Estonia

Estonia: general info for travelers

Estonia is a small country located in northern Europe, on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea. It has a population of around 1.3 million people and its capital city is Tallinn. Estonia has a rich history, having been ruled by various powers throughout the years, including the Germans, Swedes, and Russians. Today, Estonia is a member of the European Union and NATO and is known for its high-tech industry, beautiful natural landscapes, and fascinating cultural heritage. The country is also home to many museums, art galleries, and theaters, as well as numerous outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and boating.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Estonia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Estonia: places to visit

Here are some of the main places to visit in Estonia and a brief description of each: 1. Tallinn Old Town - The walled city of Tallinn's old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved buildings and architecture from the medieval era. The old town has a lot to offer, including museums, art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and an impressive city wall.
2. Lahemaa National Park - Located on the northern coast of Estonia, Lahemaa National Park has many trails and hiking routes for nature lovers to explore. It also houses traditional fishing villages, manor houses, and historic landmarks that provide an experience of Estonian culture and history.
3. Haapsalu - Haapsalu is a charming seaside town that has a lot to offer visitors. It is home to many historical landmarks, including a castle, and has seaside promenades that offer stunning views of the sea.
4. Tartu - Tartu is Estonia's second-largest city and is known as a hub of culture and education. Tartu has many museums, cafes, and bars that can keep visitors entertained for days on end. It's also home to some of Estonia's finest examples of neoclassical architecture.
5. Saaremaa Island - Saaremaa Island is famous for its unspoiled nature, beaches, and lush greenery. The island has a rich cultural heritage, including medieval churches, ruins, and windmills. It's a great place to relax and unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of Estonia.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Estonia, and each of them has its unique offerings that make Estonia a great country to explore.
There is more to see and do in Estonia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Estonia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Estonia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Estonia experiences four distinct seasons, with considerably varying weather throughout the year.
Summer (June to August) is the warmest and sunniest season, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). This is the best time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and exploring the countryside.
Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). The colors of the changing foliage make it a beautiful time to visit, and there are also cultural festivals and events happening in the cities.
Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures averaging around -5°C (23°F) and sometimes dipping below -20°C (-4°F). If you enjoy winter sports like skiing or ice skating, this is the perfect time to visit. There are also Christmas markets and festive traditions to enjoy.
Spring (March to May) brings warmer temperatures, but with some rainy days. The countryside comes back to life with blossoming flowers, and there are also cultural festivals and events happening during this season.
In general, the best months to visit Estonia for tourism are from May to September, or during the Summer season. However, each season has its own unique charms and attractions, so the best time to visit really depends on your interests and preferences.

Estonia: activities and what to do

There are many activities and sports to enjoy during a holiday in Estonia. Here are some options to consider: 1. Hiking: Estonia has a lot of beautiful forests and nature reserves which are perfect for hiking. One of the most popular destinations is Lahemaa National Park.
2. Water sports: Estonia's coastline boasts fantastic opportunities for various water activities, such as windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming.
3. Cycling: Estonia has a network of over 1,000 km of cycling trails, from coastal paths to forest trails. It's an excellent way to explore the country and stay active.
4. Golf: Estonia has a few internationally renowned golf courses, such as Pärnu Bay Golf Links and Saare Golf.
5. Winter sports: Estonia's winter activities include ice-skating, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and even snowshoeing. 6. Beach sports: In summer, Estonians love to play beach volleyball, beach tennis, and beach football on Estonia’s long and sandy beaches.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Estonia!

Estonia: few words on history and culture

Estonia has a rich and diverse history and culture. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and has been ruled by various different powers including the Danish, German, Swedish, and Russian empires. In 1918, Estonia declared independence from Russia and became a republic. However, it was occupied by the Soviet Union during World War II and didn't regain its independence until the fall of the Iron Curtain in 1991.
Estonia's culture is heavily influenced by its location at the crossroads of different civilizations, as well as by its unique language and folklore. Estonians are known for their love of nature, music, and dance, and their traditions are celebrated through festivals and folk art. There is also a thriving contemporary arts scene in Estonia, with many museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. Overall, Estonia is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture that is well worth exploring.

Estonia: how to move around on holiday

Estonia can be reached by various means of transport, including: 1. Plane: The quickest and most convenient way to reach Estonia is by plane. The country has one international airport in Tallinn, which is well-connected to major cities across Europe.
2. Ferry: There are regular ferry services between Estonia and Helsinki (Finland) and Stockholm (Sweden).
3. Train: There are train connections from St. Petersburg (Russia) to Narva and Tallinn.
4. Bus: Bus services are available from major European cities to Tallinn and other cities in Estonia.
Once you reach Estonia, you can get around the country by using public transport such as buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Taxis are also readily available and relatively inexpensive. For those who prefer to drive themselves, renting a car is also an option. To hire a car to visit Estonia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Estonia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Estonia with a full stomach:D
Certainly! Estonian cuisine has a strong rustic influence due to its historical ties with the countryside. Here are some typical foods: 1. Black bread: This is Estonia's staple bread and is made from rye flour. The bread is dense, moist and has a distinctive flavor.
2. Kama: This is a traditional Estonian porridge made from a mixture of roasted barley, rye, oat and pea flour. It is often mixed with buttermilk or yogurt and served with fruit.
3. Smoked fish: As Estonia is a coastal country, smoked fish is a popular dish. Traditionally, fish such as salmon, herring or eel are smoked over an open fire and served with potatoes and a side salad.
4. Blood sausage: This is a traditional sausage made from pig's blood and barley or buckwheat groats. It is typically boiled or grilled and served with sauerkraut and potatoes.
5. Sauerkraut stew: Sauerkraut stew is a hearty dish made with sauerkraut, pork, potatoes, carrots, onions, and sometimes bacon. It is a comforting dish that is perfect for an Estonian winter.
6. Marzipan: Marzipan is a sweet almond-based candy that has been popular in Estonia since the Middle Ages. It is often shaped into fruit or animal shapes.
These are just some examples of Estonian cuisine. I hope this helps!

Estonia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Compared to some other European countries, Estonia is generally considered to be an affordable and budget-friendly destination for tourists. However, prices for accommodation, food, and attractions may vary depending on the season, location, and type of activity you choose. For example, the capital city of Tallinn can be slightly more expensive than smaller towns, but still reasonably priced overall. Additionally, some tourist hotspots and popular restaurants may have higher prices. Nonetheless, with a bit of research and planning, it is definitely possible to have an enjoyable trip to Estonia without breaking the bank.

Estonia: where to find accodation

There are several popular websites you can use to search for accommodation in Estonia. Here are a few options: 1. Booking.com - This website offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, apartments, guesthouses, and hostels.
2. Airbnb - This platform is great for finding unique and affordable accommodations, such as apartments, homestays, and rooms for rent.
3. Expedia - This website offers a variety of options, including hotels, flights, and car rentals.
4. Hostelworld - This website specialises in hostels, offering thousands of options for budget travellers.
5. Tripadvisor - This website not only allows you to search and book accommodations, but also provides reviews and ratings from other travellers. Make sure to read reviews and compare prices before booking to ensure you find the best accommodation for your needs and budget.
You can check hotel prices in Estonia here:
Booking.com

Estonia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to Statista, Estonia received approximately 3.85 million tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists in 2020 was significantly lower.
In terms of crowded periods, Estonia tends to be busiest during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warmer and there are many festivals and events happening throughout the country. Additionally, Tallinn, the capital city, can be particularly crowded during weekends and holidays, especially during Christmas markets. Therefore, it is recommended to plan your trip accordingly and book accommodations and activities in advance to avoid any potential crowds or availability issues.
Estonia is generally considered a safe country for tourists. The crime rate is low, and violent crime is rare. However, as in any country, there are areas where tourists should take care.
Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas such as public transportation, markets, and major tourist attractions, so it's a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and never leave them unattended.
The Old Town of Tallinn can be crowded at times, especially during high tourist season. While there aren't any particular areas to be avoided, tourists should take care in areas with clubs and bars at night.
Overall, Estonia is a safe country, and tourists can enjoy its beauty and culture without significant concerns for their safety.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Estonia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Estonia: events for tourists

There are a lot of interesting events and festivals that take place in Estonia throughout the year. Here are just a few of them: 1. Tallinn Music Week - A music festival that takes place every March in Tallinn, featuring both local and international acts.
2. Estonian Song and Dance Festival - A massive event that takes place once every five years, featuring large choirs and folk dancing.
3. Viljandi Folk Music Festival - A celebration of Estonian folk music that takes place every July in the small town of Viljandi.
4. Pärnu Beach Days - A week-long beach festival that takes place in Pärnu every summer, featuring live music, food, and activities.
5. Tallinn Christmas Market - A traditional Christmas market held in Tallinn's Town Hall Square every December, featuring local crafts, food, and drink.
6. Haapsalu Horror and Fantasy Film Festival - For movie buffs, this festival held in Haapsalu every May showcases horror and fantasy films from around the world.
These are just a few examples of the many cultural events and festivals that Estonia has to offer.

Estonia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Estonia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly, here is a suggested two week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Estonia: Day 1-3: Tallinn Explore the capital city Tallinn, stroll around the charming medieval Old Town, visit the historic Kadriorg Palace, Tallinn Town Hall, and the Kiek in de Kök fortification tower, and take a panoramic view of the city from atop the Tallinn TV Tower.
Day 4-5: Tartu Travel south to the university town of Tartu, admire the striking architecture of the Town Hall Square and visit the Estonian National Museum to learn about the country's history and culture.
Day 6-7: Lahemaa National Park Take a day trip to the peaceful Lahemaa National Park, submerse yourself in the tranquil nature and enjoy the scenic trails, waterfalls and rugged coastline.
Day 8-9: Saaremaa Island Head west to the largest Estonian island of Saaremaa, take a stroll along the Kuressaare Castle walls, and visit the cliff formations at Kaali.
Day 10-11: Pärnu Take a break in the seaside town of Pärnu, relax on the sandy beach and enjoy the local food and beverage offerings.
Day 12-14: Hiiumaa Island End the journey with a visit to the serene and picturesque Hiiumaa Island; hike in Käina Bay Nature Reserve, Visit the Kõpu Lighthouse, and experience the unique Estonian wooden decorated chapels called "heavens".
This itinerary provides a diverse mix of historical, cultural, natural and leisure experiences. However, feel free to adjust it to your liking based on your interest and pace.

Estonia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Estonia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Abja-Paluoja is a small town located in the southern part of Estonia. It has a population of around 1,500 people and is situated in the Viljandi County. The town is known for its beautiful nature and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Abja-Paluoja
- Elva is a small town located in southern Estonia, about 25 km south of Tartu. It has a population of around 5,000 people and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including forests, lakes, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Elva
- Haapsalu is a small town located in western Estonia, near the coast of the Baltic Sea. It is known for its picturesque wooden houses, historic castle ruins, and famous spas. The town is surrounded by ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Haapsalu
- Jogeva is a small town located in the eastern part of Estonia, known for its beautiful landscapes and natural attractions. It is situated in Jõgeva County and has a population of around 5,000 people. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jogeva
- Jõhvi is a town situated in northeastern Estonia, near the Gulf of Finland. It is located in Ida-Viru County and has a population of approximately 10,000 people. Jõhvi is known for its cultural events... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jõhvi
- Kallaste is a small town located in eastern Estonia, on the shore of Lake Peipus. It is situated in the Tartu County and has a population of approximately 1,100 people. Kallaste is known for its beaut... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kallaste
- Karksi-Nuia is a small town located in southern Estonia, approximately 160 kilometers southeast of Tallinn. It is situated in the Viljandi County, near the Latvian border. The town has a population of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karksi-Nuia
- Keila is a small town located in Harju County, Estonia. It is situated about 25 kilometers southwest of the capital city, Tallinn. The town has a population of around 10,000 people and is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Keila
- Kilingi-Nõmme is a small town located in southwestern Estonia, near the Latvian border. It has a population of around 2,000 people and is part of Pärnu County. The town has a rich history dating back ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kilingi-Nõmme
- Kiviõli is a small town located in northern Estonia, about 110 km east of the capital city, Tallinn. The town is known for its oil shale industry and the Kiviõli Adventure Center, which offers a varie... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kiviõli
- Kose is a small town located in northern Estonia, about 30 kilometers southeast of Tallinn, the country's capital city. The town has a population of around 2,000 people and is known for its picturesqu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kose
- Kunda is a town in northern Estonia, located on the coast of the Gulf of Finland. The town has a population of approximately 3,000 people and is known for its industrial heritage, including a cement f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kunda
- Kuressaare is a town located on the Saaremaa Island, off the western coast of Estonia. It is the capital of the Saare County and has a population of around 14,000 people. The town is well-known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kuressaare
- Kärdla is a town located on the island of Hiiumaa in Estonia. It is the largest town on the island, with a population of around 3,000 people. Kärdla is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kärdla
- Loksa is a small town located in northern Estonia, about 60 kilometers east of Tallinn - the capital city. It is situated on the coast of the Gulf of Finland and is known for its beautiful sandy beach... CONTINUE here for a trip to Loksa
- Narva is a town in northeastern Estonia, located on the border with Russia. It is the third-largest city in Estonia and has a population of around 55,000 people. The town is famous for its beautiful m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Narva
- Otepää is a small town located in southern Estonia and is known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. It is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and rivers, making it a popular destinat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Otepää
- Paide is a small town located in central Estonia, approximately 90 km southeast of the capital city, Tallinn. It has a population of around 8,000 people and is the administrative centre of Järva Count... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paide
- Paikuse is a small town located in the Pärnu County in southwestern Estonia, approximately 5 km southeast of Pärnu city center. It has a population of around 2,000 people and covers an area of 31.5km²... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paikuse
- Pärnu is a city located in southwestern Estonia, on the coast of the Gulf of Riga. It is the fourth largest city in Estonia and a popular destination for both locals and tourists due to its sandy beac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pärnu
- Põltsamaa is a town in Jõgeva County, Estonia. It is located on the banks of the Põltsamaa River and has a population of around 4,000 people. The town is known for its historic castle, which dates bac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Põltsamaa
- Põlva is a small town located in southeastern Estonia, near the Russian border. It has a population of around 5,000 people and is the administrative center of Põlva County. The town is surrounded by b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Põlva
- Rakvere is a town located in northern Estonia, approximately 100 km east of the capital city, Tallinn. It is the fifth largest town in Estonia and is known for its historic castle, which dates back to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rakvere
- Rapla is a small town in Estonia, situated in the central part of the country. It is the capital of Rapla County and has a population of around 5,000 people. The town is surrounded by beautiful forest... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rapla
- Saku is a small borough located in the Harju County of Estonia. It is situated about 20 kilometers southwest of the capital city, Tallinn, and covers an area of approximately 7.7 square kilometers. Sa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saku
- Sillamäe is a town located in the northeastern part of Estonia, bordering Russia. It has a population of approximately 14,000 people and its main industries are oil shale mining and chemical productio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sillamäe
- Tallinn is the capital city of Estonia, located on the northern coast of the country on the Gulf of Finland. It has a population of approximately 450,000 people and is the country's political, cultura... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tallinn
- Tamsalu is a small town located in northern Estonia, about 90 km east of the capital city of Tallinn. It is part of Lääne-Viru County and has a population of approximately 1,600 people. Tamsalu is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tamsalu
- Tapa is a small town located in northern Estonia, approximately 90 kilometers from the capital city of Tallinn. It is situated in the middle of an important transportation hub, with highways, railways... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tapa
- Tartu is the second largest city in Estonia, located in the southern part of the country. It is known for its prestigious university, rich cultural history and vibrant nightlife. The city boasts numer... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tartu
- Tootsi is a small town located in southwestern Estonia, near the city of Pärnu. It has a population of around 800 people and is known for its historic manor house, which dates back to the 18th century... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tootsi
- Türi is a small town located in central Estonia with a population of approximately 5,000 people. The town is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, historic buildings, and its location at the cros... CONTINUE here for a trip to Türi
- Valga is a small town in southern Estonia, located right on the border with Latvia. It has a population of around 13,000 people and is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful natura... CONTINUE here for a trip to Valga
- Viljandi is a small town located in the southern part of Estonia, approximately 145 kilometers southeast of the capital city, Tallinn. With a population of around 17,000 people, it is known for its st... CONTINUE here for a trip to Viljandi
- Väike-Maarja is a small town in northern Estonia, located about 80 kilometers east of the capital city, Tallinn. It is located in Lääne-Viru County and has a population of around 2,000 people. The tow... CONTINUE here for a trip to Väike-Maarja
- Vändra is a town located in southwestern Estonia, in the county of Pärnu. It has a population of around 1400 people and is situated on the banks of the Vändra River. The town is known for its beautifu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vändra
- Võru is a small city located in the southeastern part of Estonia. It has a population of approximately 13,500 people and is the cultural, educational, and economic center of Võru County. Võru is famou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Võru


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