estonia places to visit map

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Estonia

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on October 3, 2023

Located in Northern Europe, Estonia is a largely underrated gem. In addition to being affordable for travelers, Estonia boasts medieval cities, scenic coastlines and a fascinating history. Bordered by Russia, Latvia, the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea, Estonia is also more accessible than many travelers expect. Among the best places to visit in Estonia are castles, national parks and cultural hotspots. Tallinn is amazing, but it’s not the only Estonian destination worth exploring!

10. Viljandi [SEE MAP]

In Southern Estonia is the small city of Viljandi. The city has a rich history that is nearly 2,600 years old, and plenty of historic architecture still remains. The 16th century ruins of the Viljandi Order Castle, for example, are a major attraction. The biggest reason to visit Viljandi, however, is the annual folk music festival. Every July, the city attracts as many as 20,000 visitors who come specifically for the folk music. Dozens of concerts are held in every venue imaginable, and the event is the largest music festival in the entire country.

9. Soomaa National Park [SEE MAP]

Soomaa National Park is a fascinating destination. Primarily a peat bog formed as a result of glacier melt from more than 10,000 years ago, Soomaa National Park is cut by several beautiful rivers. The best way to explore Soomaa is with a canoe. You rent canoes or join a self-guided tour, and as you paddle you’ll be able to spot deer, elk, boars, beavers, golden eagles and more. Canoeing is especially popular in the spring, or what locals call the fifth season. During this time of year, water levels rise substantially, and boats are sometimes the only way to get around.

8. Rakvere Castle [SEE MAP]

Northern Estonia is home to Rakvere, a city where humans have lived for nearly 1,500 years. The city’s biggest attractions is Rakvere Castle, which was constructed in the 16th century. The castle has become a kind of medieval theme park, and costumed visitors and staff wander the grounds. You can watch knights polishing their armor, see an alchemist’s workshop and tour the ancient wine cellar. In the castle’s Shenkenberg Tavern, you can even dine on classic medieval dishes. Visiting the castle is an unforgettable way to bring history to life.

7. Hiiumaa [SEE MAP]

When most people picture Estonia, they don’t picture islands. However, Hiiumaa is just one of several islands off the coast and in the Baltic Sea. To reach Hiiumaa, you can take a plane from Tallinn or a ferry from multiple coastal cities on the mainland. Equally loved by surfers, sailors, and hikers, Hiiumaa is great place to visit for those looking for peace and quiet. The island also boast many interesting lighthouses. The 19th century cast iron Tahkuna Lighthouse is the tallest in the country. The Kõpu Lighthouse, however, is far older. Dating back to the 15th century, Kõpu is one of the oldest lighthouses on the planet.

6. Narva Castle [SEE MAP]

The city of Narva is the easternmost destination in the country, not to mention the entire European Union. The city was heavily bombed during World War II, but thankfully the beautiful and historic Narva Castle still stands. The castle, which is also known as Hermann Castle, was built in the 13th century but the Danes as a residence for the Danish King’s vice-Regent. Inside the castle is the Narva Museum as well as a collection of handicrafts workshops where you can watch and even learn the skills used in medieval times. The castle tower overlooks the Ivangorod castle on the Russian side of the river.

5. Parnu [SEE MAP]

Where the Parnu River meets the Gulf of Riga, you’ll find the coastal resort city of Parnu. Parnu is known as the summer capital, because it is where so many Estonians choose to take their summer vacations. The biggest reason to come to Parnu is the beach, which boasts fine, white sand and gorgeous dunes. The beach promenade runs along the shore and helps to create the traditional coastal resort feel in the city. Even after the sun sets for the day, lighting along the promenade ensures that people are still walking and enjoying the coastal scenery. If a rainy afternoon appears, join the locals at Vee Park, a popular indoor water park in Parnu.

4. Saaremaa [SEE MAP]

The largest Estonian island is called Saaremaa, and it is located in the Baltic Sea. The island has an 8,000-year-old history, and was ruled by Danes, Swedes, Germans and Russians in that time. Today, most visitors spend their time in the island’s capital city of Kuressaare. In Kuressaare, you can explore the completely intact medieval castle. You can tour the castle and the grounds, which now serve as home to the Regional Museum of Saaremaa. If you’re interested in hiking, sightseeing, birdwatching or photography, then Saaremaa’s Sõrve Peninsula is a spectacularly scenic destination to explore.

3. Lahemaa National Park [SEE MAP]

One of the most popular national parks in Estonia is Lahemaa. Since it is just an hour’s drive from the capital, it is the ideal day trip. Viru Raba, or Viru Bog, is a must-see part of the park. Trees poke from the swampy ground, and there is a definite ethereal quality. To make it easy to explore Viru Bog, there is a 5-km (3-mile) boardwalk that is usually dry, keeping you out of the water but close enough to admire the scenery. In the middle of the park is Sagadi Village, a fascinating spot where you can tour Sagadi Manor and learn more about the culture and history of the region.

2. Tartu [SEE MAP]

The city of Tartu is considered the intellectual hub of the country, thanks to the impressive and well-known University of Tartu. Between the university and the fact that Tartu is the oldest city in the nation, this city is clearly an interesting destination. Its handsome centre is lined with classically designed 18th-century buildings, many of which have been put to innovative uses. One of the coolest attractions in Tartu is the soup neighborhood. In the soup neighborhood, every street is named after soup ingredients like potatoes, beans and peas. Old wooden houses line these streets, which are just next to the Emajõgi River.

1. Tallinn [SEE MAP]

The most popular place to visit in Estonia is Tallinn , the capital and the hub of medieval architecture. The heart of the city is called Toompea, a hill that retains a historic atmosphere thanks to cobblestone streets and 15th century buildings. The area is amazingly preserved and accessible on foot. From the top of Toompea, you can look out over much of the Old City. Some highlights of the Old City include the bustling shops on Viru Street, the 14th century Town Hall and the opulent 19th century Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Share this post:

15 Best Things to do in Tallinn, Estonia

17 Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

6 Most Beautiful Regions of Europe

10 Most Captivating Gothic Cathedrals of Medieval Europe

22 Top Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia

15 Best Cities to Visit in Serbia

10 Best Places to Visit in Cyprus

10 Most Beautiful National Parks Finland

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Cyprus

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Estonia

15 Best Places to Visit in Estonia

The last truly European nation before the great swathe of Russia takes over in the east, Estonia offers travelers a fascinating mixture of Slavic, Russian, Scandinavian and altogether unique local cultures. It ranges from the beautiful, windswept coastlines of the Baltic Sea and the Finnish Gulf to the rolling forests around Tartu in the south, and offers up some amazing and wondrous destinations along the way.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Estonia :

The mighty rises of Toompea Hill are what define Estonia’s magnificent capital ; soaring in a curious medley of Orthodox onion domes and medieval bulwarks right in the heart of the town. Below this sprawls one chocolate box of a walled city, where stony streets and shadowy alleyways open up onto an enthralling market square and curiously-named keeps like ‘Fat Margaret’ soar above the crenulated fortifications.

Given the UNESCO tag, the glorious array of historical monuments and the buzzing collection of shops, beer halls and Estonian eateries, it’s hardly surprising that this one’s on the up as one of Europe’s most coveted capitals. And that’s not even mentioning the bohemian streets of Kalamaja, or the palaces and parks of the Kadriorg district!

Nestled neatly on the edge of its very own little coastal inlet on the Gulf of Riga, Parnu comes complete with one of the Baltic’s best stretches of pearly-white sand. It’s backed by the all-new and indelibly lively Beach Promenade, where babbling fountains abut al fresco restaurants and the courses of a truly excellent bike track.

And in the centre of the town itself, the remnants of an Art Deco boom in the 20s add a real dash of class to the resort, spas rise unexpectedly on the street corners, Ruutli Street beats to a night time tune, and charming timber villas dot the outskirts. In short: this one’s every inch Estonia’s summertime capital!

In the warmer months of the year, Otepaa draws in modest crowds of hikers and mountain bikers to the winding trails of Valga County, for strolling through the thick fir forests and walking around the banks of Puhajarve Lake. However, it’s when the snows come that this self-proclaimed winter capital of Estonia really hits its stride.

Nordic ski tracks delve deep into the woods, the ski jumps roar with local cheers and the various downhill alpine runs offer a smattering of beginner and intermediate pistes. Aside from the outdoors action, Otepaa also boasts one gorgeous church spire and the crumbling remains of an aged citadel for the history buffs.

4. Soomaa National Park

The flooded forests and mystical bayous of the Soomaa National Park represent unquestionably one of the most beautiful and enchanting destinations in all of Estonia. All-in-all the site encompasses a whopping 359 square kilometers of undulating dunes and low-lying peat bogs, which oscillate between ochre-brown, verdant green and ice-caked white with the changing of the seasons.

Unsurprisingly, ecotourism has boomed here in recent years, and today outdoorsy travelers and intrepid types flock here to hit the water capillaries of the Raudna River and Parnu Basin on canoes and kayaks, or to hike the alluvial meadows in the company of cranes and crooked wooden farmhouses.

5. Saaremaa Island

Much-vaunted Saaremaa Island is right up there with Tallinn; an impossibly wonderful landscape of washed-out timber windmills and breezy meadows, sprawling spruce forests and gorgeous coastal stretches scented with juniper and Baltic salt.

Walkers and outdoorsy types will love getting lost in the orchid-peppered reaches of Loode, wandering between the mysterious Kaali meteorite craters, beautiful Bear Lake and the hot springs of Puhatu, or bracing the sea winds at the sacred Panga clifftops. The local Saaremaa folk add a dash of nuance to the land too, boasting their own folklore and curious traditions, deeply ironic sense of humour and high-quality vodka to boot!

Straddling the border with Russia in the deep eastern recesses of Estonia, Narva has an altogether different character than the other major urban areas in this Baltic land. For one, the locals overwhelmingly speak Russian, and the character tends to lean eastwards to Moscow rather than westwards to Tallinn and the EU. Hermann Castle is the jewel in the Narva crown, standing tall and proud in whitewashed keeps and stony bulwarks above the city, while the brutalist reconstructed centre offers an interesting taste of the indelible Soviet influence.

And then there’s the nearby resort strips of Narva-Joesuu, which come complete with the longest beach in the country and some acclaimed spas to boot.

7. Matsalu National Park

A truly beautiful patchwork of riparian wetlands, reed grass plains and blooming flood meadows on the courses of the Kasari River Delta, the Matsalu National Park is a veritable wonderland for nature lovers and wildlife seekers making their way through Estonia.

The 400-square-kilometer park’s birds are particularly famous, coming complete with endangered species like the white-tailed eagle, colossal flocks of barnacle geese, tufted ducks and the single largest migrating amount of cranes on the continent (which can be seen stopping by here in Autumn). Wild horses can also be spotted grazing amidst the wetlands, roaming between the timber fishing huts and the tracks of the Suitsu hiking trail.

8. Hiiumaa Island

A lesson in all things rural Estonia, Hiiumaa is the second largest island in the country, found rising in a medley of windswept coves and coastal fir forests from the Baltic Sea and connected by Europe’s longest ice road to the mainland by winter. Travelers heading here often make a beeline straight for the coast, which comes virtually completed secluded and peppered with historic lighthouses like the stone-clad Kopu Lighthouse – one of the oldest on the planet.

Meanwhile, in the island’s inland reaches, crooked timber farmhouses and creaking mills meet dense beech forests at the Suuremoisa Park and smoked plaice fillets issue their enticing aromas from the earthy tavernas.

Tartu may officially be Estonia’s second city, but the locals prefer to see themselves more as joint first. Fiercely independent from the much larger capital in the north, this southern stronghold of students and Russian speakers is known for its intellectual accomplishments above all else. It has the most prestigious university in Estonia, which rises in a series of neoclassical columns right in the midst of the town.

Nearby stands the leafy reaches of Toomemagi; the historic citadel of the city where now the ruined nave of Tartu Cathedral exudes a haunting historicity. Tartu also pulses with youthful energy thanks to its many lecture halls, and al fresco beer bars and underground clubs claim the summertime nights.

Traces of human habitation dating back more than three millennia have helped to make Tuhala one of Estonia’s major historic sites; a place offering a glimpse at the centuries before Tallinn’s great medieval bulwarks were even raised. Yes sir, this earthy region is home to mysterious collections of cult stones and ancient religious statues, curious cup-marked carvings and sacred sites oozing pre-Christian traditions.

There are also aged timber roads dating from the fourth century, and – of course – the legendary Witch’s Well – a unique phenomenon that occurs when the subterranean channels of the region’s karst system bubble up and overflow from a rustic well into the surrounding farmlands.

11. Kuressaare

The pretty, castle-topped town of Kuressaare makes its home on the Estonian (as opposed to the Finnish) edge of Saaremaa Island, where it hails in as the westernmost city in the country. Given the unique geography, it’s hardly surprising that this one oozes Germanic and Swedish influences, going from the Teutonic bulwarks of the mighty citadel to the elegant Baroque traces decorating the municipal buildings on Keskvaljak Square.

Kuressaare is also famed for its coastal spas, which extoll the healing virtues of the seaside mud and silt deposits and helped to make the city a favourite with naturalist and ecotourists over the years.

12. Viljandi

A boomtown of the Hanseatic League, Viljandi once boasted one of the largest merchant town fortifications in the entire Baltic region. Its raison d’être? To secure the popular trading routes between the heartlands of Prussia in the west and Russia in the east.

Today, and the citadel that once made Viljandi so strong stands ruined atop the town, surrounded by the blooming green spaces that line Lake Viljandi; groves of birch and oak, parks dotted with pine and the pretty timber houses that hide amidst the tree-lined streets. This is the perfect backdrop for Viljandi’s many summertime festivals, which range from nostalgic medieval fayres to open-air theatre productions and ad hoc public art displays.

13. Lahemaa National Park

A whopping 725 square kilometers make up the wild, pine-studded hinterlands of the Lahemaa National Park, making this one of the largest protected natural areas in all of Europe. Sandwiched between the salty rollers of the Baltic and the highways that run eastwards out of Tallinn, the area is eminently accessible for travelers based in the capital, and offers a fine antithesis to city life.

There are rolling peat bogs to explore, winding boardwalks, dense thickets of spruce and beech trees, the primeval Oandu Forest (the stomping ground of lynxes and wolf packs) and the majestic Hauaneeme Bay, which can be found glowing pink and mirror-like against the Estonian sunset in the evening.

14. Haapsalu

Hailed by some as the Venice of the Baltics and trodden by the mighty Romanovs during Russia’s imperial age, Haapsalu was raised to prominence under the patronage of the tsars, who came to exploit the curative and medicinal powers of its coastal mud spas.

Today and this tradition of bathing is still very much alive, while other visitors will come to stroll down the seaside promenades as the sun sets over the Finnish Gulf, weave between the elegant timber architecture, gawp at the haunted turrets and bulwarks of Haapsalu Castle, enjoy one of Estonia’s most acclaimed blues and jazz festivals in summer, or purchase some of the famous handwoven Haapsalu shawls.

15. Lake Peipus

Straddling the border with Russia in the depths of Southern Estonia, Lake Peipus remains one of the country’s least-trodden and explored areas. It’s famed for the traditional way of life that continues to tick over around its western shores.

Here, strings of pretty, timber-clad villages like Varnja and Kallaste abut empty lakeside coves at Nina and Lahe. These come interspersed with the occasional sprawling estate, and enfolded in great swathes of onion fields, while ad hoc farmer’s markets abound and the mysterious churches and religious traditions of Estonia’s so-called Old Believers still stand firm.

15 Best Places to Visit in Estonia:

• Soomaa National Park
• Saaremaa Island
• Matsalu National Park
• Hiiumaa Island
• Lahemaa National Park
• Lake Peipus

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

The essential guide to visiting Estonia

Here’s everything you need to know about exploring this compact Baltic nation—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Estonia  

Medieval marvels in Tallinn ’s Old Town . Lively street art in Tartu . Golden-sand beaches in Pärnu . The 160 islands of Vilsandi National Park .  

Best time to visit Estonia  

Spring:   Canoe through the forests of Soomaa National Park during the “ fifth season ,” when the park floods between March and April. Estonia ranks second in Europe for bird diversity. Spot six species of eagle, and eight of the nine European woodpecker species in Matsalu National Park and Nõva Nature Reserve . Bring your binoculars in March for the spring migration that peaks in mid-May.  

Summer: Head to the Estonian Open Air Museum in Tallinn to take part in the Midsummer ( Jaanipäev   ) festivities with bonfires and folk music on the eve of June 23. This is the time to sample seasonal Estonian foods, such as Arctic char and the sweetened curd dessert kohuke. Relax in one of the many spas on Saaremaa island.  

Autumn: Spot brown bears in Alutaguse National Park or go for a bog shoe walk in Estonia’s wetlands. Admire the achievements of modern design at the week-long Tallinn Design Festival (Disainiöö) in September.  

Winter: Munch on Estonian gingerbread cookies while sipping hot mulled wine at one of the Christmas markets in Tallinn , Tartu , or smaller cities . With no mountains—Estonia’s highest point Suur Munamägi   rises to 1,043 feet— Pärnu ’s windy and flat coastline offers ideal conditions for winter kiteboarding.  

Lay of the land  

Cities: Rent a bike to explore Tallinn’s medieval Old Town. A mile away, the 173-acre Kadriorg Park   is home to contemporary   and international art museums. Telliskivi Creative City   is the site of the famed photography museum Fotografiska .   Tartu, the oldest city in the Baltics, has a rich street art scene. Join a tour or use the street art map to find them solo. Spa towns such as Narva-Jõesuu and Pärnu offer winter and summer beachside activities such as fatbiking, kicksledging, and ice fishing.  

East:   Lighthouses, colorful cottages, and old mansions dot the area around Lake Peipus , the largest lake to connect two countries in Europe. Learn about the Russian Old Believers’ (Russian Orthodox traditionalists who fled persecutions across the border in the 17th century) traditions, such as samovar tea ceremonies and handicrafts, at the Peipsimaa Heritage Center or take a tour of the 17th-century Alatskivi Castle .  

( On this matriarchal European island, ancient customs thrive .)

South: Wander through the streets of Viljandi, the folk music center of southern Estonia, during medieval fairs, music and heritage festivals, and Hanseatic Days .  

West: The historic spa towns Pärnu and Haapsalu hug the coast of the Baltic Sea in western Estonia. Take a ferry to one of the dozens of islands in the West Estonian Archipelago , where you can hike or bike through juniper groves or tour 19th-century lighthouses and windmills.  

North: Discover a mix of cutting-edge galleries and medieval Hanseatic architecture in the country’s capital and biggest city, Tallinn. Drive 50 miles east of town to tour the ornate grounds of Palmse Manor in Lahemaa National Park , the first and largest park in Estonia.  

Getting around Estonia  

By plane: There are domestic flights between Tallinn Airport and regional hubs, including Kuressaare airport in Saaremaa.  

By bus: LuxExpress is the primary provider in Estonia. Buy tickets via the app or the Tpilet website.

By train: Eesti Raudtee (EVR) is the state-owned railway company that operates between main cities. Purchase tickets on Elron.ee , at the stations, or o the train. Travel time from Tallinn to Tartu is just over two hours.  

By car: Highways T1, T2, T4, and T11 connect the main cities. T1 is the main national road connecting Tallinn with Narva. As in most European countries, motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road in Estonia.

By ferry: Regular ferries connect larger islands, including Saaremaa, Hiiumaa , and Kihnu .   Tour operators sail from Tallinn to the smaller islands and cruise ships to Helsinki and Stockholm.  

Know before you go  

Languages: Estonian is the official language. Russian is the most spoken minority language.  

LGBTQ+: Same-sex couples can legally marry and jointly adopt starting January 1, 2024, making Estonia the first ex-Soviet state to legalize same-sex marriage.  

How to visit Estonia sustainably  

Outdoors:   The State Forest Management Centre (RMK) provides an app for all free camping sites in the country and hiking trails. Help preserve the forests by staying on the main trail, road, or marked spurs.  

With 50 percent of the nation covered by forest, Estonia is a forager’s dream. The Estonian State Forest Management Centre has compiled a list of best mushroom and berry picking spots nearby camping areas across the country. Not sure what to pick? Go foraging with a local guide .  

Shopping: Tallinn is a treasure trove for vintage shopping. Favoring locally made products, Estonians have a long tradition in producing art in fiber, woodwork, and pottery. Look for shops marked with the Certified Estonian Artisanal Craft label from the Estonian Folk Art and Craft Union to ensure authenticity.

Dining: Eco-friendly dining spots are popping up in the capital city and elsewhere. Search for eco-tourism quality label “ EHE ” (Genuine and Interesting Estonia) that shows the restaurant is making sustainable choices. Find an abundance of local flavors at farmers markets in Viimsi , Lõunakeskus , Pärnu , and Saaremaa .  

What to read  

The Ropewalker , by Jaan Kross. The leading Estonian writer’s historical novel tells the tale of Balthasar Russow, a chronicler and witty social climber from the 16th century.  

Estonian Folk Tales , edited by Piret Päär and Anne Türnpu. This collection of dark stories offers a glimpse into the Estonian psyche.  

Estonia: A Modern History , by Neil Taylor. The University of Estonia professor charts the country’s turbulent history, from Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian occupation to its present-day prosperity.

( For more tips on what to do in Estonia, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• CITY BIKING
• WALKING TOURS

You May Also Like

Visiting Estonia? Here’s what the locals love

Don’t leave San Diego without trying these 9 experiences

For hungry minds.

10 best things to do in Switzerland

To see the real Los Angeles, visit its historic movie theaters

10 whimsical ways to experience Scotland

Walk across the sky in the U.S.’s highest-elevation city

Atlanta isn’t all that Georgia has to offer. Here are 7 other worthy trips.

• Paid Content
• Environment
• Photography
• Perpetual Planet

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Getty Images

Estonia doesn’t have to struggle to find a point of difference; it’s completely unique. It shares a similar geography and history with Latvia and Lithuania, but culturally it’s distinct. Its closest ethnic and linguistic buddy is Finland, though 50 years of Soviet rule in Estonia have separated the two. For the last 300 years Estonia has been linked to Russia, but the two states have as much in common as a barn swallow and a bear (their respective national symbols).

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Niguliste Museum

Dating from the 13th century, the imposing St Nicholas' Church (Niguliste kirik) was badly damaged by Soviet bombers in 1944 and a fire in the 1980s, but…

Estonian Open-Air Museum

This sprawling ethnographic and architectural complex comprises 80 historic Estonian buildings, plucked from across the country and resurrected in…

This futuristic, Finnish-designed, seven-storey building is a spectacular structure of limestone, glass and copper that integrates intelligently into the…

Tallinn Town Hall

Completed in 1404, this is the only surviving Gothic town hall in northern Europe. Inside, you can visit the Trade Hall (whose visitor book drips with…

Great Guild Hall

The Great Guild Hall (1410) is a wonderfully complete testament to the power of Tallinn's medieval trade guilds. Now a branch of the Estonian History…

Kuressaare Episcopal Castle

Western Estonia & the Islands

Majestic Kuressaare Castle stands facing the sea at the southern end of the town, on an artificial island defended by stone-faced earth bastions and…

Kadriorg Art Museum

Kadriorg Palace, a baroque beauty built by Peter the Great between 1718 and 1736, houses a branch of the Art Museum of Estonia devoted to Dutch, German…

Seaplane Harbour

Kalamaja & Telliskivi

When this cavernous, triple-domed building was completed in 1917, its reinforced-concrete shell-frame construction was unique in the world. Resembling a…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Estonia

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Estonia

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Apr 27, 2021 • 6 min read

In a number of countries, proving that you have received the vaccine will allow travelers to skip a quarantine period.

Mar 16, 2021 • 1 min read

Feb 5, 2021 • 2 min read

Aug 13, 2020 • 2 min read

Jun 1, 2020 • 2 min read

May 25, 2020 • 7 min read

May 8, 2020 • 1 min read

Jan 5, 2020 • 2 min read

Nov 27, 2019 • 1 min read

Oct 9, 2019 • 4 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Estonia

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Estonia with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Estonia and beyond

Map of Estonia

It's time to start exploring...

These places to stay in Estonia offer so much more than just a place to sleep.

Dream of escaping to a cabin in the woods or indulging in a luxurious retreat? Try planning your trip around one of these experiential stays.

Eco-friendly holiday homes in the wild

Original, unique and luxurious hotels in Estonia

TOP unforgettable places to stay

TOP 10 manor hotels in Estonia

Reawaken your curiosity on a city break to estonia.

Experience local history and culture beyond the pages of a book, and realize fairytale cities are anything but fiction.

Experience Estonia's islands

With over 2,000 islands to choose from, you'll never run out of new horizons. Measure your days by the ebb and flow of the tides.

Journey through Estonia's national parks

Did you know that about one-fifth of Estonian territory is under protection? Leave the world behind, slow down time, and head off-road and off-grid.

Choose your own adventure with these self-guided tours

Take the road less traveled and discover quaint villages, mesmerizing natural sites, and immersive cultural experiences.

Family holiday tour in Estonia

Adventure tour in Central Estonia

Cultural tour in South Estonia

Tour of Saaremaa for families

Cycling on your own on the onion route

Cycling trip in the dome landscape of Võru County

Looking for more inspiration.

Estonia is where Nordic meets Baltic, East meets West. It's a place where you can hear echoes of the past and look forward to a fascinating future.

Top nature tour destinations in Estonia

The Falstaff Guide's top restaurants in Estonia

Welcome to SPAtacular Estonia!

Top 10 beaches in Estonia

Medieval Estonia and the Hanseatic League

A complete guide to camping in estonia.

Summer in Estonia

Estonian summers are enchanting. It is a time to enjoy the endless evenings and unwind in nature.

Start planning!

Use our interactive map to find destinations, discover new activities, and design a travel plan.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By signing up, you agree to personal data processing    privacy policy .

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Estonia Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Tucked away in the Baltics, Estonia has become a popular destination thanks to cheap flights, beautiful cities, a wild nightlife, and the country’s stalwart support for digital nomads and remote workers (it’s also a popular spot for cruisers since many ships stop there as well).

I loved my time here. Unlike the stereotypes many people have about Eastern Europe, Estonia is a modern, organized, and tech-forward country. It has more start-ups than Silicon Valley and everything is done online here.

With more than 1,500 islands, swaths of untouched old-growth forests, and historic castles and churches, Estonia seamlessly blends old and new. Be sure to get out of Tallinn, too. There’s more to the country than just its capital.

This travel guide to Estonia can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this underrated European destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Estonia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Estonia

1. Party in Tallinn

Estonia’s historic capital city Tallinn is a cultural melting pot on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Here you can explore one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Northern Europe. Wander along the cobblestone streets while taking in historic architecture of the Old Town. While it has a lot of history to offer, it’s also ripe with bars, pubs, nightclubs, and cheap drinks. If you love live music, you’ll be impressed with Tallinn. There’s a vibrant party scene here that’s both fun and affordable.

2. Visit Pärnu

Overlooking Pärnu Bay is the resort city of Pärnu. Perched over the Baltic Sea, it’s a lovely place to relax for a few days. In the warmer months you can walk 20 minutes from the town center to the expansive Blue Flag beach with soft sand and calm water that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It makes for a perfect jumping-off point for anyone wanting to do any sailing while in Estonia. When you’ve had your fill of sand and saltwater, pamper yourself with a mud bath at the seaside 1920’s era spa. Like everywhere in Estonia, there’s some incredible historic architecture, like the old Russian style Transformation of Our Lord Church. Divided by the Pärnu River, the city is known for its 19th-century timber villas as well as the relaxing beaches of Pärnu Bay.

3. Get lost in Vanalinn

For the perfect mix of medieval and modern, venture into Tallinn’s Old Town, Vanalinn. This part of the city was built between the 13th and 16th centuries and was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1997. The original architecture is unbelievably well preserved — even after aggressive World War II bombings. Within the historic town square, you’ll find the 13th century Gothic Town Hall complete with a 64-meter-tall (209 feet) tower. It’s full of cobblestone streets and gothic architecture and makes for stunning photos and fun people watching.

4. Relax in Saaremaa

Home to the medieval castle Kuressaare (which dates to the 16th century), the island of Saaremaa is a beautiful place for hikers and bird watchers to escape into nature. Saaremaa is known for its beaches and traditional villages. Archeologists believe the island has been inhabited since 5000 BCE. The island is home to Vilsandi National Park, which spans 238 square kilometers (91 square miles) and is home to almost 250 species of birds. The climate makes it a hotspot for all types of flora and fauna. You can also visit the site of the Kaali meteorite strike (which happened over 3,000 years ago) with its huge craters and a unique museum full of chunks of the meteor.

5. Visit Lahemaa National Park

Located one hour east of Tallinn, this park showcases Estonia’s incredible natural beauty. The park was established in 1971 to protect the region, and it remains one of the main tourist attractions in the country. Spanning 750 square kilometers (289 square miles), it’s a wonderful hiking spot perfect for nature lovers thanks to the many large mammals living in the forests, including deer, wolves, bears, and lynx. About 70% of the park is covered in forest and there are a few incredible hiking trails to explore. Raised bogs are another interesting feature, especially Laukasoo Reserve which is believed to be 7000 years old. Those interested in architecture will love exploring the historic manors within the park, including the famous Baroque masterpiece Sagadi Manor. Admission is free.

Other Things to See and Do in Estonia

1. spot wildlife in soomaa national park.

Soomaa National Park is one of the most magical natural landscapes in Estonia. Spread out over 359 square kilometers (138 square miles), the park is home to elk, deer, boar, lynx, wolves, beavers, bears, and more. Located 140 kilometers (87 miles) south of Tallinn, the park is a popular getaway for hikers. The nearby Raudna River and Parnu Basin also offer the opportunity to kayak and canoe. Much of the park floods in the spring, giving you the chance to explore the forests via canoe/kayak. Admission to the park is free. Canoe and kayak rentals cost 27 EUR. Guided tours cost around 50 EUR.

2. Go skiing in Otepaa

A much-loved hiking and mountain biking destination during the summer, in the winter Otepaa transforms into the winter capital of Estonia. There are a couple of kilometers of mountains here and 8 different lifts that offer access. It’s one of the most budget-friendly places to ski in Europe . Lift passes cost around 38 EUR. Expect to pay another 35 EUR for a one-hour ski lesson and 15 EUR per day for ski rentals.

3. Explore Kuressaare Castle

Located on Saaremaa Island in western Estonia, Kuressaare Castle is the best-preserved castle in the Baltics. Built in the 14th century, the castle and its moat were constructed on the grounds of the original castle that dated to the 13th century. The current castle was constructed in the late Gothic style and consists of a large square building surrounding a spacious courtyard. A 36-meter (121-foot) defensive tower and traditional medieval portcullis make up the castle’s defenses. There’s a museum inside that sheds light on the castle’s history, including when the Nazis used the castle to execute dissidents. Admission to the castle is free while the museum costs 10 EUR. Bike rentals cost 4 EUR an hour and rowboats cost 10 EUR per hour.

4. Hang out in Tartu

Tartu holds the title of the intellectual (and hipster) capital of Estonia. Located two hours south of Tallinn, here you’ll find the country’s most prestigious university (University of Tartu), a historic citadel, and the ruins of the city’s cathedral (which dates to the 13th century). Be sure to explore Soup Town (a neighborhood composed of old wooden houses), see the 18th-century town hall (which stands out because it’s pink and red), and spend some time people-watching at a café in Raekoja Square, the city’s historic main square.

5. Visit the Estonian National Museum

Founded in 1909, this museum is located in Tartu. It was expanded in 2016 and moved into a massive new building. There are tons of exhibitions on Estonian history, with a detailed gallery on the Russian occupation of the country (which lasted from 1940-1991). The museum provides a solid historical and cultural foundation to help you better understand Estonia’s past and present. Admission is 14 EUR.

6. Visit Kaali Meteorite Crater Field

Located on Saaremaa Island, this site is where a giant meteorite hit over 7,500 years ago. There are 9 craters in total, with the largest crater spanning 110 meters in diameter (360 feet) and reaching depths of 22 meters (72 feet). All kinds of animal bones have been found here and there is a stone wall built around the area (dating to the Bronze Age), leaving archaeologists to surmise that the area was used for some kind of cult or religious ceremonies after the craters were made. Admission is free, though the small museum nearby costs 1.60 EUR to enter.

7. Enjoy an open-air festival in Viljandi

For summer festivals and live music, head to Viljandi. Located in the middle of the country, the town’s medieval castle is used for concerts and music festivals (especially traditional folk music). While you’re here, be sure to spend some time relaxing at Lake Viljandi where you can swim and enjoy the beach. Lake Võrtsjärv, the largest inland lake in the country, is also nearby.

8. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town. Standing 45 meters tall (150 feet), it was built between 1894-1900 in the Russian Revival style. It was left to decline under Soviet rule, however, once Estonia gained independence it was restored to its former glory. As well as the elaborately decorated bells (the largest weighing almost 16 tons) there are some beautiful religious mosaics inside and incredibly detailed stained glass windows. Admission is free but it’s a place of worship so dress respectfully.

9. Try windsurfing

With so much of the country surrounded by water, Estonia is a perfect destination for windsurfing. There are windsurfing shops on the west coast and in the north that offer rentals for 25-40 EUR and lessons from 66 EUR per hour. If windsurfing isn’t your thing, you can also enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding, or water skiing. Expect to pay around 20 EUR for those activities.

10. Visit the KGB Museum

Located on the top floor of Tallinn’s luxurious Hotel Viru are the KGB’s former spy rooms (the KGB was the Soviet Union’s secret police). The rooms were discovered after the KGB fled Estonia in the early 1990s. The hotel owners decided to keep the rooms exactly the way they were. Inside are listening and surveillance equipment that looks like something straight out of a vintage spy movie. The museum is only accessible as part of a guided tour that can be booked from the hotel lobby. The tour costs 12 EUR.

11. Go birding in Matsalu National Park

This is one of the best places to spot endangered species like the white-tailed eagle or watch the migrating cranes. Established in 1957, the park was created to protect the nesting and migrating birds. It’s located on the west coast of the country, spanning almost 500 square kilometers (192 square miles). Every year, between 10,000-20,000 cranes and upwards of 40,000 ducks visit the park as they migrate. Admission is free.

12. Wander Linnahall

Commissioned by the Soviet Union to accommodate the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics, Tallinn’s Linnahall sports complex is now a giant, imposing, concrete ghost town. An amphitheater that seats 5,000 was unable to be utilized once the Olympic-sized crowds had departed so it now lies crumbling (construction was rushed and was done poorly so the buildings are falling apart). Over 66 countries boycotted the games due to the U.S.’s disapproval of the Soviet-Afghan war. Today, the venue is not in use so you’re free to wander and explore. Its location above the city makes it a great lookout spot. It’s an interesting place to wander around if you have a spare few hours.

13. Visit the Estonian Open-Air Museum

Hidden amongst the trees and forests just outside of Tallinn, this open-air museum is a reconstruction of an 18th-century rural village. It’s home to all kinds of traditional Estonian buildings. There are actors dressed up in historical garb as well as traditional professions on display, such as basket weaving and blacksmithing. There are over 80 wooden buildings you can visit, including a church, school, tavern, and farmhouse. Admission is 10 EUR.

Estonia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostel dorms start at 10 EUR per night for a bed in a 10-20 bed dorm. A smaller dorm with 6-8 beds costs 15 EUR per night. For a private room in a hostel, expect to pay at least 30 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. A few include free breakfast.

Budget hotels start at 40 EUR per night for a double or twin room that includes free breakfast and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is available around the country with private rooms starting at 20 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 35 EUR per night (though prices average double that).

For anyone traveling with a tent, Estonia is one of the best places in Europe for wild camping. Wild camping is permitted on government land (though some of the national parks do have restrictions). Here’s a list of the places you can wild camp in Estonia .

Food – Estonian food has a mix of influences from Russia, Germany, and Scandinavia. Dishes are commonly based around meat and potatoes as well as seasonal vegetables. Soups are a common main course as well. Pickled foods like beets, cucumbers, and fish, as well as rye bread and herring, make up the basis of much of the local cuisine. As in Scandinavia, open-faced sandwiches are a quick to-go snack. Verivorst and mulgikapsad (blood sausage and sauerkraut) are two of the most popular national dishes.

For an inexpensive meal at a café or restaurant, expect to pay between 6-13 EUR. A traditional sausage or stuffed pancake costs just under 3 EUR while fast food meals (think McDonald’s) cost around 7 EUR.

A multi-course meal at a restaurant with table service costs around 40 EUR, including a drink. Expect dishes like grilled salmon, lamb ribs, and roasted pork or duck. For something like Thai or Indian food (which is only really available in Tallinn and Tartu), expect to pay around 12-15 EUR for a meal.

Beer costs around 5 EUR. A latte/cappuccino is 3 EUR while bottled water is 1.50 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, you can expect to spend around 30-40 EUR for a week’s worth of groceries. This includes basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Estonia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 35 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free or cheap activities like free walking tours and visiting national parks. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 110 EUR per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at cheap restaurants serving traditional cuisine, drink more, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits or ski trips.

On a “luxury” budget of 225 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, rent a car to get around, and do more paid activities and guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Estonia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Estonia is a perfect destination for anyone on a budget. It’s not as cheap as it was years ago but there’s still a lot of value here — and still plenty of ways to reduce your costs! Here is how to save money during your visit:

• Take a free walking tour – Tallinn offers a handful of free walking tours which are great ways to get familiar with the city and the culture. Most hostels offer them and there are even some that have a special focus (such as the city’s Communist past). Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Wild camp – If you really want to save money in Estonia, bring a tent. Wild camping is legal here so you can pitch your tent on public land throughout Estonia. Just make sure to pick up your trash when you’re done.
• Cook your own meals – Many hostels have kitchen facilities so you can cook your own meals. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat but it does save you money.
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing will get you a free place to stay while connecting you with a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Walk everywhere – All the major cities in Estonia are walkable so skip the public transportation if you want to save a few extra euros.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. If you’re on a tight budget, enjoy the outdoors.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water in Estonia is safe to drink. Bring a reusable water bottle to avoid having to buy single-use plastic. LifeStraw is my go-to bottle as it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Estonia

Budget accommodation in Estonia is plentiful. Here are some of my favorite hostels in Estonia:

• Old Town Mukenof (Tallinn)
• Looming Hostel (Tartu)
• Hostel Louna (Parnu)
• Kalda Talu Puhkekeskus (Valga)

How to Get Around Estonia

Public transportation – In most smaller towns and cities in Estonia, it’s possible to walk everywhere. However, in larger cities like Tallinn, you may want to use public transport to get around. In Tallinn, you can purchase QR-code tickets or load money onto a Smartcard (a pre-paid bus card). There is an extensive network of trams, trolleys, and buses that service the city and surrounding suburbs.

Public transportation prices vary by city but expect to pay around 1.50 EUR for a standard 1-hour adult ticket.

Train – The trains in Estonia are reliable, cheap, and fast. Many even have free Wi-Fi. You can take an express train to Tartu from Tallinn in just two hours for 8-12 EUR each way. The two-hour journey from Tallinn to Viljandi is 10-12 EUR while the seven-hour train ride from Tallinn to Riga, Latvia starts at just 15 EUR.

Bus – Many people favor train travel over bus travel in Estonia because the prices are similar and, in many cases, the trains are faster. However, there are more scheduled buses per day than trains so the bus might better fit your schedule.

Buses start at just 5 EUR. To get from Tallinn to Tartu takes 2.5 hours (just 30 minutes longer than the train) and costs around 10 EUR. The bus from Tallinn to Saaremaa Island takes around 4 hours and costs 11 EUR while the journey from Tallinn to Viljandi takes just over 2 hours and costs 9 EUR. Expect to pay around 16 EUR for the 5.5-hour bus to Riga, Latvia.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Flying – Although there are domestic flights within Estonia, they’re prohibitively expensive and won’t save you any time as a high-speed train is almost as fast when you include check-in time. Skip flying.

Car rental – Car rentals cost as little as 28 EUR per day. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in order to rent a car here. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Estonia

The summer months of June-August are the busiest of the year (though busy in Estonia is far less busy than cities in Western Europe). During this time, the days are longer and the temperatures hover around 20°C (68°F). Almost all of Estonia’s festivals are held during these months.

To beat the crowds, visit between April-May or September-October. During these months, the temperatures are cooler, making it the perfect time to get outdoors and camp or hike. Plus, the peak tourist season is over so the crowds are thinner and things are a little cheaper.

During the winter, temperatures plummet and the country is blanketed in snow. Visiting Estonia during the winter can be a magical experience if you are interested in skiing or Christmas markets. Be warned though — temperatures can drop to -10°C (15°F).

How to Stay Safe in Estonia

Estonia is a safe country with a low crime rate. Within Tallinn, petty theft (including pickpocketing) is possible in the heavily-touristed areas, as well as on crowded public transportation and in busy bars/clubs. Keep your valuables out of sight and watch out for people (especially younger children) trying to distract you.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re heading out to enjoy Tallinn’s famous nightlife, leave your valuables at home. Avoid walking alone at night and stick to the main roads. Muggings are rare, but they can occur. Travel in pairs or groups if possible and avoid walking alone at night if intoxicated, just to be safe.

One thing to be aware of is that reflectors are required by law to be worn by pedestrians at night. You can pick them up in most supermarkets cheaply and you just need to attach one to your jacket or bag when out after dark.

Scams here are rare but you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Estonia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Estonia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience.

Estonia Backpacking Itinerary with Map

Share this post with others

Travel Estonia by bus and train. This Estonia 7 day itinerary with public transport highlights what to see and what to do in Estonia beyond the capital Tallinn.

Honest Estonia backpacking guide including the best places to visit in Estonia. Tallinn, Tartu, and Saaremaa itinerary without a car - whether you travel the Baltics as a whole or just Estonia.

Backpacking Estonia by Bus

Backpacking estonia by train, how many days are enough in estonia, quick 7 day estonia itinerary, backpacking tallinn, estonia, day trips from tallinn, backpacking tartu, estonia, backpacking saaremaa, estonia, day trips from kuressaare, saaremaa, backpacking estonia by public transport.

To be honest, we’re not big fans of the Estonian local buses. They just don’t run often enough for touristy purposes (I directly quote the nice lady at the tourist information who told me a bus that runs 6 times per day runs “very often”). Hence it is super hard to do day trips by public transport in Estonia. The situation is even worse on the weekend.

The long-distance bus situation is not much better. There is one daily bus from Tartu to Saaremaa and some more between Tallinn and Tartu as well as Tallinn and Saaremaa. LUX express is a nice alternative here.

The train network is not as extensive as in Estonia’s neighbouring countries. The only train you will likely take as a tourist is the Tallinn - Tartu route. During the day it should run every 1 to 2 hours, take around 2 hours, and cost around 10€. You can buy tickets online .

While many travellers only spend a couple of days int he capital, we think it’s worthwhile to spend at least 7 days in Estonia to venture off the beaten path.

• Modern City
• Day trip: Helsinki or Lahemaa
• 2 days in Tartu
• Day trip: Kaali crater

Comprehensive 1 Week in Estonia Itinerary

Is tallinn worth visiting.

Yes! Many bloggers rave about the medieval city centre of Tallinn and yes, it’s amazing. What really surprised us is the modern side of the city: The Telliskivi area full of street art, the market right behind the train station, exceptional museums, relaxing seaside walks and cool rooftop bars in the modern skyscrapers.

What to see in Tallinn?

There are loads of blogposts detailing what to do in Tallinn so we only mention our highlights here.

• As always, we recommend you start your stay with a  free walking tour .
• Of course, the city wall and tunnels are a must. We loved the  Bastion Tunnels  below the  Kiek in de Kök !
• Alexander-Newski-Cathedral  is worth a visit and in contrast to many other churches in Tallinn, it’s free.
• Don’t miss Town Hall Square. The historic Pharmacy is free to visit. If you’re looking for a cheap and quick bite but don’t want to miss out on the medieval atmosphere head to  III Draakon .
• The best contemporary restaurants can be found on Rataskaevu Street - e.g. Rataskaevu 16.

Modern Tallinn:

• The  Telliskivi  area offers prime street art.
• You’ve probably heard about  Balti jaama turg market  for great street food and alternative shopping.
• Right next to the market, you’ll find the  Kalamaja area  with colourful wooden houses.
• If you don’t mind walking, walk all the way to the  waterfront .
• At the waterfront, you can chill out with a sauna and street food at the  Iglupark .
• Check out the super modern  Seaplane Harbour Museum .
• Stroll along the waterfront past  Patarei Prison  and  Kalarand beach .
• The  EKKM modern art museum  is super unique and free to visit. Make sure to check out the  Kultuurikilomeeter !
• For some serious Sowjet architecture, visit the  Linnahall old Olympic stadium.
• The  KUMU Art Museum  was our favourite museum in Tallinn. Combine it with the  Kadriorg Palace  when you make your way out there.
• Lounge 24  on top of the Radisson Hotel is a great rooftop bar.

How many days in Tallinn?

We’d suggest three days in Tallinn: One day is enough to see the historic city centre but you need another one to venture outside and explore the modern side of Tallinn. You need an additional day if you want to go on a day trip to Helsinki, which is a 100% recommendation.

Best Hostel in Tallinn

There seem to be loads of hostels in Tallinn with similar ratings in a similar price range. We ended up staying at The Knight House which was a decent choice.

The Instagram famous bog walk in Lahemaa National Park.

How to get from Tallinn to the Viru Bog by public transport

To be honest, we tried. First, we contemplated the local bus but it only ran twice per day on the weekend with either way too little or too much time for the walk.

Here are some tour options instead:

Instead of day-tripping in Estonia, go to  Helsinki .

How to get from Tallinn to Helsinki by public transport

There are multiple ferries by multiple companies daily and the price is very reasonable. You can get a round-trip ticket for as little as 15€ even if you book last minute.

Is Tartu worth visiting?

Yes! Estonia’s second-largest city is going to be the European Capital of Culture in 2024. The university city has a very alternative vibe with loads of street art as well as cool shops and cafes.

What to see in Tartu?

• Stroll down the  Rüütli tänav  pedestrian street and visit some of the shops and cafes.
• Stroll along the  Emajõgi  and visit the  Tartu Statue of Liberty.
• The  Dome of Tartu  is a must-visit. The ruins are incredibly picturesque. On your way visit the  Angel’s Bridge  and the  Devil’s Bridge .
• St. John's Church  is a Brick Gothic Lutheran church. Its most outstanding feature is its wealth of terracotta figurines surrounding the exterior. Originally, there were more than 1000 figurines of which about 200 have survived.
• Some of the most outstanding buildings are the  university ,  town hall , and  toy museum .
• The  Botanical Garden  is a green oasis within the city. For a small fee, you can warm up in the greenhouses.
• A bit outside the city centre,  Aparaaditehas i s an area full of art and cool shops, bars, and restaurants. Take your time to go here and also explore the surrounding block to find more street art. If you still can’t get enough of street art, the  Karlova neighbourhood  is a recommendation.
• Soup Town  or Supilinn neighbourhood is full of cute wooden houses.
• If you want to visit museums, make sure to not go on a Monday (guess what we did). The  KGB Cells Museum  and  Estonian Printing & Paper Museum  come  recommended . We would have loved to visit the  Museum of Natural History  and the  AHHAA Science Centre  looks super cool.

How many days in Tartu?

As Tartu is quite a small city, 2 days should be enough to explore the highlights and soak up some of the atmosphere in the hip bars and restaurants.

How to get from Tallinn to Tartu by public transport

With LUX Express buses and trains, you can make the journey between Tallinn and Tartu pretty much hourly during the day.

Best Hostel in Tartu

We stayed at Looming Hostel . The vibe was great and it’s super close to the train station but a bit far always from the centre. Next time, we’d probably stay at Hostel Tartu which is much closer to the centre and has its own sauna.

Is Saaremaa worth visiting?

Honestly, it depends. Estonia’s biggest island is a prime seaside destination in the country. The downside? The coastline is much more rugged than the long sandy beaches in Lithuania and Latvia and the public transport situation in Estonia overall makes moving around the island a challenge. If you’re travelling to all three Baltic countries, we suggest visiting Klaipeda/Palanga, Lithuania and/or Jurmala, Latvia, instead.

What to see in Saaremaa?

• Kuressaare  is a charming little city with a tiny but charming historic centre around the main square.
• The highlight is  Kuressaare Castle . It is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Baltic States. The imposing structure made of dolomite blocks has retained its original appearance to this day. A trench filled with water surrounds the castle. Today the castle houses a museum on the history of Saaremaa.
• The  beach  in Kuressaare is tiny but it looks charming for the summer.
• A drink or snack with a sea view at  Resto HAFEN  is a must.
• There are several SPA hotels.  Meri Seaside Hotel & SPA  looks like a reasonably priced option.

I wish I had read an honest review before going so here it is:  The one thing you cannot seem to do here is hiking.  There are no hiking trails along the coast around Kuressaare - trust us, we tried to walk to the left and to the right for a while. Defeated, we asked at the tourist information and learned that there are only very few short hiking paths around town.

To the west, there’s a hiking path to a bird-watching tower but it leads mostly along a busy road and through an oak wood.

To the east, you can hike towards the Roomassaare viewing platform. You mostly hike along a road as well although it’s not as busy as the other one.

How many days in Saaremaa?

The beach is quite small so unless you’re not seriously into beach bumming in summer or want to take a spa break 1-2 days should be enough.

How to get from Tartu to Saaremaa by public transport

There is one daily bus from Tartu to Saaremaa at stupid o’clock (we bought our ticket here ). It’s a direct bus hopping on the ferry with you.

Best Hostel in Saaremaa

There seems to be one hostel in Kuressaare, Kuressaare Central Hostel . As the price was not higher in a private room, we opted to stay at Guesthouse Laurits with an unbeatable price right in the centre of Kuressaare.

Kaali Crater

Kaali is a group of nine meteorite craters created by an impact event. Most recent estimates put its formation shortly after 1530–1450 BC.

How to get from Kuressaare to Kaali Crater by public transport

There are 6 buses per day so it’s manageable but you have to plan your trip. You can check out the timetable here .

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. You would help us a lot if you do so. Thanks.

Check out the other parts of our travelling the Baltics series:

Baltics itinerary by public transport- 2 weeks Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia

Your guide on how to travel the Baltics. Including a 14 days Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia itinerary with a map. All the resources you need for your Baltics backpacking trip plus the best Baltic country to visit.

Weekend in Riga – Riga city break

The best things to do in Riga for your Riga city break - whether you spend a weekend in Riga or a whole week. Including a Riga sightseeing map with all the Riga must see attractions.

Lithuania Backpacking Itinerary – 1 Week With Public Transport

Travel Lithuania by bus and train. Our Lithuania 7 days itinerary brings you to Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipeda – including a map!

Helsinki itinerary - 3 days in Helsinki, 3 saunas

Visiting Helsinki? Our Helsinki guide and itinerary advise you on what to see in Helsinki including the best public sauna Helsinki has to offer.

Travel Ideas

Travemünde Helsinki ferry - review and guide

Finnlines is currently the only way to take the ferry to Helsinki from Germany and back. Here’s our complete travel guide including budget, public transport, cabins, and food.

10 Places to Visit in Vilnius besides Vilnius Old Town (2023)

Untouristy Vilnius places to visit. Vilnius sightseeing off-the-beaten-path!

33 Things to Do in Kaunas, Lithuania (2023)

A short guide on what to see in Kaunas.

Interested in personal updates and honest travel guides? Sign up for our biweekly bucketlist2life newsletter for exclusive behind the scenes looks into our travel planning!

Want to support us buy us a coffe, a tea – or a whisky., leave a comment.

Do you have any thoughts on this article? – We would love to hear from you!

Do you want to follow us on our jouney? Check this box to also signup for our Newsletter and never miss an update!

You have a link you want to share with others? This is a good place for it!

Do you want to receive a Push-Notification when someone replies to your comment? – Check this box!

Travel Guide Estonia

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Visitors to Estonia encounter a mix of urbanity and wilderness, of the medieval and the contemporary, with crumbling castles and colourful design permeating urban landscapes. An efficient transport system makes it easy to get around, and the tech-savvy, dynamic residents welcome visitors with open arms. Friction between older generations of Russians and Estonians is a throwback to the Soviet era, while younger people mix freely, and those who get past the Estonians’ natural reserve find them to be gregarious, uninhibited hosts.

Where to go in Estonia

Travel ideas for estonia, created by local experts.

5 days  / from 1416 USD

City hopping in Finland and Estonia

Helsinki enchants with its blend of modernity and nature, entertainment and tranquility accessible everywhere and all the time. Turku, in turn, was the first capital of Finland, and has a lot to teach about the Finnish History. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is not behind in terms of heritage.

10 days  / from 1063 USD

Sustainable Baltic Capitals

Enjoy introductory tours and ample free time to suit your interests. In ten days, relish local accommodations, UNESCO town walks, quirky neighborhoods, and private guide tours, delving into the region's history and customs. Start your Baltic States adventure now for independent exploration.

16 days  / from 4033 USD

Ultimate Baltics

Uncover both renowned attractions and hidden gems across the Baltic States and Southern Finland. Explore UNESCO sites, serene villages, and sandy dunes. From the capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki to the beaches in Klaipeda in Pärnu.

Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, has a magnificent medieval centre and lively nightlife, rivalled only by that of Tartu, an exuberant university town. Pärnu, a popular seaside resort, is also worth a short visit. For inexpensive spa treatments, a fine castle and unspoilt countryside head for the island of Saaremaa, while Lahemaa National Park, outside Tallinn, offers a taste of pristine wilderness.

Discover more places in Estonia

• Population 1.3 million
• Area 45,227 sq km
• Language Estonian
• Currency Euro (€)
• Capital Tallinn
• International phone code t 372

Top image: Tallinn, Estonia © ESB Professional/Shutterstock

Travel advice for Estonia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Estonia

• How to get to Estonia
• Culture and Etiquette in Estonia
• Eating and drinking in Estonia
• Getting around Estonia: Transportation Tips
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Estonia
• Travel Tips Estonia for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Estonia

The Rough Guides to Estonia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Estonia?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

11 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

With surprises around every corner, Tallinn bursts with charm like no other European city. The capital of Estonia is steeped in history, yet has all the modern offerings tourists expect from a destination in the 21st century.

The city is exceptionally photogenic, especially during the midnight sunsets in the summer. And if you want to see the city at its very best, plan your visit during the Estonian Song Festival. It brings together 30,000 of the best singers in Estonia onto one stage every five years to create music that vibrates throughout the city. The next festival is scheduled for July 3-6, 2025.

Tallinn's Old Town has managed to preserve its medieval heritage throughout centuries of domination by foreign rulers, rightfully earning a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. You can still strut through the ivy-covered Viru Gate, explore the gothic Town Hall, and walk along the town walls like others have done for hundreds of years.

But you should spend equal time exploring Tallinn's modern-day offerings, as well. The city boasts Scandinavian-inspired restaurants, viewing platforms, lush parks, and sweets shop s.

Plan your sightseeing around this alluring city with our list of the things to do in Tallinn.

1. Tallinn's Old Town

2. estonian maritime museum, 3. tallinn tv tower, 4. toompea castle, 5. aleksander nevski katedraali, 6. kadriorg park, 7. kumu art museum, 8. estonian open air museum, 9. kalev chocolate shop and workshop, 10. st. olaf's church, 11. telliskivi creative city, where to stay in tallinn for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in tallinn, estonia, tallinn, estonia - climate chart.

Tallinn's Old Town encompasses endless treasures for history buffs and culture hounds alike. Known for being one of the world's best-preserved Hanseatic town centers , the vibrant village-like area features cobblestone streets , lively cafés , and architecture from long-ago centuries.

Start your experience at the Town Hall Square. While you might be tempted to keep your eyes cast up at the colorful buildings, look down until you find the distinctive circular stone marked with a compass. Standing atop it gives you the unique vantage point to see the steeples of five historic churches around Tallinn. Then, make your way inside the church-like Town Hall. Erected in 1404, the oldest town hall in Northern Europe boasts magnificent Gothic arches and precious artworks .

Then, head across the square to one of Europe's oldest continually running pharmacies, Raeapteek. The establishment celebrates its history with a mini museum focusing on antique medical tools and early healthcare techniques. You can also sample herbal tea blends created from local ingredients in the pharmacy's basement.

Another prominent spot in Tallinn's Old Town is the Viru Gate. Once part of the city wall's defense system, this 14th-century structure features fairy-tale-esque, round towers topped with coned roofs fit for a princess. Nearly two kilometers of the original city wall is still standing. You can get a good look at this historic structure from the Patkuli viewing platform on Toompea Hill.

With more than 2,300 islands in its territory, Estonia has developed a strong maritime culture, and there's no better place to visit to experience it than at the Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour exhibit at the Estonian Maritime Museum.

This fascinating museum exhibit invites tourists to step inside Submarine EML Lembit , a 1930s-era vessel that is one of the few remaining submarines of its time. You can also hop aboard the Suur Tõll icebreaker and explore the powerful steamer's captain's cabin, crew rooms, and officers' mess hall. Hundreds of other artifacts displayed throughout the museum continue to tell the story of maritime history in Estonia.

The structure of the museum itself is just as interesting as its contents. Originally built to house seaplanes in Peter the Great's Naval Fortress, the hangar features "the world's first columnless thin-shell concrete domes of such volume." It remained in use until World War II. It's amazing that the cavernous space requires no vertical supports to hold its weight.

Address: Vesilennuki tänav 6, Põhja-Tallinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: http://meremuuseum.ee/lennusadam/en/

Proudly standing 314 meters in the clouds, the Tallinn TV Tower is a must-visit attraction in Estonia. A visit to the observation deck on the 21st floor –the highest open viewing platform in Northern Europe–is one of the most popular things to do. Tourists can get panoramic views of Tallinn and the Gulf of Finland. You won't want to forget your camera when sightseeing here.

Craving an adrenaline rush? Check out the Tallinn TV Tower's Walk on the Edge experience. It will strap you into a harness and let you walk along the ledge of the tower's outdoor terrace. You can even dangle your feet over the 175-meter drop. Don't look down!

This Tallinn attraction also features a number of other less fear-inducing attractions that prove fun for every type of traveler. There's a high-speed elevator that whisks tourists to the observation deck in just 49 seconds. Try out a career in broadcast journalism and record your very own news clip at the TV studio on the first floor. Enjoy multi-course meals in the clouds at the TV Tower Restaurant. And learn more about the history of Estonia's tallest building , including its construction for the 1980 Summer Olympics, at the TV Tower history exhibition.

Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid wasting time in a long line.

Address: Kloostrimetsa tee 58a, Pirita linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://www.teletorn.ee/en/

Toompea Hill has always been the core of power in Estonia. Various rulers of Estonia have changed the Toompea Castle to their liking over the last 800 years, starting with the initial stone structure built by the German Knights of the Sword in the 13th century and eventually turning into a tickle-me-pink Baroque palace, courtesy of Catherine the Great. It's now home to the Riigikogu (Estonian parliament), which commemorates the country's independence by raising the national flag atop the 14th-century Tall Hermann tower every morning.

Tourists can take free guided tours of the Toompea Castle in English, Russian, or Estonian on weekdays, with advance reservations. You'll get to explore the inside of the rosy building, hear about its storied past, and learn about the structure of the Riigikolu.

After your tour, walk 500 meters northeast to the Patkuli viewing platform for an epic panoramic vista of Tallinn. From here, you can see straight down to the port .

Address: Lossi plats 1a, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://www.riigikogu.ee/en/visit-us/toompea-castle/

Take one look at the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, and you might think you've somehow stumbled into St. Petersburg. The 120-year-old cathedral, located directly across from the Toompea Castle , exudes sacred Russian Orthodox style, with five bulbous onion domes crowned by gilded iron crosses and an ornate brown and white exterior. It also houses 11 bells, including the largest one in Tallinn, which clocks in at a whopping 15 tons. You can hear their sounds ringing through the city throughout the day.

While beautiful and well-maintained, the cathedral hasn't always received a warm welcome from Tallinn. Many Estonians saw it as an oppressive symbol from Russia in the early- to mid-20th century and demanded it be demolished. However, that proposal didn't move forward, and the cathedral still stands today.

Address: Lossi plats 10, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Aleksander Nevski Katedraali isn't the only remaining artifact of Russian influence in Tallinn. You can also see it at Kadriorg Park and the palace within it, both commissioned by Czar Peter the Great for his wife Catherine, in 1718.

About four kilometers east of Tallinn's Old Town , the lush 70-hectare expanse is the go-to place for a heavy dose of nature therapy in the city. Tourists will see blooming flower beds laid out in geometric patterns , a luxurious swan pond, a serene Japanese garden , and an English landscape park with an oak grove.

More than just nature, the park is also home to a few impressive structures, the most notable of which is the Kadriorg Palace. Built as an imperial summer palace in the early 18th century, the elegant three-level building was inspired by Italian palaces of the time and now houses the Estonian Art Museum 's collection of foreign works from the 16th to the 20th centuries. North of the palace, you can see the Office of the President of the Republic , a salmon-pink, Neo-Baroque building where the Estonian president works.

Address: August Weizenbergi tänav 10, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: http://www.kadriorupark.ee/park-eng/areas-of-the-park

After you've had your fill of Kadriorg Park, stroll over to the Kumu Art Museum, an award-winning institution that serves as the headquarters of the Estonian Art Museum. It houses a vast collection of contemporary art and serves as a multifunctional space for educational programs and events.

The main permanent exhibition on the third floor offers tourists the opportunity to see Estonian art classics from the 18th century to the conclusion of World War II. Featured artists include Johann Köler, Kristjan Raud, and Konrad Mägi . The works are laid out in such a way that tourists can see how local art styles changed in parallel with the Estonian mentality.

On the fourth floor, a more recently opened part of the permanent exhibition focuses on Estonian Art during the Soviet Era . The collection dives into the many complexities of producing creative works under the strict rules of the Communist Party, as well as the changes that occurred as restrictions on art eased toward the 1980s.

You can also see how Estonian art evolved in the 1990s after the fall of the Soviet Union in another permanent exhibition on that floor.

The permanent collections give tourists plenty to ponder, but should you want an even deeper immersion in local art, check out the museum's fascinating temporary exhibits, which explore a variety of mediums and expressions.

Address: August Weizenbergi tänav 34, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://kumu.ekm.ee/en/

Experience the lifestyles of Estonians from hundreds of years ago at the Estonian Open Air Museum. Located in the seaside area Rocca al Mare , a 20-minute drive from the heart of Tallinn, this year-round, outdoor, educational attraction includes 14 farms that recreate the way rural Estonian villagers and fishing communities lived from the 18th century to the 20th century.

Tourists can wander through many of the 74 buildings scattered around the 72-hectare property. You'll see a traditional school house, seaside fishing sheds, historic homes, a fire station, and windmills, many of which were plucked from their original villages and brought to Tallinn.

When you work up an appetite, head to the authentic inn to refuel with heritage dishes, like wild mushroom soup, rye bread with salted herring and cottage cheese, and mashed potatoes with pan-fried meat and groat (hulled kernels of cereal grains). Tourists can also take part in fun activities from yesteryear, including folk dances, midsummer bonfires, and horse and cart rides.

Address: Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 12, Haabersti linnaosa, Tallinn

Marzipan, as with many traditional foods, has a disputed history. While some point to Germany as the birthplace of the almond sweet, others believe it was invented in Tallinn by a man who worked at the Raeapteek pharmacy.

What's not up for debate, however, is the best place to try marzipan in Estonia today: Kalev Chocolate Shop and Workshop. Located in the historic Rotermann Quarter , this sweets shop puts together tempting gift boxes of marzipan and handmade chocolates, along with quirky marzipan figures in animal shapes.

The shop also invites tourists to strap on an apron and try their hand at making their own treats in the workshop. This is a fun thing to do in Tallin if you have the time. The two-hour hands-on classes are guided by a master confectioner who will show you how to make chocolate truffles and mold and paint marzipan using centuries-old techniques. Don't be surprised if you eat as many sweets as you end up taking home at the end of this creative experience.

The Kalev Chocolate Shop and Workshop is just a short walk from the Port of Tallinn. If you're just visiting the Estonian capital on a cruise or day trip from Helsinki , you can easily squeeze in a class at the sweets shop, making your short experience even sweeter.

Address: Roseni tänav 7, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://kalev.eu/#73382

With its 124-meter steeple, St. Olaf's Church is Tallinn's tallest medieval structure . But more than just an eye-catching site, the attraction also has a fascinating history. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century as the center for the city's Scandinavian community before Denmark took control of Tallinn around 1219.

Fast forward a few centuries to the Cold War, and the church took on a new purpose as a radio and surveillance center for the Soviet KGB . Historical records also note that the church has been struck by lightning a whopping 10 times, three of which set the structure ablaze. A Baptist congregation now uses the church for regular services.

Tourists are welcome to visit the modest Gothic interiors and get great views of the city from its observation platform. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes to climb the 232 steps to the top of the steeple!

A 15-minute walk northwest of Tallinn's Old City brings you to one of the coolest places to visit in Estonia: Telliskivi Creative City. Located in what used to be Tallinn's industrial area, this "town within a town" brims with more than 200 businesses across its 10 buildings .

The Creative City's indie shops offer something for just about everyone, including sustainably-made leather bags, locally thrown ceramics, chic homewares, and vinyl records. You can also visit popular cultural attractions, including the Fotografiska photography museum; Sõltumatu Tantsu Lava contemporary dance theater; and the Juhan Kuus Documentary Photo Centre , which focuses on Estonian documentary film and photography.

Before leaving, be sure to grab a scoop or two from La Muu Ice Cream Shop. It offers more than 20 flavors of organic ice cream, including cookies and cream, peppermint stracciatella, and vegan brownie.

Address: Telliskivi 60a, 10412 Tallinn

Luxury Hotels:

• Right in the heart of Tallinn, where the downtown meets the medieval old town, the Savoy Boutique Hotel by TallinnHotels is a great 5-star pick if you're looking for an intimate boutique sleep. The hotel has an elegant vibe throughout, and the rooms are comfortable and spacious. Staff is very attentive. Amenities include a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, airport transport, and a concierge.
• At one time serving as an Estonian Telegraph Company exchange station, today the Hotel Telegraaf is a charming 5-star hotel. The building dates back to 1878, and the ambience is old-world European. Rooms and suites have plush furnishings and high ceilings with chandeliers and crown molding. Amenities here include a day spa and a restaurant serving Russian fare. The location in the heart of Old Town is also excellent, and this is the only property in this area to have an underground parking lot for guests.
• The Schlössle Hotel is another luxury option. On cobbled Holy Spirit Street between the old harbor and Old Town Square, the hotel has a historic ambience and features elegantly outfitted rooms and suites. Breakfast is included in the rate, and there is an on-site restaurant. In the summer there is live music in the courtyard terrace area. This property is also pet-friendly should you be traveling with a dog, but you must pay a pet fee and a deposit.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Centennial Hotel Tallinn is an excellent mid-priced option. The hotel is located about seven minutes by foot from Old Town and is a new property. The rooms and suites are decorated in Nordic minimalist style and have mural accent walls. Amenities here include a free breakfast, sauna, and 100-seat restaurant. The Centennial Hotel is also kid-friendly.
• Next to Freedom Square, the 4-star Palace Hotel dates back to 1937. Designed by a famous Estonian architect, today it has a historic facade and a modern interior design. On-site amenities include a restaurant, steam bath and sauna center, and a fitness center. There is also an indoor swimming pool.
• Hilton Tallinn Park is another mid-range choice. It is located at the edge of Politseiaia Park and has great views of the Old Town and harbor from its modern rooms and suites. The property is family-friendly, and amenities include a restaurant, indoor swimming pool, and workout room. There is also a spa on-site and a sauna and steam room.

Budget Hotels :

• With a very affordable price point, the Hestia Hotel Seaport is a popular budget choice. Located next to the Port of Tallinn and not far from Old Town, it has cozy rooms with eco-friendly cork floors. Breakfast is included, and there is a restaurant and sauna on-site. Car hire can also be arranged here.
• Also try the Dorell Hotel for a budget option. The hotel has tidy rooms with blackout curtains. It is also kid-friendly with family rooms. Amenities include free breakfast, an outdoor swimming pool, sauna, and free Wi-Fi.

20 Best Places to Visit in Estonia

Interested to see the Baltic countries? Why not start at the very north! We compiled the best places to visit in Estonia you must not miss!

Estonia, located in Northern Europe, is a beautiful and historic country with a rich cultural heritage. It offers many tourist attractions, making it an ideal place to visit. One of the must-visit places in Estonia is Toompea Hill, which holds historical and cultural significance. 

Situated in Tallinn’s Old Town, this hill offers breathtaking views of the city and the Baltic Sea. Toompea Hill has been a focal point for centuries, witnessing numerous historical events and preserving its architectural wonders. 

The hill is home to the Estonian Parliament and several other important government buildings. As you explore this area, you’ll notice the blend of different architectural styles from various periods. 

This adds a distinct cultural flavor to the area and further enriches Estonia’s diverse heritage. Southern Estonia also boasts some beautiful places that are worth visiting. 

Tartu, the second-largest city in Estonia, stands tall as a cultural hub with its vibrant university life and renowned Estonian National Museum. This museum showcases fascinating exhibits that delve into Estonia’s history and traditions. 

For maritime enthusiasts, Seaplane Harbour should be among their top choices. Located in Tallinn on the northern coast, it’s an impressive seaplane hangar turned museum that showcases Estonia’s maritime history through interactive exhibits and displays. 

Apart from these prominent attractions mentioned above, rural Estonia hides many other places waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers. The countryside landscapes are picturesque, with vast open fields dotted with charming wooden farmhouses and barns painted in traditional shades of red. 

Whether you’re exploring Toompea Hill with its captivating views or immersing yourself in Tartu’s cultural scene at the Estonian National Museum – there is something for everyone when it comes to exploring beautiful places in Estonia. From the maritime allure of Seaplane Harbour to the rustic charm of rural Estonia, this country has many attractions that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor. 

Follow me on Instagram , where you’ll see more personal tips about living in Finland from a local resident chef and content creator 🍃🍃🍃

📚 Do you want to learn the Finnish language for FREE ? Check out Spark Your Finnish course! 🇫🇮 How about diving into Finland’s culture? Here’s another FREE culture class to learn how to connect with Finns ❗️ Be insured before your trip to Finland and  get a SafetyWing FREE insurance quote 📚 Read our post about  why you should always have insurance ✈️ Find out how to  find cheap flights to Finland using Skyscanner  or  find deals now

Table of Contents

Tartu, the second-largest city in Estonia, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that should be noticed on your visit to Estonia. Along the Emajõgi River’s banks, Tartu offers a unique blend of historical charm, academic excellence, and natural beauty. 

As you explore Tartu, visit its most famous landmark – the University of Tartu. This prestigious institution was founded in 1632 and has significantly shaped the city’s identity. 

Take a leisurely stroll through its picturesque campus with beautiful buildings and tranquil gardens. Enjoy visiting the university museum showcasing fascinating Estonian history and culture exhibits. 

In addition to its academic prominence, Tartu boasts an enchanting old town that transports visitors back in time. Walk along narrow cobblestone streets with charming medieval buildings adorned with colorful facades. 

The Town Hall Square is a focal point of activity with its bustling cafes and restaurants where you can sample traditional Estonian cuisine while soaking up the lively atmosphere. For art enthusiasts, visiting the Tartu Art Museum is an absolute must. 

This museum houses an impressive collection of Estonian art from different periods, offering insight into the country’s artistic heritage. From classical paintings to contemporary installations, there is something for every taste. 

Nature lovers will find respite in Toomemägi Park, atop a hill overlooking the city. This peaceful oasis features lush greenery, winding paths, and several historical monuments, such as ruined cathedral walls and observation towers. 

It’s an ideal spot for picnics or simply taking in panoramic views of Tartu. If you’re interested in maritime history or simply want to experience something extraordinary during your trip to Estonia, consider visiting the Estonian Maritime Museum’s branch located at Patarei Sea Fortress-Prison in Tallinn or Suur Tõll submarine at Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam). 

These unique attractions provide a glimpse into Estonia’s seafaring past, where you can explore old prison cells, climb aboard a submarine, or learn about maritime traditions. Tartu offers an array of experiences for travelers seeking a combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. 

Whether captivated by its medieval architecture or intrigued by its academic legacy, this charming city has something for everyone. So make sure to include Tartu in your itinerary when planning your visit to Estonia, and allow yourself to be enchanted by its allure. 

Pärnu, often referred to as the “ summer capital” of Estonia, is a charming coastal city in the heart of the country. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere, it is one of the best places to visit when exploring the cities in Estonia. The main attraction in Pärnu is its stunning beach, stretching along the Baltic coast for about 4 kilometers. 

With soft golden sand and crystal clear waters, it has earned a reputation as one of Estonia’s most beloved summer destinations. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in beachside activities like volleyball or frisbee, Pärnu’s beach offers something for everyone. 

Aside from its picturesque coastline, Pärnu also boasts a rich historical heritage. The city has been an important trading hub since ancient times. It bears witness to various architectural styles throughout its streets. 

Strolling through Old Town will transport you back in time with its well-preserved wooden houses and cobblestone streets. Don’t miss out on visiting St. Elizabeth’s Church with its impressive spires or exploring Tallinn Gate—the only remaining gate from the medieval city walls. 

If you’re interested in immersing yourself in nature during your visit to Pärnu, Soomaa National Park is just a short trip away. This vast wilderness covers nearly 400 square kilometers. It is famous for its large floods during springtime when rivers overflow their banks. 

Visitors can explore this unique landscape by canoeing or hiking through pristine forests and wetlands while encountering various wildlife species. For those seeking cultural experiences, Pärnu offers several museums and galleries worth exploring. 

The Estonian Museum of New Art showcases contemporary works by local artists alongside international exhibitions—an absolute treat for art enthusiasts. Additionally, The Museum of Pärnu introduces visitors to the city’s history through interactive displays that provide insight into life during different periods. 

Don’t forget to indulge in the delectable cuisine that Pärnu has to offer. The city is known for its vibrant dining scene, with numerous restaurants serving traditional Estonian dishes and international flavors. 

Be sure to try the local specialties such as smoked fish, black bread, and kama—a traditional Estonian dessert made of roasted grains. Pärnu is undoubtedly one of Estonia’s amazing places that should be on every traveler’s list. 

Its stunning beaches , rich history, natural wonders like Soomaa National Park, cultural attractions such as museums and galleries, and delicious cuisine offer diverse experiences. Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the sea or eager to delve into Estonia’s past and present, Pärnu has something for everyone. 

Located off the western coast of Estonia, Saaremaa is a captivating island you want to visit when exploring this beautiful country. Known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and unique culture, Saaremaa offers a truly enchanting experience for travelers. With plenty of attractions and activities, let’s dive into what makes Saaremaa a must-visit destination. 

One of the highlights of Saaremaa is its remarkable nature. The island boasts an abundance of lush forests, pristine beaches, and tranquil lakes that are perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics with loved ones. 

Hiiumaa, another nearby island often referred to as Saaremaa’s sister island, is easily accessible from here and well worth visiting. Saaremaa also houses the UNESCO-listed Kuressaare Castle. 

Built-in the 13th century, this medieval fortress is one of Estonia’s oldest and best-preserved castles . It offers visitors a glimpse into Estonia’s rich history while exploring its ancient walls and towers. 

The castle also hosts various cultural events throughout the year. Aside from historical landmarks, Saaremaa is known for its charming coastal villages, such as Kuressaare Old Town and Panga Village. 

Kuressaare Old Town exudes a quaint atmosphere with its narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses and delightful cafes. Panga Village is renowned for its stunning cliffs that offer breathtaking views over the Baltic Sea. 

If you’re seeking some adrenaline-pumping activities on your trip to Saaremaa, head over to Angla Windmill Hill, where you can witness traditional windmills dating back to the 19th century. You can even try windmill climbing or learn about traditional Estonian handicrafts at the on-site museum. 

A journey to Saaremaa would only be complete with visiting one of its iconic lighthouses. The Sõrve Lighthouse, located on the island’s southern tip, is among Estonia’s best places to see. 

Standing tall and proud at 52 meters, this maritime beacon offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It serves as a reminder of Saaremaa’s rich seafaring heritage. Saaremaa is a hidden gem that should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Estonia. 

With its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and unique cultural experiences, this island offers something for everyone. From exploring ancient castles and charming villages to immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes and traditional activities, Saaremaa will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this remarkable corner of Estonia. 

Hiiumaa is a hidden gem in Estonia that is definitely worth a visit. Located in the Baltic Sea, this island offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and a laid-back island vibe. 

It’s a great place to visit if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature. One of the main attractions in Hiiumaa is the Kõpu Lighthouse. 

Standing tall at 36 meters, it is one of Estonia’s oldest lighthouses and offers breathtaking views from its observation deck. The lighthouse has an interesting history dating back to 1531 when it was first mentioned in historical records. 

If you’re interested in history, visit the Tahkuna Peninsula, where you’ll find remnants of old military structures. These bunkers were used during World War II to defend against potential enemy attacks. 

Exploring these bunkers gives you a glimpse into life during those turbulent times. For nature enthusiasts, Hiiumaa offers several stunning beaches, such as Kärdla Beach and Ristna Beach, where you can relax on golden sands and dip in the refreshing waters of the Baltic Sea. 

The island also boasts beautiful forests and walking trails, perfect for hiking or biking. When visiting Hiiumaa, explore its charming villages, such as Käina and Kassari. 

These villages are known for their traditional wooden houses that showcase authentic Estonian architecture. You can also visit local artisans who create handmade crafts using traditional techniques. 

Try local delicacies such as smoked fish from Hiiumaa’s coastal waters or fresh honey produced by local beekeepers to satisfy your taste buds. Cozy cafes and restaurants allow you to enjoy traditional Estonian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. 

Hiiumaa is one of Estonia’s hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Its stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming villages offer a unique experience for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. 

Whether you are interested in nature, history, or simply unwinding on beautiful beaches, Hiiumaa has something for everyone. So pack your bags and embark on a memorable trip to this enchanting island in southern Estonia. 

Nestled on the eastern border of Estonia, Narva is a hidden gem often overlooked by travelers visiting the country. Despite being overshadowed by its more popular counterparts like Tallinn and Tartu, Narva has unique charm and historical significance that makes it worth visiting. Narva Castle is one of the main attractions in Narva, which stands proudly on the banks of the Narva River. 

Built-in the 13th century, this medieval fortress has witnessed countless battles and sieges. As you explore its ancient walls and towers, you can’t help but feel transported back in time. 

The castle also offers stunning panoramic views of the Russian side of the river and Estonia, allowing visitors to appreciate the city’s cross-cultural influences. Another must-visit spot in Narva is Hermann Castle, located just across from Narva Castle on the Russian side. 

This grand fortress is one of Estonia’s oldest lighthouses. It serves as a symbol of both strength and cooperation between two neighboring nations. Standing atop Hermann Castle’s tower provides a breathtaking view of the Baltic Sea coastline in all its natural beauty. 

For those seeking to immerse themselves in rural Estonia, I recommend a trip to Kreenholm Island. This picturesque little island is home to the Kreenholm Factory Complex, once one of Europe’s largest textile mills in operation during the 19th century. 

It has been transformed into a cultural hub that houses art studios, galleries, workshops, and even a museum showcasing the island’s industrial heritage. History enthusiasts will also find plenty to explore in Narva’s Old Town district. 

Strolling through its narrow cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a time capsule filled with beautiful, historic buildings that have managed to withstand centuries of change. The Alexander Church is particularly striking with its eye-catching blue façade and intricate architectural details. 

Last, nature lovers can escape the buzz of the city by visiting the Narva River Promenade. This scenic walkway stretches along the riverbank, offering mesmerizing views of the flowing water and lush greenery. 

Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to fully appreciate this delightful spot, especially during sunset when the sky paints a breathtaking canvas of colors. While Narva may not feature prominently on everyone’s list of places to visit in Estonia, it is undoubtedly a place worth exploring. 

From its medieval castles and historic landmarks to its natural beauty and cross-cultural influence, Narva has something to offer every type of traveler. So, if you find yourself in Northern Europe craving an off-the-beaten-path experience, include this charming city in your itinerary. 

Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!

I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!

• Booking.com  – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
• Airbnb  – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
• Skyscanner  – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
• SafetyWing  – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
• GetYourGuide  – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
• My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon)  – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
• Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon)  – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.

Nestled on Estonia’s western coast lies the picturesque and charming town of Haapsalu. This hidden gem is a must-visit destination in Estonia, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and captivating architecture. 

Known for its stunning seaside location and historic charm, Haapsalu is an idyllic getaway that will leave you enchanted. As you make your way to Haapsalu, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the famous Haapsalu Castle. 

This medieval fortress stands proudly overlooking the town and its surrounding lush greenery. Stepping into the castle grounds feels like stepping back as you explore its ancient walls and towers that once served as a stronghold against invaders. 

A visit to Haapsalu would only be complete with experiencing one of its most iconic landmarks – the hauntingly beautiful Railway Station. This ornate wooden station transports you to a bygone era with its intricate detailing and old-world charm. 

As you stroll along the platform or sit on one of the benches, you can almost imagine yourself awaiting a train bound for distant lands. Haapsalu is also home to numerous historic spas that have long been renowned for their healing powers. 

Embrace relaxation at one of these rejuvenating havens as you indulge in soothing treatments or dip in mineral-rich waters. These spas offer an oasis of tranquility where visitors can unwind amidst elegant surroundings while enjoying stunning views of the Baltic Sea. 

For those with an appetite for cultural exploration, Haapsalu boasts several museums showcasing its fascinating history and artistry. The Museum of Coastal Swedes provides insight into the region’s Swedish heritage. At the same time, the Ilon’s Wonderland Museum offers delightful exhibits dedicated to children’s book author Astrid Lindgren. 

Take some time to wander through these captivating venues; they will spark your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for Estonian culture. As evening descends upon Haapsalu, be sure to catch a glimpse of its breathtaking sunsets. 

Head down to the waterfront and watch the sky ablaze with orange, pink, and purple hues as the sun dips below the horizon. The tranquil atmosphere and awe-inspiring views make for an unforgettable experience, creating lasting memories of your visit to Haapsalu. 

Haapsalu is just one of the many amazing places to visit in Estonia. This charming coastal town offers a captivating blend of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences that enchant you. 

Whether exploring its medieval castle, indulging in spa treatments, or immersing yourself in its rich history through museums, Haapsalu has something for every traveler seeking an authentic Estonian experience. So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to this hidden gem in northern Europe – you won’t be disappointed! 

Rakvere is a charming northern Estonia town known for its rich history and captivating attractions. Situated about 100 kilometers east of Tallinn, the city’s heart is a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences. 

Many places to visit in Rakvere will leave you with lasting memories. One of the must-see attractions in Rakvere is the imposing Hermann Castle. 

This medieval fortress stands proudly on a hill overlooking the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Inside, you can explore fascinating exhibitions that showcase the castle’s history and learn about its role as a stronghold throughout different periods. 

The castle also hosts various events, such as medieval festivals, bringing its colorful past to life. Head to Rakvere’s beautiful parks to embrace nature’s tranquility. 

The central park is located near the castle and is ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics. As you wander through its lush greenery, you’ll encounter charming pathways, serene ponds, and well-maintained gardens. 

It’s truly a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city. For those interested in exploring Estonian history further, visit Rakvere’s Tarvas Statue – an iconic symbol of the town’s heritage. 

This bronze sculpture represents an aurochs (an extinct type of wild cattle). It serves as a tribute to ancient Estonian mythology. Take time to admire this striking monument while learning about its significance from nearby information boards. 

Additionally, Rakvere offers abundant opportunities for cultural immersion through its museums and galleries. Visit Eesti Tuletornide Muuseum (Estonian Lighthouse Museum) to delve into Estonia’s maritime heritage or explore Võhmuta Manor Museum, which displays artifacts showcasing rural life in bygone eras. 

To relax after exploring all these captivating sights, treat yourself to some local cuisine at one of Rakvere’s cozy restaurants or cafes. Indulge in traditional Estonian dishes like sült (jellied meat), verivorst (blood sausage), or kama (a mixture of crushed grains). 

Remember to savor a glass of locally brewed beer or sip on some Vana Tallinn liqueur, a staple in Estonian culture. Rakvere is a hidden gem among the many amazing places to see in Estonia. 

From its medieval castle to its picturesque parks and cultural landmarks, this town offers an immersive experience of Estonia’s rich history and vibrant culture. So, if you’re planning a trip to this Baltic Sea country, make sure Rakvere is on your itinerary for an unforgettable adventure. 

Lahemaa National Park

Lahemaa National Park is a gem nestled in the beautiful country of Estonia. This park covers around 725 km² and is a nature lover’s paradise with diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. 

It is no wonder that Lahemaa National Park is often referred to as the “jewel of the Baltic.” One of the highlights of visiting Lahemaa National Park is its picturesque coastline along the Gulf of Riga . 

The park boasts an impressive stretch of sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and charming fishing villages that glimpse traditional Estonian coastal life. Strolling along the shoreline, you can take in the fresh sea breeze and soak up breathtaking views that are truly unrivaled. 

For history buffs and culture enthusiasts, Lahemaa National Park also has much to offer. The park is home to several manor houses that date back to the 13th century when Estonia was part of the Teutonic Knights’ Livonian Order. 

These majestic estates, such as Palmse Manor and Sagadi Manor, provide a fascinating insight into what life was like for Estonia’s noble families throughout history. Exploring deeper into the park’s lush forests and meandering trails will lead you to hidden lakes and pristine wetlands teeming with wildlife. 

Keep an eye out for native species like moose, lynx, bears, and various birds while immersing yourself in Estonian nature at its finest. One must-visit attraction within Lahemaa National Park is Viru Bog — an enchanting natural wonderland filled with wooden boardwalks winding through marshy terrain blanketed by vibrant green mosses and colorful wildflowers. 

The ethereal atmosphere created by the mist rising from bog pools makes Viru Bog an otherworldly experience you won’t forget. To fully appreciate all that Lahemaa National Park offers, consider embarking on one of its many hiking trails or cycling routes. 

These paths will take you through dense forests, past scenic lakes, and charming villages where you can stop and interact with friendly locals, discovering firsthand the warm Estonian hospitality. Lahemaa National Park is undeniably one of Estonia’s greatest treasures. 

With its stunning coastal landscapes, historic manor houses, diverse wildlife, and captivating natural wonders like Viru Bog, this park is an absolute must-visit for anyone planning a trip to Estonia. So next time you find yourself in this Baltic beauty of a country, be sure to carve out some time to explore Lahemaa National Park and experience the magic it has in store. 

Kuressaare, located on Saaremaa Island, is a charming town that offers visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation. As you explore the streets of Kuressaare, you’ll feel transported back in time with its well-preserved medieval castle and picturesque surroundings. One of the main highlights of Kuressaare is its magnificent castle. 

The Kuressaare Castle stands proudly in the heart of the town and is one of Estonia’s best-preserved medieval fortifications. Take a leisurely stroll around the castle walls and imagine life centuries ago. 

You can visit the Saaremaa Museum inside the castle to learn more about the island’s fascinating history. If you want to unwind and enjoy natural beauty, head to Spa Hotel Meri. 

This spa resort offers treatments and therapies to rejuvenate your body and mind. After a relaxing massage or a soak in one of their mineral water pools, take a peaceful walk along Kuressaare’s coastal promenade and enjoy breathtaking sea views. 

For those who appreciate nature, visit Kaali Meteorite Crater Field. This unique natural wonder consists of several meteorite craters formed thousands of years ago. 

Explore the walking trails surrounding it and marvel at this geological phenomenon. Another attraction worth visiting is Panga Cliff. 

Located just outside Kuressaare, Panga Cliff offers stunning panoramic views over the Baltic Sea. As you stand atop this steep cliffside, let yourself be mesmerized by nature’s grandeur as waves crash against the rocks below. 

After exploring all that Kuressaare offers, indulge in some delicious local cuisine. Try traditional Estonian dishes such as mulgipuder (potato porridge) or sült (head cheese). 

Be sure to pair your meal with a local craft beer or a shot of Vana Tallinn, a popular Estonian liqueur. Kuressaare is a great place to visit for its historical and natural attractions and its peaceful and laid-back atmosphere. 

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this charming town on Saaremaa Island has something to offer everyone. So, add Kuressaare to your list of must-visit places in Estonia and discover the hidden gems this coastal town has in store for you. 

Otepää

Otepää, a small town in southern Estonia, is often referred to as the “ winter capital” of the country. Its picturesque landscape and abundance of outdoor activities attract locals and tourists throughout the year. 

If you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Otepää has plenty to offer. One of the highlights of Otepää is its stunning natural surroundings. 

The town is surrounded by forests and picturesque hills, making it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The Pühajärve Lake, located just outside the town center, offers a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and picnics. 

During winter, the region transforms into a winter wonderland with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Otepää has its own share of attractions for those interested in history and culture. 

One must-visit site is Tehvandi Sports Center, which hosted several events during the 2010 Winter Olympics. Here, you can try your hand at various winter sports or simply enjoy watching professionals in action. 

Additionally, Otepää boasts one of Estonia’s oldest churches – St Mary’s Church – which dates back to the 13th century. This historical gem showcases stunning medieval architecture and provides insights into Estonia’s rich heritage. 

Food lovers will also find delight in Otepää’s culinary scene. The town offers several cozy cafes and restaurants where you can sample traditional Estonian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. 

Don’t miss out on hearty Estonian soups like rosolje (beetroot salad) or verivorst (blood sausage) – they will satisfy your taste buds! When planning a trip to Estonia, visiting Otepää is highly recommended for those seeking an authentic experience beyond Tallinn’s old town or coastal destinations along the Baltic Sea. 

With its captivating natural beauty, historical sites, and delicious cuisine, Otepää stands out as one of Estonia’s best places to explore. So whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for adventure or a history buff craving a glimpse of Estonia’s past, Otepää should definitely be on your list of must-visit destinations. 

Viljandi is a charming town located in the southern part of Estonia. Often overshadowed by bustling cities like Tallinn and Tartu, Viljandi is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. 

With its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, this town offers travelers a unique and memorable experience. One of the highlights of visiting Viljandi is exploring its historical sites. 

The ruins of Viljandi Castle provide a stunning view of the city and offer insights into what life was like during medieval times. As you wander around the castle grounds, you can imagine knights in shining armor patrolling the walls and hear echoes of ancient tales whispered through the centuries. 

In addition to its historical charm, Viljandi also boasts numerous cultural events throughout the year. The Viljandi Folk Music Festival, held annually in July , attracts musicians from all over Estonia and beyond. 

This event brings the town to life with lively performances on street corners and in cozy cafes, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Viljandi as well. 

The nearby Soomaa National Park offers breathtaking landscapes with pristine forests, winding rivers, and bog areas that transform into magical wonderlands during different seasons. Hike along nature trails or hop on a canoe to immerse yourself in this natural paradise. 

If you’re looking for relaxation or family fun, visit Viljandi’s indoor water park – Aqua Spa. With multiple pools, slides, saunas, and jacuzzis, it’s a perfect place to unwind after exploring all Viljandi offers. 

You can also take advantage of spa treatments available at Aqua Spa for an extra dose of pampering. But certainly not least on your list should be enjoying local cuisine at one of Viljandi’s cozy restaurants or cafes. 

Indulge in traditional Estonian dishes such as herring salad or blood sausage, or try international flavors that have found their way into the town’s culinary scene. Viljandi offers a range of dining options to suit various tastes and budgets. 

Viljandi is a place to visit in Estonia that should be noticed. While it may not be as well-known as the capital or the summer capital, this charming town has unique charm and attractions. 

From exploring historical sites like Viljandi Castle to immersing yourself in nature at Soomaa National Park, there is something for everyone in Viljandi. So, if you plan a trip to Estonia, include this underrated gem on your itinerary. 

Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?

Remember this:  anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!

The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with  SafetyWing  was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.

I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.

Read my post about  why you should get travel insurance  for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from  SafetyWing  – they’re the best, in my opinion.

Alatskivi Castle

When exploring the charming countryside of Estonia, a visit to Alatskivi Castle is an absolute must. Nestled amidst serene surroundings in southern Estonia, this majestic castle returns you to a bygone era of grandeur and opulence. 

Built in the 19th century, Alatskivi Castle is a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history. As you approach the castle, you are immediately greeted by its imposing presence. 

The intricate detailing on its exterior walls, with turrets and impressive towers, will leave you awestruck. Once inside, you’ll be transported to a world where nobility reigned supreme. 

The castle boasts beautifully furnished rooms that reflect the elegance and sophistication of its former occupants. One of the highlights of Alatskivi Castle is the stunning park surrounding it. 

Spread across vast acres of land, this park offers breathtaking views of the castle and the picturesque Estonian countryside beyond. Whether strolling through manicured lawns or wandering along meandering pathways shaded by ancient trees, there’s no denying this park’s tranquility and beauty. 

Within Alatskivi Castle grounds lies an enchanting lake where visitors can enjoy leisurely boat rides or simply relax on its shores while enjoying the peaceful ambiance. This serene setting provides an ideal backdrop for capturing memorable photographs or immersing yourself in nature’s embrace. 

For history enthusiasts, a visit to Alatskivi Castle is particularly rewarding as it houses an impressive museum dedicated to showcasing Estonia’s rich heritage. Here, you can learn about life during different periods and understand how people lived centuries ago. 

This museum offers a comprehensive understanding of Estonia’s past, from ancient artifacts to historical documents and interactive displays. Alatskivi Castle is one of Estonia’s hidden gems that should be noticed during your trip to this Baltic nation. 

Its stunning architecture, picturesque park, and captivating history make it a worthy addition to any itinerary. So, if you find yourself in southern Estonia, take the time to visit this remarkable castle and indulge in its timeless beauty. 

Kadriorg Palace and Park

Kadriorg Palace and Park is undoubtedly one of Estonia’s most beautiful and historic places to visit. Located in the capital city of Tallinn, this stunning complex is a must-see for anyone exploring the country. The palace was built by Peter the Great in the early 18th century, and its grand architecture is truly awe-inspiring. 

As you step into Kadriorg Palace, you’ll be transported back to an era of opulence and grandeur. The interior is adorned with exquisite artwork, intricate sculptures, and luxurious furnishings, all meticulously preserved to showcase its former glory. 

Walking through its halls feels like stepping into Estonia’s rich history. But it’s not just the palace that makes this place special; it’s also the surrounding park. 

Spread over 70 hectares, Kadriorg Park is a tranquil oasis filled with picturesque gardens, meandering paths, and charming fountains. It offers a perfect escape from the bustling city life. It is an excellent spot for a relaxing stroll or a romantic picnic amidst nature’s beauty. 

One of the highlights of Kadriorg Park is definitely its stunning Swan Pond. This idyllic water body is home to graceful swans gliding across its surface, creating a serene atmosphere that soothes your soul. 

Sitting by the pond and feeding these elegant creatures while enjoying the peaceful surroundings can be an incredibly calming experience. Another gem within this park is the Russalka Monument. 

Standing tall at the edge of Tallinn Bay, this majestic sculpture represents souls lost at sea during shipwrecks. Not only does it carry immense historical significance, but it also offers breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Riga. 

If you love art or history, visit Kumu Art Museum, located within Kadriorg Park grounds. This contemporary art museum houses an impressive collection spanning several centuries. It showcases both local Estonian talent as well as international artists. 

Exploring its galleries will undoubtedly leave you inspired and enriched by the artistic expression. Kadriorg Palace and Park is one of Estonia’s hidden gems that should be discovered and appreciated. 

Whether you’re interested in history, art or simply seeking a peaceful escape amidst nature, this place offers it all. So make sure to include a visit to this remarkable destination when exploring the captivating beauty of Estonia. 

Tuhala Witch’s Well (Tuhala Nõiakaev)

If you find yourself wandering through the enchanting landscapes of Estonia, a stop at Tuhala Witch’s Well should be on your list. This fascinating natural wonder is nestled in the heart of Tuhala, a small village located just 40 kilometers from Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. Tuhala Witch’s Well is one of those hidden gems that charms visitors with its mystical allure. 

Legend has it that the well is connected to an underground river, which awakens during heavy rainstorms and causes water to gush out dramatically. This phenomenon creates a spectacle known as “witches’ whirlpools,” where water swirls around in mesmerizing patterns. 

It’s truly a sight to behold! Visitors flock here to witness this unique display and marvel at nature’s power. 

To get to Tuhala Witch’s Well, rent a car, drive from Tallinn, or take public transportation. The journey is an adventure as you go through Estonia’s picturesque countryside. 

Imagine driving past rolling hills, dense forests, and quaint villages. It’s like stepping into a fairytale ! 

Upon arrival in Tuhala, an unassuming path will lead you to the well. As you approach it, you’ll notice its distinctive wooden cover adorned with intricate carvings that depict scenes from Estonian folklore. 

It adds an extra touch of magic to this already mystical place. The best time to visit Tuhala Witch’s Well is during heavy rainfall when the underground river springs to life. 

However, even if luck isn’t on your side weather-wise, don’t worry! The charm of this place transcends seasons and still captivates visitors with its tranquil surroundings. 

Aside from witnessing the witches’ whirlpools at Tuhala Witch’s Well itself, many other places are worth exploring nearby. For instance, Lahemaa National Park—a true haven for nature lovers—is far away. 

You can embark on scenic hikes, discover hidden waterfalls , and immerse yourself in the beauty of Estonia’s wilderness. Tuhala Witch’s Well is a must-visit attraction in Estonia that showcases the country’s captivating folklore and natural wonders. 

Whether you’re a fan of mystical legends or simply appreciate the beauty of the natural world, this place will leave you spellbound. So make sure to include it in your itinerary when planning your journey through Estonia, and get ready to experience something truly magical! 

Estonian Open Air Museum

Suppose you’re planning a trip to Estonia and looking for a unique experience. In that case, the Estonian Open Air Museum is a must-visit destination. Located in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, this museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Situated on 72 hectares of beautiful coastal land by the Gulf of Riga, it is one of Northern Europe’s oldest and largest open-air museums. 

As you enter the museum, you’ll be transported back to rural Estonia from centuries ago. The museum features over 80 buildings brought here from various regions across the country. 

These traditional wooden houses, farms, mills, and other structures authentically represent Estonian village life. Walking through these historical structures gives visitors a truly immersive experience as they explore different eras and architectural styles. 

The museum offers various activities and exhibits that showcase traditional Estonian crafts and customs. You can witness artisans demonstrating age-old techniques such as blacksmithing, weaving, pottery making, and woodworking. 

It’s fascinating to watch these skilled craftsmen create beautiful handmade items right before your eyes. Additionally, there are numerous workshops where visitors can try their hand at these crafts under expert guidance. 

One highlight of the Estonian Open Air Museum is its collection of traditional farm animals such as sheep, cows, horses, and chickens. These animals roam freely around their farmsteads just like they did in old times. 

It’s delightful to see children interacting with these friendly creatures or even taking pony rides along designated paths within the museum grounds. Exploring the museum’s vast expanse can work up an appetite, but worry not – there’s also a cozy café serving traditional Estonian cuisine where you can take a break and indulge in local delicacies. 

And if you’re visiting during summer months or on weekends throughout the year, make sure not to miss out on performances by folk dance groups that bring the vibrant Estonian culture to life. In addition to its cultural and historical significance, the Estonian Open Air Museum also offers breathtaking natural beauty. 

The museum is surrounded by lush forests and has a stunning view of the city’s skyline in the distance. The coastal location provides a refreshing breeze from the Baltic Sea, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with family and friends. 

Overall, the Estonian Open Air Museum is one of the top attractions in Estonia that shouldn’t be missed. It provides visitors with an immersive journey back in time, allowing them to experience the country’s cultural heritage firsthand. 

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, traditional crafts, or simply looking for beautiful places to visit in Estonia, this museum offers something for everyone. So add it to your itinerary and enjoy this unique blend of past and present that awaits you within its enchanting premises. 

Setomaa is a captivating region with a rich cultural heritage located in southeastern Estonia. Nestled between the Russian border and the vastness of Lake Peipus, Setomaa offers a unique blend of traditions, folklore, and picturesque landscapes. 

The area is home to the Seto people, an ethnic minority known for their distinct language and customs. Exploring Setomaa is like stepping into a world where time seems to have stood still. 

The heart of Seto culture can be found in the charming village of Värska. Here, you can immerse yourself in the traditions and way of life preserved for centuries. 

Strolling through the village, you’ll encounter traditional wooden houses adorned with vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The Seto Museum provides fascinating historical insights, showcasing traditional costumes, handicrafts, and musical instruments. 

One of the highlights of visiting Setomaa is experiencing its vibrant folk music and dance traditions. The annual Seto Folk Festival held in Värska attracts performers from all over Estonia who come to celebrate this unique cultural heritage. 

The rhythmic melodies played on traditional instruments like kannel (zither) and troupial (bagpipe) will transport you to another time. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the pristine beauty that surrounds Setomaa. 

The vast expanse of Lake Peipus offers breathtaking views as its waters merge with the horizon. Nearby wetlands provide a haven for birdwatchers, with Matsalu National Park being particularly renowned for its diverse avian population. 

Taking a boat ride along the serene coastline or exploring one of the many hiking trails will allow you to fully appreciate this natural wonderland. A visit to Petseri (Pechory in Russian) is highly recommended for those interested in history. 

This town boasts one of Estonia’s oldest monasteries – Pskovo-Pechersky Monastery – dating back to the 15th century. Its stunning frescoes and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit for spiritual seekers and admirers of Byzantine architecture. 

As you journey through Setomaa, you’ll encounter quaint villages adorned with ornate wooden Orthodox churches. These magnificent structures display unique architectural styles that blend elements from both Estonia and Russia. 

The village of Obinitsa is renowned for its beautiful church, a testament to this region’s cultural fusion. Visiting Setomaa is like stepping into a different world within Estonia. 

The warm hospitality of the locals, their dedication to preserving centuries-old customs, and the awe-inspiring natural beauty make this region one of the most enchanting destinations in Estonia. Whether you’re exploring historic villages, indulging in traditional cuisine, or simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature, Setomaa promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return again and again. 

Aegna Island

Aegna Island, located in the Gulf of Riga, is a hidden gem in Estonia that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Accessible by boat from the Pirita district in Tallinn, this small island is just a short ride away. 

Once you step onto its shores, you’ll be greeted by pristine white sandy beaches and an untouched natural landscape. As you explore Aegna Island, visit its quaint village center. 

Here, you can find charming wooden houses that give you a glimpse into rural Estonia’s traditional architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the village, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and interact with friendly locals happy to share stories about their island life. 

For nature enthusiasts, Aegna Island boasts some breathtaking landscapes worth exploring. Hike along the island’s nature trails that wind through lush forests filled with diverse flora and fauna. 

Remember to bring your camera because you might spot some rare bird species or encounter small wildlife. One of the island’s main attractions is its stunning coastline. 

Aegna Island offers several pristine beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun in tranquility. Whether swimming in crystal-clear waters or enjoying a peaceful picnic on the sandy shores, these beaches provide an ideal spot for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. 

History buffs will also find intrigue on Aegna Island. You can visit one of Estonia’s oldest lighthouses perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the Baltic Sea. 

The lighthouse has guided sailors since 1756 and is still a testament to Estonia’s maritime heritage. Aegna Island is one of those hidden treasures that make Estonia truly special. 

From its serene beaches to picturesque forests and captivating history, this little paradise has something for everyone seeking solace amidst nature’s beauty. So, when planning your trip to Estonia, take advantage of the chance to explore Aegna Island and experience its unique charm. 

Valaste Waterfall

Valaste Waterfall is one of Estonia’s natural wonders that should definitely be on your list of places to visit in this beautiful country. Located on the northern coast of Estonia, it is a breathtaking sight that will leave you in awe. With a height of 30 meters, Valaste Waterfall is the highest waterfall in the country, offering a mesmerizing display of cascading water and stunning scenery. 

As you approach Valaste Waterfall, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the picturesque landscape of rural Estonia. The journey to this natural wonder is just as enchanting as the destination. 

As you go through winding paths and lush greenery, you can truly immerse yourself in the tranquility and serenity that nature offers. Once you arrive at Valaste Waterfall, prepare to be captivated by its sheer beauty. 

The powerful rush of water creates a mesmerizing spectacle as it crashes into the depths below. The mist rises from the waterfall’s base, creating an ethereal atmosphere that adds to its allure. 

To fully appreciate Valaste Waterfall, take your time to explore its surroundings. Several viewing platforms are strategically placed along the cliffs, allowing you to admire this natural wonder from different angles. 

As you stand there, gazing at the cascading water against the backdrop of lush forests and rocky cliffs, it’s impossible not to feel a profound sense of peace and connection with nature. While visiting Valaste Waterfall, bring your camera along because you’ll want to capture this awe-inspiring beauty forever. 

Whether a close-up shot capturing every detail or a panoramic view showcasing its grandeur against the horizon, each photograph will be a cherished memory of your trip to Estonia. Valaste Waterfall is more than just a tourist attraction ; it’s where nature unfolds its magnificence right before your eyes. 

So, if you plan a trip to Estonia, include Valaste Waterfall on your itinerary. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Estonia. It will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. 

Koguva Village

Koguva Village is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of rural Estonia. This quaint village is like stepping back in time, with its well-preserved traditional Estonian architecture and charming cobblestone streets. 

As you stroll through the village, you’ll feel transported to another era, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. One of the highlights of Koguva Village is its fascinating open-air museum. 

Here, you can explore historic buildings that have been carefully restored to showcase traditional Estonian life. Each structure tells a story of Estonia’s rich cultural heritage, from traditional farmhouses to old fishing huts. 

Visiting the Koguva Maritime Museum is a must for those interested in history. This small museum provides insights into Estonia’s seafaring past and offers a glimpse into the lives of local fishermen. 

The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, Koguva offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature’s beauty. 

Take a leisurely hike along one of the scenic trails surrounding the village, or rent a bike and explore the picturesque countryside at your own pace. After exploring Koguva Village, visit nearby attractions such as Tartu or Narva. 

Tartu is known for its vibrant university-town atmosphere. It boasts numerous historical sites like Toompea Hill, which offers stunning panoramic cityscape views. Conversely, Narva lies on the banks of the beautiful Baltic Sea. It is home to several medieval cities recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply want to immerse yourself in rural Estonia’s beauty, Koguva Village should definitely be on your list when planning your trip to Estonia. From its charming streetscapes to its fascinating museums, this hidden treasure promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting to return for more. 

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!

• Warm packable jacket  – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
• Transparent toiletry bag  – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
• Kindle Paperwhite  – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
• Powerbank  – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
• Travel Adapter  – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.

So, ar eyou planning to visit Estonia soon?

As we come to the end of our journey exploring Estonia’s beautiful places and hidden gems, it is clear that this Baltic gem has so much to offer. From the historic charm of Tallinn’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , to the stunning coastal landscapes of Northern Estonia, this country truly captures the essence of old-world charm and natural beauty. 

We strolled through cobblestone streets in Tallinn, discovering centuries-old buildings and vibrant cafes at every turn. The city’s heart, its medieval center, transported us back in time with its well-preserved architecture and picturesque squares. 

Exploring Tallinn’s ancient city walls and climbing up to Toompea Hill for panoramic views were some of the many highlights during our stay. Venturing further north, we found ourselves in Narva, a town on the border with Russia. 

This unique location gave us a glimpse into Estonia’s rich history as part of various empires. The imposing Hermann Castle stood proudly by the riverbanks, symbolizing resilience and strength. 

We couldn’t help but marvel at its medieval architecture and imagine what life was like within its walls. To experience Estonia’s maritime charm, we went to Kuressaare on Saaremaa Island – the second-largest island in Estonia. 

This picturesque town captivated us with its quaint streets, colorful houses, and charming cafes. We took leisurely walks along Kuressaare’s coast, enjoying breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea while breathing in fresh sea air. 

Reflecting on our journey through Estonia leaves us feeling incredibly fortunate to have discovered such an enchanting destination. Whether you are drawn to historical sites like Tallinn’s Old Town or crave nature’s tranquility on Saaremaa Island’s coastlines, there is something here for everyone. 

Estonia’s rich cultural heritage and unspoiled natural landscapes make it a truly remarkable place to visit. So, pack your bags and plan your trip during the summer when Estonia truly comes alive with festivals, outdoor markets, and various events. 

Whether you’re exploring the capital of Estonia or venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden castles and coastal towns, this Baltic gem is worth visiting. Estonia offers abundant charm and allure that will leave any traveler spellbound. 

From its historical sites to its breathtaking natural beauty, it is a country that continues to surprise and delight at every turn. So go ahead, embark on your adventure in Estonia, and make memories that will last a lifetime! 

Planning to visit Estonia? Check out these posts!

• Best time to visit Estonia
• Estonia Points of Interests:   Places to visit ,  Visit Helsinki on a day trip ,  Castles to visit , and  Islands to visit
• Places to visit in Estonia:   Tallinn ,  Rakvere ,  Pärnu ,  Tartu ,  Haapsalu ,  Harjumaa , and  Viljandi
• What to do in Tallinn:   Day trips from Tallinn

Are you on Pinterest? Pin this for later reading!

• Pinterest 2.9K

Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

25 thoughts on “20 Best Places to Visit in Estonia”

Love this post!!!

Thanks Amy!

This is fantastic. I’ve only been to Tallinn before and loved it, so it’s so good to read about some of the other places to visit in Estonia!! Thanks for this awesome post!

Did you know that more than half of Estonia is made up of rural villages, farmland and forests? We visited Tallinn back in March, but only for two days – we would have loved to do the KGB Museum & Tallinn Legends but we just didn’t have enough time. We definitely want to go back & also explore Estonia’s fabulously green countryside!

“If you are seeking for an adventurous trip, you definitely have to visit Harjumaa County.” What I think that, during your trip, take some challenges, you might find more fun.

Seems like Estonia has everything a tourist could look for;Medieval history, beaches,National parks,hyped city life,rural lifestyle,serene cities where one can just relax and unwind. I should visit this wonderful paradise.

Yep! It really does 🙂

Estonia sounds like a wonderful addition to my ‘must visit’ list. i particularly find Lahemaa National Park very interesting. It is hard to believe i have never heard of Estonia before today.

A lot of people haven’t and it still surprises me till this day but other than that, it is a beautiful country!

Comments are closed.

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

Places To Visit in Estonia

Here are the top 17 tourist places in estonia.

1 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a picturesque city full of history and culture. Located on the banks of the Gulf of Finland, its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for any traveler.

Best Time: June - August

2 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Parnu, located on the western coast of Estonia, is a must-visit destination for all travelers. It is known for its breathtaking beaches, beautiful parks, and fascinating culture. It is home to the historic Parnu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is filled with cobblestone streets, old chur...

3. Kuressaare

3 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Kuressaare, the capital of Estonia's Saaremaa Island, is a delightful seaside town full of charm. Its picturesque harbor, cobbled streets, and medieval castle walls make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Located on the west coast of Estonia, Kuressaare is a popular summer destination for...

4. Haapsalu

4 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Haapsalu is a small seaside town in Estonia with a strong medieval history. Located on the north-west coast of the country, it is a great destination for travelers looking for an offbeat vacation.

5 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Tartu, the second largest city in Estonia, is a charming city full of culture and history. Located in the south of Estonia, it is the birthplace of Estonian culture and a great tourist destination. Tartu is known for its vibrant nightlife, interesting architecture, and beautiful parks.

6 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Otepaa, situated in the southern part of Estonia, is a beautiful destination for travelers. It is known for its picturesque landscape, rich cultural heritage, and pleasant weather. The main reason why anyone should visit Otepaa is for the ski resort located here. It is home to one of the oldest ski ...

7. Viljandi

7 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Viljandi, the capital of Viljandi County in Estonia, is a popular tourist destination. Located in the southern part of the country, it is home to picturesque landscapes, historical monuments, and a unique culture.

8 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Narva, Estonia is a beautiful city located at the eastern-most end of Estonia, bordering Russia. It is a great destination for tourists as it offers a unique cultural experience with a mix of both Russian and Estonian influences. Narva is home to the impressive Narva Castle and Hermann Castle, which...

9. Narva-Joesuu

9 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Narva-Joesuu is a beautiful coastal town in Estonia, located on the Gulf of Finland near the eastern border of the country. It is known for its unique blend of history and culture. The town is a great destination for travelers who are looking to explore the Baltics region and experience traditional ...

10 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Toila, Estonia, is a serene and picturesque seaside town located on the northern coast of the country. With its clean air, stunning landscapes, and a wide array of activities, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. Tourists come here to explore its beautiful beaches, stunning...

11 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Rapina, Estonia is a small town located on the northeastern coast of the country. It is known for its stunningly beautiful coastline, vibrant culture, and its picturesque landscape. From its cobblestone streets to the old-world charm of its architecture, this quaint town has something to offer for e...

12. Mustvee

12 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Mustvee is a small town situated in the south-eastern part of Estonia, at the banks of the Emajõgi River. It is a great destination for travelers who are looking for a peaceful yet exciting getaway. Mustvee is known for its diverse natural landscape and rich cultural heritage. It is the home of the ...

13. Matsalu National Park

13 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Matsalu National Park, located in Estonia, is one of the most beautiful places that offer visitors a unique and serene experience. It is known for its vast wetlands, estuaries, and a wide variety of wildlife. The park is a great destination for bird watching, as it is home to over 300 species of bir...

Best Time: May - September

14. soomaa national park

14 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Soomaa National Park in Estonia is the perfect destination for a nature lover's paradise. Located in southwestern Estonia, the park lies in the middle of one of the most biodiverse wetlands in Europe, and is a great place to explore and spot wildlife. The park has a variety of key tourist spots and ...

15. Lahemaa National Park

15 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Lahemaa National Park in Estonia, located just 40 km from the capital Tallinn, is a must-visit destination for every traveler. Established in 1971, it is the first and oldest national park in the country, and encompasses stunning scenery of forests, bogs, and coastline. It is also home to a vast arr...

16. Saaremaa

16 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Saaremaa is an Estonian island located in the Baltic Sea, and it is the largest island in Estonia. The stunning landscapes, endless beaches, and fascinating history make it an excellent destination for travelers.

17. Vilsandi

17 out of 17 Places to visit in Estonia

Vilsandi, Estonia is a stunning national park located off the western coast of Estonia in Europe. It is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking solace in the tranquility of the surrounding beauty. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is a haven for migratory birds. The park ...

Best Time: June - August, December - February

Browse Package Collections

Nearby countries for packages.

Czech Republic

Nearby Countries

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

Baltics Travel Itinerary: 2 Weeks in Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania (+ Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 8, 2024

Are you thinking of traveling to the Baltics, want to see all three countries – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia – but are not sure how to plan your itinerary? Do you want to know how much time to spend in each country and what not to miss? This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to the Baltic region – find out!

In this article, we share a two-week Baltics trip itinerary that allows you to see the highlights of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. You will get to explore a good mixture of vibrant cities and rural areas, go hiking, relax by the beach and discover the food scene of each country.

This Baltics trip includes the famous capital cities Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius, where you discover a bustling lifestyle and admire charming historic city centers and beautiful architecture. In addition, it also takes you to the lesser-known areas of each country. You get to spend two nights on Saaremaa, Estonia’s biggest island, explore the castles of Sigulda, Latvia, and climb the impressive sand dunes in the Curonian Spit in Lithuania .

Even though two weeks are not enough time to see everything the Baltics have to offer, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time and be sure that you don’t miss any of the ‘musts’.

Good to know: The best way to visit the Baltics is by renting a car and doing a self-drive road trip . But this trip is also doable without a car . There are excellent bus/train connections between the main towns (and buses are reliable and comfortable) and you can also take day tours from the capital cities.

This itinerary is structured as a self-drive Baltics road trip but it also includes all the tips and suggestions for those who rather use public transport. Take a look!

Baltics Travel Itinerary – OVERVIEW:

Days 1-2: tallinn, estonia.

• Days 3-4: Kuressaare, Estonia
• Day 5: Tartu, Estonia

Day 6: Cēsis, Latvia

• Day 7: Sigulda, Latvia
• Days 8-9: Riga, Latvia
• Day 10: Hill of Crosses & Klaipeda, Lithuania
• Day 11: Day trip to Curonian Spit, Lithuania
• Day 12: Kaunas, Lithuania
• Day 13: Trakai & Vilnius, Lithuania
• Day 14: Vilnius, Lithuania
• Assitional suggestions for a longer trip
• Practical info & tips

Good to know: This Baltics travel itinerary starts in Tallinn, Estonia, and ends in Vilnius, Lithuania, but you can easily do it the other way around – from Vilnius to Tallinn. There is really not much difference which way you travel, and both cities have very good flight connections to various European countries.

Here’s our suggested Baltics travel itinerary:

Start your Baltics trip in Tallinn. Estonia’s capital is famous for its medieval Old Town, and during the next two days, you’ll have the chance to wander through narrow cobblestone alleys, climb the city walls and sample Estonian food.

Here are some  highlights of Tallinn  you should check out:

Town Hall Square

While walking through the Old Town, you will eventually end up at Town Hall Square . Here, you can discover lots of traditional old houses and a great atmosphere.

At one end of Town Hall Square, you can see the City Hall . In summer, you have the chance to climb to the top of the tower and enjoy the view. This is also the perfect place if you want to try Estonian food. Head to the III Draakon, a tavern in the town hall building, where you can sample elk soup, elk pastries, or lingonberry juice.

Almost opposite the town hall, you can find the Raeapteek . The Town Council Pharmacy is the oldest continuously operating pharmacy in Europe. If you go inside, you can visit a small exhibition or try claret, a wine produced here since 1467.

Toompea Hill

If you want to see Tallinn from above, you should head to Toompea Hill . Up here, you can find multiple viewing platforms that will offer fantastic views of the Old Town’s red roofs.

The Kohtuotsa lookout is the most famous platform, but it can get very busy. If you want to avoid the crowds, head to the Patkuli viewing platform instead, where you’ll run into fewer tourists. On clear days, you can even see the Baltic Sea from up here.

While up on Toompea Hill, make sure to check out the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral . The Russian Orthodox Cathedral is one of Tallinn’s most beautiful churches.

Tallinn’s City Walls

Some parts of the city wall that once surrounded all of Tallinn are still intact, and you have the opportunity to climb them in multiple places.

The first entrance is at Hellemann Tower . Here, you can walk on a piece of wall that is around 200 meters long. You have the chance to climb up into the watchtowers, too, to enjoy a very different viewpoint compared to Toompea Hill.

Up on Toompea Hill, you can find Kiek in de Kök Tower . Up here, you can also get on top of the city wall, and you can even enjoy a drink in the cafe on the wall. Your entrance ticket also gives you access to the tower. On each of the six floors, you can visit an exhibition about Tallinn, its city wall, and its history.

Additional recommendations

If you would like to learn more about the city, you can opt for this popular private walking tour with a local .

If you want to get the most of your stay and see more of Estonia, consider taking a half-day trip to Jägala Waterfall and Harju County . This area is east of Tallinn and you won’t be passing here when continuing your trip.

Where to Stay in Tallinn

For the best experience, stay in the old city center. There are many nice accommodations for all budgets here. We recommend Hestia Hotel Kentmanni.

Days 3-4: Kuressaare

If you are planning a self-drive road trip through the Baltics, it’s best to rent a car from this day on . We use and recommend this website for some of the best deals for car rental.

After leaving the city, travel to Saaremaa, Estonia’s biggest island . The journey takes around 4 hours, including a half-hour ferry ride. If you are driving, make sure to arrive at the Virtsu ferry port at least 15 minutes before departure (if you take a bus, you don’t have to worry about that). Here you can find the ferry schedule and more practical info (you need a ferry from Virtsu to Kuivatsu).

Without a car: There are regular bus connections between Tallinn and Kuressaare, the biggest town on Saaremaa.

On Saaremaa Island, base yourself in Kuressaare , where you can find most of the island’s attractions. Make sure to stroll through the Old Town to discover the historic buildings and traditional architecture.

Afterwards, head to the Kuressaare Episcopal Castle . The castle dates back to the 14th century, and it takes at least an hour or two to explore the exhibitions inside. Be careful to follow the arrows, as it’s easy to get lost in the maze of corridors. During your visit, you have the chance of climbing the towers. From up there, you have a fantastic view of the star-shaped moat that surrounds the fortifications.

Another highlight of Saaremaa are the Kaali Meteor Craters , which you can visit in the village of Kaali. Scientists believe that the impact happened anywhere between 6,400 and 400 BCE, and it had the same explosive force as the Hiroshima bomb blast. All trees in a radius of six kilometers burned.

If you’d rather take it slow, head to the beach or find a spa to relax. Kuressaare is famous for its spas, and many Estonians come here to unwind for a few days. So why not join them and experience some traditional Estonian sauna culture!

Where to Stay in Kuressaare

There is a big choice of accommodations in Kuressaare, but since it’s a popular resort town, be sure to book well in advance, especially if traveling during summer or popular holidays. We recommend Johan Design & SPA Hotel , or – on a slightly higher budget Arensburg Boutique Hotel & Spa .

Day 5: Tartu

Today, you have a long drive ahead of you. It takes almost 6 hours to get to Tartu from Kuresaare by car and a little longer if you use public transport. Therefore, make sure to leave Kuressaare as early as possible, so you can enjoy the afternoon in Tartu.

Tartu is a cute town in Southern Estonia that is famous for its university. While here, check out the University Museums. On top of Toome Hill, you can find the University of Tartu Museum as well as the Old Observatory . Both are worth visiting, but if you only have time for one, head to the Observatory.

In the 19th century, Friedrich Georg Wilhelm von Struve measured the length of a meridian and eventually became the first person to accurately determine the shape and size of Earth. He conducted much of his work from this observatory, which is why it is now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the observatory, you can learn more about Struve’s work and see astronomical instruments from that time period.

While in Tartu, make sure to go for a walk through the Old Town. Town Hall Square is famous for its Kissing Students fountain, and you can discover many historic buildings around the square. Take some time to walk through the cobblestone streets and admire the architecture of Tartu. Be sure to check out the restored ruins of the Tartu Cathedral (Toomkirik). You can also climb the tower for some nice views over the city.

TIP: If you have a car and some time to spare, you could also visit Alatskivi Castle about 30-40 minutes drive north of Tartu. But if you only have half a day in the city, this will likely be too much.

Where to Stay in Tartu

Tartu is a popular tourist destination and you’ll have no trouble finding good accommodation at reasonable prices. We recommend Lydia Hotel , however, their parking is quite expensive since it’s in the heart of the city. A nice alternative (still very good location) if visiting by car is Art Hotel Pallas by Tartuhotels .

In the morning, drive from Tartu to Cesis in Latvia. The drive is about 2.5 hours and if you leave early enough, you have plenty of time to explore Cesis on this day.

Without a car: If you are traveling without a car, it’s easier to take a bus from Tartu to Riga, stay in Riga for 3 or 4 nights in total, and make day trips from there to Cesis and to Sigulda. There are also tours that visit these places from Riga in one day .

Cesis is a cute medieval town known for its two castles. You can get a combination ticket that includes entrance to both the Medieval Castle and the museum in the New Castle . As there are no electric lights in the old castle, you will need to carry a lantern. Exploring the ruins with a candle in your hand is an incredible experience you’ll remember for a long time.

After visiting both castles, take some time to stroll through Castle Park . At the edge of the park, you can see the remains of the oldest brewery in Northern Europe . Cesus Ale, the owner, has since moved the beer production to a more modern building on the outskirts of Cesis, but you can still see the old brewery.

Where to Stay

You could stay in Cesis for a night, but we suggest driving to Sigulda – the next town on this itinerary, about 30 minutes drive further. There is a bigger accommodation choice in Sigulda and much nicer hotels and you could stay here for two nights. We recommend Hotel Sigulda – it’s a nice hotel with great facilities, easy parking, and they have a very good restaurant.

Good to know: If you are really in a hurry, you could see just the main highlights of Cesis and Sigulda on the same day.

Day 7: Sigulda

Today, spend a day in one of Latvia’s most beautiful destinations – Sigulda in the Gauja National Park . Sigulda has multiple sights and attractions to keep you busy all day. You can find several castles in the area, which are all different and exciting to visit.

If you visit just one castle in Sigulda, make it Turaida Castle , a red-brick castle a few kilometers away from town. It houses a museum, and it’s part of the Turaida Museum Reserve, where you can also visit traditional houses from the area. This is the most-visited museum in Latvia!

Sigulda Medieval Castle (Castle Of The Livonian Order in Sigulda) is also nice to see. You can climb to the top of the Northern Tower from where you have a fantastic view of the valley. Just next to it, you can see the recently renovated Sigulda New Castle (Siguldas Jaunā pils) which used to serve as a city council and is now a museum.

Another place worth checking out is Krimulda Medieval Castle , which is the ruins of the 13th castle. Here, you’ll also find the beautiful viewpoint ‘Bellevue’, with great views of the bends of the Gauja River. Please note that this castle ruin is not to be confused with Krimulda Manor , which is a sort of rehabilitation center/ hotel.

TIP: One of the best ways to see the main castles is to go for a hike, from Sigulda Medieval Castle to Krimulda Castle (take the cable car to cross the valley) and then onwards to Turaida Castle. Don’t miss Gutmanis Cave , which you can find between Krimulda and Turaida. Locals have left graffiti here for centuries, and the oldest inscriptions date back to the 17th century.

If you want to take it easy, stay in the same hotel in Sigulda as the previous night. As already said, Hotel Sigulda is one of the best options here. Alternatively, you could continue to Riga already, which is about a 1-hour drive.

Days 8-9: Riga

In the morning, drive to Riga (about a 1-hour drive). With its location in the center of the country, Riga is also the perfect base for day trips to places like Cesis and Sigulda mentioned above. As already mentioned, if you are traveling without a car, it’s best to come here from Tartu (so on day 6 of this itinerary). In that case, stay in the city for 3-4 nights and make day trips either by public transport or by taking tours.

For the next two days, you have the chance of  exploring Riga . Be sure not to miss the following highlights:

Riga Old Town

It’s easy to get lost in Riga’s cobblestone streets and to spend hours wandering through the Old Town . Along your way, you should pass the Three  Brothers , a famous landmark in the city. All three houses belonged to men from the same family but date back to different time periods, so this is a fantastic place to see how architecture in Riga evolved over the centuries.

If you want to see the Old Town from above, stop by St Peter’s Church . The tower rises high above the houses, so from its top, you have a fantastic view of Riga.

House of the Blackheads

If you only visit one museum in Riga, it should be the House of the Blackheads . You’ll notice the extensively decorated building while walking through the Old Town, and if you go inside, you can learn more about the Brotherhood of the Blackheads.

This guild was an organization of merchants and craftsmen, and in Latvia, they came together in the House of the Blackheads for meetings and social gatherings. They even erected the first Christmas Tree in Europe, though it is unclear if it was in Riga or Tallinn.

Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

If you want to see a different side of Latvia, head to the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia , which you can find on the outskirts of Riga. Buses 1, 28, or 19 can take you here if you don’t have a car, and you’ll have the chance of seeing more than 100 traditional buildings from all over the country.

The museum grouped these houses by region, and you’ll be surprised to learn how different building styles and rural life were, depending on the area. Don’t miss the giant windmill in the middle of the park, and make sure to go inside the houses. Some are open, and in summer, you might see weavers and blacksmiths perform their craft.

Practical information: The museum is open the whole year round, but opening days and times vary per season. Check their website for more information. You could easily spend an entire day here. As a minimum, count half a day.

Where to Stay in Riga

Riga is a big city and there is no shortage of accommodations for all budgets . For the best experience, we recommend staying close to the city center. If you are traveling by car, be sure to check that the hotel has parking available! We recommend Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel .

Day 10: Hill of Crosses & Klaipėda, Lithuania

After leaving Riga, cross the border to Lithuania and head to Klaipeda. The drive is about 4 hours, and you can stop at the famous Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai on your way. It’s conveniently located for this itinerary, about 2 hours drive from Riga and about the same from Klaipeda, and a visit here doesn’t require more than half an hour. Still, be sure to leave Riga early so that you can explore Klaipeda in the afternoon.

Without a car: If you are traveling by bus, there are direct bus connections from Riga to Klaipeda, and the trip takes around 4-5 hours. It will be difficult to visit the Hill of Crosses on this day, but you may still be able to come here on your way from Klaipėda to Vilnius two days later. See day 12 of this itinerary for more details.

The Hill of Crosses is one of the most unique places in Lithuania, and you can see hundreds of thousands of crosses on this hill. The sight is almost unreal, and as you walk around, you will notice hundreds of small crosses wedged into the ground between the larger ones. Here you can find our complete guide to visiting the Hill of Crosses .

After spending time at the Hill of Crosses, continue to Klaipeda . You should arrive in the early afternoon, so still plenty of time to explore the city. While Klaipeda is Lithuania’s third-largest city, its historic center isn’t that big and you can see all the musts in half a day.

When you stroll through the Old Town of Klaipeda , you will notice that the architecture is different from anything else you’ve seen in the Baltics before, and some of it even looks German. That’s because the area once belonged to Germany, and you can still see the influence in architecture today.

Make sure to visit the History Museum of Lithuania Minor if you want to learn more about the history of the region. Don’t miss Theatre Square and be sure to check out the little hidden gem Fredericho Passage , where you can also find a restaurant serving local dishes.

Afterwards, head down to the riverside and to the harbor. The waterfront is one of the most pleasant areas to go for a walk in Klaipeda, especially in summer. During the warmer months, you can also rent kayaks or pedal boats to explore the city from a different angle.

Where to Stay in Klaipeda

Klaipeda is a harbor town and so it’s nice if you can stay close to the water. We recommend either Old Mill Hotel or Michaelson Boutique Hotel – both near each other and both excellent choices, in beautiful historic buildings. There is big public parking just nearby (the fees aren’t high) and the Old Town is within walking distance. Stay here for two nights.

Day 11: Day trip to the Curonian Spit

Today, take a day trip to one of the most beautiful places in the Baltics, the Curonian Spit . This 98km-long narrow piece of land perched between the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea is a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Curonian Spit is famous for its wandering sand dunes. The biggest dune that you can climb is Parnidis Dune, just next to Nida. From here, you can see the lagoon on one side and the Baltic Sea on the other side. It might not look like it, but Parnidis is a wandering dune that moves a few centimeters every year. Over the past centuries, these dunes have even swallowed a few villages!

During your day trip, visit the nicest dunes and villages of the region, and be sure to go for a walk around Nida, the main town of the Curonian Spit. Here, you can see many traditional fishermen’s houses, several museums, and a beautiful waterfront promenade. For more information, please see our complete guide to the best things to do in Nida .

But there’s much more to see in the beautiful Curonian Spit National Park than just its biggest town! So if you are self-driving, check out our complete guide to the Curonian Spit in Lithuania . It also has all the details on how to get there by car.

Without a car: Curonian Spit is best explored by car since there are many beautiful places scattered all over the region. If you don’t have a car, you can best opt for an organized tour – see this private day tour from Klaipeda. Alternatively, take a passenger ferry from the pier north of the city center (Senoji Perkėla), and once you reach the other side, you can take a bus to Nida. Nida is a nice day trip in itself, but you won’t be able to see the rest of the area if you take a bus.

Day 12: Kaunas

Today, leave Klaipeda and head to Lithuania’s second-largest city, Kaunas. If you are driving, it’s a long but easy drive on a highway and takes about 2.5-3 hours, leaving you plenty of time to explore Kaunas.

Without a car: If you are traveling through the Baltics by public transport, it’s easier to skip Kaunas and take a train from Klaipeda directly to Vilnius (with a stop in Šiauliai for a visit to the Hill of Crosses). In that case, take a train to Šiauliai and book a private tour to the Hill of Crosses (they can pick you up at the train station and the hours are flexible). Afterwards, continue your trip to Vilnius by train. If you decide to go to Kaunas from Klaipeda and skip the Hill of Crosses, then take a bus to Kaunas – it’s much faster than by train.

There is enough to see and do in Kaunas to fill a few days, so you could easily add a night here if you have more time. But you can get a taste of the city and see some of the main highlights in half a day as well.

The best way to explore Kaunas on a short visit is by taking a walk through its main pedestrian streets that run through the entire city center – from Kaunas Castle and Cathedral in the Old Town via Vilniaus Street and all the way to St. Michael the Archangel’s Church at the far eastern end of Laisvės alėja (Freedom Avenue). If you have the time to visit one museum, check out the M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art . If you are looking for something more unique that you won’t find anywhere else, then don’t miss the Devils’ Museum .

Where to Stay in Kaunas

We recommend staying in the city center, close to the above-mentioned pedestrian streets. That way, you can leave your car at the hotel and explore Kaunas on foot. Check out BEST WESTERN Santakos Hotel – it’s right in the middle between the Old Town and the popular pedestrian avenue Laisvės alėja and has free private parking. Here you can find more hotels and accommodations in Kaunas .

Day 13: Trakai & Vilnius

With two weeks in the Baltics, you’ll have to make some tough choices and skip some places, so if you want to take it easy, today, we recommend that you drive to Trakai from Kaunas, and then head to Vilnius in the late afternoon.

However, if you have an entire next day to explore Vilnius and so if you find a day in the city sufficient, then you may want to visit a few other nice places between Kaunas and Vilnius. In that case, you could also visit Pažaislis Monastery and Lithuanian Folk Museum in Rumšiškės .

Both these places are just a small detour from the Kaunas – Vilnius highway and both are well worth your time. But don’t try to squeeze too much in a day or you won’t have much time to actually enjoy it.

Without a car: Take a train from Kaunas to Vilnius and spend a day in Vilnius. You can take a half-day tour to Trakai the next day. In summer, you can also opt for a full-day tour from Vilnius that visits the castle and includes canoeing on the lakes around it.

Anyway, if you are going from Kaunas to Trakai, it’s an easy drive, mostly on the highway, and it takes a bit over 1 hour. From there, it’s just a short drive to Vilnius (but can take an hour if traffic is busy), so you can spend as much time in Trakai as you like. This town is famous for its island castle, one of the must-see places in Lithuania.

Trakai Castle dates back to the 14th century, a time when Trakai was an important town in Lithuania, and – for a few years – even the capital city. The Grand Duke of Lithuania often received important visitors here. The Castle was recently restored and is the most impressive castle you can visit in Lithuania these days. Its location on an island, surrounded by lakes and forests, makes it even more special. And don’t worry, you won’t have to swim to the island – there is a nice pedestrian bridge connecting it to town.

Inside the Castle, you can visit an exhibition about the history of Trakai, and you also have the chance to learn about the Karaites, a Turkic Jewish minority that lives in the area. Lithuanians call them Karaimai .

And speaking of them, when in Trakai, be sure to try Kybyns (LT: kibinai ), traditional Lithuanian food of the Karaite ethnic minority. You can find them at most of the local restaurants in Trakai. This is the best place in Lithuania to try this traditional meat-and-onion pastry. You may also find it in Vilnius and a few other places in the region, but they are nowhere as good as in Trakai.

If the weather is nice, take a boat tour on the lake to see the castle from a different perspective. Afterwards, head to Vilnius, walk around the Old Town, and end your day with some typical Lithuanian food.

Day 14: Vilnius

Today, it’s time to explore Vilnius. Lithuania’s capital city has a lot to offer, but if you have just a day, be sure not to miss the following places:

Walk around the Old Town

Walking through the Old Town of Vilnius is the best way to get to know the city. It has such a great atmosphere and you’ll find something nice behind every corner.

Don’t miss the Town Hall Square ( Rotušės aikštė ), Vilnius University , Presidential Palace , and one of the must-see streets in Vilnius – Castle Street ( Pilies gatvė ). Also worth visiting is Literature Street ( Literatų gatvė ). This picturesque street is lined with plaques detailing names of authors who have either lived in Vilnius or written about the city.

Another must-see is the Gate of Dawn , a city gate that dates back to 1522 and was once part of the city wall. Inside, you’ll find a religious artifact, an icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of Mercy, which still attracts pilgrims today.

Stiklių Street , in the vicinity of the Restaurant Lokys, is also worth passing by. They usually have some nice decorations hanging above the street and it’s always worth seeing what kind of creations they come up with next. And the restaurant is very good too!

There are also lots of beautiful churches in the Old Town of Vilnius. They say there are 28 churches just in the Old Town… If you visit just one of them, don’t miss St. Anne’s Church – it’s a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

Cathedral Square, Gediminas Castle & Neris River

Cathedral Square is home to Vilnius Cathedral. With its many columns and a white Bell Tower , this building is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Just next to it, you’ll find one of the best museums in Vilnius – the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania . If you have at least an hour to spare, definitely check it out. The Virtual Reality 3D experience is so well done and gives you a good introduction to the history of Vilnius.

Behind the Cathedral, you’ll see a hill with a tower on top. Head up there to discover Gediminas Castle Tower and to enjoy the fantastic view of Vilnius. You can walk up the hill or take a funicular which can be found on the other side of the hill, on the riverside. And once you are here, be sure to take a walk along the river.

Gediminas Avenue & Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights

Gediminas Avenue (Gedimino Prospektas) is one the main streets of Vilnius. This is the place where you’ll find many shops, restaurants, theaters, etc.

Be sure to walk at least a part of this street, up to Lukiškės Square, the largest square in Vilnius. Here, you’ll also find the former KGB building, now the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights .

It’s a very interesting and eye-opening place where you can learn more about the way the Soviets treated innocent people. It will surely help you to better understand the not-so-distant history of Lithuania and the other Baltic States.

Republic of Užupis

One of the most curious neighborhoods to visit in Vilnius is Užupis (literal translation “behind the river”).

This “republic” declared its independence in 1998 as a joke by local artists. Uzupis has its own parliament, border post (bring your passport if you would like a stamp), and even a constitution. Check out the Angel of Uzupis, a statue that represents the freedom of art and expression.

While nobody recognizes the independence of Uzupis, the neighborhood is a great place to discover art galleries and cafes. As you walk around, you can also find impressive street art, so keep your eyes open and don’t forget to glance into the small alleys and sidestreets.

Where to Stay in Vilnius

There are lots of nice hotels and accommodations in Vilnius. Many people like to stay in the Old Town and if you already returned your rental car, it can be a good option. In any case, be sure to look for a hotel that has parking (or public parking nearby).

Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva is a nice modern hotel by the river, on the other side from the Old Town, but you can easily get everywhere via a pedestrian bridge from here. It will also be easier to park here.

If you rather stay in the Old Town, take a look at NARUTIS Hotel . It’s a great choice in the heart of the city and within short walking distance to everything. They also have free parking and an indoor pool. And, of course, there are many other options all over the city center, for all budgets.

If you have a few more days in the Baltics…

Even though this itinerary is already packed with things to do in the Baltics, you can easily spend more time in the region – there are so many other nice places to see. If you have a few extra days, you can distribute them between the countries however you wish, and here are some additional suggestions:

• In Estonia, consider visiting Pärnu, a relaxed beachside town, or head to Lahemaa National Park to go hiking for a day.
• In Latvia, you could visit the seaside in Jurmala or go on a day trip to Rundale Palace.
• In Lithuania, you could stay longer on the Curonian Spit, add a day in Kaunas, and also an extra day in Vilnius.

Map of this Baltic States Itinerary

To help you plan your trip to the Baltics, we created a map indicating all the main places that we recommend visiting in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. This map is just an overview and doesn’t contain all the details, but it will give you a better idea of where everything is and how you could adjust this itinerary if you have less or more time.

You can click on the picture below and see this map on Google Maps. The entire Baltic States road trip – as it is suggested in our itinerary and shown on the map – is about 1500 km over 14 days.

Some Practical Info for Planning Your Trip

Best time to visit.

The best time to visit the Baltics is in the summer. The weather is generally very nice, the days are long, and there are lots of events and celebrations. As a downside, it’s much busier in June, July, and August than the rest of the year and accommodation prices at the popular vacation destinations soar. For the best experience and fewer crowds, plan a trip to the Baltic states in May or in September.

The Baltics in the winter

If you want to avoid the crowds altogether, you can also travel to the Baltics in autumn or in winter. In some of the stops on this itinerary, you will barely see other travelers at all, and with a bit of luck, you’ll experience snow. However, if you are planning a self-drive Baltics road trip, don’t visit in winter if you are not used to driving in winter conditions.

If you are planning a trip in winter, then consider visiting in December. Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn host wonderful Christmas markets! So if you visit in the winter, you’ll enjoy a great Christmas atmosphere and much fewer people than at the most famous Christmas markets in Western Europe… Here you can read more about the Christmas Market in Vilnius, Lithuania – they have the most original Christmas Trees every year.

Renting a car vs. public transport

You can easily visit the Baltic states by car. The roads and infrastructure are good and comparable to any other EU country. Traffic can get very busy around the biggest cities and at the seaside on summer weekends, but apart from that, driving in the Baltics is quite relaxed. Just be sure to follow speed limits and other traffic rules since police controls are frequent.

If you prefer not to drive, you can also visit all three Baltic countries by public transport. There are good bus connections between all major cities, so if you are mostly interested in visiting the main towns, you can easily do that without a car as well. That being said, if you want to explore the Baltics a bit deeper, it’s definitely better to rent a car.

Is it safe to travel to the Baltics?

Yes, traveling in the Baltics is safe and very comparable to the rest of the EU. In fact, you’ll likely feel safer walking around Vilnius or Riga at night than you would in London, Paris, or Brussels… Just as everywhere, use common sense, but in general, there’s nothing to worry about. If you are traveling to the Baltics in winter, you may encounter ice on the roads and on the pavements, so be careful.

Which is the best Baltic state to visit?

It’s hard to compare three countries of the Baltics and say that one or the other is better. They are all different and each is worth a visit, and if you follow this itinerary, you can get a taste of all three countries and decide for yourself. That being said, if you have the time to visit just one country, then go to Lithuania. It has everything – nice towns with a great atmosphere, interesting museums and lots of cultural events, stunning nature, friendly people, and delicious Lithuanian food . And yes, I’m biased since Lithuania is my home country, but I haven’t met one single person who didn’t love it!

READ ALSO: Best places to see in Lithuania

So, this is our suggested Baltics itinerary for two weeks. We hope that this inspired you to visit this beautiful and still very little-discovered region in Eastern Europe. Have a great trip!

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Image credits: personal collection, Toptravelsights.com , raigvi/Shutterstock.com, Wide Wings/Shutterstock.com, Chamille White/Shutterstock.com, and Depositphotos.com.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Friday 23rd of June 2023

My friend and I are planning to visit the three Baltic states in September. around 15 days. Your guidance is the best. I think we will follow your suggestions. We plan to hire a car. Any helpful hints?

Saturday 24th of June 2023

Hi Philip, that's a very general question ;). You can find all the helpful hints in our article already. Just one thing - book your car asap and I also recommend booking accommodations in advance as well. Have a great trip!

Wednesday 1st of March 2023

Thanks for the invaluable guidance. Is March a good time to visit? Will sights and restaurants be opened? Sometimes it is good to have more people around to soak up the culture of the place.

Hi, you can really visit the Baltics at any time of the year. And yes, everything will be open as usual, except in the smaller seaside villages. In the bigger cities and towns, it's always lively, and everything is open. There are also lots of concerts, theater performances, etc. in the winter months. As for the weather in March, it's more difficult to predict. It can still be quite wintery (especially in the north), or you may get lucky and it will be warmer and a bit spring-like already. Be sure to check the weather forecast a few days before you go. In general, at this time of the year, you have to be prepared for winter conditions. Have a great trip!

Thursday 5th of January 2023

Looking to do a similar trip! Wouldn't a one way car rental be pretty astronomical? I think we need to find a way to make it a loop if we are gonna rent a car. :-/

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Hi, it really depends and a one-way rental is not always more expensive. It's quite common for travelers to start in one Baltic State and end in the other, so many car rental companies are offering quite normal prices for one-way rentals. But you'd have to check what cars/prices are available for your travel dates and decide based on that. We're just back from a trip where we rented a car with a drop-off a few thousand kilometers away and they didn't even charge us any one-way fees. So you never know until you check. Good luck!

Monday 13th of June 2022

What an amazing trip plan!! I was planning a trip just like this but was a bit apprehensive given the war in Ukraine and proximity of Baltics to Russia. I see this was updated in May 2022. Do you know if there are any complications of border crossings, etc. due to the war. Looks TRULY amazing!

Tuesday 14th of June 2022

@Jurga, yes thank you!! Just booked my flight and will visit both. I plan on following this itinerary so many thanks!!

Hi Kari, my entire family lives in Lithuania and we are also visiting there soon, and I see no reason not to travel to the Baltics at the moment. Life is as usual everywhere there and if you just stay in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, I don't expect any issues. These are all EU countries so there are no border controls in between them. And they are also all NATO countries, so let's hope that's sufficient to keep things stable. For the rest, nobody can ever guarantee anything, but that is no different in the Baltics than anywhere else really. Hope this helps.

The Perfect Baltics Itinerary: Explore Estonia, Latvia, & Lithuania

Last Updated on January 12, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Are you planning a trip to Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania and are looking for the perfect Baltics itinerary? These three countries along the Baltic Sea, though small both in size and population, have a lot to offer travellers, especially if they’re looking to get off the beaten path.

Whether you’re only able to sojourn into the Baltics for a short time or you have weeks on end to explore this undiscovered region, there are many routes you can take for an epic trip to the Baltics. Each country has its own unique culture, incredible nature, beautiful beaches, and postcard-perfect towns and cities.

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around the Baltics

All three Baltic capitals have international airports with connections from most major European cities, so it’s relatively easy to get to the region.

You can also reach Tallinn and Riga via ferry from Finland and Sweden if you’re combining this with a trip to the Nordics. For instance, you can reach Tallinn from Helsinki in about 2 hours on the ferry.

The way this itinerary is routed, it’s easiest to start in either Estonia or Lithuania to avoid having to backtrack at all during your trip.

Once you’re in the Baltics, the easiest way to get around is with your own car.

While the cities are walkable and the public transit is good, if you want the flexibility to make stop-offs and get a bit off the beaten path, having your own car is going to be essential. There are certain things you can only get on a Baltics road trip vs a route devoted only to public transportation. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices on rental cars.

If you don’t want to drive in the Baltics, note that you’re going to be limited to the bus, generally, to get around. Bus routes are robust and plentiful, however, the train is a lot less developed (if routes even exist). You can view schedules here.

3-Week Baltics Travel Itinerary

If you are keen to dive deep and really get a good taste of what the beautiful Baltic countries have to offer, then we would recommend spending at least 2-3 weeks in the region.

If you only have a shorter period of time, it is best to concentrate on only one or two of the countries rather than trying to rush through all three. Here is our top Estonia-Latvia-Lithuania itinerary to help you plan your trip!

Days 1-3: Tallinn

Begin your trip to the Baltics in the Estonian capital city of Tallinn. Many people treat this beautiful city only as a day trip, hopping over on a ferry from Helsinki or strolling around while on a land excursion from a Baltic cruise.

However, Tallinn has a lot more to offer tourists than its compact (albeit absolutely beautiful) Old Town, which is why we recommend you spend at least 3 days in Tallinn , however, four days is best to really get to know the city.

While the Old Town can easily be explored in only one day, Tallinn has a lot of interesting things to offer tourists beyond it.

Take the time to wander around the trendy Kalamaja district — once a neighbourhood for fisherman and their families, it has now been gentrified and taken over by the city’s hipsters. The nearby Telliskivi Creative City and Balti Jaama Turg have some of Tallinn’s best street art, restaurants, and street food in town.

It is also worth exploring the Estonian capital’s hopping (pun intended) craft beer scene . There are so many incredible beers available in Tallinn that travellers could easily spend days jumping from one taproom to the next without coming close to sampling them all.

And while Tallinn is famous for its medieval charms, it is also well worth exploring the city’s more recent history. Though Estonia has all but shaken its Soviet past, has a thriving capitalist economy, and is often considered the most technologically advanced country in the world , there are still striking reminders about the occupation this small country was under less than thirty years ago.

Imposing communist structure, such as Linnahall just outside of the Old Town, serves as a reminder of just how far this city has come.

Where to Stay in Tallinn

Savoy Boutique Hotel – This luxury boutique hotel is perfect for those with a bit of a higher budget looking for a plush stay in this beautiful city. Located within the Old Town, it is perfectly situated close to everything that Tallinn has to offer.

Bob W Telliskivi – For those who want to experience Tallinn like a local (or simply want their own space), these apartments are a great option. Located near Telliskivi, they have a few fully furnished apartments that can suit plenty of visitors. They’re also situated within easy reach of Tallinn’s top sites.

Fat Margaret’s Hostel  – This hostel is a fantastic place to stay in Tallinn if you’re on a budget or travelling solo. It is in a great location near the harbour, just minutes from the Old Town and the Kalamaja neighbourhood. They have both dorm and private rooms available and also have a sauna.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Tallinn hotels!

Days 4-5: Saaremaa

From Tallinn, it’s time to head a bit off the beaten path and visit Estonia’s largest island of Saaremaa. The island is very easy to reach via ferry from the town of Virtsu, which is located about 130km south of Tallinn.

The ferries leave very frequently and the journey is about thirty minutes. The ferry arrives onto Muhu Island, which is connected to Saaremaa via a bridge.

It’s easiest to get around Saaremaa if you have your own car, but you can take a bus from Tallinn to the main city of Kuressaare and get around the island using public transit, as well.

All in all, plan to spend a couple of days exploring the island and enjoying its laid-back pace of life. There are plenty of things to do in Saaremaa including gorgeous beaches to see, cool lighthouses, imposing castles and even a meteorite crater. It’s also worth taking the time to explore the lovely main town of Kuressaare.

Where to Stay on Saaremaa

Ekesparre Boutique Hotel – If it’s luxury you’re after during your Estonian island escape, then this boutique hotel is an excellent choice. Considered to be Saaremaa’s oldest hotel, they have a great location in the centre of Kuressaare. There are several lovely rooms available, perfect for a romantic getaway.

Stuudio 17 – For those who like to have their own place while travelling, this one-bedroom flat is an excellent choice. Located on a quiet street in Kuressaare, it makes for the perfect base for exploring Saaremaa and is fully equipped with everything that you should need.

Guesthouse Laurits – A cosy guesthouse, this place is a great option for those looking to stick to a budget while on Saaremaa. Conveniently located in Kuressaare, they have a number of comfortable rooms on offer, a shared kitchen and are even pet-friendly!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Saaremaa hotels!  

Days 6-7: Tartu

Although it is Estonia’s second-largest city, Tartu doesn’t get nearly the amount of tourism it deserves. Home to the country’s oldest and largest university and filled with a lively and youthful energy, there are many fun and interesting things to do in Tartu .

Spend your first day exploring the charming Old Town, with its many cafes and restaurants and distinct lack of tourists. Take some time to admire the Kissing Students fountain and view the main square through the yellow National Geographic Frame.

It is also well worth taking the time to visit the Tartu University Botanical Gardens and taking a stroll along the Emajogi River — the only fully navigable river in Estonia.

On your second day, get to know Tartu outside of the Old Town. The hip neighbourhood of Karlova is well worth exploring, especially given it has some of the city’s best street art.

Also worth stopping by is the Aparaaditehas Complex, a former Soviet widget factory that has been repurposed and now houses a number of hip restaurants, cool shops, and art galleries.

Stops at the Estonian Print & Paper Museum and the KGB Cells Museum are also a great idea, especially if you want to learn more about the history of Tartu and Estonia in general.

If you are more interested in spending time on the beach rather than heading inland, we recommend heading to the seaside city of Pärnu instead of visiting Tartu. With many kilometres of white-sand beach and numerous interesting things to do, Pärnu is often considered to be Estonia’s “summer capital.”

Where to Stay in Tartu

Hotel Soho – Located in the heart of Tartu’s Old Town, this boutique hotel is a good option for those travelling on a mid-range budget. They have a range of rooms available and breakfast is even included in the room rate.

TartuKodu – For travellers who would rather have their own apartment rather than stay in a hotel, this one-bedroom flat in central Tartu is a great option. Conveniently located close to all the city has to offer, the apartment is comfortable and fully furnished.

Looming Hostel   – If you are travelling on a budget, then Looming Hostel is a great accommodation option in Tartu. This small, environmentally-friendly hostel has a couple of dorm and private rooms on offer, good common areas, and a nice roof terrace.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tartu hotels!

Days 8-11: Riga

Riga is the largest city in the Baltic States by population and certainly has a more cosmopolitan vibe than the other two Baltic capitals.

While Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site – like the old towns of the other Baltic capitals) is very much worth exploring, with iconic sites such as the House of the Blackheads and the Gunpowder Tower, the real charms of the Latvian capital lie in central Riga.

With more Art Nouveau architecture than any other city in the world, Riga is a visual wonder. There are also many cool and interesting things to do in the city, we recommend spending at least three days here.

Spend the first day exploring the Old Town – maybe taking a walking tour to get some historic context with a local guide. While this is the most touristy area of the city, prices are still quite affordable and there are significantly fewer tour groups than in Tallinn.

Your second day should be devoted to wandering through the central district, admiring the architecture, eating at some hip restaurants or wine bars, and visiting a few of the many museums. A detour to the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum just outside of the city is also a great idea, especially if you want to see what life in Latvia was like hundreds of years ago.

On the third day, take a trip to the nearby seaside villages of Jurmala — a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. If the weather is warm and sunny, spend the day basking on the fine, white sand. Or else, there are many affordable spas so you can treat yourself to a massage or a pedicure.

Alternatively, you could spend your time walking through the bogs in Kemeri National Park in the morning and lounge on the Jurmala beaches in the afternoon.

If you want to spend more than three days in Riga , there are a number of other day trips to take from Riga, including the charming towns of Cesis and Sigulda with their imposing medieval castles and Kuldiga, which boasts the widest “waterfall” in Europe.

Where to Stay in Riga

Greystone Suites & Apartments  – If you’re looking for a nice hotel that also has some self-catering abilities, then this is a fantastic choice for you. It is centrally located and within walking distance of all of the main sites. They have a large range of suites and apartments on offer, as well.

Grand Poet by Semarah – For travellers who are looking for a life of luxury in the Latvian capital, this 5-star hotel will certainly please. Centrally located for exploring all Riga has to offer, they have a number of luxe rooms available and countless amenities, such as a state-of-the-art fitness centre, pool and spa. Breakfast is included and they also organise airport shuttles.

Cinnamon Sally Backpacker’s Hostel  – Located close to the Central Market, this small hostel is one of the best places to stay in Riga for budget backpackers or solo travellers. They offer both dorms and private rooms and also organise social events, making it a great option if you’re travelling solo and want to meet some people to explore Riga with!

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Riga!

Days 12-13: Liepaja

As Latvia’s third largest city, the main appeal of Liepaja is its seemingly endless stretch of immaculate beach and a city centre that is absolutely oozing with charm. It seems a miracle that so few visitors to Latvia even have Liepaja on their radar.

While most people will make a beeline to the beach — which, incidentally, has the softest sand we have ever encountered — there are a number of cool things to do in the city of Liepaja itself and it deserves to be explored.

Take the time to browse the city’s many markets and get to know its musical history. Outside of the centre, there is a charming Art Nouveau quarter that has been used as a filming location for many Hollywood movies as a stand-in for the likes of Paris.

The former Soviet prison in the suburb of Karosta is also, now, a tourist attraction. It is even possible to stay a night at the prison and have a complete, accurate taste of what it was like for inmates there in years past — not for the faint-hearted!

Where to Stay in Liepaja

Seaside Park Apartment – This private apartment has everything you might need to feel at home while visiting Liepaja and it also just happens to be about a five-minute walk from the beach! The owners are incredibly kind and helpful and will ensure that your stay is as perfect as possible.

Boutique Hotel Roze – Also located within a stone’s throw from the beach, this small hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway in Liepaja. They have a range of rooms on offer, have a restaurant on site, and also you can add a breakfast option to the room rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other accommodation options in Liepaja!

Days 14-15: Klaipeda

From Liepaja, head to Klaipeda – perhaps taking a detour to visit the iconic Hill of Crosses along the way if it interests you.

Lithuania’s third-largest city is the country’s only port. However, contrary to many other port cities, it is incredibly charming with a quaint old town, a number of great restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. It is also the gateway for exploring the naturally stunning Curonian Spit.

Spend at least one full day exploring Klaipeda proper, where there is a surprising amount of things to do. Walk along the quaint cobbled streets, admire the many art installations, and enjoy the peaceful seaside charm. The city also has an interesting Hanseatic history and many museums that are worth exploring.

Take another day or two to explore the Curonian Spit. An easy and quick ferry from Klaipeda, the Lithuanian side of the Spit spans 50 kilometres and offers an incredible ecosystem unique to this narrow strip of land.

The imposing sand dunes, the charming villages of Nida, Juodokrante, and Smiltyne, and the beautiful expanse of beaches make the Curonian Spit one of the premier places to visit in Lithuania.

Where to Stay in Klaipeda

Michaelson Boutique Hotel   – If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in a cute boutique hotel, then look no further than the Michaelson Boutique Hotel. Located in the Old Town, this small hotel offers a range of rooms and comes incredibly highly rated.

Art Hotel Boheme  – Another small hotel, this place is good for couples and families alike. They have many rooms to choose from, are located very close to the Old Town and there is a good breakfast each morning.

Klaipeda Hostel  – If you’re travelling on a budget or are keen to meet other travellers while visiting Klaipeda, this is the place for you. This small hostel has both dorm beds and private rooms on offer and is in a great location.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other accommodation options in Klaipeda!

Days 16-17: Kaunas

Because it is a hub for budget airline Ryanair and has recently been selected as the European Capital of Culture for 2022, Kaunas is seeing more visitors than it used to in past years.

However, many people visiting the second-largest city in Lithuania make a beeline either for Vilnius or the coast and leave the city unexplored.

This is a huge mistake, however, as Kaunas has a quite a lot to offer travellers and is worth spending a couple of nights in, rather than treating it as a day trip from Vilnius.

A more artistic and alternative city than you will find elsewhere in Lithuania, there is a thriving street art scene in the city. There is also a fascinating history, a number of interesting museums, and an imposing medieval castle to explore.

It’s also worth taking the time to visit the fascinating Sugihara House Museum, a museum dedicated to the Japanese diplomat who issued visas that saved countless Jewish people from a terrible fate during WWII.

Spending two days in Kaunas is a perfect addition to your Lithuania itinerary and we assure you that this edgy city won’t disappoint.

Where to Stay in Kaunas

Hof Hotel   – This small hotel is one of the best places to stay in the city if you aren’t after the hostel lifestyle. Situated in a great location, they have a number of rooms on offer, come very highly reviewed, and even have free breakfast included in the room rate.

Maironis Apartment – This two-bedroom apartment is an excellent option if you’d like to have your own space while visiting Kaunas. Centrally located, you can easily explore all the city has to offer using this as a base. It is fully furnished and comes very highly reviewed.

Monk’s Bunk Hostel   – This small and cosy hostel is an excellent option for budget backpackers and solo travellers alike. Located in central Kaunas, they have both dorm and private rooms available, have great reviews, and have excellent staff.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other accommodation options in Kaunas!

Days 18-21: Vilnius

The perfect ending point for this Baltics itinerary is in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius. Boasting one of the largest Old Towns in all of Europe, Vilnius has a fraction of the tourists of Riga or Tallinn but sacrificed none of the charm.

Founded by Grand Duke Gediminas in the 14th century, the stunning baroque architecture and the laid-back vibe make Vilnius one of the best cities to explore in the Baltics. Spending at least three or four days in Vilnius will be the perfect amount of time to see everything that this dynamic capital has to offer.

Spend your first day exploring the massive Old Town, taking in all of the main sites such as the Town Hall Square, St Anne’s Church, and the central market of Hales Turgus. Enjoy the city’s thriving cafe culture and dine in some of the best restaurants in the region.

Devote your second day to wandering through the bohemian “independent republic” of Uzupis. This alternative area is filled with great street art, cool craft beer bars, and some of the best restaurants in the city. This is also a great time to visit some of Vilnius’ fantastic museums in order to learn more about the city’s and country’s complex history.

On the third day, take a day trip to the charming lakeside village of Trakai and admire the beautiful Trakai Castle – situated on its own island. If the weather is fine, you can even rent a pedal boat or swim in the lakes.

Where to Stay in Vilnius

Hotel Rinno – Excellently located close to Cathedral Square in the Old Town, this boutique hotel is one of the best places to stay in Vilnius . They have a range of rooms on offer and also have breakfast included in the room rate.

Old Town Trio – This hotel located on the edge f the old town is an excellent mid-range option in the Lithuanian capital. They have a myriad of lovely rooms to choose from, great amenities and there is an option to include breakfast in the morning.

Jimmy Jumps House/Hostel  – This small hostel has a lively atmosphere and is a place to stay if you’re travelling on a budget. Located just off of the Town Hall square, they have both dorm and private rooms at affordable prices. They also organise social events in the evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Vilnius!

Planning the perfect Baltics itinerary can be a complicated task, with so many interesting places to visit. Take the time to really explore the places you visit and get to know the countries you are in and it certainly won’t disappoint!

Are you planning to visit the Baltic countries? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Best Things To Do In Tartu, Estonia: A 2-Day Itinerary

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Tallinn Itinerary

My Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Kaunas

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi Maggie. My Husband and I want to travel to Lithuania next year. My Father was born in Kybartai and my life long dream is to see where he grew up. From the limited research I have done so far I’m thinking we need to fly into Kuanas. Are there buses from Kuanas to Kybartai? What time of year do you recommend we go there? We don’t like cold weather but don’t want it to be extremely hot to explore in. We will be traveling from New York State USA and this will be our first trip to Europe. We do not speak Lithuanian, will we find many people in Kybartai that speak English? Can you recommend any places to stay there?

I was planning on a quick trip thru the Baltics this summer but apparently they merit much more time than that. I will plan on spending a month or so there on a different summer trip.

There really is so much to see and do in the region that having enough time is essential 🙂

Hey Maggie How about a trip in early April? Will the weather be cold for a trip with an emphasis on nature and the Baltic coast region?

Early April is still going to be quite cold in the Baltics and temperatures will likely still be hovering the single digits (celsius), so it may not be ideal for a coastal trip.

Hey Maggie, Thanks for the exhaustive information. I have a wedding to attend in Estonia and hence would like to do nearby cities/countries too. I have around 10-12 days in hand. Do not want to rush into many places but would like to do leisurely as i will be travelling with 2 teens too :-). My tentative plan is to do Estonia Latvia Lithuvania. What would you suggest.Should i include Finland in my trip. Cheers 🙂 Aparna

Hi Aparna, with only 10-12 days, I wouldn’t try to cram all three of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania into your trip – there is too much to see and do that you would need more time. I’d recommend spending time in just Estonia and Latvia or simply just Estonia – you will get a lot out of the trip and there is a lot to see and do that you certainly won’t be bored!

Hi That was a pretty comprehensive guide to the Baltics! We are a group of 4 (husband, daughter, son-in-law and myself), planning a trip to the Baltics for around 2 weeks, starting Oct 18th or so. We thought we could travel the 3 Baltic countries by road (bus or hired car), then head to Warsaw for a few days, and head back home to Bangalore from there.

Do you think this itinerary would work with the time available? All 3 of my co-travellers are architects, so which cities / towns would you recommend we visit in this trip for experiencing / enjoying the local architecture ? And, is late October a good time to see fall colours, or should we plan to go a week or 2 earlier?

Thanks for your comment, Vijaya! I think that two weeks should be sufficient with your plans — I would recommend starting in Tallinn and heading south if you want to end your trip in Warsaw. For the architects, definitely spend some time in Riga as it has an amazing array of Art Nouveaux buildings and Vilnius would be a great option if they like Baroque architecture. I think your plan for mid-late October is a good one if you want to see some autumn colours — just make to pack some warm clothes as it will start to be very chilly!

Thank you for publishing this, as the Baltics have been on my radar for a while. I’ve wanted to avoid traveling by cruise ships (for many reasons)

We are planning to visit in July -Aug 2019, more or less traveling from Tallinn to Vilnius (might reverse, also a St Petersburg stop will be included at end/beginning).

Would you recommend traveling by train or bus in certain areas? Suggestions by country would be great.

Thanks for your comment, Jake! You can see a lot more of the Baltics if you avoid cruise ships so it’s great that you’re trying to avoid them. If you’re relying on public transport to get around (which is totally doable), your best bet is going to be to go by bus. There isn’t a well-developed train network throughout the Baltics but the buses are modern, extensive and reliable, and will get you everywhere you need to go.

We have a bunch of content on specific cities and regions throughout Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania if you want to check it out ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/baltics-travel-guide/ ). And if you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us 🙂

Thank you for an excellent and informative read.

I am heading to Baltic in June, starting ( 2 nts) and ending (2 nts) in Kaunas.

Can you suggest an itinerary to get the most from my ten days?

I intend all transfers to be by bus as is cheap and see more of the region that way.

Accommodation hopefully be Airbnb.

So many places to see, starting to think I should have booked more than ten days.

Do you think Kaunas,Tallinn,Riga,Vilnius,Tartu are doable in that time frame?

Some places you suggested that I hadn’t considered ( eg Tartu) have complicated things further.

Given Kaunas already booked I have a week to cover other places.

Would appreciate your itinerary ideas.

Got a feeling I shall need to book a return visit.?

Would much appreciate your input.

Hi Stuart, glad you found the itinerary helpful! I think that you might be a little bit pressed for time if you only have 10 days for all those stops. I would honestly recommend only heading to the capitals during that time (you can start in Kaunas and end in Vilnius, Kaunas is only maybe 1.5 hours away by bus from Vilnius). That would give you a good taste for the region without exhausting yourself. However much I love Tartu, for instance, I think it would probably more fulfilling to give Tallinn a proper amount of time during your first visit to the Baltics. Like you said, there is always room for more in a return visit! Hope this helps. If you need more help planning your trip, we have a ton of Baltics content here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/baltics-travel-guide/

Hi Maggie, very helpful information. Wanted to check on what is the best way to travel between the cities mentioned in the Baltics

Hi Indrani, the best way to get between cities in the Baltics if you’re relying on public transport is by bus. There isn’t a well-developed train network in any of the three countries and the buses, especially Lux Express, are very comfortable and quite efficient.

I’m planning to travel from Helsinki to Prague over 2+ weeks. What’s your advice for affordable accommodation through the Baltics and should I be concerned about not speaking Russian or German. I am a 58 y o women traveling solo for a little adventure.

Sounds like a great trip! For affordable accommodation, I would recommend looking at Airbnb. Depending on where you are, private rooms will probably set you back about €20/night and a full apartment will probably be about €35-40/night. You also get the added bonus of staying with locals! As for a language barrier, It shouldn’t be much of an issue. Most people, especially the younger generation, tend to speak English at quite a high level. Of course, it’s always good to know a few words and key phrases in the local language and having Google translate downloaded will get you by in a pinch. Hope this helps!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Incredibly Beautiful Places In Estonia

RossHelen / Shutterstock

• Activities and Interests
• Architecture
• Destinations
• Europe National Parks
• History and Culture
• National Parks
• Outdoor Activities
• Religious Sites
• Ruins and Archaeology

Tucked against the Baltic Sea, Estonia consists of a relatively small mainland and 2,222 islands, and in recent years, travelers have flocked to the country to enjoy its unique culture and temperate climate. That’s partially due to the wide range of available activities for tourists. Whether you’d prefer to explore the countryside, sail to the islands, or walk the streets of Viljandi, you’ll certainly stay busy.

With that said, travelers often omit some of Estonia’s most breathtaking sites from their itinerary. Here are a few of the nation’s beautiful places that you shouldn’t miss.

Timo / Flickr

1. Viljandi

Some travelers spend their entire trips in Viljandi , and when you stop by this quaint town nestled in the southern Estonian forests, you’ll see why. Bright gardens and traditional wood buildings line the streets while locals pass by on bicycles, and the slow pace of life creates a relaxing atmosphere ideal for vacationers. The nearby Lake Viljandi offers more excitement, along with stunning natural vistas, and a variety of hiking trails are accessible from the outskirts of the city.

Viljandi offers easy access to many of the other sites on this list, including Soomaa National Park. If you can find accommodations, try to visit in late July, when the Viljandi folk music festival draws thousands of travelers from around the world.

Mari-Ann Lind / Shutterstock

2. Suur And Vaike Taevaskoda

There are more than 800 sacred groves in Estonia, and Suur and Vaike Taevaskoda are two of the most important. Located along the ancient Ahja River, these outcrops are revered sites, and locals visit them to pray, present offerings, and receive blessings.

The sandstone cliffs and caves are believed to be home to spiritual beings, and the springs are said to have restorative powers. Whether or not you’re a believer, Suur and Vaike Taevaskoda are two of the most peaceful places in all of Estonia, and the untouched, natural setting certainly has a calming effect.

Nordic Moonlight / Shutterstock

3. Panga Cliff

A powerful rock sits on the northern shoreline of Saaremaa Island, providing a stark and engaging view of the Baltic Sea. Panga Cliff is more than 65 feet tall at its highest point and spans a distance of 1.5 miles. The cliff face is remarkably serene, but that wasn’t always the case — archaeological evidence suggests that it was used for ancient sacrifices.

Today, the cliff is a great place to watch a sunset, enjoy a picnic, do some bird-watching, or take some spectacular photos. Take care to note the weather conditions when visiting, however, since high winds can quickly make this spot less enjoyable.

F-Focus by Mati Kose / Shutterstock

4. Soomaa National Park

Take a step into a spectacularly biodiverse world of primitive forests, bogs, and meadows in Soomaa National Park . This preserve offers nature lovers an array of season-specific activities, including hiking, bogshoeing, snowshoeing, kicksledding, canoeing, and mushroom picking. Check out the Hupassaare Study Trail , which leads through the forest to the Kuresoo bog.

Again, watch the weather. This national park has what’s known as a “fifth season,” when melted snow and ice flood many areas. During times of heavy rain, canoes are the only viable form of transportation.

Vladimir Sazonov / Shutterstock

5. Narva Castle

Set along the Narva River, protecting the border between Russia and Estonia, the Narva Castle (also known as the Hermann Castle) has stood strong since the 13th century.

One of the most popular sites in eastern Estonia, it’s also one of the country’s best-preserved castles. During your visit, you can tour the castle museum to view the beautifully restored rooms and the handicraft area located in the northern courtyard.

Tallinn , the capital of Estonia, is a must-see if you’re interested in taking in the country’s culture and history. It’s one of the best-preserved Hanseatic towns in the world and showcases a variety of architectural styles spanning the centuries. Medieval buildings standing in modern office blocks make quite an impression.

Stop by the Tallinn Town Hall , the oldest town hall in Northern Europe. This Gothic building dates to the 13th century and is still used today for receptions and events. You’ll also want to visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral , a Russian Orthodox church built in 1900.

MillaF / Shutterstock

7. Saaremaa

Estonia’s largest island is approximately the size of Rhode Island, but it’s covered in forests, and it boasts some of Europe’s most diverse flora and fauna. The island offers historical sites alongside modern novelties and provides a great introduction to Estonia’s unique allure as a travel destination.

Here, you’ll find ancient ruins, castles, medieval churches, the aforementioned Panga Cliff, windmills, and a lighthouse, along with great sandy beaches for relaxing between your adventures. The island is also home to the Kaali meteorite field , which was formed around 7,500 years ago.

Brian Thomas is a professional writer with over 15 years of experience. He’s traveled extensively during that time, frequently touring the American Southwest as both a musician and a tourist. In 2019, he visited Japan and Mexico, and he’s become passionate about spreading a simple message: Traveling isn't necessarily expensive, and it's one of the best paths to self-improvement.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. More information  here .

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• North Macedonia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom

Rainbow Map

Maps and charts are limited to 10 downloads per min/user.

2024 rainbow map

These are the main findings for the 2024 edition of the rainbow map.

While authoritarian leaders across Europe continue to use the scapegoating of LGBTI people to divide and mobilise their electorates, others are conversely showing robust political will to honour commitments to advancing and protecting the human rights of LGBTI people. Read more in our press release.

“THE EFFORTS AT DIVISION AND DISTRACTION FROM CONSOLIDATED AUTHORITARIAN REGIMES ARE FURTHER LEAKING INTO OTHER EUROPEAN COUNTRIES AT A TIME WHERE ELECTIONS COULD PUSH EUROPE INTO THE HANDS OF LEADERS WHO WISH TO SHAPE A RADICAL RIGHT, ANTI-DEMOCRATIC EUROPEAN UNION. ”

Chaber, Executive Director, ILGA-Europe

Malta has sat on top of the ranking for the last 9 years. With 83 points, Iceland jumped to second place with a rise of three places as a result of the new legislation banning conversion practices and ensuring the trans-specific healthcare is based on depathologisation. Belgium also banned conversion practices and now comes third place on the ranking with a score of 78.

The three countries at the other end of the Rainbow Map scale are Russia (2%), Azerbaijan (2%), and Turkey (5%). Russia lost 7 points and dropped 3 places because of the federal legislation banning legal gender recognition and trans-specific healthcare.

Poland still sits at the end of the EU ranking with 18% points, followed by Romania (19%) and Bulgaria (23%).

Conversion practices are only banned in 10 countries.

6 is the number of countries where LGBTI people do not have any protection from discrimination.

Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Denmark, Iceland, Montenegro and Spain are the only countries that have full coverage of SOGIESC in their anti-discrimination legislations.

Hate crime and hate speech on the grounds of sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics are prohibited in Belgium, Denmark, Iceland, Malta and some regions in Spain and the UK. 

Marriage equality for same-sex couples is only available in 21 countries.

18 is the number of countries without any legal protection of same-sex partnerships.

Trans parenthood is fully recognised only in 6 countries. 

Only Germany, Greece, Iceland, Malta, Portugal and Spain prohibit unnecessary surgical or medical interventions on intersex children.

10 countries still don’t have any legal or administrative procedure for legal gender recognition.

In addition, Bulgaria, Hungary and Russia have laws that make legal gender recognition completely impossible.

Only in 11 countries, trans people can have legal gender recognition based on self-determination.  

Freedom of assembly and association for LGBTI communities are restricted or under attack in at least 13 countries. 

Sexual orientation and gender identity are qualification criteria for seeking asylum in 27 countries. Intersex asylum seekers are protected in the law only in 6 countries.

Categories Global Scores

Please, click on each category for further details

Policies across Europe and on EU level are increasingly hostile, exacerbating the challenges faced by LGBTI asylum seekers.

Despite some progress in countries like Czechia, where the law now includes SOGI grounds, challenges persist, underscoring the urgent need for more comprehensive asylum law and policies across Europe, which fully respect the international right to seek and enjoy asylum from persecution in other countries.

Civil Society Space

The landscape for civil society advocating for the human rights of LGBTI people varies across Europe, with some countries facing severe restrictions on freedom of assembly, association and expression.

This year specifically, public authorities in Bulgaria and Greece failed to sufficiently protect LGBTI public events while Belarus added LGBTI content under the list of “pornography”, restricting freedom of expression of LGBTI people.

Intersex Bodily Integrity

Ensuring bodily integrity for intersex people remains a critical issue across Europe. Governments in Austria, Belgium, Finland, and Ireland have so far failed to follow through on commitments to prohibit unnecessary medical interventions on intersex children, leaving intersex people vulnerable to harmful practices.

There is a continued need for comprehensive measures to protect the bodily autonomy and rights of intersex people across Europe.

Legal Gender Recognition

Denmark issued a new administrative order allowing trans minors to access LGR. Russia banned LGR procedures and trans-specific healthcare, joining Bulgaria and Hungary in making LGR completely impossible.

In many countries across Europe, the legislative processes for new LGR procedures have been stalled. Germany and Sweden adopted new laws for LGR but both have not come into effect yet.

Hate Crime & Hate Speech

Germany amended its criminal law to include SOGISC as an aggravating factor for hate crime. Bulgaria and Slovenia also amended their legislation, but only included sexual orientation in their criminal laws. Lithuania published new policies tackling LGBTI-phobic hatred while their laws are still only recognising sexual orientation as bias-motivation.

Equality & Non Discrimination

Belgium, Cyprus, Iceland, Norway, and Portugal banned conversion practices this year. Greece amended its anti-discrimination legislation to fill the gaps to fully protect the grounds of SOGIESC in all areas of life.

Governments in France, Malta, Scotland, and Wales launched new action plans committing to LGBTI equality. Estonia, Finland, Germany, Liechtenstein, Netherlands, Slovenia and Switzerland revoked blood donation restrictions for LGBTI people.

While progress in partnership recognition has been observed in several European countries, challenges persist for LGBTI families.

Estonia and Greece passed laws allowing same-sex couples to marry and adopt children. Liechtenstein also passed a law on adoption. Latvia adopted a law on civil unions for same-sex couples but it hasn’t yet come into effect.

Score Evolution

Ukraine war latest: Armed ship destroyed in Crimea, Kyiv says; controversial US television host launches show in Russia

Ukraine says it hit and destroyed the Russian missile ship Tsiklon in Crimea over the weekend. Meanwhile, analysts say Moscow is seeking to draw out Kyiv's forces - as Putin makes another significant change to his cabinet.

Wednesday 22 May 2024 14:47, UK

• Kyiv claims it has destroyed last Russian warship armed with cruise missiles in Crimea
• Tucker Carlson launches new show in Russia
• Putin sacks minister in new sign of shift in war strategy
• European country now pushing to let Ukraine strike deep into Russia with Western weapons
• Russia using 'understaffed and incohesive forces' in bid to draw out Ukrainian troops
• Big picture: What you need to know as war enters new week

As we've not been providing rolling coverage of the war in Ukraine today, here is a quick update on what's been happening since this morning. 

One of the most significant new stories is the UK accusing China of providing or preparing to provide lethal aid to Russia for use in the war against Ukraine. 

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps told a news conference this morning that US and British defence intelligence had evidence "lethal aid is now, or will be, flowing from China to Russia and into Ukraine".

He called this a "significant development".

We also heard from the Kremlin this morning, which said "in-depth dialogue" was needed to reduce rising tensions between Russia and the West - particularly with regards to nuclear issues. 

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov accused the "collective West" of refusing to engage with Russia despite the potential dangers. 

Here are more of the top stories: 

• Russian forces have taken over the village of Klishchiivka in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, close to the city of Bakhmut, according to Russian news agencies 
• At least nine people have been injured in a Russian air attack on the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv
• Russia accused Ukraine of using a drone to attack a non-nuclear facility at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, causing no critical damage
• Moscow said it is bolstering its efforts to protect its energy infrastructure from drone attacks
• Six children were handed over to Ukraine by Russia and reunited with their families, after a deal was brokered by Qatar. 

We're pausing our coverage of the Ukraine war for the moment.

Scroll through the blog below to catch up on today's developments.

Vladimir Putin has praised the late president of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, and said he was a "reliable partner".

Raisi was killed in a helicopter crash near the Azerbaijan border over the weekend along with his foreign minister and seven others.

Speaking on the leader, Mr Putin said he was "a man of his word" who carried out any agreements the pair made.

"He was truly a reliable partner, a man sure of himself, who acted in the national interest," Russian news agencies quoted Mr Putin as telling Vyacheslav Volodin, chairman of Russia's lower house of parliament.

"He was, of course, a man of his word and it was always good to work with him. What I mean is if we came to an agreement on something, you could be sure the agreement was carried out."

The Kremlin leader asked Mr Volodin, who will be attending memorial events in Iran, to pass on "words of our sincere condolences in connection with this tragedy".

Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Russia has strengthened political, trade and military ties with Iran in a deepening relationship that the US and Israel view with concern.

Heavy fighting in the Pokrovsk area in eastern Ukraine has forced Ukrainian troops to engage in "manoeuvres," the Ukrainian military's general staff have said.

Their report said Pokrovsk, northwest of the Russian-held city of Donetsk, remains the front's "hottest" sector.

"In some areas, the situation requires our troops to engage in manoeuvres," the general staff report reads.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has referred to the region and adjacent areas as "extraordinarily difficult" in his nightly video address.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said allies are taking too long when it comes to decisions on military support for Ukraine.

In an interview with Reuters, the Ukrainian leader said every decision which everyone came to was "late by around one year".

"But it is what it is: one big step forward, but before that two steps back. So we need to change the paradigm a little bit," he said.

"When we're quick, they fall behind. And then there's a gap - six, eight months of unpassed (aid) packages, and then two-three months of supplies - and a year goes by. We would like not to lose the advantage."

Mr Zelenskyy also said Ukraine had never used Western weapons on Russian territory.

A senior Russian diplomat has said that the EU plan to channel profits from frozen Russian assets to Ukraine would have "unpredictable" consequences, according to the TASS news agency.

According to TASS, Kirill Logvinov, Russia's acting permanent representative to the EU in Brussels, told Russia journalists: "The only predictable thing is that those in the EU will be obliged sooner or later to return to our country what has been stolen."

For context : In March the European Commission proposed transferring to Ukraine profits generated by Russian central bank assets frozen in Europe.

The plan would see 90% channeled through the European Peace Facility fund to buy weapons for Ukraine. 

The rest would be used for recovery and reconstruction.

Russia's defence ministry has said it has begun a round of drills involving tactical nuclear weapons. 

The exercises were announced by Russian authorities this month in response to remarks by senior Western officials about the possibility of deeper involvement in the war in Ukraine.

It was the first time Russia has publicly announced drills involving tactical nuclear weapons, although its strategic nuclear forces regularly hold exercises.

According to the ministry's statement, the first stage of the new drills include nuclear-capable Kinzhal and Iskander missiles.

The maneuvers are taking place in the southern military district, which consists of Russian regions in the south.

A Moscow court has ordered a Russian journalist who covered the trials of the late Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny and other dissidents must  remain in custody pending an investigation and trial on charges of extremism.

Antonina Favorskaya was arrested in March. 

She is accused of collecting material, producing and editing videos and publications for Navalny's Foundation for Fighting Corruption, which had been outlawed as extremist by Russian authorities, according to court officials.

Today, Moscow's Basmanny district court ordered that she remain in custody until at least 3 August.

Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokeswoman, said earlier that Ms Favorskaya did not publish anything on the foundation's platforms and suggested that Russian authorities have targeted her because she was doing her job as a journalist.

Former Fox News presenter Tucker Carlson has launched his own show in Russia.

The controversial US media personality, who this year became the first Western journalist to interview Vladimir Putin since Russia invaded Ukraine, will host his show on the state-owned Russia 24 (Rossiya 24).

In the first episode, Carlson will discuss the dangers of ticks and Lyme disease.

Who is Carlson?

Carlson, who has been a vocal supporter of Mr Putin in the past, was sacked from Fox News in April last year.

He took up the prime-time weekday evenings spot on Fox News in 2016 with his show Tucker Carlson Tonight, and quickly established himself as a key player in the network and an influential voice in Republican politics.

The presenter often embraced conspiracy theories and far-right issues. He repeatedly questioned the efficacy of COVID vaccines and compared mandates to "Nazi experiments".

While he found success with viewers, his inflammatory comments caused some advertisers to distance themselves from the programme.

After his departure from Fox News he rebooted his show on X last year, calling Elon Musk's site the last big remaining platform to allow free speech.

Ukraine says it has destroyed the last Russian warship armed with cruise missiles that was stationed on the occupied peninsula of Crimea.

It comes after we reported earlier comments by Ukraine's military, which said they had hit the Russian missile ship Tsiklon (see post at 3.09pm).

Ukraine's military reported conducting a long-range attack that destroyed the Russian minesweeping navy vessel on Sunday and said it needed more time to confirm what else had been damaged.

"According to updated information, the Ukrainian defence forces hit a Russian project 22800 Tsiklon missile ship in Sevastopol, on the night of 19 May," the general staff said today.

The Ukrainian navy later said on X that the vessel had been "destroyed".

Ukrainian navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk said the Tsiklon was Russia's "last cruise missile carrier" based on the peninsula.

Tsiklon never fired a cruise missile while on active service, Mr Pletenchuk said in televised comments.

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 and is home to Russia's Black Sea Fleet headquarters at Sevastopol.

The Russian defence ministry has not commented.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free