By North Eastern Europe Travel Guide
Discovering the Hidden Gems of North Eastern Europe
North Eastern Europe is a region that is often overlooked by travelers, but it is home to some of the most beautiful and fascinating destinations in Europe. From the historic cities of Estonia to the natural wonders of Latvia, there is something for everyone in this part of the world.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in North Eastern Europe is the Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia. This well-preserved medieval city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and charming cafés. Other top attractions in the region include the Riga Central Market, the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, and the stunning Trakai Island Castle in Lithuania.
Food Scene
The food scene in North Eastern Europe is diverse and delicious. Some must-try dishes include black bread in Latvia, smoked fish in Lithuania, and elk stew in Estonia. For a sweet treat, try the traditional Estonian kringel, a sweet bread filled with cinnamon and sugar.
Budget-Friendly Tips
North Eastern Europe is an affordable destination, with many budget-friendly options for accommodations and dining. Consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb to save money, and look for local markets and street food for inexpensive dining options.
Outdoor Adventures
North Eastern Europe has plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, including hiking in the Gauja National Park in Latvia, kayaking in the Estonian archipelago, and skiing in the Carpathian Mountains in Romania.
Historical Landmarks
The region is rich in history, with many fascinating landmarks to explore. Some highlights include the medieval castles of Estonia, the Soviet-era architecture in Lithuania, and the impressive Bran Castle in Romania, which is said to have inspired the legend of Dracula.
Family-Friendly Activities
North Eastern Europe is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for all ages. Take a trip to the Tallinn Zoo in Estonia, visit the interactive Science Centre AHHAA in Tartu, Estonia, or explore the interactive Latvian Museum of Natural History in Riga.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for something a little more unique, North Eastern Europe has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Take a trip to the abandoned Soviet submarine base in Lithuania, explore the eerie Patarei Prison in Estonia, or visit the unusual Upside-Down House in Latvia.
Natural Wonders
North Eastern Europe is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Europe. Some must-see sights include the stunning Gauja River Valley in Latvia, the beautiful Curonian Spit National Park in Lithuania, and the enchanting Lahemaa National Park in Estonia.
Vibrant Nightlife
The region has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to explore. Some hotspots include the Old Town of Riga in Latvia, the trendy Telliskivi Creative City in Tallinn, Estonia, and the bustling Lipscani District in Bucharest, Romania.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by visiting the markets. North Eastern Europe has plenty of markets to explore, including the Central Market in Riga, the Balti Jaama Turg market in Tallinn, and the Obor Market in Bucharest.
Beaches and Mountains
North Eastern Europe has something for everyone, including beautiful beaches and stunning mountains. Some must-see sights include the sandy beaches of Jurmala in Latvia, the breathtaking Tatra Mountains in Poland, and the stunning Carpathian Mountains in Romania.
Cultural Immersion
To truly experience the culture of North Eastern Europe, consider taking part in a cultural immersion experience. This could include learning traditional crafts in Estonia, taking part in a traditional Latvian dance class, or exploring the rich folklore of Romania.
Art and Music Scene
The region has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues to explore. Some must-see sights include the Art Nouveau district in Riga, the Kumu Art Museum in Tallinn, and the National Museum of Romanian History in Bucharest.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the cities of North Eastern Europe, and there are plenty of options available. Some popular tours include the Tallinn Old Town Walking Tour, the Riga Art Nouveau Walking Tour, and the Bucharest Communist Walking Tour.
Architectural Marvels
The region is home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in Europe, including the St. Peter’s Church in Riga, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn, and the Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest.
Historical Sites
North Eastern Europe has a rich and fascinating history, with plenty of historical sites to explore. Some highlights include the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia in Riga, the Estonian History Museum in Tallinn, and the Peles Castle in Romania.
Biking Routes
Biking is a popular activity in North Eastern Europe, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. Some popular routes include the Riga-Gauja route in Latvia, the Tallinn-Pärnu route in Estonia, and the Transfagarasan Highway in Romania.
Wellness Retreats
North Eastern Europe has plenty of options for those looking for a wellness retreat. Some popular destinations include the Jurmala Spa in Latvia, the Saaremaa Spa Hotel in Estonia, and the Aqua Magic Spa in Romania.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, North Eastern Europe has plenty of options for adventure sports. Some popular activities include bungee jumping in Latvia, snowboarding in the Carpathian Mountains in Romania, and paragliding in the Estonian countryside.
In conclusion, North Eastern Europe is a region that is full of surprises, with something for every type of traveler. Whether you are interested in history, culture, adventure, or simply relaxing on a beach, this part of the world is definitely worth exploring.