16 Best Cities in Eastern Europe

Belgrade is not the most beautiful city in Eastern Europe, it has a distinct grittiness to it that cannot be overlooked.

You can also walk Kotor's walls, some of which date back to the 9th century for free. If you've just come from Dubrovnik, you'll find these walls are much steeper and higher taking you up 1,350 steps in a 4,000-foot ascent. But the views from St John's Fortress at the top are worth the climb.

Set on the edge of a submerged river canyon in the Adriatic that is oft referred to as Europe's southernmost fjord, Kotor is one of Eastern Europe's most beautiful capital cities.

The jump is 23 meters, so it isn't for the faint of heart – it's so adrenaline-fueled in fact, that Red Bull held their international cliff diving championships here in September 2023.

With its famed Ottoman-era bridge, blue-green river, cobblestoned streets, and Islamic architecture, Mostar is a hidden gem of Eastern Europe.

Located right on the coast, with open views over the blue water of the Gulf of Finland, Tallinn is a city that knows how to mix the old and the new very well.

Romania is one of the cheapest European countries to visit, and the savings stretch to the capital as well.

With a dramatic skyline and plenty of historic and cultural sights, the capital's charms are undeniable.

The official capital of Poland during the Middle Ages, Krakow still retains its impressive royal look.

Dating back to AD 870, Prague is not only one of the most visited cities in Eastern Europe, but also one of the oldest.

If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik will look familiar as many of its best-known spots, including the old city walls, Fort Lovrijenac, and the Spanish Steps, stood in for Kings Landing on the hit show. Today you can take set-jetting tours to top filming locations.

Its seaside location also makes it the perfect starting point for day trips and island-hopping, with a number of ferries making their way to the Elafiti Islands, filled with cafés, restaurants offering al-fresco dining, and sea caves waiting to be explored.