If you’re planning a trip to Belarus, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful landlocked country is home to a wealth of natural beauty, fascinating history, and warm hospitality. From the pristine lakes and forests of the Bialowieza Forest to the bustling streets of Minsk, there’s something for everyone in Belarus. And while the country is still relatively unknown to many tourists, that’s part of what makes it so special. You’ll have the chance to experience a unique and authentic slice of Eastern Europe, without the crowds. To help you plan your trip, here’s a guide to the 7 top-rated tourist attractions in Belarus for 2024:
Minsk
Minsk, the capital of Belarus, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. The city is home to many museums, theaters, and historical sites, and there’s always something going on. Minsk is also a great place to shop, dine, and nightlife. And with its convenient location in the center of the country, it’s a great base for exploring the rest of Belarus.
What to see in Minsk:
- The National Library of Belarus
- The Palace of the Republic
- The Minsk City Hall
- The Minsk Cathedral
- The Belarusian State Museum of the Great Patriotic War
The Bialowieza Forest
The Bialowieza Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe. The forest is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including the European bison. There are many hiking trails and bike paths through the forest, and you can also take a guided tour.
What to do in the Bialowieza Forest:
- Go hiking or biking
- Take a guided tour
- See the European bison
- Visit the Museum of the Bialowieza Forest
The Mir Castle
The Mir Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Belarus. The castle was built in the 16th century and is a fine example of Renaissance architecture. The castle has been restored to its former glory and is now open to the public.
What to see at the Mir Castle:
- The castle’s exterior
- The castle’s interior
- The castle’s grounds
- The castle’s museum
The Nesvizh Castle
The Nesvizh Castle is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful castles in Belarus. The castle was built in the 16th century and is a fine example of Baroque architecture. The castle has been restored to its former glory and is now open to the public.
What to see at the Nesvizh Castle:
- The castle’s exterior
- The castle’s interior
- The castle’s grounds
- The castle’s museum
The Brest Fortress
The Brest Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important historical sites in Belarus. The fortress was built in the 19th century and was the site of a major battle during World War II. The fortress has been restored to its former glory and is now open to the public.
What to see at the Brest Fortress:
- The fortress’s exterior
- The fortress’s interior
- The fortress’s grounds
- The fortress’s museum
The Grodno Castle
The Grodno Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important historical sites in Belarus. The castle was built in the 11th century and has been the site of many important historical events. The castle has been restored to its former glory and is now open to the public.
What to see at the Grodno Castle:
- The castle’s exterior
- The castle’s interior
- The castle’s grounds
- The castle’s museum
The Vitebsk Museum of Art
The Vitebsk Museum of Art is one of the most important art museums in Belarus. The museum houses a collection of over 30,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings. The museum is especially known for its collection of Russian and Belarusian art.
What to see at the Vitebsk Museum of Art:
- The museum’s collection of Russian art
- The museum’s collection of Belarusian art
- The museum’s collection of European art
- The museum’s temporary exhibitions
Culture
Belarus has a rich and diverse culture that is a blend of Slavic and Western influences. The country’s official languages are Belarusian and Russian, and the majority of the population is Orthodox Christian. Belarus is also home to a number of ethnic minorities, including Poles, Ukrainians, and Jews.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Belarus is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are many festivals and events taking place throughout the country.
Nearby Transportation
Minsk National Airport (MSQ) is the main international airport in Belarus. The airport is located about 40 kilometers from Minsk city center. There are regular flights to Minsk from major cities in Europe and Asia.
Local Food
Belarusian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, and it features a variety of meat, potatoes, and vegetables. Some of the most popular dishes include draniki (potato pancakes), borscht (beet soup), and kolbasa (sausage).
Best Hotels
There are a number of excellent hotels in Belarus, including the Hotel Europe in Minsk, the Mir Castle Hotel in Mir, and the Nesvizh Castle Hotel in Nesvizh.
Conclusion
Belarus is a beautiful and welcoming country with a rich history and culture. The country is home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as a variety of other attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, nature, or art, you’re sure to find something to love in Belarus.
