How to get to Vitebsk

When planning a trip to Vitebsk, you are setting off for a picturesque historical centre in the northeast of Belarus, which is rightfully considered the country's cultural capital. Figuring out how to get to Vitebsk is straightforward: the city is accessible via various means, whether by plane, train, bus, or private car. A well-developed transport network allows you to choose the most convenient route to comfortably begin your acquaintance with this amazing region.

Although the region has its own Vostochny Airport (VTB), regular air connections here are limited. The air harbour receives flights quite rarely, mainly serving seasonal charter programmes during the summer period. Therefore, planning a direct flight is only advisable after checking the current schedule for specific dates.

The optimal route for most tourists is flying into Minsk National Airport, which serves as the country's main air gateway. From the capital, you can conveniently reach your destination by ground transport: comfortable trains and intercity buses run regularly, and the travel time is usually about 3–4 hours.

Travelling by train is one of the most convenient and popular ways to reach the city. Vitebsk has direct rail links with Minsk, Moscow, and Saint Petersburg, which saves tourists the need to plan complex routes with transfers. The regular schedule allows you to choose the optimal departure and arrival times, making the trip comfortable and predictable.

The railway station is located not far from the historical part of the city, so upon arrival, travellers can easily reach their hotels or immediately start exploring the sights. A journey by rail also offers the opportunity to enjoy picturesque views from the window, setting the mood for a pleasant holiday while still on the way.

Bus travel remains one of the most affordable ways to get to the city, connecting it with both regional centres and border regions. The route from Smolensk is popular: the journey of about 130 kilometres takes on average 2.5–3 hours, allowing travellers to enjoy the views in comfort. If you are departing from Mogilev, the road will also pass by quickly — the trip lasts about three hours.

Orsha often becomes an important transport hub for tourists, from where bus services regularly depart in the northern direction. The modern bus station of Vitebsk is located quite conveniently in relation to the centre, which allows you to immediately immerse yourself in the rhythm of the cultural capital upon arrival or get to your hotel without unnecessary difficulties.

Travelling by car along the picturesque roads of the region will be an excellent choice for those who value flexibility. The shortest and least tiring route leads from Orsha: covering a distance of 83 kilometres takes just 1 hour and 15 minutes. If you are making your way from Mogilev, the journey will take slightly longer — about 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive 163 kilometres along a high-quality highway.

For travellers heading from the direction of Smolensk, the trip will also prove comfortable: the 132-kilometre path usually takes about two hours. If you do not have personal transport, you can use intercity taxi services; transfer prices are quite reasonable, especially if splitting the cost of the trip among a group of friends or family.

Preparing for a trip to Vitebsk does not require complex arrangements, but knowing local specifics will make your stay much more comfortable. This cozy city in Belarus is distinguished by hospitality and a calm pace of life, and to feel at home here, it is worth considering a few important nuances.

1. Seasonal clothing. The climate here is temperate continental: summers are usually warm, but the weather can be changeable, so even in July, it is worth bringing a light windbreaker and an umbrella. In winter, warm waterproof footwear, a hat, and a down jacket are mandatory, as snowfall and significant frost are not uncommon in the region.
2. Getting around the city. Public transport is excellently developed and includes trams, trolleybuses, and buses. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks at stops (marked "Tabakerka" or "Belsoyuzpechat") or directly from the conductor in the vehicle using cash. Taxi hailing services via mobile applications are also popular and affordable here.
3. Currency and payments. The national currency is the Belarusian Ruble (BYN). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in supermarkets, restaurants, and museums. However, for buying souvenirs from street artisans, at markets, or for paying for minor services, it is better to always have a small supply of cash. You can exchange currency at numerous bank branches.
4. Health and safety. Vitebsk is a calm and safe city where you can walk around the centre without concern even in the evening. Medical points and pharmacies are frequently encountered; the latter are usually marked with a green cross, and finding a 24-hour duty pharmacy will not be difficult.
5. Language and communication. Russian is an official language alongside Belarusian, and all locals speak it fluently. English may be useful only in large hotels, but it is less common in the general urban environment, so a translation app might be helpful for non-Russian speakers.
6. Etiquette. Locals value politeness and cleanliness. It is customary to maintain order on the streets — waste bins are installed everywhere, and littering is considered bad manners. It is also considered good etiquette to give up your seat on public transport to elderly people and passengers with children.
7. Compliance with laws. Strictly avoid the consumption of alcoholic beverages in public places (parks, squares, on the street) — this is prohibited by law and carries administrative liability. It is also extremely important to cross the road only at pedestrian crossings and on the green light, as pedestrians can be fined for traffic violations.
8. Festival note. If you plan to visit the city in July during the famous "Slavianski Bazaar" arts festival, be sure to book accommodation several months before the trip. During this period, the city is overflowing with guests, and finding a free room or apartment upon arrival is practically impossible.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid organizational difficulties and fully focus on the beauty of the architecture and the rich artistic heritage of the city. May your journey be easy and leave only the most pleasant memories!