BELARUS TRAIN GUIDE
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In Eastern Europe between Ukraine and the Baltics, Belarus is a huge country that sees very few tourists. Belarus is currently run by "Europe's last dictator" because of the relaxed visa rules. отдых 's become more accessible to travel to Belarus in recent times.
Bialowieza is Europe's oldest woodland and more than half of the country is covered with forest. You can canoe, kayak, fish, paddle, or stay in Belarus' beautiful lakes and rivers. Belarus is a place that nature-loving tourists often overlook which is why there aren't many travelers seeking space.
Minsk (Belarus's capital) is a vibrant and inexpensive as well, with its Stalinist architectural style juxtaposed with old-fashioned churches. It's worth soaking up the lively cafe culture and nightlife for at least a couple of days before heading to more tranquil cities like Brest or Hrodna. You can also go explore the countryside for rare European bison.
There's some tensions between Belarus (and the rest of Europe), but Belarus is a budget-friendly location that anyone is able to visit to experience a remote region which is not explored and unspoiled by the hordes of tourists throughout Western Europe.
This Belarus travel guide will assist you in planning your trip and save money.
Top Things to See and Do in Belarus
1. Grodno
Grodno is located near the western border of Belarus. People come to Grodno to see the Kalozha Church from 12th century, which is the oldest church in Belarus. Although the exterior might appear boring, the interior is full of geometrical decorations such as crosses, crucifixes, and floors made up of yellow, brown, and green plates. Be sure to spend some time in the Old Castle’s Grodno History and Archaeology Museum. They will walk through the area's historic background. It has artifacts and artifacts from this area, including Neolithic spears as well as medieval armour and mammoth teeth. The museum also houses an extensive collection of rare and old books. Admission costs $5 by the hour.
2. Day trip to Dudutki
The Dudutki Ethnological Museum Complex can be described as an "living museums" and is located far from Minsk. Although most of the buildings date back to the 19th century, they recreate Belarusian rural life from the 17th to the 20th century. The complex also has an area in which you can sample homemade cheeses and fresh pastries. The complex also includes pottery shop, a woodworker’s workshop, and a bakery, where fresh samples are available! Samorgon can also be sampled as a powerful moonshine that is produced only in Dudutki territory. The museum has many events throughout year, including the blacksmith's celebration as well as various feasting dates that are traditional, Pancake Week (the first week before Lent) and as well as Christmas-themed activities. Visitors can visit the museum for 14 BYN. Guides are also available at the price of 23 BYN.
3. Spend time in Pripyatsky National Park
Pripyatsky is often referred to as"the "Lungs of Europe", due to its natural landscape of swamps. It covers more that 250 bird species, 900 species of plants and over 50 mammal varieties, including wild boars (lynxes), red deer, wild boars, and European bison. There's plenty to do like fishing and hiking, boat tours, and guided walks. The museum is also available that displays ethnographic displays along with natural photography exhibits as well as animal and plant collections. You can reserve an overnight stay in the forest lodging (which includes an expert guide) for about 75 BYN for a night. Boat tours or guided hikes generally begin at 8-10 BYN.
4. Visit Brest Fortress
Brest Fortress (in Brest) was built between 1833-1842. In World War II thousands of German soldiers were in the fortress. Belarusian soldiers held off the attack for one month. (There is an honorary monument in honor of those who defended and protected the fortress). It is possible to visit the damaged walls and memorial statues, as well as the crumbling walls. The fortress also houses the Defense Museum and the Museum of War historical museums. It is possible to enter the fortress without having to pay but every museum has an admission cost (around five BYN).
5. Tour Mir Castle
Mir Castle, a 16-century castle that was built in Belarus, is a popular option for Belarusians. The majority of Belarusians think it's the most beautiful castle in the country. The exterior of the castle is constructed of white and red bricks, and its towers are a reflection of the castle's pond. The interior was restored to reflect the way life was like in the Radziwills in the early years of their reign. They lived here between 1568 and 1840. The Radziwills were a Lithuanian magnate family who owned a lot of land in Belarus. The meticulously manicured gardens are stunning too. The castle has beautiful exterior parts (courtyards and parks) which are free to all ages.
6. Visit Nesvizh Castle
The palace was built over 400 years between 16th-19th-century. It's a mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of Belarus' most popular attractions. The castle has English rose gardens on the outside, as well as the central courtyard, with yellow walls that are surrounded by the castle. The interior was renovated in the latter part of the 19th century. It features ornate antique furniture and chandeliered reception areas. It also has large bedrooms, elaborate porcelain fireplaces, and mounted hunting trophy collections. The Radziwill family tombs are located within the adjoining 16th century Catholic church, one of the oldest Baroque structures outside of Italy. Admission to the complex is 15 BYN and 3 BYN to receive an audio guide.
7. Go kayaking
Stracha and Isloch Two of the most well-known rivers to kayak are Stracha and Isloch. Both rivers have more challenging routes for experienced paddlers. The Saryanka river Saryanka can be paddled in two days to make multiday trips. Minsk has many rental shops for kayaks, but these should be booked in advance especially during summer when it is the most popular. For a two-day rental (weekend) anticipate to be charged 70 BYN. This price includes paddles life jackets, bags that are airtight, a pump, and free delivery within the Minsk region. Day tours start at Minsk for 150 BYN.
8. Learn how to make bread.
Belarusians are committed to their bread and possess their own Museum of Bread in Botvinovo! The interactive museum provides hands-on, interactive experiences that allow you to not only master the basics of bread making , but also bake traditional bread using a wood stove. It costs 12 BYN and 17 BYN with a manual.
8. Enjoy a stroll around Hrodna's Old Castle
Hrodna's Old Castle is a former residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania and other Polish kings. It was constructed in the 1580s. Although most of the castle was demolished in the first half of the 18th century It is possible to still tour the castle's ruins and enjoy the stunning views across the Neman River. The walls of the castle are all that is left, but there's still efforts to bring it back to its original splendor of the 16th century. Grodno State Museum of History and Archaeology that focuses on history of the region is the most important point of interest within the complex. It houses one of the largest collections of artifacts in Belarus, which includes more than 200,000 pieces. Highlights include a set of mammoth tusks, Neolithic spears, a set of arrowheads dating to the 3rd-4th centuries BCE, an 18th-century dugout boat, and weapons that spans the entire ages. The museum admission cost is $5. General admission is free. There are many advertisements in English.
10. Go to the Belarusian State Art Museum
With over 30,000 pieces of art in its collection and more than 30,000 pieces in its collection, the Belarusian State Art Museum is the biggest in Belarus. It features works by Soviet social realism as well as Russian masters such as Valentin Volkov, Yudel Pen and Marc Chagall who were mentors and instructors. It often has rotating exhibitions of Chagall's work which were created by the artist who was born in Belarus and grew up in Belarus. The back part of the museum exhibits local art dating from the 1940s until the 1970s. Adult admission is 8 BYN, while an audio guide is available for 3 BYN.
11. Go to the Stalin Line Museum
The Stalin Line was a defense line heavily fortified and ran over 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) along the Soviet Union’s western frontiers. The discontinuous line was actually 4 areas that were fortified around the cities of Mozyr, Minsk and Minsk. It was built between 1928 and 39. Minsk is 1.5 hours away from the museum in open air. It is located exactly on the site of the line. The museum is home to renovated trenches as well as historic bunkers. Fortifications are also accessible. The historical background is explained in English on the signage. There are many activities that can be interactive even if your aren't a fan of military history. You can go on the ride in a tank or helicopter and shoot live ammo. There is also a large collection of military technology, including guns, warplanes and other tools. The admission for adults is $15 while students pay 7 BYN. 28 BYN is the price for a three-hour guided visit.
Belarus Travel Costs
Accommodation - Hostels are only available in Brest, Minsk, and Grodno and cost around 22 BYN per night for four beds in a dorm. It is possible to be paying between 45 and 55 BYN for a room with a private bathroom. The Wi-Fi isn't available at no cost, so make sure you check the facilities before you book.
There are a variety of alternatives for lodging in guesthouses, hotels with a budget and bed & breakfasts across the country. Double rooms are priced between 85-120 BYN each night. Breakfast is usually included in the price.
Airbnb is available in major cities. Private rooms start at about 25 BYN per night (though they are usually double that if booked in advance). If you want to rent a whole apartment or house, anticipate paying at least 70 BYN.
Camping is an option for anyone who wants to travel in a campervan. A basic campsite with electricity for two people cost about 12 BYN an night for a campsite. Camping outdoors is allowed in Belarus. Public areas are not banned.
Food Belarusian cuisine is filling. Like its Eastern European counterparts, uses lots of potatoes (and vegetables in general) and cheeses, and stews as well as casseroles, soups, and a variety of pancakes. The most sought-after meat is pork, which is followed by sausage. Dumplings are also extremely well-known, particularly Russian Pelmeni (dumplings made from thin dough that is unleavened). Vodka is the most popular drink to wash it all down.
Belarus is a great location to consume food. For an inexpensive meal in a local eatery you can expect to spend 6-8 BYN for traditional meals such as draniki (potato pancakes) and a bowl of kletski (dumplings) or sorrel soup. Restaurants in the area serve fish and meat dishes for around 7-10 dollars. A big traditional salad for a family can cost 10-12 BYN.
Drinks: A glass of beer at the table costs you between 3 and 4 BYN. For a glass of wine will cost you around 7-9 BYN. Cocktails range from 9-14 BYN, and a cappuccino costs 3.50 BYN.
If you want a combo meal Fast food can be found for about 10 BYN (think McDonald's). Street food, like pancakes filled with sausages or draniki with meat are under 2 BYN and a kebab can be found at 11-13 BYN. Pizza is 10-13 BYN.
The higher end restaurants serve meat dishes for 30-35 BYN , and seafood dishes for 35 to 65 BYN. Desserts are available for 10-15 BYN. A three-course dinner at one these restaurants will cost between 85 and 100 NZ.
You can cook your own meals by purchasing basic groceries such as pasta, seasonal vegetables and some meat for around 50-65 BYN.
Activities Museums and other attractions like castles and palaces, are generally 5-15 BYN, plus 3 BYN for audio guides. Tours and excursions with guides typically cost between 15 and 30 BYN. Kayak rentals run around 35-40 BYN every day. Wild camping and hiking are both free and plentiful.
Bialowieza is Europe's oldest woodland and more than half of the country is covered with forest. You can canoe, kayak, fish, paddle, or stay in Belarus' beautiful lakes and rivers. Belarus is a place that nature-loving tourists often overlook which is why there aren't many travelers seeking space.
Minsk (Belarus's capital) is a vibrant and inexpensive as well, with its Stalinist architectural style juxtaposed with old-fashioned churches. It's worth soaking up the lively cafe culture and nightlife for at least a couple of days before heading to more tranquil cities like Brest or Hrodna. You can also go explore the countryside for rare European bison.
There's some tensions between Belarus (and the rest of Europe), but Belarus is a budget-friendly location that anyone is able to visit to experience a remote region which is not explored and unspoiled by the hordes of tourists throughout Western Europe.
This Belarus travel guide will assist you in planning your trip and save money.
Top Things to See and Do in Belarus
1. Grodno
Grodno is located near the western border of Belarus. People come to Grodno to see the Kalozha Church from 12th century, which is the oldest church in Belarus. Although the exterior might appear boring, the interior is full of geometrical decorations such as crosses, crucifixes, and floors made up of yellow, brown, and green plates. Be sure to spend some time in the Old Castle’s Grodno History and Archaeology Museum. They will walk through the area's historic background. It has artifacts and artifacts from this area, including Neolithic spears as well as medieval armour and mammoth teeth. The museum also houses an extensive collection of rare and old books. Admission costs $5 by the hour.
2. Day trip to Dudutki
The Dudutki Ethnological Museum Complex can be described as an "living museums" and is located far from Minsk. Although most of the buildings date back to the 19th century, they recreate Belarusian rural life from the 17th to the 20th century. The complex also has an area in which you can sample homemade cheeses and fresh pastries. The complex also includes pottery shop, a woodworker’s workshop, and a bakery, where fresh samples are available! Samorgon can also be sampled as a powerful moonshine that is produced only in Dudutki territory. The museum has many events throughout year, including the blacksmith's celebration as well as various feasting dates that are traditional, Pancake Week (the first week before Lent) and as well as Christmas-themed activities. Visitors can visit the museum for 14 BYN. Guides are also available at the price of 23 BYN.
3. Spend time in Pripyatsky National Park
Pripyatsky is often referred to as"the "Lungs of Europe", due to its natural landscape of swamps. It covers more that 250 bird species, 900 species of plants and over 50 mammal varieties, including wild boars (lynxes), red deer, wild boars, and European bison. There's plenty to do like fishing and hiking, boat tours, and guided walks. The museum is also available that displays ethnographic displays along with natural photography exhibits as well as animal and plant collections. You can reserve an overnight stay in the forest lodging (which includes an expert guide) for about 75 BYN for a night. Boat tours or guided hikes generally begin at 8-10 BYN.
4. Visit Brest Fortress
Brest Fortress (in Brest) was built between 1833-1842. In World War II thousands of German soldiers were in the fortress. Belarusian soldiers held off the attack for one month. (There is an honorary monument in honor of those who defended and protected the fortress). It is possible to visit the damaged walls and memorial statues, as well as the crumbling walls. The fortress also houses the Defense Museum and the Museum of War historical museums. It is possible to enter the fortress without having to pay but every museum has an admission cost (around five BYN).
5. Tour Mir Castle
Mir Castle, a 16-century castle that was built in Belarus, is a popular option for Belarusians. The majority of Belarusians think it's the most beautiful castle in the country. The exterior of the castle is constructed of white and red bricks, and its towers are a reflection of the castle's pond. The interior was restored to reflect the way life was like in the Radziwills in the early years of their reign. They lived here between 1568 and 1840. The Radziwills were a Lithuanian magnate family who owned a lot of land in Belarus. The meticulously manicured gardens are stunning too. The castle has beautiful exterior parts (courtyards and parks) which are free to all ages.
6. Visit Nesvizh Castle
The palace was built over 400 years between 16th-19th-century. It's a mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of Belarus' most popular attractions. The castle has English rose gardens on the outside, as well as the central courtyard, with yellow walls that are surrounded by the castle. The interior was renovated in the latter part of the 19th century. It features ornate antique furniture and chandeliered reception areas. It also has large bedrooms, elaborate porcelain fireplaces, and mounted hunting trophy collections. The Radziwill family tombs are located within the adjoining 16th century Catholic church, one of the oldest Baroque structures outside of Italy. Admission to the complex is 15 BYN and 3 BYN to receive an audio guide.
7. Go kayaking
Stracha and Isloch Two of the most well-known rivers to kayak are Stracha and Isloch. Both rivers have more challenging routes for experienced paddlers. The Saryanka river Saryanka can be paddled in two days to make multiday trips. Minsk has many rental shops for kayaks, but these should be booked in advance especially during summer when it is the most popular. For a two-day rental (weekend) anticipate to be charged 70 BYN. This price includes paddles life jackets, bags that are airtight, a pump, and free delivery within the Minsk region. Day tours start at Minsk for 150 BYN.
8. Learn how to make bread.
Belarusians are committed to their bread and possess their own Museum of Bread in Botvinovo! The interactive museum provides hands-on, interactive experiences that allow you to not only master the basics of bread making , but also bake traditional bread using a wood stove. It costs 12 BYN and 17 BYN with a manual.
8. Enjoy a stroll around Hrodna's Old Castle
Hrodna's Old Castle is a former residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania and other Polish kings. It was constructed in the 1580s. Although most of the castle was demolished in the first half of the 18th century It is possible to still tour the castle's ruins and enjoy the stunning views across the Neman River. The walls of the castle are all that is left, but there's still efforts to bring it back to its original splendor of the 16th century. Grodno State Museum of History and Archaeology that focuses on history of the region is the most important point of interest within the complex. It houses one of the largest collections of artifacts in Belarus, which includes more than 200,000 pieces. Highlights include a set of mammoth tusks, Neolithic spears, a set of arrowheads dating to the 3rd-4th centuries BCE, an 18th-century dugout boat, and weapons that spans the entire ages. The museum admission cost is $5. General admission is free. There are many advertisements in English.
10. Go to the Belarusian State Art Museum
With over 30,000 pieces of art in its collection and more than 30,000 pieces in its collection, the Belarusian State Art Museum is the biggest in Belarus. It features works by Soviet social realism as well as Russian masters such as Valentin Volkov, Yudel Pen and Marc Chagall who were mentors and instructors. It often has rotating exhibitions of Chagall's work which were created by the artist who was born in Belarus and grew up in Belarus. The back part of the museum exhibits local art dating from the 1940s until the 1970s. Adult admission is 8 BYN, while an audio guide is available for 3 BYN.
11. Go to the Stalin Line Museum
The Stalin Line was a defense line heavily fortified and ran over 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) along the Soviet Union’s western frontiers. The discontinuous line was actually 4 areas that were fortified around the cities of Mozyr, Minsk and Minsk. It was built between 1928 and 39. Minsk is 1.5 hours away from the museum in open air. It is located exactly on the site of the line. The museum is home to renovated trenches as well as historic bunkers. Fortifications are also accessible. The historical background is explained in English on the signage. There are many activities that can be interactive even if your aren't a fan of military history. You can go on the ride in a tank or helicopter and shoot live ammo. There is also a large collection of military technology, including guns, warplanes and other tools. The admission for adults is $15 while students pay 7 BYN. 28 BYN is the price for a three-hour guided visit.
Belarus Travel Costs
Accommodation - Hostels are only available in Brest, Minsk, and Grodno and cost around 22 BYN per night for four beds in a dorm. It is possible to be paying between 45 and 55 BYN for a room with a private bathroom. The Wi-Fi isn't available at no cost, so make sure you check the facilities before you book.
There are a variety of alternatives for lodging in guesthouses, hotels with a budget and bed & breakfasts across the country. Double rooms are priced between 85-120 BYN each night. Breakfast is usually included in the price.
Airbnb is available in major cities. Private rooms start at about 25 BYN per night (though they are usually double that if booked in advance). If you want to rent a whole apartment or house, anticipate paying at least 70 BYN.
Camping is an option for anyone who wants to travel in a campervan. A basic campsite with electricity for two people cost about 12 BYN an night for a campsite. Camping outdoors is allowed in Belarus. Public areas are not banned.
Food Belarusian cuisine is filling. Like its Eastern European counterparts, uses lots of potatoes (and vegetables in general) and cheeses, and stews as well as casseroles, soups, and a variety of pancakes. The most sought-after meat is pork, which is followed by sausage. Dumplings are also extremely well-known, particularly Russian Pelmeni (dumplings made from thin dough that is unleavened). Vodka is the most popular drink to wash it all down.
Belarus is a great location to consume food. For an inexpensive meal in a local eatery you can expect to spend 6-8 BYN for traditional meals such as draniki (potato pancakes) and a bowl of kletski (dumplings) or sorrel soup. Restaurants in the area serve fish and meat dishes for around 7-10 dollars. A big traditional salad for a family can cost 10-12 BYN.
Drinks: A glass of beer at the table costs you between 3 and 4 BYN. For a glass of wine will cost you around 7-9 BYN. Cocktails range from 9-14 BYN, and a cappuccino costs 3.50 BYN.
If you want a combo meal Fast food can be found for about 10 BYN (think McDonald's). Street food, like pancakes filled with sausages or draniki with meat are under 2 BYN and a kebab can be found at 11-13 BYN. Pizza is 10-13 BYN.
The higher end restaurants serve meat dishes for 30-35 BYN , and seafood dishes for 35 to 65 BYN. Desserts are available for 10-15 BYN. A three-course dinner at one these restaurants will cost between 85 and 100 NZ.
You can cook your own meals by purchasing basic groceries such as pasta, seasonal vegetables and some meat for around 50-65 BYN.
Activities Museums and other attractions like castles and palaces, are generally 5-15 BYN, plus 3 BYN for audio guides. Tours and excursions with guides typically cost between 15 and 30 BYN. Kayak rentals run around 35-40 BYN every day. Wild camping and hiking are both free and plentiful.
