Traveling Belarus: Beyond the tourist trail

COUNTRY EXPERT

Dmitry Kudrevich

General Manager, Belarus
From historic city streets and vast ancient forests to peaceful lakes and authentic local cuisine, Belarus offers experiences that feel refreshingly genuine. To help you discover the country beyond the headlines, local Kaspersky employee, Dmitry Kudrevich, shares his personal recommendations on what to see, experience, eat and drink when visiting Belarus.

What to see

Kastrichnitskaya Square: If you’re looking for something iconic

If I had to choose one place that captures the spirit of modern Belarus, it would be Kastrichnitskaya (October) Square in Minsk. As one of the city's most important landmarks, it sits at the intersection of Belarus' history, culture and everyday life. I've spent countless evenings here – meeting friends, taking walks and watching the city lights come alive after dark. What makes the square special is its atmosphere. It's spacious, calm and understated, qualities that reflect Minsk itself. Surrounded by significant cultural and government buildings, it offers a glimpse into both the country's past and present. Standing here, you get a real sense of the rhythm and character of Belarus.

Local tip:

Kastrichnitskaya Square

Visit Kastrichnitskaya Square in the early evening, when the city lights begin to illuminate the surrounding buildings. It's one of the best times to experience Minsk's unique atmosphere and watch locals gathering, strolling and enjoying the city at a slower pace.

Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park: If you’re looking for natural beauty

Belovezhskaya Pushcha feels like stepping into another world. One of the oldest and most well-preserved forests in Europe, it offers a rare opportunity to experience nature much as it existed centuries ago. Towering trees, winding trails and vast stretches of untouched wilderness create an atmosphere that is both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The Park is also home to the European bison, one of Belarus' most iconic animals, and seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an experience you'll never forget.

Local tip:

Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park

Set aside enough time to explore beyond the main visitor areas. The real magic of Belovezhskaya Pushcha is found on its quieter forest trails, where you can fully appreciate the tranquillity, wildlife and ancient beauty that makes it so special.

Nemiga Street, Minsk: If you’re looking for a personal favourite

Nemiga is my favorite place in Minsk because it perfectly captures the city's unique character. As one of the oldest streets in the capital, it carries centuries of history, yet it remains one of the city's most vibrant and energetic areas. Here, old and new exist side by side, creating an atmosphere that feels distinctly Minsk. I associate Nemiga with long walks, spontaneous conversations, cosy cafés, live music and the sense that the city is always quietly alive. It's a place where locals gather, where stories unfold and where everyday life feels authentic. For me, Nemiga is more than a street – it’s a collection of memories, emotions and moments that reflect the soul of the city.

Local tip:

Nemiga Street

Visit Nemiga in the late afternoon or evening, when the cafés fill up and the streets come alive. Take your time, wander without a plan and experience the area as locals do: through conversation, people-watching and unhurried exploration.

Braslav Lakes National Park: If you’re looking for a hidden gem

It’s incredibly peaceful and beautiful, especially in summer. I love this place because it feels very real and untouched. Expect quiet mornings, water, forests, and sunsets. It’s perfect if you want to understand how Belarusians relax and enjoy nature without crowds or noise.

Local tip:

Braslav Lakes National Park

The best way to experience Braslav is at a slower pace, where you can discover secluded spots, enjoy uninterrupted views of the lakes and appreciate the tranquillity that makes the region so special.

What to experience

To truly experience Belarus, you should visit Komarovsky Market in Minsk. This is where everyday life happens – locals buy fresh vegetables, berries, cheese, meat, and bread, talk to sellers, and share small moments of daily routine. I love Komarovka because it feels alive and honest. You hear real Belarusian speech, see traditions, and feel the rhythm of the city.

Local tip:

Belarusians value calm, simplicity, and quiet conversations.

This slow pace helps you understand the country not through attractions, but through feelings.

What to eat and drink

Belarusian cuisine is hearty, comforting and deeply connected to the country's agricultural heritage. Many traditional dishes have been passed down through generations and offer an authentic taste of local culture.

You definitely have to try:

Draniki
Belarus' famous potato pancakes, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside
Machanka
A rich, flavourful meat sauce traditionally served with pancakes for dipping.
Kolduny
Stuffed potato dumplings filled with meat and seasoned to perfection.
Kvas
A traditional fermented bread drink with a refreshing, slightly tangy taste. Cranberry mors: A popular fruit drink made from local berries.

Local tip:

One restaurant I always enjoy is Kuhmistr in Minsk.

Warm, welcoming and authentically Belarusian, it offers a wonderful introduction to the country's culinary traditions. The food helps you understand Belarusian culture through taste, not just words.

THREAT EXPERT

Dmitry Galov

Although exciting, travelling can also bring a sense of uncertainty and unease – especially considering the unknown risks to the region. Dmitry Galov, Head of Russia and CIS units at Kaspersky Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT) sha res insight into some of the most pressing threats travelers should be aware of in the region so you can explore the country with peace of mind.

Staying safe during your travels in Belarus

Recommendations:

Avoid accessing online banking, corporate systems, or sensitive accounts over unsecured public Wi-Fi.
Verify the official network name with staff before connecting.
Disable automatic Wi-Fi connection settings on mobile devices.
Prefer mobile data or personal hotspots for sensitive communications whenever possible
Ensure websites use secure HTTPS connections before entering credentials or payment details.

If you need to connect through public Wi-Fi, the VPN included with Kaspersky Premium encrypts your internet traffic, helping protect your personal information while you browse, access travel services or log in to important accounts.