Exploring Eastern Europe’s Capital Cities
Capital cities, especially in Eastern Europe, often get overlooked in favor of more famous destinations. However, these cities offer some of the most fascinating glimpses into a country’s culture, daily life, and history. Besides, they tend to be more affordable than their Western European counterparts while boasting rich traditions, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. So why not defy the usual tourist trends and discover these incredible capitals?
Zagreb, Croatia
Most travelers to Croatia head straight to the coast, often using Zagreb merely as a transit hub. Don’t make the same mistake. Take the time to wander its hills and experience the city’s rich heritage and intriguing museums.
Where to Stay: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
What to See: Museum of Broken Relationships
Where to Eat: HERITAGE I Croatian Food I Snack Bar
Day Trip: Plitvice National Park
Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw often gets overshadowed by its neighbor, Krakow. Yet, despite the devastations of war, Warsaw’s old town is stunning and brimming with history. Don’t miss exploring Praga across the river, and use the towering Palace of Culture and Science as a city landmark.
Where to Stay: Warsaw Marriott Hotel
What to See: Warsaw Old Town
Where to Eat: Warszawa Powisle
Day Trip: Krakow
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius might be quieter than the other Baltic capitals, but it’s no less charming. Easily walkable, this city surprises visitors with its beauty and tranquility.
Where to Stay: Artagonist Art Hotel
What to See: Gediminas Hill
Where to Eat: Restaurant Lokys
Day Trip: Trakai Castle
Sofia, Bulgaria
Originally drawn to Sofia to visit a friend, I was quickly charmed by its youthful and vibrant atmosphere. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, offering a mix of architectural styles from different eras.
Where to Stay: Sofia Hotel Balkan
What to See: Hram-Pametnik SV. Aleksandar Nevski
Where to Eat: The View Restaurant
Day Trip: Plovdiv
Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade may not be the most picturesque city, but that’s part of its charm. It feels lived-in and authentic, brimming with local life. Explore relics of its Yugoslav past in Novo Beograd and visit the ancient fortress on the Danube.
Where to Stay: Dominic Luxury Hotel
What to See: Belgrade Fortress
Where to Eat: Ambar
Day Trip: Niš
Tirana, Albania
Once closed to the outside world, Tirana is quirky and fascinating, with some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet. The city is evolving rapidly, offering intriguing landmarks, excellent dining options, and warm hospitality.
Where to Stay: City Hotel Tirana
What to See: Piramida
Where to Eat: La Vita e Bella
Day Trip: Krujë
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is a picturesque capital that might surprise you with its beauty. It’s small and easy to navigate, and if you have extra time, don’t miss a trip to nearby Lake Bled.
Where to Stay: City Hotel Ljubljana
What to See: Ljubljanica River
Where to Eat: Manna
Day Trip: Lake Bled
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest has a rich and extensive history, marked by monumental architecture and unique haunts like ruin bars. The city is essentially two in one, with distinct atmospheres on either side of the Danube: Buda and Pest.
Where to Stay: Corinthia Hotel
What to See: Citadella
Where to Eat: Most
Day Trip: Esztergom
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo is steeped in history, from the spark of World War I to the recent Balkan conflicts. The city’s resilience and hope for the future make it an incredibly welcoming place to visit.
Where to Stay: Hotel Europe Sarajevo
What to See: Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
Where to Eat: Buregdzinica Bosna
Day Trip: Mostar
Tallinn, Estonia
One of the most beautiful cities you’ll ever visit, Tallinn is a stunning walled city with remarkable architecture. Visit in the summer and experience the magic of the midnight sun, reveling with both locals and tourists.
Where to Stay: St. Petersbourg Hotel
What to See: Town Hall Square
Where to Eat: Cafe Moon
Day Trip: Pärnu
This list surely wasn’t easy to compile as there are countless Eastern European capitals worth visiting. We’d love to hear from you – which is your favorite Eastern European capital, and which should we include in our next list?
