Top 5 Underrated Cities in Eastern Europe for Travelers

June 30, 2025

Name	Air Quality	Nomad Cost	Expat Cost	Cost Score	Leisure Score	Rating
Dubrovnik Croatia	100	$3141	$2553	60	60

If you are planning a trip to Europe, the first place that must have popped into your mind is Paris or Rome, isn’t it? Well, these places are known for their unique and remarkable culinary and cultural hubs but Europe has places that are quite underrated. Travel specialists say they are less known to the public out there.

Some eastern European cities are true gems, ready to be explored for their thrilling destinations, hikes, and adventures. If you are a traveler, passionate to explore and enjoy the pulsating energy of Europe, this blog is for you. You will get to know some perfect eastern European cities to travel to that won't even break your bank. Ready to dive in?

1. Dubrovnik

If you are a ‘Game of Thrones’ fan you will know the beauty of Dubrovnik city. Apart from its popularity in being a backdrop for this show, Dubrovnik has an authentic coastal life. Being the top destination of Croatia, the city is well known for its rich historical attractions including museums, galleries and noble decorative buildings.

Dubrovnik lies amongst the robust medieval fortifications across which lies the islands, beaches and a magnificent coastline. The major attractions of the city include:

·   A complete circuit walk around the barricade of the city walls with gleaming marble streets.

·   Coffee in Stradun, a promenade paved with white limestone.

·   A tour around the Rector’s Palace to see how local people once used to live. You’ll love to explore the baroque furniture, lavish costumes, oil paintings that are gilt-framed, weapons, and sedan chairs.

·   Visit the aquarium to encounter marine life. The dark space is peaceful where you watch the ugly scorpionfish, delicate seahorses, conger eels, shape-shifting octopuses, and starfish.

·   Enjoy the raw oysters at Bota oyster and Sushi Bar. The owner cultivates his own oysters and brings them fresh into the town.

·   Visit the treasury adjoining cathedral of Dubrovnik where you’ll see gold and silver reliquaries being displayed in a golden crown.

·   Get your friends and family some designer gifts at KAWA.

·   Visit Buza bar and watch the beautiful sunset over a beer or wine.

·   Discover the Yugoslav design, the 20th-century retro look at the Red History Museum.

·   Visit the Maritime Museum to learn more about the golden period of Dubrovnik in the 16th century and the naval power it held. You will explore navigational equipment, model ships, paintings, maps, and sailors’ uniforms.

·   Join a sea kayak tour to Lokrum island where you can snorkel, swim, cliff jump, and hike.

·   You can hike up the MT Srd for a bird's-eye view of Dubrovnik.

·   Visit Lopud island to sunbathe and swim at Sunj beach.

2. Riga

Riga is known for its incredible art and gothic architecture. The old city of Riga is a historic neighborhood. The walkable layout presents cobbled streets, gardens, local craft shops, diverse museums, and unique architecture.

The top attractions in Riga city include:

• Centraltirgus, the bustling central market where you can explore the historic zeppelin stores, presenting diverse cuisine and local produce. The vibrant atmosphere reflects the region’s rich culture.

• The 14th-century House of the Black Heads is a historic building with a

• refurbished interior and a vivid town square setting.

• KGB building, a museum offering a guided tour worth €10.

• Riga Motor Museum offers the largest and diverse collection of vintage motor vehicles.

• Visit St Peter’s Church tower to enjoy the panoramic view of the skyline and the old town.

• A short walk through the Town Hall square will amaze you with its architectural blend and rich history of the Baltic region.

• Take a trip to the Alberta Lela. The street has architectural buildings along the entire length with rich historical Art Nouveau.

3. Belgrade

Belgrade being the largest and capital city of Serbia, is one of the first inhabited cities in Europe. It is well known for its prehistoric European culture. You can dive into the essence of street food and be mesmerized by the scenic view of the sunset.

The top attractions of the city include:

• The Belgrade fortress features a large park where you can experience the panoramic riverside views, and a military museum in addition to dinosaur exhibits. The place is ideal for exploring culture and enjoying family outings.

• Knez Mihailova is a colorful pedestrian area where you will find a mix of cafes, shops and restaurants. Travellers also enjoy the water fountains, live street music, and a peaceful European vibe around.

• Skardarlija is where you can experience bohemian history. You will find local cuisine, traditional restaurants, and live music across the cobbled streets, all showcasing the rich cultural heritage.

• Ada Ciganlija to enjoy sunbathing and beach.

• The Museum of illusion is yet another fascinating spot to have your mind blown.

4. Mostar

Mostar is the fifth largest city and is situated on the Neretva River. The name Mostar comes from the word ‘Mostari’ meaning bridge keepers. They used to guard the old bridge over the Neretva River during the ottoman empire.

The top attraction spots in the city include:

• Mostar old bridge is the historic one bearing original steps from the ancient time of 1500s. The bridge links the two vivid cultural hubs offering a scenic view.

• Neretva River is the spot where you can river cruise through the beautiful mountain landscapes and green water. The place is a fantastic spot to enjoy bird watching, photography, and picturesque dining along the bank.

• Koski-Mehmed Pasha Mosque is another worth visiting spot. The terrace offers a magnificent view of Mostar's old bridge.

• Kajtaz’s House is a traditional old Turkish house that gives you an idea of how people live there.

• Pay a visit to Bosnaseum and enjoy the rich Bosnian history and culture.

5. Prague

If you are a solo traveler, Prague is the place to go in eastern Europe. It is known for wild weekends and bachelor parties. It is the largest and the capital city of Czech Republic and is a historical capital or bohemia as well.

The top attractions of Prague that you must not miss are:

Prague castle is the city’s dominating spot with its flagship structure.

Visit Charles Bridge which is an iconic construction of Prague that showcases craftmanship.

The Clementinum and National library is a historic building where you can learn about the rich past of the country.

The Petrin Lookout Tower situated over a hill offers a bird’s eye view of the whole city.

Pay a visit to Kutna Hora in the middle of the Bohemian region of the Czech Republic to experience the rich European architecture.

You shouldn’t miss visiting the Dancing House of Prague. Its unconventional design stands out among other gothic buildings. You can enjoy the restaurant, hotel, a glass bar and a 360-degree view of Prague’s skyline.

Takeaway

Eastern Europe offers travelers a treasure trove of underrated cities, each brimming with history, culture, and unique experiences. From the stunning coastal beauty of Dubrovnik to the rich architectural heritage of Riga, the vibrant energy of Belgrade, the historical charm of Mostar, and the lively atmosphere of Prague, these destinations provide unforgettable adventures without breaking the bank.

Whether you're drawn to scenic hikes, cultural landmarks, or culinary delights, these cities invite you to explore a less-traveled side of Europe, promising an enriching and affordable travel experience. Happy vacation!

Wanderlust App was created to make it easy to discover the most beautiful places across the world. From an AI travel assistant to planning the perfect trip and tracking all the places you want to visit around the world, Wanderlust App will help you do it all.