Tourism

Minsk 2019 is expecting to attract 70,000 tourists to Belarus for the second European Games.

Visitors to the Minsk 2019 European Games can enjoy a visa-free period from June 10 till July 10 with their ticket.

This applies through any border checkpoint of Belarus and it is hoped it will encourage greater tourism in the country.

Citizens of 98 countries can stay in Belarus without a visa during the indicated period, including arriving and departure days.

"Thanks to the European Games, we have a unique chance to show Belarus, tell its interesting history to the whole Europe," Minsk 2019 chief executive Anatoly Kotov said in December 2018.

"At least 50 European countries will follow the event.

"We plan to broadcast the Games in 160 countries.

"This will help attract tourists to Belarus for many years to come.

"As a rule, following any mass events, the number of foreigners eager to see the country increases significantly."

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has compared the European Games to the "positive impact" the 2018 FIFA World Cup has had on Russia and believes the country will also benefit from being a host.

Vladislav Shchepov, chairperson of the House of Representatives' Standing Commission on Economic Policy, has also said the Games would have a positive impact on the tourism sector.

His view was backed by Valery Borodenya, a member of the House of Representatives’ Standing Commission on Budget and Finance, who claimed the event would have a similar impact to the 2014 Men’s World Ice Hockey Championships, which had a positive impact on visitors to the country.

Tourist Guide

Centrekurort

Centrekurort, the largest state operator in Belarus’ tourism market, is offering travel packages, sightseeing tours and accommodation and transfer services for people visiting Minsk for the 2019 European Games.

Both individual tourists and organised groups of fans can use its services, which includes the online portal VETLIVA.

Centrekurort is keen to point out that there is more to Belarus than just the European Games, describing the country as having its own unique and inimitable flavour.

VS Global Travel Company

VS Global Travel Company, whose website can be viewed here, is also offering a wide choice of tour and dates to meet the preferences of those looking to go on vacation in Belarus.

Belarus’ wealth of attractions and architecture can be enjoyed on numerous guided tours offered by private guides and tour operators.