We’ve been going on and on about the Eiffel Tower, Buckingham Palace, and Colosseum throughout the years. Oui, oui, Western Europe has magnificent attractions we’re all dying to see. However, blinded by over-tourism, we often overlook the wonders that Eastern Europe might have to offer. If you have itchy feet and wondering where to go next, here are some European countries you should visit this spring.

1. Great value for your money

Prices have gone up in the western part of Europe and are getting pricier with every minute. It might be a good idea to take a break from awfully overpriced coffee shops in Rome and save some money while exploring the not-so-basic wonders of the old land. It could be refreshing to look into Balkan countries – such as Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, and Slovenia. All of them are excellent and money-saving options.

Prices for travel services, including everything from lodging to transportation to excursions, are much more affordable in Eastern than in Western Europe. For example, a private walking tour may cost $100 or less, but a lovely supper for two with wine would cost $40.

2. You will never be hungry

We can promise you that you will never be hungry in Hungary! Or any other country in Eastern Europe. This region is abundant in gourmet options that would make any foodie salivate and some of the greatest beers, wines, and liquors found anywhere in the globe. In most cases, these tiny nations don’t produce enough to export, so they retain the finest for themselves instead of selling it.

Some of the ‘must try’ dishes are:

1. Serbian sarma
2. Bosnian kebabs
3. Istrian Yota in Croatia
4. Hungarian goulash
5. Slovenian buckwheat spoonbread

Of course, nothing in the Balkans goes without some liquor, so you can choose between head-spinning sljivovica and medovaca to add to the dishes’ flavor.

A must try – Sarma

There’s one dish in Eastern Europe that is an absolute favorite for locals and every tourist that is lucky enough to try it. Yes, we are talking about sarma. Pickled cabbage, ground beef, and rice are the main ingredients in traditional sarma. However, the dish may be made with vine leaves or minced fish meat. One thing is for sure – your tastebuds won’t be indifferent after meeting this beauty. Ajvar is another honorable mention coming from Serbia that might go well with sarma. It’s basically some kind of salad made of paprika – but every description is an understatement – you simply have to try it.

3. You can have a variety of cultural experiences

Within a very limited geographic region, you might encounter many distinctive and disparate cultures. Although the distance between Finland and Albania is not great, their cultures are worlds apart. It’s possible to go to numerous countries in one week since everything is within simple driving distance and no more than a couple of hours away by air.

The cultural diversity might require some more time to explore, and you might consider moving here for a while. And if you are considering making such a long and complex move, it’s best to live it up to professional international US movers. You might need help getting here from the US and transporting all your luggage. Go east if you think you would have fun going through culture shock after culture shock.

4. A strong sense of heritage

Although they are catching up with contemporary times, towns like Prague and Krakow are still steeped in history. Their residents continue to observe and enjoy local traditions and festivals year-round. Cobblestone streets and tiny passageways are charming and simple to traverse, and there’s a different sight waiting around every corner. There are still certain regions where horse and carriage remain the primary mode of transportation. In fact, it’s getting to know the heritage of visited countries that will make you a traveler instead of a tourist. 

Spring is a perfect time to visit the Serbian district of Kraljevo because of the unique celebrations of medieval times. So-called ‘Lilac days’ celebrate the love of king Milutin for his future wife – Helene D’Anjou. He ordered the whole area to be planted in lilacs as a wedding gift for her. Allegedly, her hair contained some purple glow that resembled lilacs. How romantic!

5. All the European countries you should visit this spring have breathtaking landscapes

The area offers a diverse range of settings that appeal to many travelers. From magnificent natural beauty, including a variety of national parks, mountains, lakes, and coastline, to rural villages and cosmopolitan towns, among other things. There’s something for everyone. You can make an exciting road trip and see as much as possible. If you’re an adventure-seeking traveler, you should not miss the following places:

• Lake Bled in Slovenia
• Plitvice lake in Croatia
• Budapest Caves
• Kotor Bay

Kotor – a tiny gem in the mountains

Being a part of a small country called Montenegro, a Balkan gem on its own, Kotor is an inspiration to many artists of this region. If you climb a mountain near Kotor in spring, you will witness the most beautiful landscape where mountains meet the sea.

6. You will be welcomed with open arms

Compared to Western Europeans, who are sick and tired of tourist disturbing their peace, residents of Eastern countries are excited to have guests. These nations, formerly inaccessible to outsiders, are now welcoming tourists with open arms. They are just as keen on getting to know us as we are on learning more about them. If you’re traveling single, don’t worry. The nations in this region are among the friendliest and safest in the world. It is uncommon to encounter off-limits locations, even late at night, and this region has not been the focus of any terrorist activity in recent history. If you choose these European countries you should visit this spring, one thing is for sure – you will be welcomed in the best possible way.