Language Programs in Eastern Europe & Russia

The location of your language program in Eastern Europe and Russia will depend primarily on (yup, you guessed it) which language you choose to study. The region houses over 20 countries that all sing a different tune, yet harmonize beautifully with each other. To help ease the burden of choice, take a gander at the breakdown of the most popular locations for language study in Eastern Europe and Russia.

Russia is the world’s largest country, but don’t be overwhelmed by its enormity. When considering Russian language programs, set your sights on St. Petersburg and Moscow. Cheap and efficient public transportation in these cities will be Russian you around to experience the vodka-fueled nightlife, scenic park life, and art life while studying a language abroad in Russia. Whether you're a culture vulture in search of inspiration or an adventure addict looking for new horizons, taking a class to learn Russian in Russia amply delivers.

Hungary is blessed with an abundance of manmade and natural wonders, so there is no shortage of adventure to be had. Because roughly one-third of Hungarians live in Budapest, most language schools in Hungary are within the city limits. After language courses in Budapest, students can head out to experience the local nightlife at some of the city’s ruin bars. And then in the morning, they can join locals in “taking the waters” (dubbed the best hangover cure) in one of the many natural thermal hot springs scattered across the city.

Poland proves to be a captivating destination for people of many interests, but one of the country’s greatest attractions is the Polish language, one of the most interesting and unique languages of Eastern Europe. Language programs in Poland are particularly attractive to those who want to study a more rarely spoken language that is still enormously useful. Krakow and Warsaw should be on your radar, as they show off mesmerizing skylines brought to life by towering skyscrapers that have replaced the dark images of yesteryear. Outside the cities, woods, rivers, lakes, and hills summon you for an afternoon of fresh air fun.

Ukraine is the essence of the road not taken. If you want to journey one of Europe’s last genuine, off-the-grid experiences, consider Kiev and Lviv for a language study in Eastern Europe. Ukraine has always maintained a spirit of resilience and hard work, which is very much alive in its streets today. The quirks and eccentricity that rose up when the dust settled will welcome you like the fairytale the country illustrates with its history, landscape, and architecture.