Visiting Belarus for the first time? Here is everything you should know before planning your trip, from renting a car to exploring the country off the beaten path.
Last updated: July 2, 2025
Traveling to Belarus
Small, landlocked country in Eastern Europe, Belarus enjoys a rather important location. Set between five countries, it connects Russia with Central and Western Europe. You need to drive across Belarus to get from two of the Baltic States, Lithuania and Latvia, to Ukraine by land.
Due to some language and visa-related issues, traveling to Belarus was challenging not that long ago. Things have been turning around lately, allowing more visitors to discover this beautiful country. If you are planning to add Belarus to your European adventures, here are a few things you should know before booking your ticket.
6 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING BELARUS
1. Language
Belarusian and Russian are two official languages of Belarus. Younger generation in big cities, including Minks, Brest, Grodno, Mogilev, and Gomel, may have some understanding of English. The degree of their English proficiency can vary from a few words to a fluent speech. If you are visiting the remote areas of Belarus, your chances of getting by with English only are pretty slim.
TIP: Learn at least a few common phrases in Russian regardless of whether you plan to stay in a big city or explore the Belarusian countryside. It will help tremendously and let you enjoy the trip more.
2. Visa Regulations
Visa is required for the majority of foreign visitors. There are only a few exceptions. Visa-free entry for a short stay is allowed for the citizens of many European countries. Visitors can arrive and leave Belarus through the airport and all road and railway international checkpoints. Likewise, international travelers are able to transit to other countries except Russia.
3. Transportation
Public transportation in the main cities is usually reliable. It allows you to explore Belarus in the most affordable and convenient way.
If you plan to stretch your visit and venture to the remote areas, renting a car would be the wisest decision. Renting a car in Belarus, however, has one drawback. It’s expensive.
Traveling across Belarus via buses or trains can be challenging, with many transits and occasional delays.
4. Cities vs. Countryside
Belarus is a country that doesn’t surprise you with towering mountains or deepest lakes. Yet, its beauty hides in its numerous forests, fields, flatlands, small lakes, and a few UNESCO World Heritage Sites. So, once visiting Belarus, make sure to get outside of the main cities and explore the countryside.
READ MORE: Artificial Potash Mountains in Belarus
5. UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Belarus has four UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Three of these sites, including the most visited Mir Castle, preserve the cultural and historic heritage of the country. The fourth, Belovezhskaya Pushcha, a natural site that Belarus shares with Poland, is known as one of the best safari destinations in Europe.
6. Currency
Belarusian ruble is the official currency of Belarus.
TIP: Make sure to exchange the money before traveling to Belarus. You can also do it upon your arrival at Minsk National Airport. Airport exchange rates, however, are normally not the best.
READ MORE: 6 Traditional Belarusian Potato Dishes You Ought to Try
