Minsk

Belarus, Europe

Minsk, the vibrant capital of Belarus, is a blend of rich history and modern charm. Known for its impressive Soviet-era architecture, lush parks, and unique cultural scene, visitors can explore the National Art Museum, the bustling Upper Town, and the iconic Minsk Hero City Stele. The city also hosts various events throughout the year, making it a lively destination. With a rich culinary scene and friendly locals, Minsk offers an authentic Eastern European experience that is both affordable and enriching.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Minsk 1

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Minsk

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Minsk Old Town

Stroll through the historic heart of Minsk with charming streets.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Belarusian Great Patriotic War Museum

Discover Belarus's history in WWII through engaging exhibits.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Gorky Park

Enjoy leisure activities and beautiful landscapes in the city.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the National Library of Belarus

Marvel at modern architecture and extensive book collections.

No booking required
5

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Admire the Church of Saints Simon and Helena

Visit the iconic red-brick church, symbol of freedom and hope.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Museum of Modern Fine Arts

Explore contemporary Belarusian art in a vibrant setting.

No booking required
7

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Independence Square

Experience the heart of the city with its grand architecture.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll along the Svislach River

Take a scenic walk along the picturesque riverbanks.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Explore the KGB Headquarters

Learn about Belarus's history through its notorious KGB past.

No booking required
10

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Island of Tears

Pay tribute to fallen soldiers in a serene setting.

No booking required
11

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local cuisine at a Belarusian restaurant

Savor traditional dishes like draniki and borsch.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-11 (#162 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Belarussian Ruble

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Russian

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Draniki

VE

Potato pancakes, crispy and savory. (National dish)

Kalduny

Meat-filled dumplings, hearty and delicious.

Machanka

Pork stew with a rich, flavorful sauce.

Borscht

VE

Beet soup, often served hot or cold.

Kholodnik

VE

Cold beet soup with vegetables and herbs.

Phrases to learn

English

Russian

Hello

Privet

(Pree-vyeht)

Yes/No

Da / Net

(Dah / Nyet)

Thank you

Spasibo

(Spah-see-bah)

Excuse me

Izvinite

(Eez-vee-neet-yeh)

How much?

Skol'ko?

(Skohl-koh)