Things To Do
in Braslaw
Braslaw is a small lakeside town in northern Belarus known for its scenic cluster of more than 40 lakes and unspoiled natural surroundings. The area is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts who come to swim, kayak, fish and hike through forests and marshes. The town itself has a relaxed, rural atmosphere with wooden houses, a handful of guesthouses and charming local markets.
Braslaw is also a gateway to the Braslaw Lakes National Park and offers low-key cultural experiences with friendly local hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a tranquil boat ride on the stunning Braslaw Lakes, where the morning mist slowly rises from the water’s surface. Take in the serene beauty of the area as you listen to the gentle sounds of nature surrounding you. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a lakeside cafe, sampling some local delicacies.
In the afternoon, head to the National Park of Braslaw Lakes for a hike along one of its many scenic trails. Discover the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems as you stroll through lush forests and beautiful meadows. Make sure to bring your camera, as the views are breathtaking!
As the sun sets, return to the town for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can taste traditional Belarusian cuisine. Spend your evening strolling through the charming streets of Braslaw, admiring the historic wooden architecture. End the night with a cozy drink at a local bar, reflecting on the beauty of your day.
Start your morning by visiting the Braslaw Historical Museum to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. The exhibits provide fascinating insights into the traditions and history of the local community. After exploring, head to the nearby market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce.
In the afternoon, participate in a workshop on traditional crafts, where you can learn skills like pottery or weaving from local artisans. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the cultural practices of the Braslaw residents. After the workshop, grab a light lunch at a nearby café and chat with locals.
Enjoy dinner at a family-run bistro, where the ambiance is warm and welcoming. After your meal, catch a local performance, whether it’s live music or a folktale reenactment, showcasing the region's artistic talents. Wrap up the evening with a walk to the lakeside for a peaceful moment under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1.50-3 |
| 🛏️Guesthouse / budget double room | $25-60 per night |
| 🚌Local bus fare (short trip) | $0.30-1 |
| 🛶Kayak or boat rental (half-day) | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unspoiled natural scenery and many lakes ideal for outdoor activities
- Low tourist crowds and relaxed rural atmosphere
- Affordable prices compared with major cities
- Strong opportunities for birdwatching, fishing and water sports
- Limited public transport and fewer English-speaking services
- Seasonal closures of some guesthouses and services in winter
- Fewer dining and nightlife options compared with urban centers
- Distance from major international airports makes travel time longer
- "Добры дзень (Dobry dzień)" - Good day / Hello
- "Дзякуй (Dziakuj)" - Thank you
- "Калі ласка (Kali laska)" - Please / You’re welcome
- "Колькі гэта каштуе? (Kolki heta kashtuje?)" - How much does this cost?
- "Дзе знаходзіцца аўтобусны прыпынак? (Dze znahodzitstsa autabusny prypynak?)" - Where is the bus stop?
- "Я не размаўляю па-руску/па-беларуску (Ya ne razmaŭlyayu pa-rusku/pa-belarusku)" - I don't speak Russian/Belarusian
Places to Visit in Braslaw
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the largest lakes with beautiful shorelines, reed beds and sunrise/sunset reflections — great for wide landscape shots and long exposures.
Smaller, more secluded lakes offering mirror-like water, island views and dense forest edges ideal for intimate nature photos.
Several elevated viewpoints provide panoramic shots of the lake cluster and patchwork forests — best in late spring and autumn colors.
Streets with traditional wooden houses, market stalls and daily life scenes for cultural and street photography.
In winter, frozen lake surfaces, ice patterns and snow-covered trees create crisp monochrome scenes and dramatic skies.
Food in Braslaw
Braslaw Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato pancakes often served with sour cream; available in local cafés and many family-style restaurants.
Must-Try!
Locally caught and pan-fried, smoked, or baked — look for fish plates at lakeside eateries and guesthouse menus.
Made with foraged mushrooms in autumn; a seasonal favorite you’ll find in village homes and local restaurants.
Belarusian dumplings sometimes filled with local meats or mushrooms, often served with butter or sour cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small daily market near the center selling seasonal produce, local honey, pickles, mushrooms and homemade cheeses — perfect for picnic supplies.
In summer you may find seasonal kiosks by popular beaches selling grilled fish, pastries and ice cream.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are valued — a handshake and eye contact are common. Use basic phrases in Russian or Belarusian to show respect.
In private homes guests are often asked to remove shoes; it's polite to carry socks or slippers.
Local culture values the lakes and forests — avoid littering, follow path rules and be mindful when camping or foraging.
Ask before photographing people in villages or private property; some residents may be reserved about being photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Braslaw
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up small bills or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is acceptable in tourist spots. For taxi drivers and service staff, a small tip or rounding up is customary.
Cash (Belarusian rubles) remains the most reliable option in Braslaw, especially in markets and small guesthouses. Some hotels and larger restaurants may accept cards, but bring cash for excursions, small shops and remote services; ATMs are available in town but not every village.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Late snowmelt and thawing lakes; trails can be muddy in March–April but wildflowers begin to appear by May. It's a quieter shoulder season for birdwatching and fewer tourists.
Warmest and most popular time (June–August) with swimming, boating and festivals; expect busy lakesides and the best weather for water sports.
September–October brings vivid foliage and excellent hiking with cooler temperatures; mushroom foraging season makes local markets lively.
Cold (November–March) with frozen lakes suitable for ice fishing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing; some services and guesthouses may close or have reduced hours.
Braslaw at Night
Hiking in Braslaw
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of marked trails connecting viewpoints, shoreline paths and forest routes; suitable for day hikes and birdwatching with varied terrain.
A scenic loop linking two smaller lakes with boggy boardwalk sections and forested stretches — best in dry late spring to autumn conditions.
A gentle lakeshore trail with picnic spots and photographic opportunities; family-friendly and easily combined with swimming stops.
A longer woodland trail that offers peaceful hiking through mixed forest and occasional clearings with lake views; good for solitude and mushroom foraging in season.
Airports
How to reach Braslaw by plane.
Main international airport of Belarus, approximately 300 km / 4–5 hours by car; regular bus or train connections exist from Minsk to Vitebsk with onward regional transport to Braslaw.
International airport in Riga, roughly 200–300 km northwest depending on route; could be an alternative if combining travel to the Baltics, but border crossing and transfer logistics vary.
Vilnius offers another international option about 250–300 km away; useful if coordinating multi-country travel but requires longer ground transfers to reach Braslaw.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are ethnic Belarusians with local traditions rooted in rural life.
Minor Russian and Polish communities are present, reflecting historical cultural links in the border region.
Many small towns in the region have an older resident demographic; in summer the population increases with domestic tourists and returning families.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Recreational and competitive freshwater fishing is extremely popular due to the abundance of lakes.
In winter residents enjoy ice fishing, cross-country skiing and skating on frozen lakes.
Local amateur football remains a common community sport in towns and villages.
Summer activities on the lakes are popular among residents and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Braslaw.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can manage with potato dishes, mushroom soups, dairy-based meals and salads, but choices are more limited than in cities; ask hosts for egg- and dairy-based options and request vegetable-based preparations when possible.
Vegan options are limited; carry snacks and be prepared to explain restrictions (bring translations) — markets offer vegetables, mushrooms and bread that can help.
Gluten-free meals require caution; many traditional dishes use flour (draniki, dumplings). Bring essentials or shop at markets for naturally gluten-free ingredients like fish, potatoes and vegetables.