Things To Do
in Belarus
Belarus is a forested, river-rich country in Eastern Europe known for its green landscapes and well-preserved historic towns. Its capital, Minsk, blends modern infrastructure with a surprisingly intimate old town and a calm, walkable center. The countryside offers fairy-tale castles, vast nature reserves like Belovezhskaya Pushcha, and quaint villages where time feels slower.
Visitors are welcomed by hearty cuisine, easy day trips, and a relaxed pace that rewards thoughtful exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Minsk National Airport and take a taxi to your hotel located in the city center. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a charming café nearby, sampling local pastries and coffee. Visit the stunning Independence Square to admire the Monument to the Victory and the beautiful architecture that surrounds it.
Explore the stunning National Art Museum where you can view exhibits of Belarusian and European art. Take a stroll through the city’s green parks, like Gorky Park, and enjoy the lush landscapes while absorbing the vibrant city atmosphere. Grab lunch at a cozy bistro offering traditional Belarusian dishes.
Dinner at a fine restaurant showcasing the rich flavors of Belarusian cuisine is a delightful way to end your first day. After your meal, consider visiting a local bar or café for some live music or a taste of local craft beer. Relax with a walk along the Svislach River, enjoying the illuminated views of the city.
Start your day with a visit to the Great Patriotic War Museum, which offers an insightful perspective on Belarus's role in WWII. The museum is filled with artifacts and exhibits that make history come alive. After your visit, take a leisurely walk to Victory Square, where you can take pictures of the impressive obelisk.
Head to the bustling Komarovsky Market, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Sample fresh produce, homemade goods, and try unique dishes from various food stalls. After lunch, visit the picturesque Upper Town, home to beautiful churches and quaint streets.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant to savor dishes like draniki (potato pancakes) and machanka (pork stew). Post-meal, venture to the Opera and Ballet Theatre to catch a performance or enjoy some people-watching at a lively café. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets of the city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🛒Grocery staples (milk, bread, eggs) | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible nature and easy day trips from major cities
- Warm hospitality and hearty, comforting cuisine
- Language barrier in rural areas; English is less common outside major cities
- Some services and attractions may have limited English information
- "Добры дзень" - Hello / Good day
- "Дзякуй" - Thank you
- "Колькі гэта каштуе?" - How much is this?
- "Дзе туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ці гаворыце вы па-руску?" - Do you speak Russian?
- "Прабачце, можаце мне дапамагчы?" - Excuse me, can you help me?
Places to Visit in Belarus
Visit one of these nice places.
Classical city architecture, wide boulevards, and lively street scenes provide timeless urban photography opportunities.
A somber memorial island along the Svislach river offering reflective composition with water and greenery.
A UNESCO-listed palace with ornate facades, formal gardens, and interior details ideal for architectural photography.
A dramatic silhouette against the sky, with fortified towers and ornate interiors nearby.
Ancient forest landscapes, wide clearings, and wildlife vistas perfect for nature photography.
Food in Belarus
Belarus Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy potato pancakes often served with sour cream.
Must-Try!
Pork stew or thick sauce served with draniki or flatbread.
Beet soup typically topped with sour cream and rye bread.
Meat-stuffed dumplings, sometimes with mushroom fillings.
A lightly fermented bread drink, refreshing and mildly tangy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Minsk’s main market for fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, and everyday snacks.
Casual stalls offering quick bites, pastries, and warm soups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common in business and polite in social settings. Address people by their surname with a suitable title.
Direct questions about politics or sensitive history are best avoided; show respect for local customs and religion.
Modest dress is advisable when visiting churches or monasteries; remove hats where appropriate and observe silence on sacred grounds.
Safety
Tipping in Belarus
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service is good, leaving about 5-10% in restaurants is common when no service charge is included.
Cash (BYN) is widely accepted, especially in markets. Major cities also accept credit and debit cards; contactless payments and some mobile wallets are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; great for city strolls and nature hikes. Sudden rain is possible; carry a light jacket and water.
Mild days with colorful foliage; ideal for photography and scenic drives. Pack layers and a sturdy umbrella.
Cold, with snow or frost common in December–February. Great for winter landscapes and city lights; bring warm clothing and insulated footwear.
Temperatures rise gradually; forests and parks come alive with birdsong. Expect mud in early spring and occasional rain.
Belarus at Night
Hiking in Belarus
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
European primeval forest with well-maintained trails and diverse wildlife; a premier hiking destination.
Scenic lakeside paths near Minsk suitable for day hikes and walks.
Historic parkland offering easy loops and picturesque viewpoints around the castle complex.
Airports
How to reach Belarus by plane.
Main international gateway for Belarus, with connections to European hubs and regional flights; easy onward transport to Minsk city center.
Smaller regional airport serving domestic and limited international routes; convenient for western Belarus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, primarily speaking Belarusian and Russian; many people are bilingual.
A significant portion of the population uses Russian daily, especially in urban areas.
Smaller communities with historical roots in the region.
There are international residents in Minsk and several tourism-focused visitors
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played; winter arenas are common in major cities.
A popular spectator sport with local clubs and regional matches throughout the year.
Winter sport with events and facilities in the region, reflecting Belarus’s winter sports culture.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Belarusian menus are meat-forward; look for soups (like beet or mushroom), dumplings with cheese or mushroom fillings, potato dishes, and salads. Request vegetable sides and avoid meat broths when possible; many places offer vegetarian options and salads.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Belarus.