Lake Balaton
#7 in Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe
At Hungary’s Lake Balaton, one of Europe’s largest lakes, visitors can have just as much fun on land as they can in the water. In summer, the lake’s warm temperatures and shallow water make it a great place for swimming and sailing, while in winter, the lake’s frozen surface gets thick enough for ice skating. A bike ride around the lake is also a must, as is exploring the lake’s surrounding towns. When travelers are ready to unwind after a long day, they can visit one of Lake Balaton’s vineyards to sip a refreshing glass of white wine.
Montenegro
#8 in Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe
Montenegro is less than 3,400,000 acres (or slightly smaller than the size of Connecticut), but what this destination lacks in size it more than makes up for in charm. Medieval towns, magnificent mountains, breathtaking beaches and charismatic locals await you in this Balkan country. Wander past the stone churches and romantic squares in Kotor, or view some of Montenegro’s natural wonders, such as the startlingly blue Mediterranean waters surrounding Sveti Stefan and Tara Canyon, the second-deepest canyon in the world.
