Last summer I decided to venture on my very own euro trip. I knew there was no way I was going to visit the same old standard tourist destinations and spend a lot of my hard-earned money in crowded places with long lines. So, I decided to travel off the beaten path and take a Baltic holiday to explore exciting, off-the-beaten-track destinations. Eastern Europe and the Baltics are quickly becoming Europe’s best travel destinations! Hurry and book your trip before everyone discovers Europe’s best kept secret of stunning views, friendly locals and old world charm, all for an affordable budget. Let’s go!
Popular itinerary – Eurotrip through the Baltics:
Krakow, Poland
The first stop on my Baltic holiday was Krakow. According to legend, this magical city was formed after the defeat of a dragon, and it certainly lives up to its mythical expectations. Krakow is the perfect mix of rich history, legend and royalty alongside some really exciting nightlife and vibrant energy. Krakow’s Old Town is majestic and offers a vivid glance to the past; a vision of knights, dragons and ancient castles. Here you can visit Europe’s biggest medieval market, but Krakow is also famous for its glorious, wild nightlife and many bars, clubs and restaurants.
Our tip: The popular and educational Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial and museum is a heavy but worthwhile experience, and it’s not too far from the center of Krakow.
Local Attraction: Krakow is still very affordable, so shop away. Poland is renowned for amber jewellery and you’ll find it in cheap abundance at the markets!
Vilnius, Lithuania
Lithuania’s capital city is a romantic must that boasts an alluring baroque style, with its stunning Old Town, an official UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Vilnius, you will find art, magnificent architecture, cobblestone streets and picturesque views. This incredible city has so much to offer on any Baltic holiday.
Our tip: Visit Uzupis, a “republic” within Vilnius’ Old Town that was established by artists and bohemians. This republic has its own currency, president, constitution and even an army of 11! It also has a sign that indicates that smiling is obligatory.
Local attraction: Take a day trip to see the stunning Trakai Island Castle, and don’t forget to taste the best local dish in Lithuania,, the delicious Kibinai. Yum!
Riga, Latvia
This stunning city is considered the culture capital of the Baltics. Its regal Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Alongside the historical city center, Riga offers some cool nightlife and is a great starting point for many exciting day trips.
Our tip: Take a night-time kayak tour of the city and enjoy the beautiful lights.
Local attraction: Take a day trip to Jurmala beach town, or visit Gauja National Park for some cool adventures. Bungee jump over the Guaja River in picturesque Sigulda, where you can also visit Turaida Castle and Caves, and Cesis Castle in charming Cesis.
Tallinn, Estonia
With medieval charm, cobblestoned streets and magnificent castles, Tallinn is a mix of old and new. In Tallinn, the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral towers over the city with its bell tower 53m high.
Our tip: Check out Town Hall Square for its vibrant markets, magical Christmas market, outdoor cafes and street shows, which are a must for any Baltic holiday!
Local attraction: Visit Kadriog to see the picture-perfect park and castle. Or you can also visit Lahemaa National Park and explore Estonia’s stunning landscape with its rivers, cliffs, forests and quaint, picturesque villages.
Don’t forget to visit the breathtaking Jägala Waterfall, especially in the winter time when the water freezes and becomes a sparkling ice wall.
Helsinki, Finland
Travel up north where Helsinki is Finland’s vibrant and colorful capital. It’s an elegant city that has a young, cool vibe. Helsinki also has amazing art museums, nightlife and the fantastic Linnanmäki Amusement Park which you can’t afford miss.
Our tip: Take a kayak or boat tour to see the Helsinki archipelago islands (some boats offer hop on-hop off tours).
Local attraction: Catch the ferry to Suomenlinna Fort Island. The fortress was built at the end of the 18th Century and is an impressive must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site!
