Perched on the edge of northeastern Europe’s Baltic Sea, basking in its rich history, unique culture and natural beauty is the gem of Estonia. A nation that seamlessly blends nature and technology, offering an exciting environment imbued with old-world charm and modern dynamism. Estonia rewards travelers with a tapestry of forests, lakes and rugged coastline lines, punctuated by historical sights and a dynamic cultural scene. Our guide delves into this fascinating world, peeling back the layers to reveal what makes Estonia a burgeoning hotspot for globetrotters. From its majestic landmarks, opulent accommodations, tantalizing cuisine to practical travel tips and inspirational itineraries – there’s an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered in Estonia.
Estonia Overview
An Introduction to Estonia
Estonia, a small yet stunningly varied country, is located in the northern part of Europe. In spite of its relatively modest area of 45,227 square kilometres, its lengthy 3,794-kilometre coastline along the Baltic Sea, dotted with numerous islands and islets, never fails to impress.
This Baltic nation hosts a unique medley of Northern and Eastern European cultures. Its capital, Tallinn, showcasing beautifully preserved medieval architecture, sits on the nation’s northern coast. Other regions such as Tartu, Pärnu, and Saaremaa each exude their own distinctive allure.
As of 2021, Estonia is home to around 1.33 million people. Despite being one of the least densely populated members of the European Union, it retains a robust cultural identity, partly owing to the Estonian language, a close relative of Finnish and belonging to the Finno-Ugric family.
With a history as fascinating as it is complex, Estonia first saw settlement over 10,000 years ago. Evidence of these early inhabitants still lingers. A succession of foreign occupations, ending with Soviet rule from 1944 to 1991, have etched their mark on the nation, seen through its diverse architecture to its culinary traditions.
Its Russian heritage still resonates, especially among the nearly 25% of the population identifying as ethnically Russian. However, since its independence in 1991, Estonia has embraced its European roots and sped towards modernisation, positioning itself as one of the globe’s most digitally advanced nations.
Prior to delving in to the richness of this country’s travel opportunities such as its scenic natural wonders, its intriguing history, its distinctive culture, and the dynamic urban scene of Tallinn, it’s worth appreciating the geographical location, compactness, and historical fabric that form the essence of this Northern European gem.
Expect a varied travel experience through Estonia’s many faces – the vibrant city streets and serene national parks, historical castles and contemporary structures, sandy beaches and snow-draped woods. Regardless of whether your passion lies in nature, history, gastronomy, or culture, Estonia won’t disappoint.
Sightseeing and Attractions
The Old Town of Tallinn
Meandering through the cobbled lanes of Tallinn’s Old Town, you’ll feel transported back to the Middle Ages. Aged stone buildings with compelling histories line these narrow streets. This UNESCO World Heritage site hosts splendid attractions such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a splendid representation of Russian Revival architecture, and the medieval Tallinn Town Hall.
The cathedral is open to visitors from 8.00 am to 7.00 pm, seven days a week. The Town Hall opens its doors from 11.00 am to 4.00 pm on weekdays and until 3.00 pm on weekends. Entry to the Town Hall is priced at €5 for adults, €3 for students, under 7s get in for free. The Old Town is easily accessible through a network of buses and trams throughout the city.
Estonian Open Air Museum
Showcasing rural Estonian life during the 18th to 20th centuries, the Estonian Open Air Museum covers a vast 72 hectares and includes a village replete with traditional wooden houses, a school, a church, mills, and farmyards. Located in the Rocca al Mare area of Tallinn, it’s open every day: in summer (23rd April to 28th September) from 10.00 am to 8.00 pm and in winter (29th September to 22nd April) from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. The standard adult ticket costs €10 while children aged 7-14 enter for €5.
Lahemaa National Park
Covering an area of over 700 square kilometres, Lahemaa National Park is Estonia’s largest and oldest national park. The park’s mesmerising landscape includes forests, lakes, rivers, bogs, and a rocky coastline, offering abundant opportunities for hiking and bird watching. Visitors can also explore the park’s four manor houses – Palmse, Sagadi, Vihula, and Kolga, each with its unique charm. There are no specific opening hours, and entry is free.
Tartu
Tartu, Estonia’s second-largest city, is known for its rich culture and historic landmarks. Top sights include the Tartu University Museum in the old observatory, offering fascinating insights into the evolution of science and university life. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 am till 6.00 pm. Adult tickets are priced at €8, while children can visit for €4.
Nearby, the Tartu Art Museum offers an exciting collection of modern and contemporary art. It’s open from Wednesday to Sunday: 12.00 pm – 6.00 pm on Wednesday and Thursday; 12.00 pm – 7.00 pm on Fridays; and 11 am – 6 pm on weekends. The ticket price for adults is €6.
Saaremaa Island
Saaremaa Island, the largest island in Estonia, is a true paradise for nature lovers. The prime attraction, the Kuressaare Castle, is a well-preserved 14th-century fortress, which now hosts the Saaremaa Museum. The museum stays open from Tuesday to Sunday (10.00 am – 6.00 pm) and tickets are priced at €8 for adults, €3 for pupils.
To reach Saaremaa, you can take a bus from Tallinn to Virtsu and then a short ferry ride to the island. Regular flights also connect Tallinn and Kuressaare, the island’s main town.
Explore Parnu
Experience the charm of Parnu, a delightful Estonian town boasting picturesque sandy beaches and historic 19th-century timber architecture. The iconic Parnu Mud Baths, now transformed into the contemporary Hedon Spa & Hotel, are particularly noteworthy. During summer, enjoy a serene walk along the beach promenade or relax in the invitingly warm, shallow waters. The vibrant town centre, teeming with stylish cafes, bars, and shops, is always bustling with life. With its convenient accessibility by bus from Tallinn and other significant Estonian cities, Parnu is an undeniable gem worth exploring.
Accommodations and Dining
Accommodations: Luxury to Budget-Friendly Options in Estonia
Whether you’re seeking lavish indulgence or are budget-focused, Estonia offers a diverse selection of accommodations. Five-star hotels like the Swissotel Tallinn, the Hotel Telegraaf in Tallinn, and the Grand Rose SPA Hotel in Saaremaa provide a taste of opulence with top-tier services, exquisite dining choices, and technologically advanced facilities.
Especially noteworthy is Tallinn’s Old Town area, renowned for its grandeur and enchanting architecture. Many of the luxury hotels here beautifully incorporate modern comforts within well-preserved, historic structures. But the luxury accommodation options don’t stop here. Across Estonia, you’ll discover boutique hotels, enchanting spa resorts, and manor houses elegantly transformed into grand lodgings.
For those mindful of their budget, Estonia’s wide-ranging hostels and guesthouses provide comfort and quality without breaking the bank. Many are centrally located, offering easy access to city highlights, along with clean and comfortable rooms and warm, hospitable service. Notable options include The Monk’s Bunk Kaunas in Tallinn and Tartu Hostel in Tartu, both offering exceptional value for money.
Exploring Estonian Cuisine and Its Gastronomic Delights
The exceptional cuisine of Estonia is a remarkable blend of standard Baltic ingredients with distinct elements of Scandinavian, German and Russian culinary traditions. Common elements within the gastronomic landscape include potatoes, rye bread, pork, fish and dairy products. Furthermore, Estonian cuisine is renowned for its innovative utilization of wild game, and foraged berries and mushrooms.
Tallinn, Estonia’s hub of activity, brims with an array of dining options catering to varied palates and financial plans. The luxury dining landscape largely features global cuisines, but an impressive selection of establishments serve authentic Estonian food. Upscale restaurants such as Ö, Rataskaevu 16, and Tchaikovsky present refined dining experiences where traditional dishes are uniquely reinvented.
To truly immerse in local culture, absolutely ensure a visit to the historical taverns in the Old Town, such as Olde Hansa and Kuldse Notsu Kõrts. Offering more than just food, these venues recreate the essence of the Middle Ages with their traditional food, rustic interiors and merry environment. Delight in age-old dishes like marinated eel, herring, sauerkraut stew and black rye bread, all set within an ambience of history.
Additionally, Estonia’s culinary scene features a hearty street food culture. Around city centres and key tourist destinations, one can find vendors serving meals ranging from gourmet burgers to smoked fish. Lucky travellers might even come across a seasonal food festival, providing taste-bud tantalising local specialities.
Whether you decide to splurge on upscale dining or explore Estonia’s exhilarating street food culture, your culinary expedition in Estonia will undoubtedly enlighten you about the country’s rich heritage and living traditions. Estonia’s food landscape, much like its accommodation scene, offers a vast variety of distinctive flavours, creating a sensory feast to suit all tastes and budgets.
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Navigating Through Estonian Currency and Transactions
The Euro is the established currency in Estonia and is universally acceptable in all places including local markets, shopping centres and restaurants. This makes carrying cash extremely convenient. Credit cards are also commonly accepted throughout the country, particularly within urban areas. Nonetheless, it is advisable to keep some cash handy, particularly when planning excursions into rural areas or smaller towns where digital payment facilities might be limited.
Weather Patterns
Estonia experiences four distinctive seasons. The summers (June-August) are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. Winters (December-February) are cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping below zero. The autumn and spring seasons see milder temperatures and moderate rainfall, making them pleasant times to visit as well. Remember to pack clothing according to the season during which you’ll be travelling.
Estonian Customs and Etiquette
Estonians are generally reserved and value manners and respect. Handshakes are common when meeting someone for the first time. It’s customary to say “Tere”, which means “Hello”, when meeting individuals. In restaurants, it’s standard to tip around 10% of the bill if service has been good. Be prepared for potentially lengthy toasts at dinner, often to health, happiness, and friendship.
Safety in Estonia
Estonia is generally a safe country to visit. Like any destination, though, it’s prudent to take basic safety measures. Keep personal belongings in sight, especially in crowded areas. Always adhere to local laws and regulations to stay trouble-free.
Getting Around Estonia
Public transportation in Estonia is efficient and extensively networked. Tallinn, the capital city, has a good system of buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Outside of cities, bus services connect most towns and villages, while trains operate on certain main routes. Taxis are also available and Uber operates in Tallinn. For those who prefer to self-drive, car rental services are also readily available.
Visa Requirements
Estonia is a member of the Schengen Area, so residents of many countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. However, it’s best to check your country’s specific visa requirements before travelling.
Health and Wellbeing
When planning your trip to Estonia, there’s no need to worry about specific vaccination requirements. To cover unforeseen circumstances, we would advise investing in travel health insurance for the duration of your stay, particularly if you’re a non-EU citizen. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of needing medical attention, rest assured that public hospitals provide a high standard of care. Be mindful, though, that not all the staff may be fluent in English. It would be prudent to include a basic first aid kit in your luggage for any minor health concerns. Estonia is well-known for its high sanitation standards, and you’ll find the tap water perfectly safe for consumption countrywide. If you’re planning on stepping into the great outdoors, note that ticks can be a bit of a bother in forested areas during the summer months. Insect repellent and long clothing are your best defence when traipsing through the woodlands.
Itinerary Suggestions
Travelling Solo
Estonia proves to be an ideal destination for those venturing out on their own. Whether you have an interest in captivating historical tales, breathtaking natural scenery or buzzing city life, Estonia has something for every solo traveller. A stay of 7 to 10 days is usually sufficient to experience a comprehensive overview of everything the country has to offer. Start your Estonian adventure in Tallinn, the capital city, famous for its stunning Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dedicate 2-3 days to roam the cobbled streets and absorb the rich history before hopping on a train to Tartu, the country’s intellectual hub. Home to Estonia’s oldest University, Tartu boasts a friendly, academic atmosphere that you will want to indulge in for a day or two. Finish your journey on a refreshing note by venturing south to Estonia’s national parks, such as Soomaa and Lahemaa. The contrasting landscapes, from marshlands to coastlines, will provide a refreshing change of pace following your urban adventures.
Family Traveling
For families visiting Estonia, a 10-to-14-day trip is a typical recommendation. Tallinn is a family-friendly starting point, with attractions like the Tallinn Zoo, Estonian Open Air Museum, and AHHAA Science Centre. Families can also indulge in paddleboarding near Pirita beach. After five days in Tallinn, take a leisurely drive to the picturesque Haapsalu, a seaside town. Spend 2 days here, taking in the Baltic sea’s beautiful sights and perhaps visiting Haapsalu Castle. From here, head to the island of Saaremaa, accessible by ferry. It’s an excellent place for families to introduce children to the wonders of nature.
Couples on Holiday
Estonia, with its enchanting landscapes and serene environment, is a perfect getaway destination for couples. Usually, an extended weekend of 3-5 days is sufficient for couples. Begin with a walk in the romantic, fairy-tale streets of Tallinn’s Old Town. Further enhance the romantic setting with a day trip to the scenic coastal cliffs at Pakri Peninsula. End your trip with an intimate spa retreat in Haapsalu or Pärnu.
Traveling with Friends
For groups of friends, Estonia can offer an exciting and diverse experience over 5 to 7 days. Begin your journey in Tallinn, where diverse activities range from historical site tours to vibrant pubs and clubs in the city’s hipster district Telliskivi. Spend a couple of days, proceed to Tartu, and explore the bustling student life and cultural activities. Finally, visit the island of Saaremaa or Hiiumaa for camping, bird watching, and hiking.
Overall, moving around the country is quite straightforward
Estonia’s public transport network is well developed, to the point that even its remote natural sites are reasonably accessible. For urban travel, city buses, trams, and taxis are omnipresent while cycling is also encouraged in cities like Tartu. For intercity travel, trains and buses are the most common, while ferries are required to reach the islands. However, for the utmost convenience, particularly for groups or families, renting a car might be the easiest mode of transport. It also offers the added benefit of flexibility with your itinerary, allowing spontaneous detours and stopovers.
From the cobblestone streets of Tallinn’s old town to the tranquil beauty of Lahemaa National Park, Estonia presents a patchwork of delightful experiences that fuse tradition and innovation. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, family or a couple seeking an off-the-beaten-path romantic rendezvous, this guide to Estonia offers all the insights and information needed to ensure a seamless and memorable trip. So, immerse yourself into Estonia’s tapestry of picturesque landscapes, historic jewels, culinary delights and cultural vibrancy. With this guide in your hands, all that’s left is for you to pack your bags and set off on the journey of a lifetime to Estonia, where every sojourn echoes with enchantment and refinement.
