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Vitebsk, Belarus
Vitebsk
The Vitebsk region of Belarus borders Russia, Lithuania and Latvia. The region is known as the Belarusian land of lakes

Vitebsk

The Vitebsk region of Belarus borders Russia, Lithuania and Latvia. The region is known as the Belarusian land...

Top 15 best places to visit in Belarus | DO NOT MISS OUT !!
Belarus flag

Belarus Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Minsk

Location:

Eastern Europe, east of Poland

Currency:

Belarusian rubles (BYB/BYR)

Area:

207,600 sq km

Population:

9,441,842 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

Russian (official) 70.2%, Belarusian (official) 23.4%, other 3.1% (includes small Polish- and Ukrainian-speaking minorities), unspecified 3.3% (2009 est.)

Religion:

Orthodox 48.3%, Catholic 7.1%, other 3.5%, non-believers 41.1% (2011 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC+2

Tel Code:

+375

Things to Do

  • 1. Visit Mir Castle

    Explore the beautiful Mir Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the town of Mir, Belarus. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and admire the stunning architecture.

  • 2. Discover Białowieża Forest

    Embark on a nature adventure in Białowieża Forest, one of the last and largest surviving parts of the immense primeval forest that once stretched across the European Plain. Discover diverse wildlife and explore the tranquil surroundings.

  • 3. Visit Nesvizh Castle

    Step back in time at Nesvizh Castle, a remarkable architectural complex and one of the most significant historical and cultural heritage sites in Belarus. Explore the grand castle and its beautiful gardens.

  • 4. Take a Boat Ride on Braslau Lakes

    Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Braslau Lakes, a captivating chain of lakes located in Braslau, Belarus. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding nature and relax in the peaceful atmosphere.

  • 5. Explore the National Library of Belarus

    Visit the iconic National Library of Belarus, an architectural marvel and one of the main landmarks of Minsk. Explore the vast collection of books and enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck.

  • 6. Visit the Museum of the Great Patriotic War

    Learn about the history of Belarus during World War II at the Museum of the Great Patriotic War in Minsk. Explore the extensive collection of artifacts, exhibitions, and memorial halls.

  • 7. Discover the Belarusian State Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Lifestyle

    Immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of Belarus at the Belarusian State Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Lifestyle. Explore the collection of traditional houses and learn about rural life in Belarus.

  • 8. Visit the Trinity Hill in Minsk

    Explore the historic Trinity Hill in Minsk, a preserved architectural complex showcasing traditional Belarusian wooden houses. Visit the museums, art galleries, and craft shops in the area.

  • 9. Experience the Belarusian State Circus

    Be entertained by incredible performances at the Belarusian State Circus in Minsk. Watch acrobats, jugglers, and animal acts in a captivating show that delights both children and adults.

  • 10. Visit the Brest Fortress

    Pay tribute to the heroism and sacrifice of the defenders of the Brest Fortress during World War II. Explore the memorial complex and learn about the history of this significant historical site.

Weather

Belarus has a temperate continental climate with distinct seasons. Here are some more details on the climate and the best time to visit Belarus.

Climate

Belarus has a humid continental climate, which means it experiences cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature in winter is around -6°C (21°F), while the average temperature in summer is around 18°C (64°F). The country receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being June and July.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Belarus is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and there is plenty of daylight. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) can also be good times to visit, as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Winter (November to March) can be cold, but it's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports and activities like skiing and ice skating.

Visas

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

COVID Status

I am vaccinated 
Belarus Open
Test
Not required
Quarantine
Not required

Check Visa Requirements

      Accommodation

      Hotels

      There are many hotels in Belarus, ranging from budget to luxury. In larger cities like Minsk and Brest, you can find international hotel chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Radisson. Prices vary depending on the location and level of luxury.

      Guesthouses and Homestays

      Guesthouses and homestays are a great way to experience the local culture and meet Belarusian people. Many guesthouses are located in rural areas, while homestays are often in private homes. Prices are usually more affordable than hotels, and you can expect a more authentic experience.

      Hostels

      Hostels are a good option for budget travelers and backpackers. There are hostels in most major cities in Belarus, and prices are generally very affordable. Hostels offer shared dormitories as well as private rooms.

      Apartment Rentals

      If you're planning on staying in Belarus for an extended period of time, renting an apartment can be a good option. There are many apartments available for rent in Minsk and other cities, and prices are generally cheaper than hotels.

      Camping

      Belarus has many beautiful natural areas, and camping can be a great way to experience them. There are many campsites throughout the country, and some national parks also offer camping facilities.

      Agritourism

      Agritourism is a growing trend in Belarus, where visitors can stay on farms and participate in agricultural activities. This can be a great way to experience rural life in Belarus and learn about local traditions. Prices are usually affordable, and many farms offer meals made with locally sourced ingredients.

      Transportation

      Bus

      Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel within Belarus. There are many bus companies that operate throughout the country, and most major cities are connected by bus routes. Tickets can be purchased at the bus station or online.

      Train

      Belarus has an extensive railway network, with trains connecting most major cities. Trains are generally more comfortable and faster than buses, but also more expensive. Tickets can be purchased at the train station or online.

      Taxi

      Taxis are widely available in Belarus and can be a convenient way to get around. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi app. Prices can vary depending on the distance and time of day.

      Car Rental

      Renting a car is a good option if you want to explore Belarus at your own pace. There are many car rental companies in Belarus, and prices are generally affordable. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy in larger cities, and road conditions in rural areas may be poor.

      Metro

      Minsk has a modern and efficient metro system that connects most parts of the city. The metro is a fast and affordable way to get around, and tickets can be purchased at the stations.

      Bicycle

      Bicycling is a great way to explore the beautiful countryside of Belarus. There are many bike rental companies in Minsk and other cities, and some areas have dedicated bike paths. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy in some areas, and it's important to wear a helmet and follow traffic laws.

      Money

      Money Tips for Travel

      • Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
      • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
      • Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
      • Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
      • Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
      • Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
      • Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
      • Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
      • NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
      • Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

      ATM and Credit Cards

      • Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
      • Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
      • Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
      • Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
      • Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
      • Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

      Exchange Rates

      • Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
      • Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
      • Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
      • Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
      • Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

      Insurance

      Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

      Medical Coverage

      Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

      Trip Cancellation and Interruption

      Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

      Lost or Stolen Luggage

      Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

      Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

      Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

      Liability coverage

      Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

      Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

      Mobile

      When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

      eSIM

      Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

      Dual SIM phone

      If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

      Extend your home plan

      Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

      Keep your primary SIM

      With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

      Community

      There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

      Facebook groups

      There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

      Meetup

      Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

      Internations

      Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

      Couchsurfing

      Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

      Reddit

      Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

      Linkedin

      LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

      At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.