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Belarus – Family Travel Guide

Belarus is our home country. Both Alex and Alexandra were born and raised in Belarus, leaving for Canada in their early 20ies. The country is very dear to our hearts, and we wish to go back to Belarus often. Unfortunately with Belarus’ political crisis of 2020 and Russia’s war on Ukraine in 2022 (where Belarus’s dictator acts as Russia’s ally), we are not able to visit our home any further. It pains me to the core, but I have to say it: we DO NOT RECOMMEND anyone to travel to Belarus in the near future. Especially with kids. Yet we put together this Belarus Travel Guide for families so you can plan ahead.

WARNING: DO NOT TRAVEL TO BELARUS IN 2022. HERE IS WHY

Yet, once the turmoil is over, once the war on Ukraine is stopped, once Belarus is able to acquire new democratic leadership and opens up for international visitors – there are much to see and many places to travel to in Belarus. So please DO come!

To plan your future travel to Belarus, we’ll post cool landmarks, attractions, historical landmarks, info about family-friendly destinations, and travel tips. We’ll add some historical photos as well from our time growing up and from our visits in the past decade. We only hope that it is all still there once the madness stops.

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Quick Links to planning your Belarus visit:

• Belarus on the World Map
• Time Zone
• Belarus vs. Belorussia
• Language
• The People
• Currency, Money, Exchange
• Metric System
• Why visit Belarus
• Major Cities – Minsk
• Major Cities – Brest
• Major Cities – Grodno
• Major Cities – Vitebsk
• Major Cities – Mogilev
• Major Cities – Gomel
• Belarus Travel Tips
• IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS 2022

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Belarus on the World Map – Geo Location  

The Republic of Belarus is located in Eastern Europe. It is right on the “border” between the East and the West: having Russia to its East and the European Union to its West. Other than Russia, it borders Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia.

Although Belarus is often referred to as a “small” country, it is actually a decent size of 207,595 sq. km (80,153 sq mi).

For a quick reference for us in Canada, the size of Belarus is:

• ⅛ of the size of Quebec
• ⅕ of the size of Ontario or British Columbia
• ⅓ of the size of Alberta, Manitoba, or Saskatchewan
• Half the size of Newfoundland
• 3 times larger than New Brunswick
• 4 times larger than Nova Scotia
• 36 times bigger than P.E.I. 

For our friends from the USA: Belarus is roughly the size of Kansas or Nebraska.

Belarus is land-locked: there is no access to a sea or an ocean here. It is also rather flat: the highest “mountain” is Hara Dzerzhinskaya – Mt. Dzerzhinsky – only 345 meters in elevation. 

The capital of Belarus is Minsk. In addition, there are 5 other large cities: Vitebsk, Mogilev, Gomel, Brest, and Grodno (Hrodna).

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Time Zone

Belarus time zone is GMT / UTC +3 – the same as Moscow, Russia. 

Remarkably, the country does NOT recognize Daylight Saving Time (same as Russia).

Hence when you visit Belarus in winter, the time will be lagging for an hour.

• Moscow to Minsk time difference:  same, regardless of the season
• London to Minsk time difference: -2 hours in summer  / -3 hours in winter
• New York to Minsk time difference: – 7 hours in summer / -8 hours in winter
• Vancouver to Minsk time difference: -10 hours in summer / -11 hours in winter

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Belarus vs Belorussia – KNOW THE DIFFERENCE

Belarus, or the Republic of Belarus, is an existing country in eastern Europe. Until it became independent in 1991, Belarus, formerly known as Belorussia or White Russia, was a state included in the Soviet Union along with 13 other countries. Yet, Russia and Russian people still refer to Belarus as Belorussia, which results in a lot of confusion.

To be clear:
THERE IS NO SUCH COUNTRY AS “BELORUSSIA”.
THERE IS ONLY BELARUS.

Hence, since the country's proper name is Belarus, the following also applies:

• Language is Belarusian (with “a” and one “s”) – NOT Belorussian, NOT Belarussian, and definitely NOT Byelorussian
• People are Belarus People or Belarusians – NOT Belorussians, NOT Belarussians, and definitely NOT Byelorussians

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Language

Belarus has two official languages: Belarusian and Russian. 

Everyone speaks Russian, while Belarusian has become popular with the younger generation in recent years.

The Belarusian language is quite similar to Serbian and Ukrainian, so if you speak either – you'll likely be understood by the locals.

In larger cities, especially in Minsk, many younger people also speak English. With luck, you’ll find Polish, French, German and Italian too. Polish is actually quite common in Brest and Grodno Provinces close to the Polish border. 

In Minsk, and in most places of interest, you’ll find directions and signage in Belarusian and English. They even used to make announcements in English in Minsk’s subway and railway stations. Not anymore.

Yet, sadly, since the summer of 2020 Belarusian language is under attack. People speaking Belarusian are continuously being discriminated against by the Lukashenko government and the police. Learn more about the Political Crisis in Belarus 2020.

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The People

Prior to 2020, the population of Belarus was about 9 million people, with 2 million living in Minsk. Hundreds of thousands of people fled due to the political crisis of the 2020 presidential elections. (Learn more about the ways you can help)

According to the different researchers, there are between 2.5 and 3.5 million Belarusian Diaspora living outside the territory of the Republic of Belarus – that is a whopping 20% of the entire People. That is very similar to Cuba.

HERE is the link to the guide to the Belarusian Diaspora in Canada and the Belarusian Canadian Alliance.

BELARUS FACT: Actually, in the past, Belarus was jokingly referred to as “Cuba in the Middle of Europe”, and Lukashenko – was the last dictator of Europe. Sadly, over the past two decades, Belarus indeed was rapidly degrading, and in 2020-2021 the country has turned into, no not Cuba, but rather North Korea. 

Belarus People is well known around the world as an IT nation. Until 2020, technology was one of the most rapidly growing sectors. The country's Hi-Tech Park (HTP) used to have more than 1,000 tech companies from around the World registered to operate in Belarus. Now, however, with the onset of post-election repressions, techies were the first to leave.

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Currency, Money, Exchange

Belarusian Ruble (BYN) is the official currency in Belarus. However, if you decide to travel to Belarus, bring USD or EURO with you, with Russian RUB being a second choice. 

In 2021 BYN is rapidly losing ground. If you travel to Belarus long term, do NOT exchange all money at once, and avoid official exchange kiosks. 

IMPORTANT: International currency is in high demand among common people. Banks do not sell currency anymore, as they seldom have it. The exchange rate is bad. It is best to offer international currency to your Belarusian friends or relatives, as they surely need it. 

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Metric System

Belarus uses a metric system. 

• Weight is measured in grams and kilograms.
• Height and clothes size – in centimeters.
• Distance – in meters and kilometers.
• Speed – kilometers per hour.

Driving is left-wheel like in the USA and Canada, and opposite to that of the UK. 

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Belarus Beautiful Cities and Places of Interest to Add on your Visit Itinerary

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Why Visit Belarus

Until the early 90ies, Belarus was a part of the USSR, and hence it was largely closed for international tourism. It only started opening its borders and building its tourism industry about a decade ago. Yet, the unfortunate events of the Belarus 2020 political crisis and the recent war in Ukraine, have once again shut the doors to anyone, except the bravest traveler. 

In peaceful times, Belarus is absolutely beautiful and well worth a visit. The land of thousand lakes, bright pine forests, spring thunderstorms (that I really miss here in British Columbia), cute stork couples walking the fields under summer rainbows, absolutely awesome hospitable people, and delicious food. 

There are a number of important historical locations, designated by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.

There are six main cities in Belarus that make up the six provinces.

Let’s see what each has to offer (there will be a travel guide to each Belarus Province in nearest future, I promise):

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Minsk & Minskaya Province

Minsk

Minsk is the capital city of the Republic of Belarus and is probably the richest in tourist attractions.

Among places of interest to visit in Minsk when you travel to Belarus:

• Trinity Hill
• Minsk City Hall “Ratusha” and the Freedom Square
• Zybitskaya Street – the main hub for bars, restaurants, and nightlife
• Karla Marksa street
• Praspekt Niezalezhnasti (Independence avenue) from Belarusian State University building to Victory Monument, and further to Yakub Kolas Square
• Philharmonic Theatre
• National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet
• Gorky Park – central park of Minsk
• Victory Park
• National Library of the Republic of Belarus
• Kurgan Slavy (Mound of Glory)

Minsk Churches and Temples are absolutely remarkable and are worth a dedicated tour. I think we'll end up publishing a standalone travel guide to Belarus religious architecture. In the meantime, here are a few must-see churches to visit in Minsk: 

• Kafedral'nyy Sobor Soshestviya Svyatogo Dukha
• Saint Simon and Saint Helena Church (the “Red Church”)
• Church Of St. Mary Magdalene
• Khram Kirilla I Mefodiya / Church of Kirill and Mefodiy
• Khram Krupetskoy Ikony Bozhiyey Materi / Church of Krupetsky Mother of God
• Khramovyy Kompleks Krestovozdvizhenskoy Tserkvi / Church Complex of Christ Resurrection
• Tserkov' V Chest' Yefrosinii Polotskoy / Church of Yefrosiniya of Polotsk
• All Saints Church near Vostok subway station
• Saint Elisabeth Convent Minsk in Novinki

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Belarus Attractions to visit in Minskaya Province: 

• Architectural, Residential and Cultural Complex of the Radziwill Family at Nesvizh – World Heritage Site by UNESCO
• Dudutki historical complex
• Dukorsky Mayentse
• Khatyn
• Naroch Lake and Narochanski National Park
• Memorial Complex Trostenets
• Sula historical complex
• Stalin Line

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Brest & Brestskaya Province

Brest city became very well known due to its role in World War II – this town was the first frontier of the USSR to get attacked by Nazy Germany. There are many war-related monuments and museums all across town.

• Brest City
• Brestskaya Krepost / Brest Hero Fortress Memorial Complex
• Berestye Archaeological Museum
• Brest Railway Museum
• Museum of Confiscated Art
• Tower of Kamyanets
• Bialowieza Puscha National Park – World Heritage Site by UNESCO

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Grodno & Grodnenskaya Province

Grodno, also known as Grodna or Hrodno, or Gorodnya – is the most European city in Belarus. Located to the North West, the Province borders Lithuania and Poland. The town is an attraction in itself, that looks very much like small European towns in Lithuania or Poland. In addition, there are many beautifully restored historical castles and manors scattered all across the Grodnenskaya Province. Definitely plan a few days to spend in Grodno when you travel to Belarus next time.

• Grodno City
• Grodno: Boris and Gleb (Kaluzhskaya) Church
• Great Choral Synagogue
• Lida Castle 
• Mir Castle Complex – World Heritage Site by UNESCO
• Novogrudok Castle
• Volkovysk Chalk Pits 

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Vitebsk & Vitebskaya Province

Vitebsk, also known as Vitsyebsk, is the “culture capital” of Belarus. Located to the north, Vitebskaya Province borders Russia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

Belarus attractions located in Vitebsk and throughout Vitebskaya Province:

• Vitebsk Regional History Museum
• Vitebsk: Museum Home of Marc Chagall
• National Polatsk Historical and Cultural Open-air Museum in Polotsk town
• Monument to Yefrosinia Polotskaya in Polotsk town
• Church of Holy Sophia and its historical Organ in Polotsk town
• Novopolotsk Town
• Braslav Lakes
• Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve
• Lode Island Resort (Pansionat Lode) in Lepel

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Mogilev & Mogilevskaya Province

Mogilev, also known as Mahilyov or Mahilioŭ, is located to the east and borders Russia. It is one of the oldest towns in Belarus, dating back to the 13th century. This town is most known for its Soviet architecture, yet you can find some religious artifacts from as far as the 18th century.

Attractions located in Mogilev and its Province to add to your Belarus travel itinerary:

• House of Soviets in Mogilev
• the Mogilev City Hall “Ratusha”, originally built back in 1578
• City Star Square with its unique Astrologer monument 
• Belarusian Heritage Village (19th Century)
• Bobruisk Fortress
• Central Library of Bobruisk
• Memorial Complex Buynichskoe Field

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Gomel [Homel] & Gomelskaya Province

Gomel is located in the South East of Belarus and borders both Russia and Ukraine. The town has a rich history and much to offer. However, it became the most infamous place due to the Chernobyl Tragedy of 1986 – the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant explosion. Much of Grodnenskaya Province has been “cut off” as a do-not-enter zone.

At this time

• Gomel City
• Homel Palace 
• Homel Park
• Military Glory Museum
• Pripyatsky National Park and Lyaskavichy Nature Museum

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Belarus Travel Tips For Families With Kids

This is important to read: SAFETY TIPS THAT MAY LITERALLY SAVE YOUR LIFE in 2022

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When is the Best Time to Visit Belarus

The absolute best time to visit Belarus is between early May and late September, and also around Christmas and New Year holidays from Dec 20 to January 10. 

One of the symbols of Belarus is the storks – in August they are literally everywhere! Traveling to Belarus in August can present a fantastic opportunity for wildlife watching.

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How Long Should You Travel to Belarus for

If your goal is to check-out Minsk only, I’d say 4-5 days could be enough. Add extra 2-3 days for each city or a place of interest, like Naroch Lake resort. For a first-time visitor to Belarus, in our opinion, 3 weeks is a great start.  

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Transportation When Travelling Through Belarus

Taxis in Belarus are super-cheap. From the airport to downtown Misk it will cost about $20 USD. If you decide to take a shuttle bus instead, from the airport to the downtown main railway station, the cost is less than $5 USD. 

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Driving in Belarus

If you want to rent a car, it is recommended to take full insurance offered by the car rental company in addition to what travel insurance you might have on your credit card. 

Make sure you check the local driving rules and regulations. Some stuff is quite different from that in Canada. For example, U-turns are allowed at city intersections. The right turn is NOT allowed at a red light – only when you have green. 

There are also age restrictions on driving: the driver must be at least 19 years old. 

General Belarus driving information, laws rules, and regulations:

• Driving in Belarus is on the right-hand side of the road – same as in Canada, different than in the UK. 
• Children under the age of 12 are not permitted to travel in the front of the vehicle and they must be seated in a suitable child restraint.
• Seat belts when driving a car in Belarus are mandatory.
• The use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, with the exception of a hands-free system.
• Drivers are to carry at all times while driving, a valid driver’s license, registration documents, and insurance documents.
• It is against the law in Belarus to drive a dirty car. (YES! That’s right! You could and will be fined)

NOTE: If you are pulled over in Belarus and are given a fine, they typically take your driver's license away from you to a local police station, and will return it back to you only once you pay your fine. Do NOT attempt to give a bribe in Belarus, as is somewhat customary in Russia, Ukraine, and other post-USSR countries. You can be jailed for attempting to bribe a police officer. Most police officers in Belarus wear video registration devices on their chests. 

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Best Places to Stay When Your Family Travels To Belarus

If you can afford it, get a 5-star hotel room in the center of Minsk City next to Trinity Hill. For example, DoubleTree by Hilton is a 5-star property, but it will cost you less than $200 per night. Or this Garni Hotel – a 3-star property – will cost you about $60 per night.

Overall accommodation per day from $40 USD for a 3-star hotel to $180 USD for a 5-start option. When staying in smaller cities outside of Belarus's capital Minsk, the prices are even lower. 

ATTENTION: Due to Russia's war in Ukraine, travel accommodation booking services such as AirBnB or BookingCom are no longer available in Belarus. The hotel can be booked either in person on-site or by calling the property. However, at this time, due to sanctions against Russia and Belarus, travelers may experience issues with credit card payment processors. It is recommended to carry enough cash.

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Belarusian Food

A meal at a decent restaurant will cost you $15-$30. 

Yet there are many cheaper cafes, and the groceries at a grocery store cost 5 times less than in Canada.

Whatever option you decide on, the food is truly delicious. Literally, every restaurant will have a few national options, such as draniki, on its menu. Any dish made with potato, mushrooms, meat, and sour cream will surely blow your mind! One day I will write a super-long detailed post on Belarusian Food, I promise. 

Do NOT drink alcohol produced in Belarus, however, as the quality is cheap and bad. Unless it is home-made by your friends, in which case please DO indulge!

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Public Bathrooms

Sorry, bad news here.

Public bathrooms are almost non-existent in Belarus. Where those do exist, those bathrooms are scary to enter, as they are mostly dirty and smelly.

You’ll also most likely have to pay.

I am sorry-not-sorry to include the following photo in our Belarus travel guide, yet you have to see it to believe it.

Your best bet is a local restaurant or a fast-food cafe like Mcdonald's or KFC – which may or may no longer be available in 2022 as many restaurant chains have left Belarus and Russia due to war in Ukraine. Yet, in many places, they will ask you to purchase something to use in the washroom. There you won't likely find any toilet paper or hand soap. 

Another option is a mall or a shopping center. Still, public bathroom access can be paid for. 

If you travel outside of big cities, you won't find public bathrooms in the countryside. So good old bushes/forest must do. 

Our advice: always carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer in your backpack or purse when traveling through Belarus. 

For families with babies: baby changing stations in local shops and restaurants are virtually non-existent.

Best to prepare in advance and to bring a travel changing stations. But do NOT place it on the floor! It is OK to change your baby outdoors on a public park lawn, or in your car.

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Shopping in Belarus

Frankly, don’t bother. 

Other than souvenirs and linen clothing sold in artisan shops, you won't find much in Belarus in 2022. 

Belarus used to have amazing lingerie, leather shoes and purses, and baltic amber jewelry. You may still be able to find some. Yet, most brands and businesses selling quality products were forced out of Belarus in relation to the 2020 events. 

One Belarusian product, however, is worth mentioning and can become a fantastic gift: crystal glassware. Crystal produced by Belarusian manufacturers is of excellent quality.

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Concluding notes:

Belarus is a beautiful well-underrated country very dear to our hearts. We sincerely hope that Belarus gets rid of both – the dictatorship and the Russian occupation with its involvement in the war in Ukraine – sometime very soon. We'll finally be able to travel back home to visit our friends and family, and to score some cool drone footage for our Belarus Travel Guide.

We also hope that you'll consider adding Belarus to your bucket list of places to visit. But NOT in 2022.

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Check out next: more tips on travel to Belarus

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Enjoy!

Cheerfully yours,

Alexandra, Alex & Cosmos

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