About
Belarus is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, bordered by Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania and Latvia. It is also known as the Republic of Belarus, or Беларусь in Belarusian and Russian. For a visitor, it offers a mix of grand Stalinist architecture in its cities, large stretches of forest, and a scattering of lakes across the countryside.
What a visit can offer
- Stalinist architecture: Many of its urban centres show the monumental style of the Soviet era, with wide avenues and imposing public buildings.
- Forests and lakes: The landscape is known for its pristine woodland and lakes, suited to slow travel and time outdoors.
- A quieter kind of travel: Visitors who enjoy seeing a country that feels distinct from its better-known neighbours may find it rewarding.
Before you decide
Belarus is often described as Europe's last dictatorship, and this is worth weighing before planning a trip. Conditions for visitors, including entry rules and what is possible to see and do, can change, so check current official information from your own government before travelling. Once there, the forests and lakes beyond the cities are where many travellers find the country at its most open and calm.