When you think of an Eastern Europe vacation, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s visiting old churches and seeing historical sights that have been standing for many centuries. Perhaps you think of visiting cities bombed in World War II and restored to their earlier splendor. Or maybe you think of learning about the counties’ rich histories. Throughout these lands there is an abundance of history that you can experience alongside a vast amount of culture. If you are looking for a historic and cultural experience then Eastern Europe is the perfect place for you.
Austria
Vienna, known for incomparable music, intimate coffee houses and imperial heritage, is a cultural trend-setter even as it cherishes the past. This city of tremendous sophistication and elegance still dazzles visitors with the beauty of the Hofburg Palace and Schönbrunn Palace. Heldenplatz, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Opera house and Parliament are also must see sites. Salzburg, known as the birth place of Mozart is also a great city to visit.
Croatia
Is growing in popularity every year. It offers a picturesque coastline along the Adriatic Sea. The people are friendly and there are wonderful beaches, gorgeous scenery, historic cities, charming villages and striking architecture. You will find medieval towns, Roman ruins, fishing villages with modern influences in the larger cities.
Czech Republic
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Prague was not bombed during WWII, so the quality and quantity of original, spectacular architecture from the Middle Ages, Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau periods is without peer. See the Hradcany Castel grounds and Astronomical Clock built in 1410.
Poland
Is filled with medieval towns including castles and palaces, sacred sites and historical attractions. In Warsaw, don’t miss the Wilanow Palace. St. Anne’s Church and the gardens of Park Lazienski. Also take a walk through the Old Town which was rebuilt after World War II. In Krakow, visit Wawel Hill with it’s opulent cathedral and royal castle.
Hungary
Is filled with Jewish Heritage and fascinating history, where 2,000 year old Roman ruins are found next to 400 year old Turkish monuments. Make sure to visit Fisherman’s Bastion which was heavily damaged during Wod War II and rebuilt is one of the most iconic sites in Budapest. Also worth a visit is Matthias Coronation Church. It was first built in in the 11th century and then rebuilt 400 years later. The interior has beautiful colors that remind your of Moroccan or Turkish architecture, where the exterior looks more Gothic. For great pictures of the Danube river, go to Gellert Hill which is one of the highest points in the city and will make for great photos.
Slovenia
Has only had it’s independence since 1991 and it’s cities are remnants of its unforgotten history. They have preserved their heritage, but also embraced a more cosmopolitan feel. Visit Baroque Palace, Medieval towns and eclectic architecture. There are also lush forests, parks, waterfalls and lakes. Lake Bled which is at the foot of the Julian Alp offers amazing photographs.
