Vörösmarty Square, Romania

Budapest’s most famous Christmas market features a unique blend of local tradition and festive charm. With dozens of stalls featuring handmade crafts, cuisine, and a children’s theater, there’s something for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Those looking to learn more about the market and surrounding area can also sign up for guided tours—with stops for mulled wine and cake, of course. 

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A post shared by Daniela Pinto (@danielabpinto)

Tallinn Christmas Market, Estonia

Every December, a dusting of snow and a few decorations transform the heart of Tallinn’s medieval Old Town into a winter wonderland. Estonians take Christmas very seriously and are often credited as one of the first groups of people to bring the tradition of displaying trees for the holiday to Europe. In addition to several Christmas trees, the Tallinn market also features crafts, local cuisine, and even a merry-go-round.

Old Town Market Square, Poland

Warsaw is home to several holiday markets, with the annual Old Town market being the largest and most famous. The city’s historic center is a sight to see decorated with lights and an 80-foot Christmas tree, which add an air of celebration to the otherwise quaint and cozy area. Stay warm with a hot cup of spiced wine as you shop for Polish crafts, or grab your skates and hit the rink outside the Palace of Culture.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Terhi’s Travel Diary (@terhi_travels)

The post The Best Christmas Markets in Eastern Europe appeared first on Traveler Master.

Budapest, Hungary: St. Stephen’s Basilica

Budapest is a common tourist destination for young people as it has a great party scene and isn’t very expensive. It’s also got plenty of awesome religious architecture, such as St. Stephen’s Basilica. This church, with its iconic dome, is over 100 years old. It’s still used today for Roman Catholic worship, but it’s also a common spot for tourists.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KRÉNN IMRE (@krenn_imre)

St. Petersburg, Russia: Naval Cathedral of St. Nicholas

This architectural mammoth is truly a sight to behold. With its soaring gold-encrusted domes and beautifully wrought facade, it’s one of the loveliest things you’ll see on your trip. It’s now a Russian-Orthodox church, so you can attend a service there if you wish. In the past, it functioned as a movie theatre and a naval museum as well.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by уυℓιуα вσℓѕнσνα (@yuliya_phoenix)

Kutna Hora, Czech Republic: St. Barbara’s Church

This church is truly a relic of history, with construction beginning in the 13th century. The structure wasn’t completed until the 19th century, and frescoes from medieval times along with old gothic architecture are still on display. You don’t want to miss this church, as it’s also a world heritage site to boot.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Thomas Phillips (@houstoninnerloopliving)

The post The Nicest Churches to Visit In Eastern Europe appeared first on Traveler Master.

One of the main attractions in Minsk is the spectacular green gardens and parks of the city. Here are the best ones.

The botanical garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in Europe. Explore the open spaces and greenhouses and meet exotic and rare flowers, collections of plants from the Caucasus, South America, and Australia as well as enjoy the lakeside. 

The city offers other large parks such as Gorky Park, which is the oldest park in the city, founded in 1800 and where you will enjoy a variety of attractions in one complex such as a Ferris wheel, observatory, and even an original skating rink, with food stalls and lawns on all sides.

in the city, you will also find the famous Yanka Kupala Park, named after the Belarusian poet is a marvelous treasure trove. The park was established after World War II and is decorated with many sculptures, hiking areas, and cycling routes.

The post The Magical Parks of Minsk, Belarus appeared first on Traveler Master.

Novi Sad

Novi Sad is Serbia’s second-largest city and unlike Belgrade, it’s pretty relaxed. In the city center, you can see big orthodox churches and a catholic church with a rainbow-striped spire. There are shops, bars, cafes, and ice cream parlors along Dunavska, one of the oldest streets in the city.

Sremski Karlovci

Sremski Karlovci is probably the most beautiful town in Serbia. Not far from Novi Sad, the town has a rich history and is big about tradition. The oldest secondary school in Serbia, The Karlovci Gymnasium, is located here.

Tara National Park

Head a bit to the west and you’ll find Tara, a gorgeous mountain that’s been proclaimed a national park in 1981. You can book a sleepover and enjoy an organized bear-watching tour. Perucac Lake and other natural wonders provide insanely beautiful views. Zlatibor Mountain, a popular tourist destination all year long, is not far from Tara.

The post 3 Amazing Places to Visit in Serbia appeared first on Traveler Master.

Bulgaria

Most lists will put Bulgaria as the cheapest country in Europe. Although it is inexpensive, it is not at all underdeveloped or unsafe. Transportation is reliable and there are plenty of budget flights to Sofia, the capital. Vitosha Mountain and the 7 Rila Lakes are both beautiful day trips from Sofia. Hostels are easily found for less than 10$ a night, and a good sit down meal can be even less.

Ukraine

If you are looking for a much bigger country with lots of different cities and things to do then Ukraine might be the place. Kyiv, Odesa, Lviv, and Kharkiv are all huge cities with non-stop activities and cheap attractions. Although the roads and public transportation are not as reliable as other countries, the cost of living even in the big cities is incredibly low.

Poland

Known as one of the cheapest countries in Europe, Poland is a great place to start (or end) a trip due to its central location and close proximity to Western Europe. With lots of big cities, history, and some good nature as well, this country is well backpacked. While everything is affordable, the low cost of beer and other drinks makes the cities a big hit for travelers wanting to party.

The post These Are the Cheapest European Destinations appeared first on Traveler Master.

Whatever you end up doing in this gorgeous city, one thing that you absolutely must make time for is a visit to the Hungarian Parliament Building on the banks of the Danube River.

This gothic revival building was finished in 1904 and is easily the most recognizable and iconic building in the entire city. It is the symbol of Hungary’s government, and one of the most beautiful architectural marvels that constitute a government building on the planet.

Visitors can tour the interior of the building, which houses the Holy Crown of Hungary and whose architecture and decorations are just as beautiful as the exterior, by reserving a spot online. Tours are available in Hungarian, English, French, Spanish, and several other languages.

Those who do the tour are given a comprehensive look through the inside of the building, including the chambers in which the country’s Parliament meets.

On your next trip to Budapest, be sure to add this iconic building to your trip’s agenda.

The post The Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest is a Must-See appeared first on Traveler Master.

The River Vrbas

Banja Luka is surrounded by gorgeous nature and the most prominent gem is the Vrbas river that runs through the city. The beautiful green oasis will help you relax as you sit in one of many cafés downtown or explore the area around the city.

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

The Orthodox cathedral of Christ the Savior is one of the most remarkable landmarks in the city. It’s located near the city center, in a small square surrounded by green lawns. It dates back to the 1920s and it’s recently been refurbished after suffering significant damage during the Second World War.

Banski Dvor

This is a museum where you can learn more about the Serb ethnic group in Bosnia. It’s a perfect place for everyone who’s interested in learning more about the history of this part of the world.

The post Top 3 Things to See in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina appeared first on Traveler Master.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Found in Triglav National Park Slovenia, this glacial lake is tucked between the eastern border of the Alps. You will find the deep emerald water ideal for taking a swim, soaking up the tranquility of the surrounding landscape. With a castle build high up the cliff and a backdrop of mountains, you cannot fail to be impressed. 

Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

Not far from Lake Bled, you will find Lake Bohinj. This is a favorite with nature lovers because of its unspoiled scenery. You can also enjoy a range of water sports such as rafting, paddle boarding, and canyoning. There is a steam train that will take you from Jesenice, past this lake and onto Lake Bled.

Plitvice Lakes National Parks, Croatia

These 16 lakes in North Dalmatia are linked together by a series of nearly 100 waterfalls. The stunning area is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO. Depending on your fitness levels, there are walking trails around the lakes ranging from 2 to 8 hours long.

Lake Balaton, Hungary

Just one hour outside Budapest, Hungary, you will find a volcanic area with lush hills and sandy beaches. Nestled between this impressive landscape is Lake Balaton, known as the “Hungarian Sea”. This is the biggest lake in Europe, so it attracts locals and tourists that want a seaside resort feel in a landlocked country. This is a beautiful area, surrounded by castles and charming villages to explore. 

Lake Ohrid, Macedonia and Albania

The deepest lake in the Balkans can be found on the border of Macedonia and Albania. The waters are so clear that you can see to a depth of 22 meters, making it an ideal spot for observing marine life. There are a few beaches that you can sit back and enjoy the incredible views of nature and surrounding monasteries.

The post 5 Beautiful Lakes in Eastern Europe appeared first on Traveler Master.

The post-Soviet countries that were formed after the Union’s collapse are some of the most under-visited and unknown countries in Europe. Fortunately, Bald and Bankrupt is here to help us.

Bald and Bankrupt, run by a man whose pseudonym is “Mr. Bald” is an Instagram and YouTube account run by a man who is dedicated to showing off the best that Eastern Europe has to offer.

Hailing from the United Kingdom, Mr. Bald speaks Russian and is able to communicate with the natives of this region and also show off the best and most underrated pieces of a group of countries that most of us have never seen and know little about.

Mr. Bald takes a special interest in Soviet relics, showing off some of the most interesting and undiscovered relics and remains of a once-powerful nation. From Georgia to Moldova, he is sure to discover and find the most interesting spots in all of these underrated and unexplored lands.

So, if you are interested in traveling to Eastern Europe, be sure to give Bald and Bankrupt a follow!

The post This Travel Blogger Discovers Eastern Europe appeared first on Traveler Master.

However, don’t lose hope! Here are some budget airlines that you should check out if you are looking to plan a trip to Eastern Europe.

Wizz Air

Wizz Air, a Hungary-based company, is arguably the biggest player in budget flights in Eastern Europe. Servicing Hungary, the Czech Republic, Ukraine, Poland, the Balkans, and the Baltic States with flights from the rest of the continent, Wizz Air is a great choice.

Smartwings

Smartwings is a Prague-based airline that is expanding rapidly and beginning to service lots of Eastern Europe. It has especially good routes to the Balkan states, servicing Greece, Croatia, Bulgaria, Albania, and Montenegro.

SkyUp

SkyUp has only been around since March 2018, but this Ukranian airline is starting to make its mark on the air travel industry. It provides comprehensive service to Ukraine and even flies to unique destinations like Georgia and Armenia.

Ryanair

While Ryanair is an Irish company, I would be remiss to not mention the budget air giant here. While it originally focused on Western Europe, Ryanair now comprehensively services Eastern Europe as well, providing plentiful connections between the region and the rest of the continent.

The post Looking to Travel to Eastern Europe? Check Out These Budget Airlines appeared first on Traveler Master.

Vörösmarty Square, Romania

Budapest’s most famous Christmas market features a unique blend of local tradition and festive charm. With dozens of stalls featuring handmade crafts, cuisine, and a children’s theater, there’s something for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Those looking to learn more about the market and surrounding area can also sign up for guided tours—with stops for mulled wine and cake, of course. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Daniela Pinto (@danielabpinto)

Tallinn Christmas Market, Estonia

Every December, a dusting of snow and a few decorations transform the heart of Tallinn’s medieval Old Town into a winter wonderland. Estonians take Christmas very seriously and are often credited as one of the first groups of people to bring the tradition of displaying trees for the holiday to Europe. In addition to several Christmas trees, the Tallinn market also features crafts, local cuisine, and even a merry-go-round.

Old Town Market Square, Poland

Warsaw is home to several holiday markets, with the annual Old Town market being the largest and most famous. The city’s historic center is a sight to see decorated with lights and an 80-foot Christmas tree, which add an air of celebration to the otherwise quaint and cozy area. Stay warm with a hot cup of spiced wine as you shop for Polish crafts, or grab your skates and hit the rink outside the Palace of Culture.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Terhi’s Travel Diary (@terhi_travels)

The post The Best Christmas Markets in Eastern Europe appeared first on Traveler Master.

Budapest, Hungary: St. Stephen’s Basilica

Budapest is a common tourist destination for young people as it has a great party scene and isn’t very expensive. It’s also got plenty of awesome religious architecture, such as St. Stephen’s Basilica. This church, with its iconic dome, is over 100 years old. It’s still used today for Roman Catholic worship, but it’s also a common spot for tourists.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KRÉNN IMRE (@krenn_imre)

St. Petersburg, Russia: Naval Cathedral of St. Nicholas

This architectural mammoth is truly a sight to behold. With its soaring gold-encrusted domes and beautifully wrought facade, it’s one of the loveliest things you’ll see on your trip. It’s now a Russian-Orthodox church, so you can attend a service there if you wish. In the past, it functioned as a movie theatre and a naval museum as well.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by уυℓιуα вσℓѕнσνα (@yuliya_phoenix)

Kutna Hora, Czech Republic: St. Barbara’s Church

This church is truly a relic of history, with construction beginning in the 13th century. The structure wasn’t completed until the 19th century, and frescoes from medieval times along with old gothic architecture are still on display. You don’t want to miss this church, as it’s also a world heritage site to boot.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Thomas Phillips (@houstoninnerloopliving)

The post The Nicest Churches to Visit In Eastern Europe appeared first on Traveler Master.

One of the main attractions in Minsk is the spectacular green gardens and parks of the city. Here are the best ones.

The botanical garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in Europe. Explore the open spaces and greenhouses and meet exotic and rare flowers, collections of plants from the Caucasus, South America, and Australia as well as enjoy the lakeside. 

The city offers other large parks such as Gorky Park, which is the oldest park in the city, founded in 1800 and where you will enjoy a variety of attractions in one complex such as a Ferris wheel, observatory, and even an original skating rink, with food stalls and lawns on all sides.

in the city, you will also find the famous Yanka Kupala Park, named after the Belarusian poet is a marvelous treasure trove. The park was established after World War II and is decorated with many sculptures, hiking areas, and cycling routes.

The post The Magical Parks of Minsk, Belarus appeared first on Traveler Master.

Novi Sad

Novi Sad is Serbia’s second-largest city and unlike Belgrade, it’s pretty relaxed. In the city center, you can see big orthodox churches and a catholic church with a rainbow-striped spire. There are shops, bars, cafes, and ice cream parlors along Dunavska, one of the oldest streets in the city.

Sremski Karlovci

Sremski Karlovci is probably the most beautiful town in Serbia. Not far from Novi Sad, the town has a rich history and is big about tradition. The oldest secondary school in Serbia, The Karlovci Gymnasium, is located here.

Tara National Park

Head a bit to the west and you’ll find Tara, a gorgeous mountain that’s been proclaimed a national park in 1981. You can book a sleepover and enjoy an organized bear-watching tour. Perucac Lake and other natural wonders provide insanely beautiful views. Zlatibor Mountain, a popular tourist destination all year long, is not far from Tara.

The post 3 Amazing Places to Visit in Serbia appeared first on Traveler Master.

Bulgaria

Most lists will put Bulgaria as the cheapest country in Europe. Although it is inexpensive, it is not at all underdeveloped or unsafe. Transportation is reliable and there are plenty of budget flights to Sofia, the capital. Vitosha Mountain and the 7 Rila Lakes are both beautiful day trips from Sofia. Hostels are easily found for less than 10$ a night, and a good sit down meal can be even less.

Ukraine

If you are looking for a much bigger country with lots of different cities and things to do then Ukraine might be the place. Kyiv, Odesa, Lviv, and Kharkiv are all huge cities with non-stop activities and cheap attractions. Although the roads and public transportation are not as reliable as other countries, the cost of living even in the big cities is incredibly low.

Poland

Known as one of the cheapest countries in Europe, Poland is a great place to start (or end) a trip due to its central location and close proximity to Western Europe. With lots of big cities, history, and some good nature as well, this country is well backpacked. While everything is affordable, the low cost of beer and other drinks makes the cities a big hit for travelers wanting to party.

The post These Are the Cheapest European Destinations appeared first on Traveler Master.

Whatever you end up doing in this gorgeous city, one thing that you absolutely must make time for is a visit to the Hungarian Parliament Building on the banks of the Danube River.

This gothic revival building was finished in 1904 and is easily the most recognizable and iconic building in the entire city. It is the symbol of Hungary’s government, and one of the most beautiful architectural marvels that constitute a government building on the planet.

Visitors can tour the interior of the building, which houses the Holy Crown of Hungary and whose architecture and decorations are just as beautiful as the exterior, by reserving a spot online. Tours are available in Hungarian, English, French, Spanish, and several other languages.

Those who do the tour are given a comprehensive look through the inside of the building, including the chambers in which the country’s Parliament meets.

On your next trip to Budapest, be sure to add this iconic building to your trip’s agenda.

The post The Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest is a Must-See appeared first on Traveler Master.

The River Vrbas

Banja Luka is surrounded by gorgeous nature and the most prominent gem is the Vrbas river that runs through the city. The beautiful green oasis will help you relax as you sit in one of many cafés downtown or explore the area around the city.

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

The Orthodox cathedral of Christ the Savior is one of the most remarkable landmarks in the city. It’s located near the city center, in a small square surrounded by green lawns. It dates back to the 1920s and it’s recently been refurbished after suffering significant damage during the Second World War.

Banski Dvor

This is a museum where you can learn more about the Serb ethnic group in Bosnia. It’s a perfect place for everyone who’s interested in learning more about the history of this part of the world.

The post Top 3 Things to See in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina appeared first on Traveler Master.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Found in Triglav National Park Slovenia, this glacial lake is tucked between the eastern border of the Alps. You will find the deep emerald water ideal for taking a swim, soaking up the tranquility of the surrounding landscape. With a castle build high up the cliff and a backdrop of mountains, you cannot fail to be impressed. 

Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

Not far from Lake Bled, you will find Lake Bohinj. This is a favorite with nature lovers because of its unspoiled scenery. You can also enjoy a range of water sports such as rafting, paddle boarding, and canyoning. There is a steam train that will take you from Jesenice, past this lake and onto Lake Bled.

Plitvice Lakes National Parks, Croatia

These 16 lakes in North Dalmatia are linked together by a series of nearly 100 waterfalls. The stunning area is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO. Depending on your fitness levels, there are walking trails around the lakes ranging from 2 to 8 hours long.

Lake Balaton, Hungary

Just one hour outside Budapest, Hungary, you will find a volcanic area with lush hills and sandy beaches. Nestled between this impressive landscape is Lake Balaton, known as the “Hungarian Sea”. This is the biggest lake in Europe, so it attracts locals and tourists that want a seaside resort feel in a landlocked country. This is a beautiful area, surrounded by castles and charming villages to explore. 

Lake Ohrid, Macedonia and Albania

The deepest lake in the Balkans can be found on the border of Macedonia and Albania. The waters are so clear that you can see to a depth of 22 meters, making it an ideal spot for observing marine life. There are a few beaches that you can sit back and enjoy the incredible views of nature and surrounding monasteries.

The post 5 Beautiful Lakes in Eastern Europe appeared first on Traveler Master.

The post-Soviet countries that were formed after the Union’s collapse are some of the most under-visited and unknown countries in Europe. Fortunately, Bald and Bankrupt is here to help us.

Bald and Bankrupt, run by a man whose pseudonym is “Mr. Bald” is an Instagram and YouTube account run by a man who is dedicated to showing off the best that Eastern Europe has to offer.

Hailing from the United Kingdom, Mr. Bald speaks Russian and is able to communicate with the natives of this region and also show off the best and most underrated pieces of a group of countries that most of us have never seen and know little about.

Mr. Bald takes a special interest in Soviet relics, showing off some of the most interesting and undiscovered relics and remains of a once-powerful nation. From Georgia to Moldova, he is sure to discover and find the most interesting spots in all of these underrated and unexplored lands.

So, if you are interested in traveling to Eastern Europe, be sure to give Bald and Bankrupt a follow!

The post This Travel Blogger Discovers Eastern Europe appeared first on Traveler Master.

However, don’t lose hope! Here are some budget airlines that you should check out if you are looking to plan a trip to Eastern Europe.

Wizz Air

Wizz Air, a Hungary-based company, is arguably the biggest player in budget flights in Eastern Europe. Servicing Hungary, the Czech Republic, Ukraine, Poland, the Balkans, and the Baltic States with flights from the rest of the continent, Wizz Air is a great choice.

Smartwings

Smartwings is a Prague-based airline that is expanding rapidly and beginning to service lots of Eastern Europe. It has especially good routes to the Balkan states, servicing Greece, Croatia, Bulgaria, Albania, and Montenegro.

SkyUp

SkyUp has only been around since March 2018, but this Ukranian airline is starting to make its mark on the air travel industry. It provides comprehensive service to Ukraine and even flies to unique destinations like Georgia and Armenia.

Ryanair

While Ryanair is an Irish company, I would be remiss to not mention the budget air giant here. While it originally focused on Western Europe, Ryanair now comprehensively services Eastern Europe as well, providing plentiful connections between the region and the rest of the continent.

The post Looking to Travel to Eastern Europe? Check Out These Budget Airlines appeared first on Traveler Master.