The term “Eastern Europe” is a largely political and arbitrary designation: Prague is located farther west than Vienna, and Greece is separated from the “West” by hundreds of miles of the “East.” Considering this fact, it seems unsurprising that many countries that once lived on the same Bloc now have little in common and, in some cases, little to do with each other. While many Eastern European states have made concerted efforts to integrate themselves into the global (or at least Western) community in the last two decades, behemoth Russia remains somewhat unpredictable and isolated from her neighbors. Perhaps all that can be said of the region as a whole is that the countries here are changing—and that the resulting aura of uncertainty, potential, and adventure makes the area a haven for budget travelers. Untouristed cities, pristine national parks, empty hostel beds, and cheap beer abound. Bratislava, Budapest, and St. Petersburg will charm even the most jaded backpacker, while the jagged peaks of the Tatras and the dazzling beaches of the Dalmatian Coast are sure to stagger any nature lover.
Eastern European bureaucracies can be infuriating and, in some cases, amenities that Westerners take for granted may be hard to find. Should the absurdity of the post-Soviet world ever get you down, take comfort in knowing that for every stoic border guard and badgering babushka, there are countless locals willing to give you a bed, a shot of homemade liquor, and a ride to the next town. No, Eastern Europe’s not easy, but with flexibility, patience, and resilience, you can have an incredible journey through one of the most geographically varied, historically rich, and culturally dynamic areas of the world.
For 50 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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