park, The National Arena, The Romanian Athenaeum, the National Museum of Art, Cotroceni Palace and the Old Town where tourists can relax exploring the multitude of cafes and restaurants.
3. Lithuania - Nida
Nida is located on the Curonian Spit of Lithuania; which is a curved sand dune at the junction of the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon. The World Heritage Site is a shared territory that also belongs to Russia.
The destination was once a fishing village; right now, the bright boats in the area and colorful wooden cottages make the place seem untouched by urbanism.
Natural beauty and abundant vegetation dominate the place. Onsite, travelers can explore the smooth sandy beaches and the pine forests in close proximity.
The dunes are the Nida’s main attraction. Pristine and rugged, the region is an off-the-beaten path in Eastern Europe one needs to check out when in Lithuania.
2. Russia – Severodvinsk
Whenever we hear about Russia we immediately think of Moscow or St. Petersburg. Many travelers don’t know where else to go while in Russia. Maybe it’s time to reconsider and turn your attention to a place that’s not that well-known – Severodvinsk.
Located on the north side of Arkhangelsk Oblast, this city is right next to the Northern Dvina River Delta. Severodvinsk is a very important place for Russian military shipyards, which means foreigners needs a special permit to be allowed inside.
Many travelers are drawn to the city because the Northern Lights are superb here. The natural phenomenon shines brighter than ever in winter months, so if you’re hunting for unusual things to do in Russia, you need to check it out. The experience will exceed all your expectations!
Many travelers are drawn to the city because the Northern Lights are superb here. The natural phenomenon shines brighter than ever in winter months, so if you’re hunting for unusual things to do in Russia, you need to check it out. The experience will exceed all your expectations!
1. Latvia – Riga
Latvia’s capital city, Riga, is an astounding travel destination. It packs impressive art nouveau architecture, lots of engaging activities and fascinating attractions. There’s so much to see and do in Riga. Begin an off-the-beaten path journey with a walk through the streets. The long and diverse boulevards comprise over 750 edifices and old-fashioned buildings. The Old Town, in particular, is a must-see. This fairytale kingdom is home to Latvia’s delicious gingerbread. Among several others places you can’t miss out, we must also include Vermanes Garden, the Latvian War Museum, the Museum of History, Freedom Monument, and Nativity Cathedral.
There’s so much to see and do in Riga. Begin an off-the-beaten path journey with a walk through the streets. The long and diverse boulevards comprise over 750 edifices and old-fashioned buildings. The Old Town, in particular, is a must-see. This fairytale kingdom is home to Latvia’s delicious gingerbread. Among several others places you can’t miss out, we must also include Vermanes Garden, the Latvian War Museum, the Museum of History, Freedom Monument, and Nativity Cathedral.
Among several others places you can’t miss out, we must also include Vermanes Garden, the Latvian War Museum, the Museum of History, Freedom Monument, and Nativity Cathedral.
Conclusion
Eastern Europe boasts many unknown hot spots. Some of the most exquisite spots are secluded, hidden from the modern world to make sure nothing tampers with their conventional appeal.
This side of Europe needs to be given a chance to impress. All you have to do is pack a bag and get on a plane, as a memorable adventure awaits you.
Forget all about Paris and its attractions already famous around the world, and choose to do something different. Explore the wonders of Eastern Europe and you won’t be disappointed.
One last word of advice: as opposite to Western Europe, the East side is a lot more affordable. Restaurants, hotels, and attractions are much cheaper than in any other part of Europe.
Author Bio: Maxwell Donovan is a traveling freak who has traveled many destinations around the world. He also loves writing about his traveling experiences and the places he has explored. He writes for a site http://www.baltictravelcompany.com which is Specialists in Baltic holidays, Eastern Europe, Scandinavia and the Nordics.
