Although Eastern Europe is literally the eastern part of the continent of Europe, there is no clear demarcation of the countries that are a part of it as the term is more geopolitical than physical. The physical land boundaries of the region are the Ural Mountains and River, and the Caucasus Mountains but these are irrelevant in the larger scheme of boundaries. Countries that make up this part of Europe have sometimes been described as a cultural entity with its main characteristics comprising Greek, Russian, Byzantine, Eastern Orthodox and influences from the Ottoman culture. Another definition of Eastern Europe is the term Eastern Bloc which emerged during the Cold War to group the former communist European states which were not part of the Soviet Union.
However, no matter what demarcation is used to mark the region, there is no doubt that this part of Europe is a melting pot of natural wonders with rugged mountain scenery, sprawling plains, and beautiful water bodies. Eastern Europe is a land bathed in folklore and festivals that have been passed down through the ages, like Poland’s Drowning of Marzanna, Bulgaria’s Golden Grapes Festival or Hungary‘s Busójárás. It is also a breathing museum of history with some of its remarkable monuments like the Constantin Tanase Theater in Bucharest, the Main Market Square of Krakow or the Prague Castle in the Czech Republic, drawing interested visitors into its past.
Wroclaw is an astonishing town that would make a perfect alternative for a remarkable getaway. Being one of the most gorgeous metropolia in Poland, Wroclaw offers a unique opportunity. If you think Madrid or Milan are too common, one of Polska’s most alluring spots will entertain you with dozens of unexcelled experiences. You’ll find enchanting…
Krakow might not be the most popular destination in Europe, but it sure deserves to be on your must-visit list. As one of the few that managed to escape destruction from World War II, Krakow is also one of the oldest cities in Poland. It’s known for its well-preserved medieval core and Jewish quarter. Meanwhile,…
The fall of communism was like a blessing in disguise for a number of European countries, including Warsaw. The Polish capital has undergone rapid changes in the last two decades. Once occupied by the Nazis and repeatedly contested by aggressors, Phoenix City has risen from the ashes. It’s now transformed into a thriving area, crammed…
Gdansk or Danzig (in German) is a Polish port city stationed at the mouth of the Motlawa River on the coast of the Gdansk Bay (of the Baltic Sea). Originally a center for European merchants, Dutch traders, and shipbuilding, the city, later on, flourished as a major center of art, architecture, and education in Poland.…
Zakopane often referred to as the ‘winter capital of Poland‘ is a town located in the extreme south of the country at the foot of the beautiful Tatra Mountains. Its location makes it a preferred destination for hiking, skiing, and tourism. Zakopane was only a small village in the mid 17th century with only 43…
3We were asked by a few readers “which town in Poland do you consider to be the most beautiful”, but we couldn’t choose one. From majestic castles in Malbork and a sprawling market square in Kazimierz to snow-tipped mountain settings in Zakopane. Here are our picks of the 5 Most Beautiful Towns In Poland. Chocholow 1 Most…
Situated on the Odra River, Wrocław is the historical capital of the Silesian province and the 4th largest city in Poland after Krakow, Warsaw and Lodz. Maybe it is not the first city you think of when visiting Poland, but you should. Beautiful, well-preserved streets, over 100 colorful bridges, bohemian architecture scattered throughout 12 islands,…
Krakow, the second largest and one of the oldest cities in Poland, is a very special city. Locals say that the name Krakow came from a ruler named Krakus who built the city above a cave that was home to a ravenous dragon. However, Krakow is more than legends, it became a UNESCO World Heritage…
After becoming an EU member and having a huge transformation process, anyone can tell that something good is happening in Warsaw. Many old communist buildings gave way to modern skyscrapers, entertainment and services transformed to match that of other western capitals. The capital of Poland is becoming a hot destination for tourists from all over…