Belarus is a continental country of Eastern Europe and a land with more than 11,000 lakes. Its vast landscapes are home to mystical forests, peaceful lakes and picturesque villages, and there are also bustling cities, fantastic castles and old monasteries. The inhabitants of this beautiful country are very hospitable and friendly.
Apart from the capital, which was completely destroyed during the Second World War, visitors are attracted by the impressive national parks, which are rich in wild animals and also under the protection of UNESCO. Belarus offers numerous architectural sights, and the rich heritage of this area is evident in both culture and cuisine.
There are many opportunities to embark on an adventure. There is also skiing on the peaks near Minsk, as well as hiking through beautiful forests. In addition to visiting nature reserves, tours to charming places, forstresses, as well as many other magnificent castles can be organized.
The capital Minsk is definitely an unavoidable tourist destination if you travel to Belarus. This is a city with a thousand years of history, waiting to be explored. The streets are safe and mostly quiet, so wander from square to square and visit a museum or gallery. At night, when it is lit, the city is the most beautiful and it is time for opera, ballet or night club. Victory Square is one of the most important historical sites in the country.
Brest is a city bordering Poland and home to one of the largest tourist attractions in the country: a fortress, built in the mid-19th century. Today, the fort is a symbol of all those who died defending the fort and the city against the Germans in World War II.
Grodno is one of the few Belarusian cities that was not damaged in World War II. It looks very European with many churches and smaller museums and is definitely worth a visit.
Of the national parks, there is Belavezhskaya Pushcha, a national park near Brest. It is the oldest reserve in Europe and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The park is home to 55 species of mammals, including about 300 European bison that were close to extinction. Also,there is the Pripyatsky National Park located in the south of Belarus. It has more than 30 lakes and smaller rivers and is a favorite among rowers, anglers and bird watchers.
Belarus has a continental climate. The best time to visit the country is in the middle of summer or the beginning of autumn, when it is warm. Since Belarus doesn't have many tourists, you won't have to worry about crowds.
This underrated gem of the eastern Europe will certainly win your heart and make you come back.