Two top sites/places of interest in Belarus

Hi,

I am visiting Belarus this Summer for 4/5 days. I wanted to spend half of the time exploring Minsk which leaves me with enough time to visit one other region of the country. Where would people recommend as the %26#39;must-see site%26#39; in Belarus? I%26#39;m entering and leaving the country from Lithuania, so this might be a factor...

Also, can anyone recommend the best form of transport to take? Car hire seems a little expensive, so I%26#39;d like to know how most people travel around the country.

Finally, can anyone tell me whether tourists need to book everything in advance to obtain a visa or whether it is possible to book the first night in a hotel and then be free to explore?

Thanks!!

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I believe Brest with the Fortress is a nice thing to explore and an easy place to get to on your way back. Grodno is a nice place, too, boasting of a number of undamaged old buildings.

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I would recommend to spend a day or two in Grodno, especially since it%26#39;s close to the Lithuanian border. You can travel by train or bus within the country. There are minivans running between Minsk and Grodno every hour or so. The ride is about 4.5 hours.

I%26#39;d recommend that you check with the Belarus embassy in your home country if they require advance hotel reservations. I belive it may be the case.

Have fun traveling.