Major mobile providers include A1, MTS, and life:). You can purchase SIM cards at their official stores.
Wi-Wi-fi is common in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls. Belpochta (Белпочта) is the national postal service.
The main languages in Belarus are Belarusian and Russian. Russian is more commonly spoken in Minsk, especially in daily interactions.
Learning a few basic Russian expressions can make your daily interactions smoother.
Using local SIM cards or eSIM services like Airalo can make communication easier. Download translation apps to assist with language differences.
Understand typical operating hours for shops, banks, and attractions.
Shops 10:00-20:00/21:00 (some supermarkets later). Malls 10:00-22:00. Restaurants lunchtime 12:00-15:00, dinner 18:00-23:00. Cafes open earlier; bars/clubs until morning.
Museums 10:00-18:00/19:00, often not Open on mondays. Banks 09:00-18:00 weekdays (some Saturdays). ATMs available 24/7. Always check individual websites for accurate hours.
New Year, Orthodox Christmas, Women's Day, Victory Day, National Day of independence, Labour Day. Government, banks, some businesses may close.
Public holidays in Belarus can change the availability of services and transport schedules.
Some attractions and services operate according to the season, so planning can be valuable.
Verify operating hours for specific attractions and businesses, especially around public holidays. Consider using Priority Pass for airport comfort.
Navigating social interactions and traditions.
Handshakes are common between men. Women may greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek among close friends.
Dress is generally casual in Minsk. Smart casual attire is fitting for dining out or attending cultural events like the opera or ballet.
It is good manners to present to pay for the table in some social settings, though splitting bills is increasingly common. (Refer to Section 2.3 and 7.1 for detailed information on tipping and dining customs.)
Photography is generally permitted in public spaces. Always get consent before taking pictures of people. Inside museums, check for "no flash" or "photos not allowed" signs.
Being respectful of local customs, language, and sensitivities enriches your travel. Modest dress at religious sites is customary.
