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10 Historic and Beautiful Places to Visit in Lithuania

July 22 2020 by Megan Starr Leave a Comment

Lithuania was the first Baltic country I stepped foot in, actually. I flew to Vilnius and then ventured to Klaipeda and Trakai and beyond.

Since that first trip, I have traveled to Lithuania around a dozen times. There are many places to visit in Lithuania and that is why I recruited a few other bloggers to help you see all the country has to offer!

These are the best places in Lithuania that you should add to your Baltic itinerary.

Best Places to Visit in Lithuania

Vilnius

Editor’s Choice

Lithuania’s capital Vilnius makes for a perfect weekend break due to its size and abundance of things to do. The city center is a wonderful blend of historical buildings and obscure brutalist buildings built by the Soviets.

As you walk through the city center, you can not help but be taken aback by the beauty of the old churches and buildings that line the streets.

However, if you cross the Neris River from the Old Town, you will be greeted by one of the country’s most famous examples of socialist modernism architecture, the Palace of Concerts and Sports- a huge wave-like building.

One of the most important places to visit is the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, situated in the former KGB building the museum documents the horrors and atrocities committed by the Soviet Union on the people of Lithuania.

Strangely, there is also a statue of Frank Zappa in the city, a musician who became a symbol of freedom and a change during the collapse of the Soviet Union, despite the fact he never once visited the country of Lithuania!

Trakai Castle

Editor’s Choice

Seventeen miles west of Vilnius is the historical city of Trakai, one of Lithuania’s most popular tourist destinations.

Founded in the 14th-century, the city has become a symbol of Lithuania’s varied history with various cultures moving into the region adding their own cultural identity to the city while preserving the buildings and designs from their predecessors.

The main feature of the city is the beautiful medieval castle that sits on one of Lake Galvė’s 21 islands.

The city is also home to fantastic examples of Karaim culture including an amazing traditional wooden synagogue, which is one of the few left in existence today.

In Trakai, you will also find the delectable Kibinai, a traditional Karaim pastry that has become a local delicacy over the years.

While it is possible to stay in Trakai overnight and there are plenty of fantastic hotels you can also take a half day guided tour of the city from Vilnius, perfect for those who are visiting the region on a time crunch.

Klaipeda

Editor’s Choice

On Lithuania’s Baltic coast, you’ll find the amazing city of Klaipeda. The city has had a rich and complicated history, with rival forces battling to control the land and its influential port.

In the center of the city, there is a beautiful historic district with buildings influenced by German and Scandinavian architectural styles.

Theatre Square is often a hive of activity, with festivals and concerts often held in the square during the warmer months.

There are also some fantastic examples of Soviet architecture, and to the beaches in the north, you can also see WW2 defensive structures.

To the south of the city, you’ll find the unbelievably beautiful Curonian Spit, a 61-mile sand dune that stretches down to Kaliningrad and creates the Curonian Lagoon.

The impressive spit is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the wild fast-moving dunes have created a wonderful nature spot.

Nida and the Curonian Spit

Recommended by Bradley and Cazzy at Dream Big, Travel Far

In my opinion, and that of plenty of other visitors to Lithuania, the Curonian Spit is the most naturally beautiful place to visit in the country.

In fact, it’s where many Lithuanians choose to spend their holidays at one of the many small campsites or towns located along the spit of land. Of which, the nicest is possibly Nida.

Nida is a small town right at the end of the spit, not far from the point where it becomes Russian territory.

It’s a great place to stay for a few nights, enjoying the laid back atmosphere and the many cute cafes and restaurants along the front.

In the evening, they also have markets here and even an outside fire pit for when it gets cold.

It’s worth taking time to visit the many long stretches of beach and sand dunes all the way up until Nida. Simply pull in and cut your way through the trees; you’ll be amazed at just how incredibly untouched and pristine many of these beaches are.

Of course, if you want to get the best use of these, then it’s definitely worth visiting Lithuania and Nida in the summer months, from July to September.

To get to Nida, you need to first head to the city of Klaipeda. From here, you take the ferry across, which takes only around 10 to 15 minutes.

Check out our guide to the perfect Baltics road trip.

Siauliai

Editor’s Choice

Lithuania’s fourth-largest city is Siauliai, a city that often is overlooked when people plan their Lithuanian adventures.

The city was founded in the 13th-century and grew as an important cultural and educational hub. However, as the world broke out into war during the early 20th-century, Siauliai suffered heavily.

Eighty-five percent of the city was destroyed during WW1 and despite rapidly rising from the ashes after the war, the city was again thrown into turmoil as WW2 broke out and inflicted even worse terrors.

Since the city had to be largely rebuilt after the war by the Soviets, there are plenty of amazing examples of modernist architecture around the city.

As you walk around the city, you can enjoy one of the city’s many parks and wide boulevards, perfect for a relaxing break.

Siauliai is also the launching point for visiting the Hill of Crosses that sits 7.5 miles north of the city.

Druskininkai

Editor’s Choice

On Lithuania’s southern border with Belarus is the chilled out town of Druskininkai. Surrounded by stunning birch forest and marshlands, Druskininkai grew famous for its healing spas.

During the early 20th century, the town had one popular spa resort that was classed as one of the best in the region attracting visitors from as far away as Moscow.

Once the Soviets took control of the town, sanatoriums were rapidly built and Druskininkai became one of the most famous resorts in the Soviet Union with almost half a million visitors each year.

While many of the sanatoriums have since closed their doors since the collapse of the USSR, Druskininkai still has plenty to offer.

For water sports lovers, some of the lakes offer wakeboarding and water skiing, and interestingly, there is also one of Europe’s largest indoor ski slopes just outside of the town.

Outside of the city, there is Grutas Park, a private collection of Soviet monuments collected from around the country (I hated this place- they also had a horrifying zoo).

In the middle of the city, relax with a walk by the large lake or chill out in one of the town’s cafes.

Hill of Crosses

Editor’s Choice

The main tourist sight in the Siauliai region is the Hill of Crosses, a creepy yet eerily beautiful attraction.

The small hill is overloaded with well over 200,000 crosses, statues of the Virgin Mary, and various other effigies. No one is entirely sure how the Hill of Crosses came into existence but crosses started appearing during the 1830’s.

During the Soviet occupation, the site became more important as it was a symbol of hope and a way to connect with the life and culture the Soviets tried so hard to wipe out.

During this period, the Soviet leaders did everything they could to remove the crosses and destroy the display but people remained persistent.

The site can easily be visited from Siauliai either by car, taxi or a private tour.

You can easily spend a few hours walking amongst the crosses and marveling at the intriguing history that still has that feeling of hope surrounding it.

For those who are looking to visit the site from Vilnius, there are some amazing day tour options from the capital.

Kaunas

Recommended by Kami at Kami and the Rest of the World

Kaunas, the second-largest city in Lithuania, is a great place to visit in the country. It offers a great variety of attractions and with so many great things to do in Kaunas, you won’t be bored for sure.

The city was founded in the 10th-century and still today you can admire monuments from the Medieval times when Kaunas was an important trade center in the region.

During the interwar period, Kaunas was the capital of Lithuania. That’s when the city developed and most of the important buildings as well as regular houses were built in the modernist style that brings recognition to Kaunas in the present day.

In Kaunas, you will also find two funiculars (the only ones in Lithuania) that originally come from the interwar period too.

Fans of street art won’t be disappointed either – there are so many amazing murals all over the city, some of the works were even painted on the old trolleybuses!

Kaunas is a vibrant and cool city that can be a perfect European city break destination. Don’t miss it during your trip to Lithuania!

Kernave

Recommended by Deb at The Visa Project

Lithuania is a picturesque country home to many forests, castles, lakes, and historical towns. And if you want to learn the history of Lithuania, Kernave is a must.

Popularly known as the Troy of Lithuania, Kernave was its medieval capital. It is home to one of the most important ancient settlements of Lithuania.

Facing the meandering Neris river, the Cultural Reserve of Kernave is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are four old castle mounds and the remains of a medieval town, and a museum with a wealth of artifacts.

The reconstructed village with wooden cottages is a great way time travel to the past. There are guided tours available as well.

Summer is when Kernavė comes to life with celebrations and folk festivals. With medieval fun activities like ax throwing, mead making, and catapulting, Rasos Feast is probably the most famous one.

If you are planning a day trip from Vilnius, at merely 35 kilometers, Kernave is a great idea. To get to Kernave, you can either drive from Vilnius or take a bus as well.

And as Lithuania is part of the Schengen zone, if you need a visa to visit it, you can get a Schengen visa.

Anyksciai

Recommended by Mark at Vogatech

Anykščiai is a green and somewhat hidden gem in northern Lithuania.

The city is located 35 km from Utena and lies on the river Šventoja, the longest river that passes through all of Lithuania, which is connected to the Baltic Sea by its tributaries.

Rich in enviable greenery, it is an oasis of peace for all nature lovers.

Anykščiaikoji Regional Park is located near the city and a real nature reserve. The forest is rich with over thirty species of trees… and the River Šventoja that passes through this park offers visitors plenty of activities.

The Treetop Walking Path is a truly unique project that offers a walk above the treetops. It is 300m long and walks relatively quickly with this unusual construction. But, it’s the view it provides that will stop and make you feel captivated. It truly is a unique European experience!

Kalita Mountain – toboggan and ski trails is another place that is simply unavoidable. There are so many activities offered for the youngest visitors.

There are opportunities from driving an alpine coaster to a children’s autodrome to a mini Volvo excavator adapted for children to use.

“Dainuva” Adventure Valley offers a real adventure for the bravest. At 13 meters altitude, there are six trails of various levels of difficulty. You choose the weight of the track that you think you are ready for and go for it! This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Lithuania.

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25 Spectacular and Captivating Places to Visit in Egypt

July 20 2020 by Megan Starr 1 Comment

There are so many places to visit in Egypt that will ignite your curiosity and satiate all senses. This is a guide of what to see in Egypt- from desert oases to famous temples.

there is anywhere you think should be included on this list- please leave a comment and let us know!

Amazing Places to Visit in Egypt

Egypt is a country that evokes thoughts of ancient history as it is considered one of the oldest countries in the world and the cradle of civilization.

The ancient Egyptians are credited with being the creators of many of the most important developments in human history, from writing to the origins of modern farming methods.

The ancient civilization is still a huge part of the cultural identity of modern Egypt with its grand pyramids still being marveled at today and many of the secrets of this early powerhouse nation still to be discovered.

This guide will take you through the most incredible places to visit in Egypt.

Before traveling to this part of North Africa, do ensure you check visa requirements to enter Egypt (Americans are not visa-free, FYI!)

This will ensure you prevent any travel hiccups before checking out some of these awesome places to see in Egypt.

Quick History of Egypt

Egypt is one of the world’s most fascinating and important countries. Located on both the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, the North African nation has long been of strategic importance thanks to its proximity to the southwestern corner of Asia.

The mostly arid country is also home to the world’s longest river, the Nile (although the Brazilian government may disagree with you and claim its the Amazon).

The Nile is the lifeline of the country and supports most of the country’s large population (it’s the third-largest in Africa), along its fertile banks.

Considered to be the cradle of civilization, the country played a significant part in the development of humanity and modern organized religions, exporting its knowledge and culture throughout the world.

Human activity along the Nile is thought to date back 120,000 years, with nomadic tribes taking advantage of the natural resources and abundant food thanks to the nutrient-rich plains along the Nile.

At the time, the region was full of vegetation and moving around the area was easy as there was plenty of food available since herds of animals grazed the area and there was plenty of plant life to sustain nomadic tribes on the move.

However, over time, the climate changed, causing the area to become far arider and restricted nomadic movements, meaning early humans were forced to create settlements along the banks of the Nile.

These early settlements eventually grew to form one of the most forward-thinking and important civilizations of all time.

This guide will take you through the best places to visit throughout this amazing country, from the coastal regions and deserts to how to step into the country’s magnificent history.

Along with covering the natural and historical highlights, I have added in some of the best parts of modern Egypt to provide a contrast between the new and the old.

If you feel I missed out on an amazing place to see, please leave a comment below.

In addition, check out these Egypt travel tips if you’re looking for some knowledge before planning your epic trip!

Destinations in Egypt

Valley of the Kings

Located close to the city of Luxor (called Thebes during ancient times), is the impressive Valley of the Kings, used for centuries as a burial ground for the Pharaohs of the New Kingdom era where tombs were carved out of the rock into complex structures.

The decision to switch to tombs carved into the rock originated due to a large number of robberies occurring in the more obvious tombs.

Split between two valleys, the east and the west, the area is home to around 60 tombs, all of which vary dramatically in size from small simplistic tombs to giant complexes made up of over 100 chambers.

valley of the kings places to visit in egypt — By Photo: Przemyslaw “Blueshade” Idzkiewicz. – Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5

The most famous discovery at the Valley of the Kings is the tomb of Tutankhamun, a previously undiscovered tomb of an unknown pharaoh whose final resting place was surprisingly intact and still full of treasures.

Today, you can visit the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens along with its special visitors’ center where you can explore a small selection of the tombs in the complex along with Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Giza Pyramid Complex and the Great Sphinx

The Giza Pyramid Complex is where you will find the most recognizable pyramids in the world.

Consisting of three large pyramids, various smaller pyramids, the great Sphinx, other little cemeteries, and the remains of a workers village, the most famous of the pyramids is the Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as Pyramid of Khufu/Cheops.

It is the largest of all pyramids 481 feet tall.

For nearly 4000 years, the pyramid remained the tallest structure to have been built by man despite now being dwarfed by modern structures.

However, this giant pyramid still feels imposing. Due to its importance to human history, the pyramid was included in the seven wonders of the ancient world and should definitely be on your Cairo itinerary.

The other two main pyramids are both smaller than the great pyramids. In the complex, you will also find the Great Sphinx, which is believed to have the face of Pharaoh Khafre.

The impressive limestone statue is located to the east of the complex and is the oldest sculpture in ancient Egypt at close to 5,000 years old.

Access to the site is via two entrance points and you will need to pay for permission to view the site and then into the pyramids separately.

In the evenings, there is a spectacular sound and light show and will take your breath away when you’re visiting the pyramids.

Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is one of the most impressive collections of ancient Egyptian relics in the world as it is home to well over 100,000 items (not all are on display).

The large museum is split over two floors and will take you through the complete history of ancient Egypt providing valuable insight into the way of life back then and their interactions with other civilizations.

cairo egyptian museum — By Olaf Tausch – Own work, CC BY 3.0

One of the most impressive things about the museum is the extensive collection of relics retrieved from the tomb of Tutankhamun.

Given the size of the museum and the vast amount to digest, I recommend setting aside a decent amount of time to view the museum and hiring a guide who can talk you through all of the artifacts as it can get slightly overwhelming.

The museum is currently located in Cairo close to the banks of the Nile River. However, it is planned to move the museum to a new purpose-built location close to the Pyramids.

It is located at Tahrir Square rd Tahrir Square، Ismailia, Qasr El Nil.

⇒ If you’re looking to take a guided tour of the museum, click here for rates.

Karnak Temple Complex

The Karnak Temple Complex is a very large ancient Egyptian religious site consisting of temples, pillars, and chapels all in various states of disrepair.

The construction of the temple, unlike many other of the buildings and sites built by the Ancient Egyptians, spanned over a 1,000 years and several dynasties.

During this time, the complex was expanded, rebuilt and redesigned, with Pharaohs piling plenty of cash into the sacred area.

The highlight of the complex is the central temple dedicated to the god Amun. The huge temple is one of the largest religious sites in the world and could easily fit several of the world’s largest cathedrals into its walls.

Karnak Temple Complex - one of the best places in Egypt to visit — Karnak Temple Complex – one of the best places in Egypt to visit

The Karnak Temple Complex is split into four different sections although only one is open to the public. The other sites include large temples dedicated to the family of the god Amun.

The Karnak Temple Complex makes up part of the monumental city of Thebes, which is contained within the modern city of Luxor. You can find the complex at El-Karnak in Luxor.

Temple of Isis

The Temple of Isis is the last temple of its kind dedicated to the goddess Isis who was considered the divine mother of the Pharaohs.

The temple is located on the island of Agilkia despite originally being on the island of Philae. It had to be moved to protect it from flooding after the construction of the Aswan dam in the early 20th Century.

The Ancient Egyptians started building the temple around 700 BC and it remained in use as a place of worship until around 550 AD.

Along with the main temple are plenty of other amazing sites, including giant pylons with amazing reliefs carved into them.

Inside of the temple, be on the lookout for the influence of early Christianity as the temple was previously used for Christian worship and the hieroglyphics were defaced with symbols of Christianity.

There was also a Baroque style alter placed inside of the church but it was eventually removed.

Around the lake, you will find plenty of other monuments and relics that were moved from the island of Philae to save them from flooding. The island of Philae can be seen submerged under the water.

Temple of Hatshepsut

Ancient Egyptian society was, in many ways, based around equality and the Egyptians believed that male and females elements balanced each other out.

Women held high titles within temples or society but few were privileged enough to lead the country.

Hatshepsut was the second of the seven known female rulers of Egypt. During her reign, she declared herself Pharaoh of Egypt after claiming she was the offspring of the popular god Amun.

She was known for bringing economic success to Egypt and increasing its trading position during a peaceful reign.

Another one of her traits was for building numerous monuments and temples throughout the land employing many people in the process.

Valley of the Queens Egypt — Valley of the Queens in Egypt

Her grandest and most impressive construction was the Temple of Hatshepsut built near the Valley of The Kings.

The giant three-story, symmetrical temple was modeled on the neighboring Temple of Mentuhotep II.

However, she ordered her temple to be far grander and bigger because, as a female ruler, she needed to show her power and wealth in far greater ways than a male ruler would have traditionally done.

Interestingly, Hatshepsut was forgotten by history and her temple was turned into a Christian monastery where many of the reliefs were defaced.

It has only been in the last 100 years that we have been able to find out about this impressive female ruler. The temple is partially reconstructed with the third floor still being renovated.

It is advised to visit the temple early in the morning as this particular area is known for being one of the hottest places on Earth. It is best to view the wall carvings during periods of low light.

Habu Temple

Habu Temple, or Medinet Habu, is an amazing temple and one of the best places to visit in Egypt as it dates back to the New Kingdom of Ancient Egypt.

Built by Ramesses III, the large temple is most famous for its impressive reliefs that adorn the walls of this magnificent marvel.

Many of the reliefs within the temple still have their original colorings and they depict epic stories and show Ramesses interacting and appeasing the popular god Amun and his wife Mut.

The coloring of these reliefs has helped historians recreate and understand how Ancient Egypt would have looked back in its prime days.

Despite its name, this is actually a site made up of multiple buildings and structures where you can also see early forms of Christian churches that were added far later.

The Habu Temple is often overlooked by tourists due to the sheer volume of other sites in the area that are slightly better known. However, it’s truly one of the best sites in the region and should not be missed.

You can find the massive complex at Al Bairat in Luxor.

Deir el-Medina (Valley of the Artisans)

Deir el-Medina was a specially built village to house the workers who crafted and built the tombs in the Valley of The Kings and the Valley of The Queens.

Just a short walk away from both Valleys, the village has provided amazing insight into the way that normal villagers lived in the Ancient Egyptian kingdom.

There is reason to believe that these people were kept separate from the general population since they were considered special and were inspired by the gods.

The self-contained village also includes burial tombs which are not as grand or opulent as the ones in the valley but are, nevertheless, impressive with the walls adorned with beautiful reliefs.

During the excavation of the site, many texts were found and they described the more mundane aspects of Egyptian life during the 400-year history of the village.

Previously all texts that had been found had described more historically important occasions. Visiting the village is relatively easy and can be done directly from Luxor itself or while visiting the Valley of The Kings or the Valley of The Queens.

Pyramid of Djoser

The Ancient Egyptians were extremely skilled builders who were able to build impressive structures that have lasted millennia.

The Pyramid of Djoser is believed to be the world’s oldest standing stone structure dating back to the 27th century BC and the original pyramid outdates any other in the world.

The step-style pyramid may not be as grand or imposing as those you find in the Giza Complex, but it is awe-inspiring in its own right and one of the must-visit places to visit in Egypt.

The pyramid is the focal point of a large complex featuring many smaller temples and constructions where you can spend time wandering around and marveling at just how architecturally savvy the Egyptians actually were.

The site is located just south of Cairo. Tourist crowds tend to head to Giza and the more well-known Pyramids, so you may find this site being more chilled out.

⇒ If you’re looking for a tour or driver to go to Djoser, click here for rates and availability.

The Nile

If you are traveling the coastal areas, take the time to travel inland to the world’s longest river – the Nile.

This amazing river flows north from either Burundi or Rwanda (the actual source of the river has never been found). The Nile actually starts off as two rivers, the Blue and White Niles, which both join to form the Nile.

the nile river egypt — The Nile River in Egypt

The Blue Nile is distinctly smaller than the White Nile. Thanks to this extensive and large river, ancient nomadic humans were able to settle along the water source which was home to plenty of food sources and kept the local lands fertile.

Ancient Egyptians were able to harness the power of the Nile to become one of the world’s first mighty civilizations.

Many of Egypt’s largest towns and cities are based along the Nile so visiting today is pretty easy and you can take a boat tour along the river or simply walk the banks of a river that has played such a crucial part in human history.

Red Sea Coast

On Egypt’s eastern coast, you will find the Red Sea Riviera, a long stretch of coastline that spans from the Suez Canal to the southern border with Sudan.

This fantastic stretch of coastline has recently experienced a tourism boom, thanks to plenty of historical sites and an abundance of natural beauty due to large areas of shore and water being protected by law.

The strict wildlife protection laws have made the waters around the shoreline some of the best diving spots in the world. Diving varies depending on which area you choose to go to.

The northern portion of the coastline is more popular with large resorts like Sharm-el-Sheik in the vicinity. However, diving these parts is incredible, especially if you are looking to explore old shipwrecks.

The southern part is less crowded and is home to some of the most amazing reefs in the world that are in superb condition and are teeming with marine life.

Along the coast, there are plenty of fantastic resorts where you can experience luxury at an affordable price.

Mount Sinai

Egypt is home to many religious temples and sites that are insanely impressive man-made structures.

On the other hand, Mount Sinai in the Sinai mountain range is one of the most amazing natural religious sites in the world.

Supposedly, the peak of the mountain is where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God which remains a cornerstone of our modern moral and ethical belief system.

Trekking to the summit is a popular activity for both pilgrims and hiking enthusiasts. There are two options for reaching the summit and both routes start from close to the Monastery of Saint Catherine, one of the oldest continually operated monasteries in the world.

The common route for pilgrims is the Steps of Repentance, a harsh and steep step-based climb to the top that sets off from the back of the monastery.

Alternatively, there is an easier and gentler route that works it way up the mountain, although you will need to do the last part of the stairs to reach the summit.

The three-hour hike is a major tourist attraction but most tourists only come via a tour to hike to the summit and watch the sunrise.

If you are looking for a more peaceful experience, hike for the sunset or during the day to take in the views.

The Monastery at the bottom is only open in the mornings but worth checking out as the UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the world’s oldest library.

Siwa Oasis

There are few things that conjure up the romanticism of deserts more than the idea of a desert oasis surrounded by lush vegetation.

Siwa Oasis is located in the far western reaches of Egypt just 50 kilometers from the border of Libya. Situated 20m below sea level, the large oasis has supported human life since the Ancient Egyptian times.

siwa oasis in egypt — By Wael Saad – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

Interestingly, Siwa was settled by the Berber people giving it a unique and different culture compared to the rest of the country which has been preserved for centuries as the area remained only accessible by camel until the 1980s.

Along with relaxing among the palm and olive trees surrounding the dreamy oasis, the town is full of history with the impressive Ruins of Shali and Temple of the Oracle.

Reaching the oasis from Cairo is an adventure in itself with the bus journey taking around 12-13 hours, driving you through some of Egypt’s most remote villages and towns as you meander your way there.

This journey can be done overnight but there is a chance the bus can be canceled on the day for little reason so you will need to be flexible with planning.

White Desert

The White Desert is one of the most amazing natural sites in Egypt with chalky white sands and monumental natural chalk structures carved by large sandstorms that occasionally ravage the desert.

The giant white structures have taken various forms over time ranging from oddly shaped bird-like structures to distinctly mushroom looking ones.

One of the best ways to visit the White Desert is by an organized tour where you can spend the night camping in the desert, Bedouin-style. As sunlight dwindles, the white sands reflect the vibrant colors of the sunset.

If you are lucky enough to camp during a full moon, the sands appear to glow in the moonlight.

⇒ Click here to check rates for an amazing overnight tour of the White Desert

Alexandria

The city of Alexandria is the second-largest city in all of Egypt and has played an important historical role in Egypt’s past.

Founded by Alexander the Great, the city is situated on the Mediterranean coast and is one of the key industrial cities of Egypt.

During its heyday, the city was one of the most culturally important epicenters with scholars flocking to its great library which was one of the largest and most significant in the world at the time.

One of the most famous landmarks of the city was the Lighthouse of Alexandra, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

However, this lighthouse sadly was unable to stand the test of time and has since collapsed after a series of earthquakes.

These ancient landmarks may not exist anymore but there are still plenty of sites to see including the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of the seven wonders of the Middle Ages, or the ruins of Rhakotis (the original settlement of Alexandria).

If you are looking to escape into nature, the city lies on the edge of the Nile Delta, some of the most fertile and lush lands in the whole country.

Cairo

Although it is not the oldest city in the country, Cairo is the capital of Egypt and sprawls out from the banks of the Nile.

The city is full of world-class museums that contain the treasures of Egypt’s glorious ancient past along with other relics and artifacts from its turbulent history after the fall of the Pharaohs.

The main draw is the impressive Giza Pyramid complex but there is so much more to this famous city. Take the time to explore the bazaars and markets of the city and embrace the local culture and taste the history of the city through its epic food.

For stunning vantage points over the city of minarets, head to the Citadel where you can walk through its car-free streets that provide a nice, calming break from the hustle and bustle of modern Cairo.

Egypt is a predominantly Islamic country but there is a large Christian community that has been active in Egypt since around the second century AD.

Cairo also provides a perfect gateway for exploring the rest of Egypt with many tours and excursions departing from the city.

Rosetta

The small, unassuming village of Rosetta (also known as Rasheed), has probably done more for our understanding of Ancient Egypt than any other place in the country.

For years, Egyptian hieroglyphics had remained a mystery and were considered to be just captivating drawings on the walls.

Explorers were completely unaware of the secrets they held and that lasted until a revolutionary discovery in this little village.

In 1799, a group of French soldiers discovered a stone in the small village of Rosetta that was inscribed in three different languages; Hieroglyphics, Demotic, and Ancient Greek.

cities to visit in Egypt - Rosetta — By Walaa shabeb – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

It was seen that little changed between the two known languages and this led to the unlocking of the meaning of hieroglyphics and the secrets they held.

The city was once a popular tourist destination amongst the British thanks to its interesting architecture and picturesque beauty.

The jaw-dropping architecture is still a major lure today with the Ottoman-era mansions providing beautiful contrast to the more standard Egyptian architecture.

Aswan

The southern city of Aswan was one of the most significant cities of Ancient Egypt. It was strategically located on the country’s southern border until the new kingdom invaded the Nubians to the south.

In addition to being a strategic military location, Aswan was home to the most important quarries in the kingdom where they quarried the marble for the pyramids and other monuments throughout the land.

Today, the city is listed in the UNESCO Creative City Network due to the importance of its art and local culture.

Aswan, one of the best places to visit in Egypt, is home to impressive Ancient Egyptian structures and engineering feats such as the Nilometer.

There are also plenty of monuments in the area but many have had to be moved due to the flooding of the valley as a result of the construction of the dam. Many were saved but some were lost forever as the water levels rose.

places to visit in Egypt- Aswan — Aswan, Egypt

The upper dam and Lake Nassar provide a great place to look out over the valley and the dam itself was built in collaboration with the Soviet Union and to mark this, there is a statue dedicated to Soviet & Egyptian friendship there.

Close to the city, you will also find Nubian villages, where the walls were adorned with bright colors and provide an amazing insight into this ancient civilization’s way of life.

Berenice

Berenice is an ancient harbor on the Red Sea that for many years was strategically important.

Today, the town is more known for its beautiful beaches and brilliant seafood, as well as tons of monuments dating back to the Greek and Roman occupation of Egypt.

The best time to visit the area is during the summer when most of the monuments are open to visitors. During the offseason, the archaeological sites are covered up to protect them.

The area is also a great diving and scuba diving spot because it is home to amazing crystal clear waters and shipwrecks ready to be explored.

Luxor

The city of Luxor is one of the most impressive and historically important cities in the world (and places to see in Egypt) and it is more like an open-air museum than a living, breathing city.

Built around the ruins of the ancient city of Thebes, Luxor is home to a large number of Ancient Egyptian monuments, temples, and tombs.

The modern city of Luxor has been built around these relics and provides a remarkable contrast as you take in its history.

The city is spread over the east and west banks of the Nile with sights located on both sides. The best thing about the city is that along with the historical relics, there are plenty of other aspects of Egyptian life to enjoy from amazing bazaars to vibrant nightlife where you can mingle with the locals and experience modern-day Egypt.

There are also plenty of activities that you can enjoy- for example, taking a hot air balloon trip over the city and seeing the impressive monuments from above.

Cairo Tower

Sometimes, the best way to take in a city is to view it from above. The Cairo Tower is a proud, 187-meter high tower, and a marvel of modern Egyptian architecture.

Completed in 1961, the tower is a large free-standing concrete structure, with latticework on the outside intended to link the tower to Egypt’s ancient history.

The best times to visit the viewing platform are when the pollution haze has lifted and that is normally in the early morning and late afternoon.

This will provide the clearest views over Cairo and the potential to see the grandiose pyramids in the distance.

Along with the viewing platform, there is a cafe and a revolving restaurant where you can enjoy 360-degree views while enjoying a nice meal.

Abu Simbel

The Abu Simbel temples are two notable rock temples located in close proximity to the Egyptian border with Sudan.

They were built by Ramesses II to demonstrate his authority and power over the Nubians and cement his rule in the region after it had recently been overtaken by the Egyptians.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site had to actually be moved in its entirety to an artificial hill in order to protect it from the rising waters caused by the damming of the Nile River.

The temple is relatively hard to reach and journey times by road can take 3-4 hours from the city of Aswan.

However, this is one of the best places to visit in Egypt and is totally worth it.

There is also a small airport servicing the area and some hotels, so you can break the journey up if you do not want to spend a whole day traveling.

Temple of Kom Ombo

The Temple of Kom Ombo is an interesting double temple with two entrances and two alters which was relatively uncommon for the time.

The reliefs on the wall appear to depict early medical practices and the instruments used in medical procedures.

The double temple is dedicated to many different gods with the crocodile god and healthy and fertility gods worshiped in the northern half of the temple

The southern half was used to worship the falcon god Haroesis along with a few others. When the temple was created, there would have been plenty of crocodiles basking on the shores around the temple.

These crocs were revered and respected by the Ancient Egyptians and were considered holy. At the site, over 60 mummified crocodiles were found and have been put on display at the nearby crocodile museum.

Temple of Kom Ombo Egypt — Temple of Kom Ombo

The Temple of Kom Ombo has had to be partially reconstructed due to natural damages from the Nile and several earthquakes, along with human interferences from builders taking the stones and Coptic Christians defacing the reliefs.

To reach the town, you can take a train directly from Aswan. It’s important to note there isn’t much else to do in the town of the same name and the temple is the only site.

Also, there are no longer any crocodiles by the temple as the construction of the dam and overhunting has wiped out crocodiles in this part of Egypt.

Al Qsar

The medieval Ottoman town of Al Qsar is one of the most interesting towns to visit in the Western Desert and is located near the Dahkla Oasis.

The town sits at the bottom of a large cliff and was originally settled by the Romans despite its Ottoman appearance (they rebuilt the ruins). The streets are small and winding and it is easy to get lost there if you are not paying much attention.

Parts of Al Qsar have been carefully restored to show how it would have looked in its original state.

Take the time to explore the lush greens on the edge of the Oasis, as well as a little wonder in the desert where you might find some extraordinary fossils from a time when this area was under the sea.

Faiyum

Faiyum is one of the oldest settlements in the world and is situated on the shores of an Oasis that formed many millennia ago when the Nile flooded and water was able to spread to the region.

The lush, green oasis was able to support vegetation and wildlife that attracted humans to settle in the area.

The area in and around Faiyum was prosperous during ancient times thanks to its agricultural prowess and many structures were built in the region.

For example, several pyramids were built here although they now lay in disrepair.

Today, the area doesn’t receive many tourists even though it is located close to Cairo. The trip out to Faiyum is well worth it and is one of the must-visit places in Egypt.

There is also a famous site of a skeleton of a whale in the desert located close to Faiyum.

There are so many amazing places to visit in Egypt and this guide is just to get you started planning your Egypt vacation.

If you have any tips or other places in Egypt worthy of visiting, please leave them in the comments!

12 Places to Visit in Belarus – Europe’s Hottest Emerging Destination

July 19 2020 by Megan Starr 6 Comments

Belarus was long a closed-off country in Eastern Europe that was not frequenting the minds of many travelers. My first trip to Belarus was back in 2013 and the visa process was a nightmare and an ordeal I wouldn’t wish upon my worst enemy.

I went back to Belarus in 2014 during a short visa-free period as the country hosted the World Hockey Championships.

Minsk quickly became one of my favorite cities. Belarus has since opened up and is allowing travelers in for 30 days, visa-free, which is remarkable.

This is a list of 12 worthy places to visit in Belarus – a country that is one of Europe’s emerging tourist destinations.

Towns and Cities to Visit in Belarus

There are several awesome cities and towns to visit in Belarus and one of these days I intend on exploring them all (okay… well a lot of them).

Below are some towns and cities to visit in Belarus- some of them are my recommendations and some others belong to other travel bloggers and travelers who helped put this post together.

Minsk

There are several great places to visit in Belarus, but you will likely find yourself in the capital city, Minsk, at some point when you’re there.

Minsk long kept out of the European travel spotlight and the difficult visa situation helped maintain that for decades.

It wasn’t until about a year or two ago that Minsk even hopped on travelers’ radars as the city became visa-free if you flew into and out of the international airport for a maximum of five days.

I first met Minsk in early 2013 after I was unable to get on the plane in 2012 due to not having a Russian transit visa.

The city was the cleanest city (free of litter… air pollution was present) I had ever stepped foot in. There was no graffiti and it was just wildly unique to any other place in Europe at the time.

What was the most shocking thing about Minsk for me was the demeanor of the locals. Having been to every country surrounding it except Russia (I later went that year), I expected Belarussians to be slightly colder and a bit unfriendly.

I, shockingly, found the complete opposite. Belarussians and the people of Minsk were some of the friendliest and most outgoing people I had ever met on my travels. It stunned me.

There is a lot of things to do in Minsk for all types of travelers. During the warmer months, green parks line the city and you can find people paddle-boating or enjoying cotton candy in them.

During the winter, you will find several museums, cafes, and bars that will keep you occupied and warm. Opulent Soviet-era architecture is everpresent and the streets are large, pretty walkable, and clean.

There is also a metro system that connects the city if you want to forego walking.

Grodno

Grodno is a city like no other in Belarus. Located close to the border with both Poland and Lithuania, the city is at a crossroads- being influenced by different cultures and having a troublesome history.

Until World War Two, Grodno was part of Poland and until now there remains a big Polish community living in the city.

Grodno might be the prettiest city in Belarus with cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and also few Soviet remnants that don’t overwhelm.

On the other side of the river from the center, you can see a completely different face of the city where life goes by slowly and the area is full of small and colorful wooden houses.

It’s best to visit Grodno in the late spring or in the summertime when the atmosphere is vibrant and the city is alive until late hours. Now, with the visa-free regime, it’s very easy to travel to Grodno not only through Minsk Airport but also directly from Poland and Lithuania.

You are allowed to stay there for up to 10 days which is enough to see the city properly and discover the surrounding area full of beautiful nature too! **Kami from Kami and the Rest of the World (Poland)

Babruysk

Lying a three-hour train journey from the Belarussian capital city of Minsk, Babruysk (also spelled Babrujsk or Bobruisk) is an often neglected city located deep in the eastern part of the country.

The city itself boasts a modern train station, some stunning untouched architecture, plus views and relaxation by the Berezina River. Babruysk is the seventh biggest city in Belarus yet sits in the shadows of the big three – Minsk, Grodno, and Brest.

When visiting Babruysk, be sure to visit the iconic green library (Katsnelson House), the famous Lenin Square (where a proud statue of the man himself sits) and the magnificent golden-domed St. Nicholas’s Cathedral.

The train ride from Babruysk to Minsk is also an enjoyable trip, passing farms, fields, and lakes on the route.

However, the real treat here is for nature lovers, as the Berezina Preserve on the edge of Babruysk has been listed as a UNESCO biosphere reserve.

As well as all of this, Babruysk is located near to the Chernobyl Exclusion zone and day tours can be booked. **Jonny from Don’t Stop Living (Northern Ireland)

Novogrudok

Novogrudok is a town rich in history. Novogrudok was the first capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and where King Mindaugas was crowned.

The main attraction is the castle ruins on Castle Hill which also offers a great view of the surrounding town. From the hill, you can see the Farny Catholic Church of Transfiguration where the Polish King Jagiello was married.

Novogrudok was the hometown of the poet Adam Mickiewicz, and there are a house museum and a sculpture of him near the ruins.

The town is spotted with other old churches built with various architectural styles, including a wooden mosque—one of very few in Belarus. In the forests surrounding Novogrudok all the way to Lida is where the Bielski brothers had a partisan camp where more than 1,200 Jews were able to survive WWII. **Jamie (USA)

Lida

Lida is a very easy town to visit either as a day trip from Minsk or as a stop on the way to or from Grodno. The main attraction is Lida Castle, the first stone castle built in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

Built in 1330, the castle has been destroyed and rebuilt many times and finally restored by Belarus in 2010. The castle houses a museum with a unique exhibit on medieval torture devices and also offers a chance to practice archery.

Apart from the castle, there is a museum—Spadchyna—that has a traditional puppet theatre and a craft workshop.

There is also a brewery and museum of the Lidskae beer company that offers tours for visitors. Of course, Lida is not without remnants of the Soviet days.

On Lenina Street is a memorial to soldiers who fought in WWII surrounded by a lovely park. **Jamie (USA)

Brest (and Belavezhskaya Pushcha National Park)

The city of Brest is located in southwestern Belarus, close to the border of Poland. Home to over 300,000 residents, the city is known for the Brest Fortress, or ‘Hero Fortress’ as the Soviets called it.

Brest has an interesting history and played a significant part in WW2. Presently, it is one of the most popular cities to visit in Belarus and the historical sights attract a variety of visitors annually.

Close to Brest (around 70km north) is the renowned Belavezhskaya Pushcha National Park. This dense and lush forest is home to the European bison and has played a significant part in the history of Central and Eastern Europe.

The forest is shared with Poland (referred to as Białowieża Forest in Poland). New rules came into effect in 2018 and citizens of 77 countries can visit Brest for 10 days without a visa.

Belavezhskaya Pushcha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vitebsk

In the northeast of Belarus, you will find Vitebsk. I visited the charming city during my first trip to Belarus and I still can’t wrap my head around how it all happened. I

was supposed to travel to Gomel, a city in the south known for being a little ‘greyer’. At the time, I had to travel to Belarus with itineraries planned by a travel agency (it was required by the government at the time) and when I told her I was planning to travel to Gomel, she immediately stopped me and said she wouldn’t do that to me.

Instead, she sent me to Vitebsk.

I was slightly irritated at the time as I had my hopes on Gomel and seeing as much concrete as I could… but I hadn’t heard of Vitebsk and it was still in the east of Belarus (I wasn’t interested in visiting the west at the time).

I arrived in Vitebsk and was blown away. The people were friendly despite a very obvious language barrier and the city was rather charming despite being built up in a newer manner.

I found cool cafes and bars in the city as well as several museums and parks that I’d be keen to sit in during the warmer months.

I just really, really liked Vitebsk and would like to see more tourists visit the city in the future.

Cultural and Historical Places to Visit in Belarus

Belarus has an abundance of places to visit that are not just cities and towns.

Below are some sights recommend by other travel bloggers and travelers that can be visited in Belarus that have historical or cultural importance to the Eastern European country. Two of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Nesvizh Castle

There was no family more powerful than the Radziwiłł family – and their castle at Nesvizh was, and still is, one of the most important sites in Belarus.

Nesvizh Castle is about 110 kilometers from Minsk and it can be visited as a day trip.

What you’ll find is an incredible castle surrounded by a moat with an enormous complex of rooms that have been expanded over hundreds of years.

The castle was built in the 16th century but is now in an excellent condition after being restored and then designated as a World Heritage Site.

From the outside, it’s impressive. The castle is on the side of a lake but has its own moat around it. The yellow buildings facing in towards a central courtyard all rise up between the fortifications.

It’s what’s inside that is the highlight, though, You can walk through dozens of rooms that show the wealth and the status of the Radziwiłł family, with the grand public rooms and the intimate private areas.

This is an incredible insight into the history of Belarus and the grand families that controlled this area until that dramatic shift in history in the middle of the 20th century. **Michael from Time Travel Turtle (Australia)

Mir

Belarus is often called the “land of castles” due to numerous fortifications built in the 16-17th centuries to protect the territory from enemies.

One of the most famous castles in the country is in Mir. It was included into UNESCO Cultural and Natural Heritage sites in 2000. Mir town was part of Poland prior to 1939.

You can see some accents of central European architecture in the streets with colorful houses. Nevertheless, the main highlight of the town is Mir castle complex.

Mir castle is a combo of three architecture styles: Renaissance, Gothics, and Baroque. It happened due to the change of ruling dynasties who contributed to the construction of different parts of the fortification.

The castle suffered in several battles and it was almost burned with the invasion of Charles XII in the 18th century. Despite its complex history, it was opened to the public in 2013 after a complete renovation.

Nowadays, the castle serves as well as a venue for some cultural events. There is a free entrance to the complex, lake and park.

Museum has a ticket of 12 BYN during weekdays and 14 BYN on weekends. If you are fond of history, I found the audio guide quite informative. Mir town is part of Grodno district or 1.5 hours drive from Minsk.

You can plan it as a half-day trip from the capital. I recommend visiting Mir from May to October when the weather remains pleasant. **Natalia from My Trip Hack

Khatyn Memorial Complex

There are over 8 thousand complexes in Belarus commemorating the victims of World War II, and Khatyn Memorial Complex embodies them all.

On March 22, 1943, Nazis in the pursuit of partisans came across the village of Khatyn, and instead of searching for the partisans, they decided to burn the whole village.

About 149 people were killed; only two children survived and one adult—Joseph Kaminsky who found the body of his son and carried him out of the ashes.

The main sculpture in the complex is a representation of this event, but it is also not made in the likeness of Kaminsky so as to personify all victims of the war.

Concrete foundations represent the homes of Khatyn, and names and ages of the family members are inscribed on the chimneys which are also topped with bells that ring every 30 seconds.

There is a village graveyard memorializing 185 villages that were burned down and never rebuilt; a Symbolic Trees of Life lists the names of 433 villages that were burned but later rebuilt.

The left side of the complex is lined with commemorative plates naming more than 260 death camps and places of mass extermination in Belarus.

Lastly, three birch trees stand alongside an eternal flame burning in the memory of every fourth Belarusian who died in the war. The complex is open all the time.

There is a small museum showing the construction of the complex and a shop selling guidebooks and DVDs of the complex (closed on Mondays). **Jamie (USA)

Stalin Line

Stalin Line is an open-air military museum built on the basis of the Minsk fortified region of the Soviet Union during WWII.

Here it is possible to see and touch combat equipment, see evidence of war damage, ride a tank, and even shoot artillery. There are reconstructed machine-gun blockhouses open to tour and recreated foxholes to explore.

The main showcase is the famous tanks T-34 and T-34-85, but there is also a host of aircraft and air defense vehicles to view.

Upon arrival, head to the information office to see if there is someone who can give a free, guided tour. **Jamie (USA)

Natural Places in Belarus

Many people don’t realize that Belarus has natural beauty in its borders and it is actually home to some special ecosystems in Belarus.

Belavezhskaya Pushcha National Park, arguably the country’s most well-known natural wonder, was listed above with Brest, but there are other places in Belarus that can be visited for the outdoors lover.

I hope to expand on this list once I get to explore more of Belarus in the upcoming year.

Braslaw Lakes

If you find yourself in Belarus in the summertime and you’re looking for a place to cool down, consider going to the Braslaw lakes and national park.

It’s a large forested area with some 30 large and small interconnected lakes that snuggle the borders of Latvia and Lithuania. This also makes the area a great choice as a last stop before crossing the border on your last visa days.

Depending on your mode of transportation and gear, you can get a remote dacha in the forest, a lakeside (free) camping spot with grill, an apartment in Braslaw town, or a farmstead (усадьба) on the edge of town. All options are decently priced.

The lowest-budget activities you can do in the region are hiking, swimming, and hitchhiking with the friendly locals to different lakes and points of interest.

Check out the Gora Mayak (Гора Маяк) and Zamkavaya Gora (Замкавая Гора) viewpoints, since Belarus is quite flat.

With an added budget, you can rent a kayak or bicycle, practice wakeboarding, visit or stay at one of the sanatoria, and dine out lavishly with lake fish or forest game.

Most of all, enjoy the calmness and green of a place that would be overrun with tourists if it was in a more popular European destination.

A highlight of a summer evening spent in Braslaw is to watch the sunset and swim with the locals, with a bottle of Georgian wine (сухое вино = dry wine, everything else is sweet or semi-sweet!) and some snacks. **Iris from Mind of a Hitchhiker (Netherlands)

I hope you have added Belarus to your Europe travel list and that some of these places to visit in Belarus have inspired you to book your ticket in the near future.

Have you been to Belarus? If so, where else would you add? Please leave a comment and let me know!

28 Jaw-Dropping Places to Visit in the Caucasus Countries

July 18 2020 by Megan Starr 1 Comment

The Caucasus is one of the most magnificent regions in the world. Home to wine, genuine hospitality, deep-rooted history, and famous food make this entire region worthy of a visit.

These are the best places to visit in the Caucasus countries.

This list was a compilation of places decided by other travel bloggers and us. If you have a favorite place that is missing, please leave a comment below and let us know!

Places to Visit in the Caucasus Countries

This list is split by country but it also includes disputed territories and exclaves under where they are mostly associated with or governed by. There is no political stance taken on any of the places on this list.

Places to Visit in Armenia

Armenia has become my home over the years and a place I adore living. The landscape is diverse from the north to the south and I can find beauty in Yerevan, Gyumri, and everywhere in between.

From the world’s oldest winery to the green mountains of Dilijan, these are the best and most popular places to visit in Armenia.

Yerevan

Editor’s Choice

Home sweet Yerevan. There are many reasons I chose to move to Yerevan but the friendliness of the people and the deliciousness of the food are definitely two of the top reasons.

Yerevan is older than Rome and is the capital city of Armenia. A city built from pink tuff (volcanic stone), it is a liveable city and one where the sun shines 300+ days a year on average.

There are so many cool things to do in Yerevan, from visiting the Cascades to the Blue Mosque, you will definitely find many things to keep occupied.

It is also a very cultural city with several cafes, tasty Armenian restaurants, and places to visit near Yerevan (including UNESCO World Heritage Sites).

Eating is one of the best things to do in the capital city and you can find delicious Armenian restaurants in Yerevan such as Sherep, Yerevan Pandok, and Kamancha.

If you’re taking a trip to the Caucasus, Yerevan is a can’t-miss city. You will fall in love with its chilled out vibe and sidewalk cafe culture!

Gyumri

Editor’s Choice

Armenia’s most authentic and artistic city is definitely Gyumri and it is considered to be the second capital of the country.

Located in the north in the Shirak marz (province), it is Armenia’s second-largest city in terms of population and the country’s creative hub.

One of the biggest draws for tourism to Gyumri is its unique architecture. It truly is a gem and you can find so many dynamic layers of architecture there- most from the 18th and 19th centuries.

One of the best things to do in Gyumri is to spend hours wandering the historical district of Kumayri.

In 1988, a devastating earthquake destroyed so much of the city and left its residents in shock… and many lives were lost as a result.

Fortunately, these days, hip cafes and art centers are popping up, injecting a cultural renaissance in the Armenian city.

Gyumri is known for being Armenia’s humorous city and it has produced many famous Armenians throughout the years, such as Greco-Roman wrestling Olimpic champion Arthur Alexanyan, famous actor Frunzik Mkrtchyan, pianist Tigran Hamasyan, and many more.

We truly believe that Gyumri is one of the best places to visit in the Caucasus countries and hope that you can take the time to check it out if you’re in the region!

Dilijan

Editor’s Choice

Known as the green paradise of Armenia, Dilijan is truly an epic place to visit in the country as it is a region surrounded by greenery, hiking, and many lakes.

Located approximately one hour away from Yerevan in the Tavush region, Dilijan can amaze its visitors with stunning nature, relaxing views, hidden mountain lakes, and some of the best monuments and monasteries in Armenia.

After you pass the treeless and barren Sevan landscape, you will go into a long, mountain tunnel where you will pop out on a windy road twisting down the mountainside covered with a copious amount of trees.

Dilijan is also known as a spa town destination in Armenia and has been long before the USSR. Many famous artists, politicians, and creatives spent a lot of time in Dilijan relaxing.

In addition, one of the most advanced universities in Armenia is located in Dilijan. It is called UWC-Dilijan. You will also find an abundance of charming architecture and cafes, like Cafe #2, in the region.

Dilijan National Park is an Armenian jewel and you can see some of the country’s best flora and fauna there.

And, not far from Dilijan, you can find the 13th-century Haghartsin Monastery and 12th-century Goshavank Monastery, both offering fantastic medieval architecture.

Khor Virap

Editor’s Choice

One of the most mind-blowing places to visit in Armenia is definitely Khor Virap. It is the monastery that offers a gorgeous view of Mt. Ararat alongside many vineyards nestled in a remote, yet stunning part of Armenia.

Khor Virap not only has an epic location, but it also has architecture that is of great importance to Armenia and its history.

The monastery is located 40 minutes away from Yerevan in the Ararat region of Armenia so it is easily one of the best day trips from the capital city.

Armenia was the first Christian nation in the world with construction and history dating back to 301 AD. Khor Virap was one of the most important sights signifying religion’s importance and place in society back then.

Known as the ‘Royal Dungeon’ directly translated, it was initially used as a prison before becoming an icon and symbol of Armenia.

The person that was meant to suffer there was Gregory the Illuminator who survived being imprisoned and later became the forefather of Christian Armenia.

While today most people visit to see the epic sight of Khor Virap against Mt. Ararat, you can still descend down into the dungeon where he was kept.

Lake Sevan

Editor’s Choice

Located in the Gegharkunik province merely 45 minutes away from Yerevan is gorgeous Lake Sevan, the blue pearl of Armenia and all of the Caucasus.

Lake Sevan is the biggest freshwater lake in all of the Caucasus countries and it is located at a very high altitude and is the life support for Armenian agriculture.

It is also a beloved tourist spot! Local and travelers alike that are visiting Armenia will flock to Lake Sevan because of its beautiful beaches and refuge from the hot summer heat of Yerevan. There are also many historical towns and villages surrounding it.

Sevan Peninsula used to be an island in the lake and many outstanding churches were built there. Nowadays, it is a peninsula connected to the mainland and the tourists love visiting for food, sights, and religious history.

One of the most famous pieces of Soviet-era architecture in Armenia is located there- the Sevan Writers’ House.

Areni

Editor’s Choice

The historic winemaking village of Areni in Armenia is located in the Vayots Dzor region and is one of the earliest traces of winemaking in the world and where many Early Bronze Age remains have been unearthed.

Wine has been made in Areni for centuries and this was proved in 2008 after archaeological researchers discovered the world’s oldest winery in Areni in a place called the Areni-1 Cave complex.

It is truly mind-blowing to see the earliest traces of such a popular beverage right here in Armenia and you’re able to visit it and see the human remains and equipment tied to winemaking dating back 6100 years.

In addition, the world’s oldest leather shoe was discovered at Areni-1 Cave and it dates back 5500 years.

One of the best experiences in Armenia takes place every autumn in Areni when you can attend the country’s biggest wine festival in the village.

It is surrounded by dramatic scenery and the guests can try hundreds of varieties of wine and eat tasty Armenian food in the process.

Tsaghkadzor

Editor’s Choice

Tsaghkadzor is another spa town that is located only 40 minutes away from Yerevan and is known as a skiing destination because of the famous ski resort that is located on a top of the mountain. It is 2819 meters high.

The spa town is gorgeous in any weather. In winter, the snow covers the mountains which are surrounding the city making Tsaghkadzor look like a fairytale.

During summer, everything is green and it is possible to hike in many beautiful places and take zip lines or other adventurous activities.

Tsaghkadzor is also known for its many guesthouses and hotels. You will see many visitors relaxing and soaking in the crisp, mountain air.

Artsakh

Editor’s Choice

Artsakh, also known as Nagorno-Karabakh, is a politically disputed area of the Caucasus that falls under Armenia’s jurisdiction and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the region.

It has some of the most undiscovered landmarks in the Caucasus and is truly an off-the-path experience for travelers wanting to see raw nature and untouched history. It is home to many castles, fortresses, waterfalls, mountains, and more.

The capital of Artsakh is Stepanakert and it is very clean and beautifully constructed.

Another popular city there is Shushi and it is a sight to see and has a famous fortress and gorge where you can witness the well-known umbrella waterfall outside of the city.

To reach Artsakh, you’re looking at a 6-hour drive from Yerevan. During this road trip, you will pass many large canyons and powerful flowing rivers and mineral water natural pools.

Artsakh is still waiting to be discovered since the war in the 1990s. It is a remarkable place and will definitely be on the radars of many in the future years.

Insider tip: If you plan to visit Artsakh, please be aware that you will no longer be permitted entry into Azerbaijan. Plan your trip accordingly if you’re seeing the entire Caucasus on a single trip.

Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has diversity for days within its borders whether it be the many cultures and backgrounds residing there or the mindblowing landscapes within the country’s borders.

From modern Baku to the stunning valleys and landscapes of Nakhchivan, there are many great places to visit in Azerbaijan. Here are some travel blogger top picks.

Baku

Editor’s Choice

One of the most interesting and thrilling cities in the Caucasus is Baku, Azerbaijan. The capital city is known for its modern architecture, Caspian Sea views, and amalgamation of cultures. You can find anything and everything in Baku and it truly is a diverse capital city.

There are many things to know before taking a trip to Baku, but one essential thing you need to know is that the city is home to some delicious food and fresh vegetables and fruit.

There are several great Baku restaurants to satisfy all tastes and you won’t be hard-pressed to find one that suits your desires.

Some of the best things to do in Baku are to take a trip to Gobustan, walk the promenade (where you will find some obscure Soviet architecture), and find a cafe to chill at.

It is easy to get from the Heydar Aliyev Airport to the city and it is even easier to take a taxi around Baku.

If you’re going on a visit to Azerbaijan, definitely make sure you give Baku a few days to explore! We recommend two days in Baku at a minimum.

Ganja

Recommended by Stephanie at History Fangirl

Azerbaijan’s second city sees far less international tourism than its capital, but that doesn’t mean you should forget to put Ganja on your Azerbaijan itinerary.

Ganja is home to beautiful architecture, Soviet history, and modern folk art. It also is the site of the Immamzedeh, the second most important holy site in Shiah Islam.

If you love staying in Soviet throwback hotels, the Ganja Hotel will make your trip.

It’s barely-updated interiors and Wes Anderson-meets-Kruschev aesthetic will have you feeling like you are staying in a time capsule.

The Bottle House is a home-turned-glass mosaic dedicated to a Soviet soldier who never came home from the war.

You can also find a truly beautiful Orthodox Church here. Alexander Nevsky is brick on the outside, but on the inside its cheery and bright robin’s egg blue.

From Ganja you can take day trips to Lake Goygol or Naftalan, so don’t just come here for a quick overnight!

Gobustan National Park

Recommended by Talek at Travels with Talek

About an hour southwest of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is Gobustan National Park. Established in 1966 as a national historic landmark, it was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007.

Gobustan makes for a perfect day trip from Baku for anyone interested in exploring the nation’s history and cultural heritage.

There are two must-see, unique, and fascinating sites in Gobustan. The first is the Petroglyph Museum which offers a detailed explanation of the prehistoric petroglyphs or rock carvings found in the area.

Visitors will appreciate the “please-touch” exhibits as well as the life-like recreations of the area’s original inhabitants. The museum also functions as an educational center including a small 3D theater.

The second must-see is the main attraction, the actual rock carvings. It is fascinating to see artistic expressions created by people that lived thousands of years ago.

The art is said to be as impressive and as artistically sophisticated as the cave art of Altamira, Spain.

In addition to the history of the petroglyphs, many travelers also flock to Gobustan to check out Azerbaijan’s mud volcanoes, one of the most famous sights in the country!

There are many tours to the mud volcanoes from Baku that you can choose from to see these natural wonders.

Shahdag

Recommended by Clemens at Traveller’s Archive

The 4200-meter high Shahdag stands out between the peaks of the Caucasus. No wonder that it is also called Königsberg.

The “Shahdag Mountain Resort” is located about 200 kilometers north of Azerbaijan’s capital Baku in north-east Azerbaijan and is ideal for discovering the largely untouched nature, the rough wildness of the Caucasus and the traditional way of life of the villagers.

Shahdag is primarily a popular ski area and the first ski resort in Azerbaijan. It was only opened in December 2011 and is constantly being expanded.

For skiing and snowboarding, there is 17 kilometers of slopes available, including 10 lifts to transport the guests. The winter sports area lies at an altitude of 1,435 to 2,525 meters.

Shahdag is not only a snow-sure ski area in winter, but the adventure park also offers tourists a variety of activities all year round.

Tourists can explore the mountain trails by bike or quad, or view the mountains from above with the paraglider.

Khinalug

Recommended by Kami at Kami and the Rest of the World

Khinalug is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Azerbaijan.

This remote village is located high in the Caucasus mountains at the altitude of some 2200 meters above the sea level and is a perfect natural oasis where you can recharge your batteries in the stunning scenery.

Since Khinalug is located so far away from the rest of the country (Baku is 220 kilometers away but the road to the village is a bit of challenge), the place has preserved its unique traditions, culture, and language.

But the main reason to visit Khinalug is, of course, the scenery that will take your breath away. The village can be a good base to go hiking in the area and enjoy the amazing nature.

You can come here as a day trip from Baku (although it will be a very long day) but it’s better to stay overnight.

There are a few homestays available where not only you can spend the night, but also peek into the local customs and life.

Quba

Recommended by Emily at Wander-Lush

Most travelers skip through the small city of Quba on Azerbaijan’s east coast on their way to Xinaliq. If you’re interested in history and culture, it’s worth a stop off (or a dedicated trip) to visit the carpet workshops.

Quba is home to one of Azerbaijan’s seven schools of weaving, and there are dozens of studios in town where women work in tandem on massive looms.

The ornate floor rugs and prayer mats they produce are decorated with colors and patterns unique to the region. Qadim Quba is the biggest workshop and welcomes tourists to drop in and wander through. They also run a small gift shop.

Beyond the carpet workshops, other things to do in Quba include visiting the city’s mosques (the red-brick Juma Mosque is the most iconic). There’s also a ruined hamam and a couple of house museums in town.

Just over the river, the village of Qirmizi Qasaba dates back to the 13th-century and is a total contrast to the rest of Quba. Home to a community of Mountain Jews, the streets here are defined by synagogues and distinctive architecture.

Interestingly, it’s believed to be one of the only all-Jewish towns outside of Israel (hence the nickname ‘Little Jerusalem’).

Quba is easily accessed by a bus or minivan from Baku’s International Bus Terminal. It takes just 2 hours to reach by road, making this an easy day trip from the capital.

Sheki

Recommended by De Wet and Jin at Museum of Wander

Slightly offbeat, small Sheki sure packs a punch, and must definitely not be missed on any Caucasus itinerary.

Situated in northwestern Azerbaijan, Sheki is the Caucasus that you envision and hanker for when planning a trip to the region.

Stunning silk route architecture, palaces, Ladas packed to the rafters with watermelons, streets lined with plane trees, brick mosques, sweet desserts, the rolling green foothills of the Caucasus mountains and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet is why Sheki is our favorite place in Azerbaijan.

Sheki has a fascinating history and today you’ll see different layers of the Silk Road, Soviet-era, and modern day Azerbaijan as you explore the town.

The UNESCO Sheki Xan Sarayi (Summer Palace) is covered in miniature paintings from floor to ceiling and should be on the top of your list of things to see in Sheki. This palace alone is worth a trip to Azerbaijan.

Also, make sure to visit the smaller Winter Palace and the Sheki Karvansaray. The silk route Karvansaray has partly been transformed into a hotel, so you could even spend the night here for the full Sheki experience.

Lake Goygol

Recommended by Stephanie at History Fangirl

Situated in Goygol National Park about thirty kilometers outside of Ganja, Lake Goygol is extremely popular with locals but pretty far off the typical tourist path.

This makes a stop here even more special because you can truly be overcome with calmness and serenity while staring at one of the country’s most beautiful gems.

The lake was created by an earthquake in the twelfth century and is considered especially clear and clean.

Of course, it doesn’t lack for visitors, as local Azeris all know to come here, and you’ll find it busier in the summer than during shoulder season or winter.

There are actually almost twenty mountain lakes in the area and eight large lakes. However, if you’re only going to visit one, Goygol is the standout.

You can reach Lake Goygol by taxi from Ganja, or if you have rented a car in Azerbaijan you can choose to drive. Just be aware that there may be a traffic jam comprised entirely of livestock somewhere along the way.

Nakhchivan

Recommended by Stephanie at History Fangirl

Nakhchivan is an exclave of Azerbaijan accessible only via flights from Baku or Turkey or overland from Iran. This mountainous region is green and lush, with gorgeous lakes and forests.

This region also is home to many important Islamic Holy Sites like the tomb of Moses and the Ashabi-Kahf caves which appear in the Koran.

Because of this, it was one of the capitals of Islamic Culture in 2018, hosting a symposium in its capital.

While foodies might run out of things to try, culture and history travelers will be delighted to visit Alinjagala castle, which is often considered the Machu Picchu of Azerbaijan because of its near inaccessibility.

This hike up is not for the weak!

While you need to make an effort to come out here since it’s not connected to the rest of Azerbaijan, there is so much to see and do here that you may end up extending your visit beyond the typical day or two.

This charming but isolated region is one of my favorite anywhere in the world, and my number one reason someone should travel Azerbaijan.

Insider tip: As noted above, you can only get to Nakhchivan by flying there. The flights are fairly affordable.

Places to Visit in Georgia

There are several amazing places to visit in Georgia, one of the hottest travel destinations in the world at the moment. From the Georgian capital of Tbilisi to the tall mountains and epic hikes of Kazbegi, Georgia is a nature lover’s paradise.

These are the best places to visit in Georgia according to other bloggers and us!

Tbilisi

Editor’s Choice

Georgia has been on travel radars for several years and almost everyone arrives in the capital city of Tbilisi before they make their way to the astounding countryside.

Tbilisi has many different sides to it but one thing is for certain- Tbilisi is beautiful in winter and summer and you’ll find plenty of things to do in all seasons.

You can visit the Narikala Fortress, Tsminda Sameba Cathedral, or even head to the Royal Baths for some relaxation and rejuvenation.

One of the best things about Tbilisi besides its world-famous food is how easy it is to visit other places in the country.

You can easily get from Tbilisi to Yerevan and see a bit of Armenia or you can stay in Georgia and go from Tbilisi to Batumi instead.

In recent years, Tbilisi has become a digital nomad’s paradise, with fast wifi, cozy cafes, and creative vibes. We completely understand why so many people are choosing to move to Tbilisi and call the Caucasian city home!

If you’re looking to travel to Tbilisi, we recommend you book that ticket as soon as you can. You won’t regret it.

Batumi

Editor’s Choice

Batumi has gained popularity in recent years due to the low-cost flights from Kutaisi, Georgia… making the city far more accessible for a long weekend getaway than it ever was before.

When you first arrive in Batumi, you will be stunned by its modern architecture and gorgeous Black Sea beaches. It has a clean and current vibe and it can offer a nice contrast from other places in Georgia.

Some of the most popular things to do in Batumi are visiting the Gonio Apsaros Fortress, strolling down Batumi Boulevard, and checking out the popular botanical gardens in the city. The capital of Adjara is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.

It is pretty simple to get from Tbilisi to Batumi and you will have options ranging from renting a car to taking a train or comfortable bus.

Mestia

Recommended by Elaine and David at Show Them the Globe

A quiet and unassuming town, Mestia is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and its picturesque landscape is dotted with medieval watchtowers. Outside the town center, it feels like time has stood still.

Mestia is home to one of the most important museums in Georgia, the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography. The museum has a fascinating collection of historic Georgian artifacts.

Most visitors to the Upper Svaneti region base themselves in Mestia and it is the starting point for some renowned Svaneti hikes.

A 6-hour round trip hike leads to the Chaladi Glacier and the Koruldi Lakes, a collection of alpine lakes at the foot of Mount Ushaba.

A visit to Ushguli, the highest settlement in Europe, is a must-do from Mestia and is a major draw for visitors to the town.

The more adventurous travelers embark on a 4-day hike but a 2-hour jaunt in a 4×4 taxi is also a popular option.

In recent years, Mestia has emerged as a year-round destination with the nearby ski resorts continuing to attract visitors during the winter months.

Kazbegi

Editor’s Choice

One of the most popular spots to visit in the Caucasus is undoubtedly Kazbegi, or Stepantsminda.

The northern town is home to Gergeti Trinity Church, a famous church atop a mountain that provides a sick view from one of Georgia’s most attempted hikes.

It is easy to visit Kazbegi on a day trip from Tbilisi (or an overnighter) and you can do it independently or with an organized tour.

When I first found myself there, it was April and after a treacherous journey on the Georgian Military Highway (it has since improved!), I was completely ill-prepared for my hike.

I recommend you bring the right clothing and equipment if you intend on hiking in Kazbegi.

One of the best things about the trip from Tbilisi to Kazbegi are the many stops through the mountain towns and villages along the way. You will pass many famous sights, including the famous ski resort, Gudauri.

If you have time in Georgia and are visiting during the right season (ie… not winter!), definitely take a trip up to Kazbegi and admire its beauty.

Mtskheta

Recommended by Ivan at Mind the Travel

As small as Mtskheta may be, the town carries tremendous significance both culturally and historically for the Georgian people and the Georgian Orthodox Church.

It’s important to know that Mtskheta was the ancient capital of the Eastern Georgian Kingdom and also the place where Christianity was proclaimed the official religion of the region in 337. Today, it’s the spiritual heart of the entire country.

As if that isn’t enough, Mtskheta is one of the oldest cities in Georgia, where human settlements dating back more than 4000 years has been discovered.

Furthermore, Mtskheta is home to three of Georgia’s most stunning churches such as the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

It is not surprising that the historical monuments of the town were included in the UNESCO World Heritage in 1994.

Mtskheta is just a stone’s throw away from Tbilisi. To get there, you can hop on a minibus for only 1 GEL. The entire journey takes around 30 minutes one way.

Mtskheta is not a place to visit if you’re looking for fancy, posh hotels or upscale lounges to dress up for and hit for cocktails.

It may not be the best place to hang out with friends either. Instead, you will find a number of medieval churches brimming with history.

One of the landmarks you can’t miss here is the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. This imposing church houses the robe of Christ’s robe, which kind of explains its grandeur. The interior is impressive, full of colorful icons.

Another place of interest in Mtskheta is Jvari Monastery. The 6th-century complex sits high on a mountain top across the river from Mtskheta and provides panoramic views over Mtskheta and the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari.

Ushguli

Recommended by Adriana at Czech the World

Visiting Ushguli in the Svaneti region is one of the absolute best things to do in Georgia. It’s a small village full of typical Svan towers surrounded by huge snow-covered mountains. It’s simply a magical place with breathtaking views.

I highly recommend hiking the whole trek from Mestia to Usghuli. It’s not that long and it’s well worth the effort. If you are not that much into hiking or don’t have that much time, you can go to Ushguli on a day trip.

There are regular marshrutkas (minibuses) from Mestia.

From Ushguli, I highly recommend taking a day trip to the Skhara glacier. It’s flat- 8 kilometers one-way and the views are staggering!

You can also arrange taxi marshrutka in Ushguli, which takes you just under the glacier. Alternatively, you can walk one way and hitch-hike on the way back (we did and it worked).

Theoretically, it’s possible to visit Ushguli year-round, however, because it’s over 2000 meters above the sea level, visiting in winter could be very tough there.

You will also need to arrange a 4-wheel off-road vehicle. The temperatures hover around -10°C and the whole village is covered in snow.

The best time to visit Ushguli is May-June and September-October. The temperatures will be comfortable and there won’t be that many tourists as in the summer months.

Borjomi

Recommended by Maggie at The World Was Here First

One of the best places to visit in Georgia outside of the capital that often gets overlooked in lieu of the mountains of Svaneti or the coast of Adjara is Borjomi.

This lovely city is located in south-central Georgia and is well-known for its eponymous mineral water that is a popular beverage and tonic throughout the former Soviet Union.

Borjomi has been a resort town for centuries, with people flocking from all over to bathe in its “healing” geothermal waters, however, the town and its surrounding area has so much more to offer than just that.

There are many things to do in Borjomi on its own and it’s well worth taking a day or two to explore the town, wander through the mineral water park, ride the cable car and splash around in the mineral water baths.

Borjomi is also located on the edge of the Borjomi Kharagauli National Park, which is the largest national park in Georgia and offers a host of hiking and horseback riding opportunities through the lush pine forest.

If you’re visiting in the winter, Borjomi is also located close to the Bakuriani ski resort, which is one of the most popular ski resorts in all of Georgia.

Borjomi can also serve as a great jumping-off point to explore the incredible cave city of Vardzia and the restored fortress town of Akhaltsikhe.

All in all, if you’re planning a trip to Georgia, make sure not to miss beautiful Borjomi!

Kakheti

Recommended by Rohan at Travels of a Bookpacker

If you’re visiting the beautiful country of Georgia, you can’t miss spending some time in the Kakheti region.

Famed as one of the first places on earth to make wine, this is the heart of Georgian wine country and the sprawling vineyards and cute guesthouses are the perfect place to unwind for a few days.

There are two main towns in the Kakheti region – Sighnaghi and Telavi. Both make a great base for exploring the area and there are transport options to both from Tbilisi.

As well as the numerous vineyards and wine tours there are also many beautiful, historic monasteries and castle ruins to wander. The most famous monastery is David Gareja which is built into a stone cliff.

This one is a bit harder to get to so make sure you have a few days if you’re planning to include it in your Kakheti itinerary.

Otherwise, find yourself a guesthouse with a good view and sit back and relax with some good food and quality Georgian wine!

Vardzia

Recommended by Coni at Experiencing the Globe

When traveling through Georgia, you’re bound to find amazing sites. From mountains to monasteries, the country is stunning. But even with that said, Vardzia will make your jaw drop.

As you approach the mountainside, you wonder where this town is. Until it hits you: the city is IN the mountain. You read it right, not on the mountain, but inside of it.

Queen Tamar ordered the construction of a cave monastery in the 12th-century. She wanted a place to protect the monks from the massacre that the Mongols were conducting.

It ended up being a 13-level complex that eventually saw about 6000 monks inhabit it. After a strong earthquake and a slaughter by the Persians, the city remained abandoned from the 16th-century onward.

Today, some monks are there to preserve the town which is in the tentative list to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During your visit, just get lost around the intricate paths discovering different corners as you go up and down the stairs.

Make sure you don’t miss the Church of the Dormition, the most important spot in the city, and pay attention to its impressive mural paintings.

Kutaisi

Recommended by Alex at Lost with Purpose

Charming Kutaisi lies in western Georgia. Though it’s Georgia’s third-largest city, it doesn’t feel impersonal—a large, friendly student population, impressive monuments, and its gently hilly location make Kutaisi a welcoming place to relax.

Kutaisi’s most iconic sight is the white walls and turquoise tops of the towering Bagrati Cathedral, visible from almost anywhere in Kutaisi.

The original cathedral dates back from the 11th century, but the Ottomans destroyed much of it when passing through the region in the 17th century.

Bagrati used to be a UNESCO site, but in 2017 it lost this status due to extensive renovations. Nevertheless, it’s still a sight to behold.

Gelati Monastery is another draw to the region. This (still) UNESCO-listed monastery lies just outside Kutaisi, a short marshrutka ride away. Like many Georgian monasteries, it’s perched on a hilltop with gorgeous views, and its interior frescos are stunning.

All churched out? No worries, Kutaisi just as good for strolling or picnicking along the river, and its Green Bazar is a lively affair.

If you’re willing to venture out further, there are also petrified waterfalls in Prometheus Cave, and the Okatse and Martvili Canyons are about an hour’s drive away.

Abkhazia

Editor’s Choice

While there is a dispute about whether Abkhazia is actually part of Georgia, most of the world recognizes it as part of the country, so we are listing it here despite the controversy.

Please do note that you need a separate visa to Abkhazia in order to visit and it requires extra procedures which you can read about in our linked post.

Abkhazia is a de facto sovereign state in the Caucasus that is an autonomous republic of Georgia. It has a strong history of violence with Georgia and unfortunately, that is very evident when visiting Abkhazia.

You will see just as many abandoned buildings and derelict businesses there as you will see ones open.

However, it truly is one of the most magnificent places I’ve ever traveled to in terms of beauty and hospitality.

It is a riviera for vacationers (especially from Russia) during the summer months and the landscapes will blow your mind. You can sit on a beautiful beach and look back and see tall, majestic mountains.

Sadly, visiting Abkhazia is not always possible from the Georgian side as the border is often closed. If you choose to visit from Russia, you will be barred from entering Georgia in the future.

There are also some safety concerns in the border towns (Georgian border). Visit with caution.

Insider tip: The Inguri border with Georgia is often closed. Please check before to ensure it is open- you can send me a message or tweet me at @megancstarr for more information as I have access to the latest updates. In addition, ensure you don’t get the Abkhazia visa stuck in your passport… it will create a lot of problems if so.

We hope you enjoyed this round-up of the best places to visit in the Caucasus countries. If you think a place was missed, please let us know!

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11 Insightful Books About the Soviet Union Worth Reading

July 16 2020 by Megan Starr 2 Comments

There are many great books about the Soviet Union worth reading if you’re into history and keen to learn more. This is a guide to eleven detailed and informative USSR books that we think will give you a better understanding of the Soviet Union.

Many are accounts and contain a lot of insight while the rest offer a different perspective (architecture and food).

11 Insightful Books about the Soviet Union Worth Reading

The history of the Soviet Union has long fascinated me- from the start of the empire when the peasants rose up against the establishment and Lenin’s Bolshevik Red Army stormed the winter gardens to the fall of the empire and the events that led up to its collapse.

I can’t pinpoint what spurred my fascination from such a young age because I don’t agree with the principles and political ideologies of those that were in charge.

Maybe my fascination came from growing up in the United States and being born during a time when the Cold War was at its height.

The fear of all-out nuclear war and destruction led me to be intrigued by this secretive empire and filled me with the urge to know everything there is to know about it.

About the USSR

Prior to the collapse of the Soviet Union, there was little information about what was happening inside of the empire.

Rulers died and were replaced by upper members of the communist party who may have had different ideas of the future but still kept the union shrouded in secrecy.

The lengths the Central Committee went to keep secrets was insane, even trying to cover up the world’s worst nuclear disaster from western powers and those within a small vicinity of the powerplant.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, information suddenly started freely flowing with people no longer in fear of the authorities in charge.

11 Insightful Books About the Soviet Union Worth Reading

The best way to learn all about the Soviet Union is via books about the USSR and thankfully, these are now in abundance.

I have spent days on end absorbed in books about the Soviet Union covering a magnitude of topics- from books about Chernobyl and bioweapons to those about the Caucuses and even books about Soviet architecture.

I am constantly craving more information and often I’ll procrastinate searching for books on Amazon to fulfill my insatiable need for more knowledge and information.

This guide will take you through the eleven best books about the Soviet Union to help you get as much knowledge as possible.

I have tried to include books that cover a broad range of topics, from the books that inspired Lenin to those that detail the once kept secrets of this powerful regime.

Books That Inspired The Soviet Union

The Communist Manifesto: A Modern Edition (Karl Marx & Friedrich Engels)

The Communist Manifesto is probably one of the books that has impacted the world the most.

The book is an introduction to Marxism, an ideology that inspired Lenin to lead the masses to rise up against the ruling elite and try to work for a fairer society for the working classes.

This eventually led to the creation of the Soviet Union and the world splitting into two political ideologies.

Marx was born in Trier and formed his views on the Proletariat rising up and creating a communist state while learning about the way the industrial revolution impacted the lives of the lower classes in countries like France and the United Kingdom.

However, I imagine that little did he realize how much of an impact he would have on the modern world and the lives of the people within the republics of the Soviet Union.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Essential Works of Lenin: “What Is to Be Done?” and Other Writings

To fully understand the build-up to the Russian revolution and how the Soviet Union formed, you need to read the works of Lenin. Lenin shaped the world like no other politician.

His political and philosophical standing was backed up with a dogged determination to change the standing of the working classes.

The Essential Works of Lenin is the best insight into the world Bolshevism and the makings of one of the world’s most important revolutions.

The Works of Lenin, in some way, superseded that of Marx as in many ways he was able to create the Marxist dream of a Dictatorship of The Proletariat that Marx believed was the only way for the world to be truly equal.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Books About The History Of The Soviet Union

Revolutionary Russia, 1891-1991: A History (Orlando Figes)

Revolutionary Russia, 1891-1991: A History is a great book to learn about the Soviet dream from its roots in the 1891 famine to its eventual demise as the dreams of Lenin and collapsed into a world of corruption and pseudo capitalism.

As many other books do not cover the early start of Socialism in Russia, you often do not get the full story of how Marxism spread throughout Russia and led to split into two different factions of the Bolsheviks and the Mensheviks.

The USSR book also looks at the years after Lenin took control of Russia and the Soviet Union was formed and how the powers tried to keep the Communist dream alive until the USSR eventually collapsed in 1991.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Red Star over Russia: A Visual History of the Soviet Union from 1917 to the Death of Stalin (David King)

David King’s book Red Star Over Russia: A Visual History of the Soviet Union from 1917 to the Death of Stalin covers the first part of the Soviet Union from the creation to the death of the tyrannical leader Stalin.

Over the years, he has collected images, posters, and literature from the Soviet Union and became the owner of one of the most extensive collections of Soviet-era printed artifacts.

In this book, he looks at how the government used the printed form to push the Communist message to the workers and citizens of the republics.

He also looks at how Stalin used to propaganda to not only keep workers on track, but also strike fear into the hearts of everyday people who were already living in a state of paranoia and fear as Stalin’s purges became more and more extreme.

The mixture of stunning images and posters from the era and David King’s informative writings make this one of the best accounts of early Soviet history.

Click to Buy on Amazon

The Last Empire: The Final Days of the Soviet Union (Serhii Plokhy)

There is an abundance of rumors that swirl around when it comes to how the Soviet Union broke apart. Serhii Plokhy looks to cut through these rumors in his book The Last Empire: The Final Days of the Soviet Union and tell you the true story from those who were part of the fall.

Using interviews and recently declassified documents, he was able to paint the perfect picture of the final six months of the Soviet Empire.

As the book about the Soviet Union details almost a day by day blow of the last months, you gain a further understanding of just how the collapse happened and that maybe it wasn’t the dreamy allure of democracy that really brought down the Soviet Union.

The USSR book also takes a look at how the collapse continues to affect the world today, especially in the context of the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Eight Pieces of Empire: A 20-Year Journey Through the Soviet Collapse (Lawrence Scott Sheets)

Eight Pieces of Empire: A 20-Year Journey Through the Soviet Collapse takes a fascinating look at how the collapse of the Soviet Union impacted various republics across the empire.

As the Union’s tight grip loosened, people started to gain new freedoms and governments and national borders had to be reestablished and once tightly controlled countries need to forge their own national identity.

The author takes an in-depth look at how various republics emerged from the chaos of the collapse into new and, in some cases, more destructive chaos as civil and national wars broke out in the Caucuses, authoritative regimes took power in Central Asia, and Ukraine was left to deal with the world’s worst nuclear disaster clean up.

The book is a thrilling read from start to end and has a more personal feel to it compared to many other books about the collapse of the union.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Books About The Hidden Soviet Union

Biohazard: The Chilling True Story of the Largest Covert Biological Weapons Program in the World- Told from Inside by the Man Who Ran It (Alibek & Handelman)

Biohazard: The Chilling True Story of the Largest Covert Biological Weapons Program in the World- Told from Inside by the Man Who Ran It is the story of the USSR’s biological warfare program from the man who ran it.

Despite Biological weapons being banned in 1972, in agreement with all the world powers, the Soviet Union continued to produce bioweapons on a massive scale. They were driven by the paranoia that the Americans were producing them in just as high volumes and planned to use them to destroy the empire.

The enthralling book details how the weapons were produced and the great lengths the central committee went to cover up this illicit activity, including the fact that an accident at a plant caused an anthrax leakage into a small town killing many people.

Along with covering the more industrial side of biological warfare, the author details the personal effect his career had on him and how he grappled with his conscious over creating such weapons.

The book will keep you captivated from start to finish, as you sit astounded at how ruthless and paranoid the regime really was.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Voices from Chernobyl (Svetlana Alexievich)

There is plenty of information out in the public domain about the Chernobyl disaster and how it came to happen, but the story of normal people and especially those located in what is now Belarus is often unheard.

The Nobel Prize in Literature book Voices from Chernobyl looks to provide a voice to those whose lives were turned upside down by the disaster and the ongoing health problems it causes. The author, Svetlana Alexievich, dedicated years interviewing those affected by the tragedy in Belarus.

Those interviewed often have had nowhere to direct their anger at the powers that allowed the disaster to happen and attempted to hide it from the public, endangering thousands of lives as radioactive matter fell around them.

The book is so important that the writers of the hit TV show Chernobyl used it to help write the human elements of the show’s characters.

Sadly, the fallout from Chernobyl is still making people sick, with the author of the book now suffering from immune deficiencies developed while researching the book. This is a great book to read before going on a tour of Chernobyl.

Click to Buy on Amazon

For my suggested reading about the Chernobyl disaster, check out my guide to the best books on Chernobyl.

Books About Soviet Architecture, Art, and Cooking

CCCP: Cosmic Communist Constructions Photographed (Frédéric Chaubin)

Frédéric Chaubin’s fantastic book, CCCP: Cosmic Communist Constructions Photographed, is an amazing collection of photographs of some of the most outlandish buildings of the Soviet Union.

When people think of the Soviet Union’s architecture, they often stereotype large, grey housing blocks that are simply functional eyesores.

However, this is not the full story- there are many fantastic buildings that are often seemingly shaped like something out of this world.

The architectural feats of the buildings is truly amazing, although many of these buildings are pretty ramshackle these days.

Luckily, this fantastic book shows the buildings in their full glory with gorgeous photographs and short descriptions of each building.

Although the book is more of a coffee table book, it is a great resource for those interested in the architectural stylings of the time and it is a great asset when planning a trip to a former republic.

Click to Buy on Amazon

If you are looking for more books about Soviet architecture check out my guide about Soviet architecture books.

CCCP COOKBOOK: True Stories of Soviet Cuisine (Olga Syutkin)

The food of the Soviet Union has two stories- that of the common worker and that of the political elite, both of which contained more dill than you can imagine (sorry, had to throw that in there).

While the USSR often failed to provide enough food for the country, those that suffered were the average citizens while those at the top of the supposedly equal pile ate opulent banquets and delicious meals.

The CCCP Cookbook: True Stories of Soviet Cuisine looks at both sides of the menu and provides recipes used by the working classes, such as simple soups utilizing the limited ingredients available and the recipes that fed the rich and powerful that had no limits.

Each recipe comes with an anecdotal story from the time, placing some fascinating context around these intriguing recipes.

Unlike most modern cookbooks, the book uses illustrations from old cookbooks of the time to give a more authentic and rustic feel to the USSR book.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Russian Revolutionary Posters: From Civil War to Socialist Realism, From Bolshevism to the End of Stalinism (David King)

David King has spent years collecting Soviet propaganda posters, dating back from the start of the Russian revolution and throughout the rest of the Soviet Union’s history.

The book about the Soviet Union provides an amazing glimpse at the lengths the powers went to control the thoughts and actions of the masses using in your face propaganda.

The posters, once common throughout the republics, are now considered works of art in their own right. Russian Revolutionary Posters is a stunning collection of some of the best posters produced at the time.

Each poster has some information around it along with translations from Russian to English so you can fully understand the message trying to be conveyed.

The book is more of a coffee table book than one you would read on your way to work, but it is still an amazing resource for those wanting to understand more about the use of propaganda at the time.

Click to Buy on Amazon

I hope you found something in this guide to books about the Soviet Union guide that can help you understand things more (or cook tasty dishes!)

If you have any good USSR books that you recommend, please drop them in the comments for readers. Thanks!

5 Detailed Books on Chernobyl to Read Before Visiting the Exclusion Zone

July 16 2020 by Megan Starr 1 Comment

There are many great books on Chernobyl worth reading if you’re interested in learning more about the Chernobyl disaster.

The following books about Chernobyl are ones we recommend reading before you visit the Exclusion Zone.

Books on Chernobyl to Read Before Exploring the Exclusion Zone

Tourism to Chernobyl has exploded in the last year thanks to the amazing HBO mini-series, “Chernobyl”. However, the events that unfolded on that day are shrouded in mystery with facts and the truth actively covered up by governments in charge.

I, personally, think that when you visit the zone with a Chernobyl tour that you should fully understand what you are seeing you need to learn as much as you can about the disaster before you arrive.

About Chernobyl

On the 26th of April 1986, the world changed forever as a disaster like no other unfolded. That fateful night, top scientists at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant (ChNPP) failed to follow the correct protocol during a routine safety check and the 4th reactor ended up exploding.

The reactor’s blast was so powerful that the roof housing the core blew off, causing fires in the surrounding areas and radiation to spew out of the remnants of the reactor into the air.

As those in charge tried to cover up the mistakes that were made, radiation continued to coat the surrounding areas and beyond.

The teams of firefighters who tried to tackle the fires were completely unaware of the grave danger they were in as they quickly succumbed to the effects of radiation poisoning.

The clothing they wore that day is still housed in the Pripyat Hospital and are some of the most radioactive items in the Exclusion Zone.

5 Detailed Books on Chernobyl to Read Before Visiting the Exclusion Zone

Eventually, the government admitted the disaster was out of control and the area was evacuated, although the disaster was still kept hidden from the ordinary citizens of the USSR.

After a few days, the west was alerted to the disaster by rising radiation levels in Scandinavia and the clean up from the disaster was started apathetically as the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone was established.

The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

The Exclusion Zone is an area approximately 1,000 square miles around the reactor, split between both Ukraine and Belarus, although the actual power plant is located within Ukraine (and it is one of the most popular places to visit in Ukraine today).

The nuclear fall out will continue to contaminate the area for hundreds of thousands of years to come, especially in areas where machinery used to clean up the disaster were buried.

Today, you can take authorized tours to visit the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone where you will visit the abandoned city of Pripyat, the surrounding villages, the Power Plant, and some tours will visit the colossal Russian Woodpecker.

Thanks to the HBO miniseries, Chernobyl tours to the zone have exploded this year, with thousands of tourists heading to the zone weekly.

Along with documentaries and Youtube films about Chernobyl, there are plenty of books out there that will help you learn more about the events that unfolded that tragic night.

Many of these books include first-hand information from people involved in the cleaning up of the disaster or who lived in Pripyat at the time. To help you find the best books about Chernobyl, I have compiled a list of great books on Chernobyl to read before you visit the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone.

I have included five books on Chernobyl in my list, however, if you feel I have missed any off of my list, please leave a comment below.

You can also read my post about Slavutych which will give you some information about life after Pripyat.

Books About Chernobyl

Midnight in Chernobyl: The Untold Story of the World’s Greatest Nuclear Disaster (Adam Higginbotham)

Midnight in Chernobyl is a look at the hidden history of Chernobyl. It is well known that the Soviet government did everything in its power to cover up the disaster and hide the true facts behind it.

To this day, no one really knows the true human cost of the disaster with official figures way lower than would be expected.

Adam Higginbotham spent over a decade interviewing those involved with the disaster and reading unpublished memoirs and classified documents to create an incredible account of the true facts surrounding the disaster.

The enthralling read will help you cut through the myth that has surrounded the disaster for over 30 years and understand just how much damage the attempts to cover up this disaster caused.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Chernobyl 01:23:40: The Incredible True Story of the World’s Worst Nuclear Disaster (Andrew Leatherbarrow)

01:23:40 on April 26, 1986 is the point in time when an explosion rippled through history and started the collapse of a world superpower. Andrew Leatherbarrow’s Chernobyl 01:23:40 is an amazing insight into exactly what happened that night.

Through investigative journalism and interviews with those who were involved in the tragedy first-hand, the book looks at how the heroes sacrificed their lives to clean up the disaster and secure the zone.

He also looks into how the government dealt with the fallout from Chernobyl and how it crippled the Union due to the huge cost of trying to contain the radiation.

Along with an in-depth look into the history of the Chernobyl, the author looks at the zone today and he recounts his tales of exploring the zone with some impressive photographs from his time there.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Voices from Chernobyl (Svetlana Alexievich)

Voices from Chernobyl is a detailed book about Chernobyl that focuses on the impact of the disaster in Belarus. People often forget that part of the Exclusion Zone is in Belarus, with most people only really thinking about how the events affected Ukraine.

Winning the Nobel Prize in Literature, the book recounts the personal tales of the displaced people that lived through the tragedy and how it changed their lives.

The book is so informative and detailed that the writers of HBO’s hit Chernobyl show used it to understand the human element of the tragedy.

Svetlana Alexievich’s dedication to getting these unheard stories out has left its scars on her with the overexposure to radiation causing an immune deficiency.

Click to Buy on Amazon

Growth and Decay: Pripyat and the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (Baillargeon & McMillan)

David McMillan has spent several decades collating amazing photographs from the zone. He was originally drawn to the zone to bear witness to a place on earth that had become completely inhospitable due to the actions of humans.

However, as he ventured back to the zone year after year, he started to document how nature was taking back the land.

Along with the natural decay of the city, the images in Growth and Decay: Pripyat and the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone capture how people entering the zone have destroyed parts of the buildings left behind.

The book about Chernobyl is perfect for those who are interested in seeing how nature has taken control and when humans leave an area, there is a chance for the environment to recover.

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My Chernobyl: The Human Story of a Scientist and the Nuclear Power Plant Catastrophe (Alexander a Borovoi)

Alexander a Borovoi was one of the Soviet Union’s finest scientists. Shortly after the Chernobyl disaster, he was relocated from Moscow to Ukraine to monitor and assist the clean up of the Chernobyl accident.

My Chernobyl accounts his first years in Chernobyl and the efforts taken to control the disaster, including the ones that were not particularly successful.

The book mainly looks at the cleanup effort and those in charge of it, however, there are some stories of those who were affected by the disaster.

First published in 1996, the book has been serving as a warning of the damage that mismanaged disasters can cause. Hopefully, the world will never see a disaster of this magnitude again.

Click to Buy on Amazon

These five books on Chernobyl will give you a better insight into what happened to Chernobyl, Pripyat, and other villages in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone before you take a visit there.

If you’re curious about what happened after Chernobyl, be sure to read my post on Slavutych as it will take you around a city that was built to be Pripyat 2.0 that not many people even know about.

If you’re keen to learn more about the architecture of the Soviet Union, you can check out my recommended Soviet architecture books here.

Click here if you’re seeking books about the Soviet Union instead.