Belarus Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Belarus with this comprehensive guide, including top places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and cultural customs.


Introduction to Belarus

Belarus is a small country in Eastern Europe that boasts extraordinary scenery, vibrant culture, and a rich history. Despite being one of the least visited countries in Europe, Belarus offers plenty of fascinating tourist attractions, including natural parks, magnificent palaces, and interesting local markets. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the best places to visit in Belarus, the top things to do, and cultural customs to know before your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Belarus

Belarus is home to an impressive variety of cultural and natural attractions. From historic landmarks and museums to imposing castles and beautiful nature reserves, there is something for every kind of traveler. Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Belarus:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Belarus has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its various museums and historical places. Some of the must-see cultural attractions are:

  • The National Museum of Belarus in Minsk
  • The Mir Castle Complex
  • The Nesvizh Castle
  • The Brest Fortress
  • The Great Patriotic War Museum

Natural Attractions of Belarus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Belarus is also home to a breathtaking natural landscape with endless forests, pristine lakes, and intriguing wildlife. Nature lovers can explore remarkable reserves and parks that include:

  • Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park
  • Braslav Lakes National Park
  • Narochansky National Park
  • Pripyatskiy National Park
  • Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve

Hiking/Biking Routes of Belarus

Belarus offers incredible opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best trails to explore in Belarus:

  • The Green Trail in Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park
  • The Blue Trail in Braslav Lakes National Park
  • The Yellow Trail in Narochansky National Park
  • The Red Trail in Pripyatskiy National Park
  • The Black Trail in Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve

Best Things to Do in Belarus: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Belarus offers plenty of other activities and tours for travelers who want to explore the country’s culture, history, and nature. Here are some of the top things to do in Belarus:

  • Attend traditional folk festivals such as Kupalle and Dozhinki
  • Indulge in Belarusian cuisine, including popular dishes such as draniki and machanka
  • Visit local markets to buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and other local goods
  • Take a city tour of Minsk, the country’s capital
  • Go on a wildlife safari to see rare bird species and animals such as bison and lynx
  • Explore the nature reserves, parks, and lakes on a guided tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Belarus

If you plan on spending a week in Belarus, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival, check-in, and explore Minsk
Day 2 Visit the National Museum and explore Minsk’s historic center
Day 3 Tour the Mir Castle Complex and Nesvizh Castle
Day 4 Hike in Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park
Day 5 Discover the Brest Fortress and Great Patriotic War Museum
Day 6 Bike through Braslav Lakes National Park
Day 7 Visit the National Art Museum and enjoy Minsk’s nightlife

Food and Drink Scene of Belarus

Belarusian cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and hearty. Here are some esssential dishes and local beverages you should definitely try during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Draniki: potato pancakes served with sour cream and bacon
  • Machanka: pork stew served with potato pancakes
  • Kholodets: cold meat jelly served with horseradish and bread
  • Zrazy: stuffed meat rolls served with buckwheat and gravy

Local Beverages

  • Krambambula: a sweet and spicy liquor made from honey and spices
  • Krynitsa: the most popular beer in Belarus
  • Mors: a berry-based drink that can be served hot or cold
  • Kvass: a fermented drink made of rye bread and served cold

Where to Stay in Belarus: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Belarus offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in Belarus:

  • Minsk Marriott Hotel: a luxury hotel in the heart of the city
  • Garni Hotel: a stylish and modern hotel in Vitebsk
  • Belarus Hotel: a high-end hotel located in the heart of Minsk
  • Trinity Hostel: a budget-friendly hostel in the city center
  • Guesthouse in Nesvizh: a cozy and welcoming guesthouse in the peaceful town of Nesvizh

What to Buy in Belarus: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Belarus offers an abundance of unique souvenirs and local products that will make great gifts for your loved ones. Some of the most popular items include:

  • Linen and flax products
  • Pottery and ceramics
  • Wooden toys and figurines
  • Handmade jewelry and accessories
  • Local honey and jams

Local Culture and Customs of Belarus

Belarus has a unique culture that is characterized by its warm hospitality and traditional customs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • It is customary to take off your shoes before entering a home
  • Ukrainians often greet each other with three kisses on the cheek
  • Belarusians are very proud of their language and history
  • Local festivals and celebrations are big events that involve lots of food, drink, and music

Best Time to Visit Belarus

The best time to visit Belarus is during the summer months of June through August when the weather is mild and pleasant. The countryside blooms with wildflowers, and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming are in full swing. However, the shoulder season of April to May and September to October can also be a great time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Belarus

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your trip:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the local food and drink
  • Be courteous and friendly to locals
  • Carry cash, as some places don’t accept credit cards

Don’t:

  • Take pictures of government buildings or police officers
  • Dress provocatively, especially in rural areas
  • Smoke in public places

Safety and Health

Safety in Belarus

Belarus is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a stable political climate. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding unlit or deserted areas at night.

Health in Belarus

Belarus has a good healthcare system, and most hospitals and clinics offer excellent medical care. However, it’s essential to have travel insurance and carry a first-aid kit with you in case of any emergencies.

Getting to Belarus: Transportation Options and Logistics

Minsk International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Belarus, and it serves direct flights from many European cities. There are also several bus routes and train connections to Belarus from neighboring countries such as Poland, Russia, and Ukraine.

Airports Near Belarus

  • Minsk International Airport
  • Mogilev Airport
  • Gomel Airport

Bus Stations Near Belarus

  • Bus station in Brest
  • Bus station in Gomel
  • Bus station in Grodno

Other Options

  • Train connections to Minsk from Moscow and Kiev
  • Ferry service to Minsk from Hamburg, Germany

How to Get Around in Belarus

Belarus has a reliable and affordable public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and trams. Taxis are also a popular way of getting around, especially in cities. However, if you plan on exploring the countryside, renting a car or a bike would be the best option.

Where to Go Next from Belarus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Belarus is surrounded by several neighboring countries that make for exciting day trips or weekend getaways. Here are some of the top destinations to visit after Belarus:

  • Vilnius, Lithuania
  • Warsaw, Poland
  • Lviv, Ukraine
  • Moscow, Russia

Conclusion

Belarus is a hidden gem in Eastern Europe that offers countless attractions for travelers. From natural wonders and cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures and delicious cuisine, Belarus is worth exploring. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip to Belarus with ease and confidence, and make the most of your time in this fascinating country.

Independence Square in Minsk Independence Square in Minsk Visa policy of Belarus Visa policy of Belarus Church of the Transfiguration, Rakaŭ Church of the Transfiguration, Rakaŭ Border post in Brest as seen from a train window Border post in Brest as seen from a train window Trucks at the Polish-Belarusian border Trucks at the Polish-Belarusian border Getting around Bobruisk in Belarus Getting around Bobruisk in Belarus Brest fortress (Belarus) Brest fortress (Belarus) Draniki (potato pancakes) Draniki (potato pancakes) "Belaya Rus" vodka The old Belarusian national flag, which is widely used by the opposition The old Belarusian national flag, which is widely used by the opposition


    Brest Oblast
    Gomel Oblast
    Grodno Oblast
    Minsk Region
    Mogilev Oblast
    Vitebsk Oblast