Belarus Oteller

Belarus, a mysterious country located in Central Europe and one of the former Soviet Republics, is home to a rich history, natural beauty, and hospitable people. From the quiet streets of its capital, Minsk, to its historical castles, Belarus offers many places worth exploring. Approximately 40% of the country is covered with old forests, reflecting the mystical atmosphere of Medieval Europe. Belarus fascinates not only with its natural beauty but also with its friendly people and traditional culture. Discover the riches of Belarus, from ancient tools found in village houses to modern city life, and be captivated by the country's unique charm!

Things To Know Before Going To Belarus

• Many young people in Belarus speak English, making them the best option for directions or guidance.
• While Belarusian is taught in schools, it is rarely spoken in everyday life. This helps Belarusians understand Polish and Ukrainian easily.
• Approximately 40% of Belarus is covered in ancient, old-growth forests reminiscent of medieval Europe.
• Uber operates under a different application called Uber BY in Belarus. Be sure to download this specific app.
• Finding locations using Google Maps can be challenging in Belarus. Yandex Maps is the preferred navigation tool.
• Tipping in restaurants is typically reserved for exceptional service. Many people prefer having the cost of ingredients, cooking, and service included in the menu prices.

Cultural and Local Belarus Tips

• People are very nice and welcoming, but conservative, especially the older population. Avoid wearing extremely arty or unusual apparel.
• If you have local friends with relatives in villages or ancestral homes, try to visit. You might find ancient, almost medieval appliances and people who can teach you how to use them.
• Greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact, as Belarusians value politeness and respect.
• Always accept food and drink offered to you; refusing can be seen as rude. It’s polite to try a bit of everything.
• If invited to a Belarusian home, bring a small gift like flowers or chocolates, and remove your shoes when entering.

Is Belarus Expensive To Visit?

Belarus is considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists. A one week trip to Belarus typically costs around $468 (Br1,532) for one person and $937 (Br3,063) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Is Visiting Belarus Worth It?

Yes, Belarus can be a fascinating destination to visit for travelers interested in history, culture, and nature. 

Is Belarus Good For Honeymoon?

Belarus can be a unique and charming destination for a honeymoon, offering couples a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.

Is Belarus Safe to Visit Right Now?

Under normal circumstances, Belarus is a safe country to travel. However, due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, traveling to Belarus may not be completely safe in 2024.

Are Belarus People Friendly?

Yes, the Belarusian people are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, making them a friendly destination for tourists and travelers.

Best Cities in Belarus 

Here’s your fast Belarus city guide depending on where city you are planning to visit:

Find the best hotels in Belarus!

Must-See Belarus Attractions

Here are the must-see attractions in Belarus:

• Nesvizh Radziwiłł Castle: A well-preserved Renaissance castle with beautiful gardens and a picturesque lake, ideal for picnics and family outings.
• Mir Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique architecture and beautiful surroundings, a must-visit for history buffs and medieval architecture enthusiasts.
• Belarusian State Museum of the History of the Great Patriotic War: A museum dedicated to Belarus' history during World War II, featuring an excellent display of the country's suffering and heroism.
• Belarusian National Arts Museum: A treasure trove of artistic expression with over 30,000 pieces of art from national and international artists.
• National Library of Belarus: An iconic building with a stunning diamond glass design and panoramic views from its rooftop observation deck, offering insights into Belarus' rich literary history.
• Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park: An ancient forest home to majestic aurochs, offering a glimpse into Belarus' natural beauty and a great spot for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Dudutki Museum of Folk Architecture and Life: An open-air museum showcasing traditional Belarusian architecture and offering a glimpse into the country's rural life, where visitors can experience traditional crafts, food, and drinks.
• Khatyn Memorial: A memorial honoring the victims of World War II, a poignant reminder of the country's tragic past.
• Homel Palace and Park Ensemble: A beautiful example of Russian architecture built in the late 19th century, offering stunning views of the surrounding park.
• Brest Fortress: A historic fortress known for its significant role in World War II, featuring a beautiful Byzantine church and a monolithic stone statue of a soldier, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

The Best Time To Visit Belarus

The best time to visit Belarus would be in the spring and summer months from May to September. In the height of summer in June and July, temperatures can reach around 77°F.

Where is Belarus?

Belarus is located in Eastern Europe, bordered by Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. It is situated in the heart of Europe and is known for its endless forests, thousands of rivers and lakes, and medieval castles.

What is the Capital of Belarus?

Minsk, the capital of Belarus, is centrally located and has a population of around 2 million. Founded in 1067, the city has a rich history and was extensively rebuilt after World War II. Key attractions include Independence Square and Victory Park. Minsk is a cultural and economic hub, featuring a well-developed public transport system and modern infrastructure.

Languages Spoken in Belarus

Belarus has two official languages: Russian and Belarusian. However, there are other minority languages such as Polish, Ukrainian, Eastern Yiddish, and Trasianka.

Time Zone of Belarus

Belarus is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is UTC+3 during standard time and UTC+3 during daylight saving time.

What Currency Does Belarus Use?

Belarus uses the Belarusian ruble (BYN) as its official currency.

Belarus Flag

The Belarusian flag is a red-green bicolour with a red-on-white ornament pattern placed at the hoist end. The red and green colors symbolize the country's rich soil and the green forests that cover much of the land. The white and red coat of arms represents the country's history and its struggle for independence.

Population of Belarus

The current population of Belarus in 2024 is 9,455,037, which reflects a 0.45% decline from 2023.

Strange Laws in Belarus

• Death Penalty for High Treason: Officials and military personnel can face the death penalty for acts such as spreading terrorist propaganda or violating state secrets.
• No Outdoor Drinking: Consuming alcohol, including beer, outdoors is illegal and strictly enforced, with violators facing fines or imprisonment.
• No Photography in Certain Areas: Taking pictures in places such as the KGB and train stations is prohibited, but the police do not furnish a list of these restricted zones.
• No Parking on Sidewalks: Parking on sidewalks, especially in the city center, is strictly prohibited, and cars can be towed.
• No Driving to Russia through Belarus: Foreigners can only enter Russia through international checkpoints, which do not exist on the Belarus-Russia border.
• Registration Requirements: Visitors staying more than five days must register with the authorities or face fines when leaving the country.
• No Joking About Bombs: Making jokes about bombs in public places can result in detention or imprisonment.
• No Criticism of the President: Insulting the president can result in up to five years in prison, and criticizing the country abroad can lead to two years in prison.