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Estonia

Photo by Hongbin on Unsplash

Estonia

Europe

Estonia, a hidden gem in the Baltic region, is known for its stunning medieval architecture, vibrant digital culture, and picturesque landscapes. Experience the enchanting streets of Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, explore the serene islands like Saaremaa, and delve into Estonia's rich history at its many castles and museums. With pristine national parks perfect for hiking and a lively art scene, Estonia is an alluring destination for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Cost

Standard

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

Language

Estonian

(20-50% speak English)

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Places to Visit in Estonia

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Estonia

1. Tallinn

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a captivating blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town features cobblestone streets, stunning Gothic spires, and the impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Explore the lively Telliskivi Creative City for a taste of local art, cuisine, and culture. Don't miss the panoramic views from Toompea Hill and the quirky Kumu Art Museum. With a burgeoning nightlife and a rich history, Tallinn offers a unique gateway to explore Northern European heritage.

Place type

City

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

History

Known for
Estonia

2. Tartu

Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city, is a vibrant hub of culture and education known for its historic university, charming architecture, and lively arts scene. Visitors can explore the Tartu University Observatory, stroll through the picturesque Old Town, and enjoy the innovative science center AHHAA. The welcoming atmosphere, dotted with cozy cafes and museums, makes it ideal for young travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and nightlife.

Place type

City

Target stay

3-4 days

Vibe

History

Known for
Estonia

3. Pärnu

Pärnu, known as the summer capital of Estonia, is famed for its beautiful sandy beaches, vibrant spa culture, and charming old town. With a lively arts scene, it's perfect for young travelers seeking relaxation, fun beach parties, or biking along scenic coastal paths. Key attractions include the Pärnu Beach Promenade, historical architecture, and various music festivals during the summer. Pärnu also boasts rejuvenating wellness retreats, making it a destination for both adventure and relaxation.

Place type

City

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for
Estonia

4. Saaremaa

Saaremaa, Estonia's largest island, captivates visitors with its stunning coastal landscapes, charming villages, and rich history. Renowned for its unique attractions like the medieval Kuressaare Castle and the iconic Kihnu Lighthouse, the island also features serene beaches and pristine nature reserves. Beyond natural beauty, Saaremaa hosts vibrant local festivals and offers wellness retreats, making it a perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure seekers alike.

Place type

Island

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for
Estonia

5. Rakvere

Rakvere is a charming town in Estonia, known for its rich medieval history, highlighted by the stunning Rakvere Castle which offers immersive experiences and panoramic views. The town boasts unique attractions like the quirky 'Viru Inn' and the modern 'Rakvere Theatre.' With vibrant cultural events, a picturesque old town, and nearby nature trails, Rakvere appeals to both history buffs and nature lovers seeking a delightful blend of activities in a compact setting.

Place type

Town

Target stay

2-3 days

Vibe

History

Known for
Estonia

6. Narva

Narva, Estonia's third-largest city, charms visitors with its rich history and striking architecture. Known for the Narva Castle, with its panoramic views of the Ivangorod Fortress across the river, Narva offers a unique blend of cultures: Estonian and Russian. The scenic banks of the Narva River are perfect for leisurely strolls, while vibrant events like the Narva Music Festival showcase the city's cultural heartbeat. Explore ancient fortifications, local cafés, and the nearby scenic countryside, making Narva a treasure for history buffs and culture seekers alike.

Place type

City

Target stay

2-3 days

Vibe

History

Known for
Estonia

7. Hiiumaa

Hiiumaa, the second-largest island of Estonia, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, serene beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the island's lighthouses, lush forests, and charming small towns. Unique attractions like the Hiiumaa Museum and the historic Kihnu Lighthouse captivate history buffs, while the diverse birdwatching opportunities enrich wildlife enthusiasts. With a laid-back vibe and gorgeous landscapes, Hiiumaa is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

Place type

Island

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for
Estonia

8. Viljandi

Viljandi is a charming town in Estonia known for its stunning lakeside views, medieval castle ruins, and vibrant culture. It's famous for the Viljandi Folk Music Festival, which attracts artists and visitors from all over. Explore the picturesque streets, enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding the town, and partake in local traditions. Viljandi's combination of history, music, and scenic landscapes offers a unique escape that appeals to both adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts.

Place type

Town

Target stay

2-3 days

Vibe

History

Known for
Estonia

9. Lahemaa National Park

Lahemaa National Park is a stunning gem in Estonia, known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore picturesque coastal trails, ancient forests, and charming manor houses that reflect the country's history. The park offers a unique opportunity to experience Estonia's natural beauty, with activities like hiking, cycling, and birdwatching, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Place type

Nature Reserve

Target stay

2-3 days

Vibe

Active

Known for
Estonia

10. Setomaa

Nestled in southeastern Estonia, Setomaa is a unique blend of culture and nature, known for its rich Seto heritage and traditions. Visitors can explore the scenic landscapes dotted with traditional Seto farms, vibrant handicrafts, and the enchanting Võru and Seto folk music. Unique experiences include sampling local food in communal feasts and participating in captivating cultural festivals. The pristine lakes and forests offer tranquil escapes, appealing to those seeking culture and adventure alike.

Place type

Region

Target stay

2-3 days

Vibe

History

Known for

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

6 (#32 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Estonian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Raim

VE

Traditional Estonian rye bread. (National dish)

Verivorst

Blood sausage, a festive dish.

Mulgikapsad

Cabbage and pork stew, hearty meal.

Kiluvõileib

V

Open-faced herring sandwich.

Rosolje

Beetroot salad with herring.

Phrases to learn

English

Estonian

Hello

Tere

(Teh-reh)

Yes/No

Jah / Ei

(Yah / Ey)

Thank you

Aitäh

(Eye-tah)

Excuse me

Vabandust

(Vah-bahn-doost)

How much?

Kui palju?

(Kwee pahl-yoo)