Discover the Best of Central & Eastern Europe: Top Travel Destinations & Local Favorites
Discover the must-see destinations and hidden gems in Central and Eastern Europe with locals' top travel picks.

Central and Eastern Europe have long been celebrated for their rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and culinary delights. As travel rebounds in 2025, local voices at the China–CEEC Expo are eager to share firsthand recommendations, promising visitors a journey that goes beyond standard guidebooks and taps into authentic regional experiences.
Foodies will find themselves in paradise, as each country in the region boasts its own distinctive flavors. Serbian participants at the expo insisted that no trip is complete without trying ćevapi, a grilled meat dish often served with flatbread, onions, and kaymak, a rich dairy spread. North Macedonian delegates recommend tavče gravče, a savory bean stew baked in a clay pot, which is considered both a comfort food and a national symbol. In Albania, locals say travelers must sample byrek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese or minced meat, best enjoyed fresh from a street vendor. Meanwhile, Slovenians pointed to their world-famous cream cake from Lake Bled, describing it as “a sweet finish to any day of sightseeing.”
When it comes to sightseeing, these insiders suggest venturing off the well-worn tourist routes. Serbian representatives highlighted Tara National Park’s pristine forests and dramatic river canyons as an escape from city life. North Macedonia’s Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers not just stunning vistas but also a walk through centuries of history and tradition. Albanian attendees championed Gjirokastër, renowned for its Ottoman-era old town and stone-roofed houses. Slovenians, meanwhile, encouraged exploring Triglav National Park and the emerald waters of the Soča River, calling them “hidden gems for outdoor lovers.”
Souvenir shopping in Central and Eastern Europe is just as unique as the region itself. Participants unanimously agreed: skip the mass-produced trinkets and opt for local crafts. From Serbian hand-painted ceramics and North Macedonian filigree jewelry to Albanian olive oil and Slovenian honey, travelers can take home a piece of each country’s identity.
As the expo underscored, Central and Eastern Europe offer far more than postcard-perfect scenery and ornate churches. With local guidance, visitors are primed to uncover the best-kept secrets—be it through hearty home-cooked meals, breathtaking natural wonders, or one-of-a-kind artisan keepsakes. For those planning a European adventure, this region stands out as a destination where authenticity is guaranteed, and every experience feels personal.