Country Capitals, Large Cities, and Major Towns in Eastern Europe

Fact checked by Erin Medlicott

The major cities of Eastern Europe make perfect travel destinations. Marked by history and continually evolving, these cities offer cultural sites, shopping, food, entertainment, and more.

Belgrade, Serbia

Formerly the capital of Yugoslavia, Belgrade now serves as the capital of the independent nation of Serbia. This vibrant city remains largely undiscovered by average tourists, allowing visitors to expect an authentic and enriching experience.

Bratislava, Slovakia

As a relatively new capital in Eastern Europe, Bratislava boasts a rich musical heritage and is conveniently located for easy travel to other major European cities.

Brno, Czech Republic

Brno, the major city recognized as the capital of Moravia, is a center of industry and culture. Known for its many festivals, including music and dance festivals, Brno is also home to attractions like the eerie yet fascinating Capuchin Crypt and Monastery.

Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, offers a blend of historical and modern attractions. Visitors may find great interest in its folk museum, vibrant theaters, and restaurants featuring traditional Romanian cuisine.

Budapest, Hungary

In Budapest, visitors are treated to delightful culinary experiences, particularly traditional Hungarian cuisine. The city’s rich cultural landscape includes numerous museums, stunning architecture, and the opportunity to unwind in renowned thermal baths.

Kiev, Ukraine

Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, is steeped in history. As the ancient administrative center of Rus, it is also home to significant landmarks, including St. Sofia Cathedral— a testament to the region’s rich religious heritage.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow stands out as one of Poland’s prime travel destinations, offering a gateway to southern Poland’s rich history and culture. The city can be conveniently reached from Warsaw by train, ideal for travelers who seek to explore both locations.

Krasnoyarsk, Russia

Krasnoyarsk, located in Siberia, is known for its vibrant shopping scene, numerous museums, and unique cultural offerings. As a well-known stop on the Trans-Siberian railway, the city is often referred to as the “city of fountains.”

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, features a pedestrian-friendly historic district filled with charming bridges and statues. Exploring the city offers insights into its rich legends, particularly those linked to the Ljubljanica River.

Moscow, Russia

Russia’s expansive capital city, Moscow, offers a plethora of activities that are appealing even on a budget. Visitors can immerse themselves in culture by touring the Kremlin, observing Lenin’s body, or relaxing in one of the city’s many parks or museums at minimal cost beyond transportation.

Pecs, Hungary

Pecs, situated in southern Hungary, is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant artistic scenes. Visitors can choose from a range of attractions, including early Christian ruins and various local festivals.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Plovdiv, one of Bulgaria’s major cities, presents a beautiful array of Roman ruins, historical architecture, captivating art, and excellent shopping opportunities. With its close proximity to Sofia, it’s easily accessible for travelers.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is celebrated for its stunning beauty, vibrant nightlife, and diverse shopping options. Be sure to explore the historic Old Town, visit castles and museums, and admire the iconic Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square. Prague is a must-visit destination in Eastern Europe!

Riga, Latvia

Often referred to as “The Paris of the Baltics,” Riga stands out as Latvia’s capital and the largest city in the Baltic states, presenting lively culture and rich architectural heritage.

Samara, Russia

Located on a bend of the Volga River, Samara is one of Russia’s largest cities, known for its crucial industrial and cultural contributions. The city has a notable history that adds depth to its current vibrant environment.

St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, known as Peter the Great’s “Window to the West,” once served as the capital of Russia. With its stunning architecture, palaces-turned-museums, and intricate network of bridges and canals, St. Petersburg is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Russia.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is an intriguing city that beautifully blends a sense of history with modern developments. The capital of Estonia features marvelous landmarks, including its old town and castle hill, revealing significant events in the nation’s past.

Tirana, Albania

Tirana, with its long and colorful history, offers a range of sightseeing opportunities for visitors. Attractions include ancient fortresses, castles, churches, mosques, as well as various monuments and museums that narrate the city’s rich legacy.

Tomsk, Russia

Tomsk, located in Siberia, is renowned for its esteemed educational institutions and is famous for its traditional wooden architecture, embodying the region’s historic charm.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius delights visitors with its surprising elements and vast historical narratives. As one of the Baltic capitals, the city’s expansive old town can easily be explored on foot, showcasing a rich tapestry of religions and ethnicities intertwined throughout history.

Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw, the capital city of Poland, is renowned for its resilient history. Although much of the city was ravaged during the wars of the previous century, Warsaw has been masterfully rebuilt, with many structures restored using bricks salvaged from its former ruins.

Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw serves as the capital of the Silesian region in Poland and features a diverse multi-ethnic population. Visitors will enjoy discovering the iconic “dwarfs” scattered throughout the city, adding a touch of whimsy to the urban landscape.