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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

The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in Estonia Itinerary

Last Updated on January 9, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Plenty of visitors to the northernmost Baltic State set their sites solely on the capital of Tallinn and fail to plan a full Estonia itinerary to see other parts of the country. And while Tallinn does have a lot to offer, it’s worth spending at least 5 to 7 days in Estonia to really get a feel for the country.

Estonia has a lot to offer visitors from charming towns to gorgeous beaches to lush national parks. And though the country is small, there is quite a lot to see that if you only have around a week to spend in the region, you should definitely consider planning a dedicated Estonia trip rather than trying to cram in other Baltic cities like Riga or Vilnius instead.

This itinerary will take you to some of the highlights of this country to help you get a great feel for this beautiful Baltic nation.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Estonia?

Many travellers in the planning stages of their trips wonder how many days to spend in Estonia in order to cover a lot of ground but not feel rushed.

And the answer to this can really depend on what you’re after. If you only have a few days, plan to spend your time in Tallinn. To do the city justice, you will need to spend at least two days exploring the city itself and plan to spend another on a day trip to the surrounding area.

If you have 5 days in Estonia, this is where you can venture out a bit further and explore a little bit more. If you want to explore another Estonia city, consider visiting the second-largest city of Tartu, which is vibrant and absolutely charming.

You could also opt to, instead, head to Estonia’s largest island of Saaremaa and explore this gorgeous place. Or, if it’s the beach you’re after, consider adding a couple of days in Parnu to your itinerary

If you have one week in Estonia, then you have a lot more flexibility. In fact, this would be the recommended amount of time to spend here (if not longer). Though you still won’t be able to visit everywhere of interest in the country, you will be able to cover a lot of ground.

Of course, there are so many places to see and enjoy in Estonia that you can certainly spend more than one week. However, if you want to get a lot of the destination and you do only have a limited amount of time to play around with, five to seven days can be just fine.

Getting To & Around Estonia

If you are only planning on visiting Estonia, you will likely be arriving into the capital city of Tallinn. Tallinn is home to its own international airport that, while small, serves several different European destinations and some that are further afield.

It’s also entirely possible that you’re arriving to Estonia via ferry. Tallinn’s port has direct connections with Helsinki , Finland and some of the Finnish Islands among other destinations. The port of Paldiski (about 50km west of Tallinn) has connections to Stockholm , Sweden as well.

Estonia is also well-connected by bus to neighbouring Latvia, so it is very easy to visit both countries as part of a longer Baltics itinerary.

Once in Estonia, you do have a few options on how to get around. If you are only spending 5 days in Estonia and plan to only visit Tallinn and Tartu, you can definitely do that while relying solely on public transport. Estonia has a broad bus network that is easy to use and very convenient. You can browse schedules here.

If you follow the 7-day Estonia itinerary, you may find it easiest to do this if you have your own car, though this isn’t entirely necessary. For those who want a lot of flexibility and want to get off the beaten path even further, then renting a car and planning an Estonia road trip is probably going to be your best option. This also allows you to be able to make some stops in between destinations, as well.

If you do want to hire a car while in Estonia, we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com to compare prices across a range of different rental companies.

5 to 7 Days in Estonia Itinerary

Day 1 – tallinn.

Begin your Estonia trip in the beautiful capital of Tallinn . While the Old Town is very popular with tourists, it’s worth spending some time here (especially in the morning or evening before or after the cruise ship crowds have dispersed) to really take in its splendour.

Known to be one of the most well-preserved medieval old towns in Europe, it’s sure to take your breath away.

Spend a few hours exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town either independently or on a walking tour and learning about the history of this side of the city. Some of the highlights include the Town Hall Square, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Patkuli Viewing Platform.

Afterwards, head outside of the old town to explore the trendy Kalamaja neighbourhood which was traditionally the home of local fishermen but has been transformed in recent years to be a hip area full of cafes, bars and boutique shops.

If you want to see an alternative side of the city (and find a great place for a meal), make sure to head to the Telliskivi Creative City, as well.

Where to Stay in Tallinn

Citybox Tallinn – If you’re after for a good mid-range option, this centrally located hotel is a great choice. Situated within easy walking distance of Tallinn’s Old Town, harbour, Telliskivi and Kalamaja, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms on offer.

Savoy Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel has several lovely rooms available all within easy distance of the top attractions in Tallinn.

Bob W Telliskivi – Located near hip Telliskivi Creative City, they have a few fully-furnished apartments that can suit visitors who prefer self-catering facilities.

Fat Margaret’s Hostel – Located on the harbour within easy reach of the city’s top attractions, this hostel has both dorm and private rooms on offer. There are also great common areas – including an on-site sauna and hot tub!

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

Day 2 – Tallinn

On your second day in Tallinn, take this time to dig a bit deeper into the Estonian capital. Begin your day wandering around the harbour and visit the imposing Linnahall centre.

This structure was built for the 1980 Olympics and it is an excellent example of Soviet-era architecture – and it is particularly striking against the medieval Old Town.

Moving a bit further along the harbour, you will find the Seaplane Harbour Museum, which is another popular place to visit in the city.

Once you’ve worked up a bit of an appetite, head to Balti Jaama Turg. This is a local market which combines both grocery shopping and local food stalls that make for a great lunch spot. If you’re interested in learning more about the food scene in Tallinn, consider  booking this food tour .

And if you want to unwind after your day of exploration, then head to the Põhjala Brewery taproom to drink some locally brewed craft beer in a cool setting.

Day 3 – Lahemaa National Park

Spend your final day in Tallinn on a day trip to nearby Lahemaa National Park and the Jägala Waterfall. While this trip is certainly easiest done when you have your own car, there are both organised trips such as this full-day tour and public buses available as well.

Lahemaa National Park is only about forty minutes outside of Tallinn and is perhaps best known for being home to the Viru Bog.

Here you can go on an easy 6km loop walk along the bog and enjoy the unique ecosystem and natural beauty. We also recommend stopping to view the nearby Jägala Waterfall and heading to the village of Võsu and admiring the beach.

Day 4 – Tartu

On day four of this itinerary, it’s time to hit the road and visit the country’s second-largest city of Tartu . This small city is often overlooked, but it is absolutely charming and well worth exploring.

Spend your first day in Tartu wandering around the lovely old town. Take in the top sites, climb the tower of St John’s Church and even visit the Tartu Botanical Garden before strolling along the beautiful Emajogi River.

Then, wander a bit away from the Old Town to the Karlova neighbourhood. This is a cool, alternative place with lots of art and some beautiful wooden houses.

Here, you can find the trendy Aparaaditehas complex, which is reminiscent of Telliskivi in Tallinn. This former Soviet widget factory has a lot of shops and restaurants that are worth visiting.

Where to Stay in Tartu

Hotel Soho – If you’re looking for a good mid-range option in Tartu, then this boutique hotel is a great choice. They have clean and comfortable rooms on offer and there is also breakfast included in the nightly rate.

TartuKodu Riia – If you’d like to have your own place while visiting Tartu, then this one-bedroom apartment is an excellent choice. Centrally located, the flat is fully furnished and a great place to base yourself when exploring Estonia’s second city.

Looming Hostel   – For those travelling solo or on a budget, this hostel is a good option. Located across the street from Aparaaditehas, they have both dorm and private rooms on offer, good common areas, and a nice roof terrace. It is also possible to purchase breakfast at an extra cost.

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

Day 5 – Tartu

On your second day in Tartu and your final day in the country (if you’re only spending 5 days in Estonia), take the time to dig a little bit deeper in the city and visit a couple of museums.

The first museum that we would recommend would be the KGB Cells Museum. This is a former Soviet prison where you can get a harrowing overview of the effects of the regime on residents of Tartu.

If you’re looking for something fun and interactive, then head to the Estonian Printing and Paper Museum which is located in the Aparaaditehas complex. This is another fascinating museum and entry also includes a guided tour where you can make some of your own prints.

Finally, for a those wanting to explore more of the history and culture of the country, head to the Estonian National Museum.

Day 6 – Saaremaa

If you’re able to spend 7 days in Estonia, make your final destination in the beautiful country be the lovely island of Saaremaa.

As the largest of Estonia’s islands, there are a lot of things to do in Saaremaa that make it a really worthwhile place to visit. There are also countless wild beaches and beautiful forests to relax in, so it is a great place to unwind after a busy week.

You can reach Saaremaa via car ferry from the coastal town of Virtsu. While it is helpful to have a car here, you can also get a bus from Tartu to Kuressaare, the largest town on the island.

Plan to spend your first day on Saaremaa exploring some of the highlights of the island for instance, taking in the Kaali Meteorite Crater, driving down to the Sõrve Lighthouse or simply wandering around Kuressaare and visiting the town’s beautiful Medieval castle.

Where to Stay on Saaremaa

Ekesparre Boutique Hotel – If you’re after a luxury option on the island, this boutique hotel is a fantastic choice. Located in the centre of Kuressaare, this is claims to be the island’s oldest hotel. They have a range of plus rooms on offer and it is a great place for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

Stuudio 17 – For those who are after their own space when visiting Saaremaa, this one-bedroom apartment is a great choice. Located in Kuressaare, the flat is fully furnished, located on a quiet street and has everything you would need for a comfortable stay.

Guesthouse Laurits – This cosy guesthouse is an excellent place to stay if you’re after a good, budget-friendly option on Saaremaa. Situated in Kuressaare, they are pet friendly and have a shared kitchen where you can prepare your own meals should you wish.

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

Day 7 – Saaremaa

On your final day in Estonia, take the time to explore a bit more of Saaremaa before grabbing a later ferry and heading back to Tallinn. You could take the time to visit the gorgeous Tuhkana Beach on the north of the island or visit the imposing Panga Cliffs.

Once you’ve made it back to the mainland, consider making a pit stop in the lovely town of Haapsalu on the coast. This is the jumping-off point for heading to Hiiumaa Island, however, the town is absolutely lovely and worth exploring in its own right.

Haapsalu’s old railway station has a fascinating collection of defunct trains to view and the city centre has an interesting medieval castle to explore. The main town is also very charming and there are plenty of great places to eat in the town, as well.

From Haapsalu, it is about 1.5 hours driving to get back to Tallinn.

Have More Time?

If you have more than a week in Estonia, then there are plenty of ways you can occupy your time. If you’re after for a seaside getaway, then make sure to spend a couple of days in the lovely city of Parnu on the Baltic Sea.

Alternatively, you could also opt to explore Estonia’s third-largest city of Narva, which is located in the east of the country close to the Russian border.

And if you are interested in visiting some more islands, hop on a ferry to Hiiumaa to explore even further.

There is so much to see and do in Estonia beyond Tallinn that it is so worth trying to plan at least a week in this beautiful country. No matter how long you have to spend here, however, you are sure to leave with lasting memories.

Are you planning a trip to Estonia? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Tallinn Itinerary

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

12 Best Things To Do In Saaremaa, Estonia

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, Loved your blog! My husband and I are headed to Estonia and are staying in Tallinn, Taagepera and Parnu. We have 8 days to travel and sightsee. I’m having trouble finding a private driver that can crive us through the country also acting as a tour guide. Was hoping you might have a name of someone or a company that would act as our guide. Thanks for any help you can give me. Debbie

Thanks for your kind words, Debbie! Unfortunately, we don’t work with any private drivers so I’m not able to help you there 🙂

I found a site that gave me all Estonia!! We are headed to Tallinn from Nov 8-13 (which leaves us four full days). Is it worth going to Laheema and the falls at this time of the year? I also thought about renting a car for two nights to go both here and then another excursion (whether it be the Tartu or Narva. You did take the option of going to Helsinki off the table for a day trip as I feel like it would be rushed.

Hi Scott – I think it’s definitely still worth it to head to Lahemaa. It will be chilly but certainly will still be beautiful. Personally, I would recommend heading to Tartu because it’s a really nice little city. I haven’t been to Narva so I can’t offer any advice on that end 🙂

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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Estonia

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Jul 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

If you're looking for a change of pace from the typical European vacation, you should put Estonia on your short list of places to visit. One of the least crowded countries in Europe, this former Soviet state brims with preserved medieval cities, enchanting forests, misty bogs, and ancient traditions. It's like a fairy-tale setting in real life.

Your adventures will likely start in Estonia's capital, Tallinn , where you'll find plenty of things to do. Here, you'll walk on old city walls , eat countless slices of Estonian black bread, wander around the Russian orthodox cathedral, and get a bird's-eye view of the entire city from the Tallinn TV Tower.

Then , branch out and explore the rest of what this small-but-mighty country has to offer. Get pampered in the luxurious spas in Estonia's summer capital, Pärnu . Break out your binoculars at one of the world's best bird-watching destinations, Matsalu National Park. Bike along the beautiful Narva River Promenade. And once you've had your fill of the mainland, head out to one of Estonia's 2,000-plus islands.

There's no possibility of getting bored in this fantastic destination. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top things to do in Estonia.

1. Tallinn's Old Town

2. kuressaare episcopal castle, 3. lennusadam seaplane harbour, 5. estonian national museum, 6. matsalu national park, 8. alpakafarm, 9. narva river promenade, 10. ahhaa science centre, 11. oru park, 12. toompea hill, 13. haapsalu old town, 14. rummu prison, map of attractions & things to do in estonia.

Whether your visit to Estonia is a full-fledged vacation or just a one-day stop on a Baltic cruise , you should spend as much time as your schedule allows touring Tallinn's Old Town. It's one of the world's most pristinely preserved Hanseatic town centers and was home to wealthy merchants from Denmark and Germany in the 13th century.

The Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and medieval churches , became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Start your journey at Raeapteek, one of Europe's oldest continually-running pharmacies . It has fascinating museum-like exhibits on antique medical tools and techniques. Head outside to the center of the Town Hall Square and look for the distinctive circular stone. From that point, you can try to spot the steeples of Tallinn's five historic churches .

See the art and Gothic arches in the Tallinn Town Hall , then make your way around the rest of the Old Town, checking out the churches , Russian orthodox cathedral, and the postcard-worthy view from the Patkuli platform. Sightseeing here feels like traveling back in time.

One of the best-preserved fortifications in the Baltic region, the moat-ringed Kuressaare Episcopal Castle has been standing tall since the 1380s.

You can spend the entire day soaking up the castle's Gothic atmosphere and wandering around its many unique spaces, including the convent building; steep staircases; central courtyard; cloister; refectory; and the bishop's living quarters, where 11 Baroque wood carvings are on display. Take in glorious views over a tasty lunch at the Tower Cafe.

The on-site history museum sheds light on what life was like during the time when this castle was in use many centuries ago through displays of one-of-a-kind artifacts (like more than 2,000 antique coins from as far back as the 1620s). Tourists can also watch and participate in traditional activities, like archery, pottery making, musical performance s, and firing Estonia's oldest working cannon , mostly during the busy summer months.

If you're traveling with a group, book the castle's Bishops Dinner . The two-hour culinary event includes dishes made from historic recipes and drinks served in goblets, along with a demonstration on proper table manners from centuries ago.

Address: Lossihoov 1, Kuressaare linn, Saaremaa vald, Saare maakond

Official site: http://www.saaremaamuuseum.ee/

Appealing to both maritime enthusiasts and everyday tourists, the Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour is one of the best places to visit in Estonia. This award-winning museum in Tallinn houses around 200 authentic maritime artifacts and vessels in a historic seaplane hangar, which features the world's first high-volume, columnless, thin-shell concrete dome.

This attraction includes a 1930s-era submarine, 100-year-old steam-powered icebreaker, and the remains of the oldest ship in Estonia in the museum's permanent collection. You can also try on a navy uniform for a souvenir photo and learn the art of throwing paper airplanes.

A variety of interactive simulators offer guests an even more immersive experience, showing you what it's like to actually fly a plane.

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

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

Just a two-hour drive from Tallinn, Pärnu beckons tourists with its gorgeous beach and small-town feel. This is the place to go in Estonia when you're ready to kick back, relax, and enjoy the sunshine.

Any of the town's distinctive spas will pamper you from head to toe, but for an extra-special experience, check out the Hedon SPA & Hotel . Approaching 200 years old, the spa is the oldest of its kind in Estonia and offers healing mud wraps that cleanse pores and leave skin silky smooth. After your treatment, relax in the saunas, salt pool, and summer terrace.

Don't miss the opportunity to tour the beautifully preserved historic town, which dates back to 1265. The tourist information center can connect you with a knowledgeable guide who will take you sightseeing around Pärnu.

You'll see a centuries-old house that once belonged to the town blacksmith; a statue of Estonian architect Olev Siinmaa; historic maps; secret passageways; and monuments dedicated to Johann Voldemar Jannsen, the "father of Estonian journalism" and founder of one of the oldest newspapers in the country, still published today.

Pärnu is also a great base for tourists who want to visit Kihnu island. Inhabited by a close-knit group of 700 people, the majority of whom are women, the island is known for its rich singing and musical traditions that date back 1,000 years. Look out for the older women wearing traditional clothes while zipping around the island on vintage motorcycles–it's a charming sight.

The Estonian National Museum is equally renowned for its fascinating permanent exhibits on Estonian history and culture, as well as its arresting architecture.

The building, a conceptual art piece opened on a former Soviet military base in 2016, was designed to resemble an airfield taking off into space. At night, the lighting makes it an especially impressive sight.

Give yourself at least half a day to explore the treasures inside the museum. The main permanent exhibition, "Encounters," allows tourists to peek into the lives of ordinary Estonians and their culture from the Ice Age to the modern day. "Echo of the Urals," the other permanent exhibit at this museum, focuses on the Finno-Ugric peoples. It includes a stunning display of cultural clothing and daily tools, like cooking utensils. High-tech installations throughout the museum make the experience even more interactive.

Address: Muuseumi tee 2, Tartu linn, Tartu

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

Tourists planning a trip to Estonia should be sure to pack their binoculars. The country's Matsalu National Park is reputed to be one of Europe's best bird-watching destinations .

Its 48,610 hectares are designated as a protected natural area for nesting, molting, and migrating birds, including the magnificent white-tailed eagle. The park is home to more than 22 protected plant species and 10 mammals undergoing conservation efforts.

Tourists can get a panoramic view of this beautiful landscape from several bird-watching towers in Haeska, Keemu, Kloostri , and other areas in the park. You can also enjoy a few hiking trails that will take you through the wetlands, coastal pastures, and meadows . Staying at one of the park's guesthouses will give you the chance to see the area at one of its most spectacular times of day: sunrise.

Official site: https://loodusegakoos.ee/where-to-go/national-parks/matsalu-national-park

Think the art of print and typography is lost in the digital age? Think again. Estonia keeps this cherished tradition alive at Typa, a private museum-studio in Tartu.

Formerly known as the Estonian Print & Paper Museum, Typa displays a range of historical printing machinery and paper-making equipment that will make you fall in love with the printed word once again. Tourists will see a mesmerizing array of letterpress alphabets in every style imaginable, sure to blow design lovers away.

Typa also offers a range of workshops that will allow you to try your hand at creating a notebook using a 150-year-old hand press, making paper from pulp, printing a manhole cover design on a T-shirt, or creating a linocut print. Or, commission a custom diary, print, or album from the pros on staff.

Address: Kastani tänav 48f, Tartu linn, Tartu

Official site: https://typa.ee/en/

Who would guess that hanging out with Peruvian animals is one of the top-rated things to do in Estonia? Alpakafarm in Pärnu has won over tourists with its petting zoo of alpacas . The farm invites guests to learn about these popular animals and touch their pillowy soft coats.

Alpacas aren't the only creatures on the scenic farm, though. You can also interact with adorable Cameroon goats (a type of pigmy goat) , well-trained llamas, and guanacos (a relative of llamas know for their calm demeanor and thick eyelashes) . After meeting the animals, take home some authentic alpaca souvenirs, fluffy toys, sweaters, and toasty slippers from the farm shop.

Address: Laane, Niidu küla, Tori vald, Pärnu maakond

Official site: https://alpakafarm.ee/en/

Few other areas in Estonia rival the incredible sightseeing opportunities at the Narva River Promenade. The nearly one-kilometer-long waterfront walkway runs along the western banks of the Narva River , the natural border between the European Union and Russia.

No matter where you are on the serene promenade, you'll find something interesting and beautiful to see. Toward the west, you can check out the bastion walls and the Hermann Castle , a 14th-century stone structure. The Narva harbor stands prominently north of the promenade. And in the south, tourists can visit the Joaorg recreation area , which has a beach house. From here, you can rent bikes, sun beds, volleyballs, and badminton sets.

Spend an afternoon walking or biking the promenade, observing the fly fisherman, and watching the sunset.

Address: Jõe tänav, Narva

The AHHAA Science Centre in Tartu isn't your typical science museum. Rather than putting displays behind glass, the 3,000-square-meter space offers hands-on exhibits visitors can interact with, making science fun and magical.

Tourists can make their way through a labyrinth of mirrors, ride a bike across an elevated rope, and snap selfies while popping a balloon in the Hall of Technology.

The Hall of Nature focuses on the many creatures of the world. That permanent exhibit contains a colony of 20,000 wood ants and schools of tropical fish in a 6,000-liter tank, among other fun displays. The museum also invites tourists to watch fluffy chicks hatch from eggs.

Time your visit around one of the amazing Planetarium Shows, which take visitors on an intergalactic journey.

Address: Sadama tänav 1, Tartu linn, Tartu

Official site: https://www.ahhaa.ee/

Tucked in the picturesque Pühajõgi River valley , Oru Park makes for a relaxing getaway in the northeastern Estonian town of Toila. The park has the regal design sensibilities of the rich Russian man who built it in the 19th century. Think Topiary gardens in hypnotic shapes, pretty fountains, viewing platforms on balconies, and flowers galore.

Pack a swimsuit if you're visiting Oru Park during the summer. There's a path that takes you to a pristine pebble beach –perfect for sunbathing or wading in the water.

After your visit, continue unwinding at the famous Toila Baths. The day spa features a variety of saunas , including infrared, aromatherapy, and salty air, along with Jacuzzi tubs. The entire space feels like it was plucked from ancient Rome.

Address: Oru tänav-21, Toila alevik, Toila vald, Ida-Viru maakond

While exploring Tallinn's Old Town, you'll want to make a point to climb Toompea Hill. According to Estonian folklore, the hill covers the grave of a mythical king named Kalev, whose 12 sons are responsible for unexplained phenomena in nature. A 157-step staircase connects the town to the top of the hill, where you can catch incredible views of the entire city from a few viewing platforms around the area.

While here, you can also see the Toompea Castle , a striking pink building that serves as the headquarters for the Estonian parliament. You can watch sessions of parliament from the public gallery or take an excursion through the castle on weekdays (advanced booking required). Be sure to take a look at the flag waving atop the castle's Tall Hermann tower –it's considered an important symbol of Estonian independence.

Tallinn's not the only place in Estonia with a popular Old Town . Drive 90 minutes southwest of the capital, and you'll reach Haapsalu, a picturesque seaside town whose historic center still stands on a peninsula. It features well-preserved medieval streets and the stunning Haapsalu Castle .

Built in the 13th century, the castle is now a museum with exhibits on its construction, the history of Haapsalu, and the lives of local rulers. There's also an interesting Lace Center Museum and Gallery . It's dedicated to preserving and showcasing the renowned shawls created in the town. They're knitted so finely that they can be slid through a ring.

In addition to its antique attractions, Haapsalu's Old Town is also known for its history as an early 20th-century resort district. You can celebrate this heritage by taking a therapeutic mud bath at a local spa–just the thing to restore your body after a long day of sightseeing.

Just outside the small town of Rummu is one of the world's most unique diving sites : Rummu Prison. It was once a Soviet prison, where inmates would toil in a limestone quarry, but the site was abandoned when Estonia regained its independence. Since then, natural groundwater has rapidly submerged the former prison, preserving its mining machines, buildings, barbed wire, and lampposts. There's also a flooded forest covered with algae.

Keep in mind that this dive site is an overhead environment. Only experienced divers with ample training should attempt to visit this site.

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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

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Best things to do in Estonia

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

• roughguides.com
• best-things-to-do-in-estonia

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 24.04.2023

Visitors to Estonia will encounter a mix of urbanity and wilderness, the medieval and contemporary. Here one will find crumbling castles and colourful designs permeating urban landscapes. An efficient transport system makes it easy to get around, and the tech-savvy, dynamic residents welcome visitors with open arms. Estonia is also one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe . Here's our pick of the best things to do in Estonia.

1. Saaremaa Island

2. tallinn’s old town, 3. the baroque kadriorg palace, 4. tallinn botanic garden, 5. lennusadam seaplane harbour, 6. estonian song festival in tallinn, 7. lahemaa national park, 8. science centre ahhaa, tartu, 9. estonian national museum, 10. staying in pärnu - one of the best things to do in estonia for a beach holiday, 11. soomaa national park, 12. matsalu national park for birdwatching, 13. narva river promenade, 14. lake peipus, 15. rummu underwater prison.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget , your essential guide for visiting Europe.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Estonia, created by local experts

5 days  / from 1403 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 1053 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 3996 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.

Tailor-made trips for   Estonia

Visiting the island of Saaremaa, off the west coast of Estonia, is claimed by many to be one of the most authentic things to do in Estonia. Buses from Tallinn, Tartu and Pärnu come here via a ferry running from the mainland village of Virtsu to Muhu Island, which is linked to Saaremaa by a causeway.

The principal attractions are Kuressaare’s thirteenth-century castle, one of the finest in the Baltic region, and Kaali village, home to a giant Kaali meteorite crater thought to be at least 4000 years old, which makes a worthy detour.

Aerial view of Saaremaa city with the Kuressaare castle in the middle © Nordic Moonlight/Shutterstock

Tallinn, Estonia’s compact, buzzing capital , with its enchanting heart surrounded by medieval walls, has been shaped by nearly a millennium of outside influence. The heart of Tallinn is the Old Town, still largely enclosed by the city’s medieval walls. At its centre is the Raekoja plats, the historic marketplace, above which looms Toompea Hill, the stronghold of the German knights who controlled the city during the Middle Ages.

Raekoja Plats — the cobbled market square at the heart of the Old Town — is as old as the city itself. On its southern side stands the fifteenth-century Tallinn Town Hall (Raekoda). It boasts elegant Gothic arches at ground level, and a delicate steeple at its northern end. At the head of Lossi Plats the pink Toompea Castle stands on the site of the original Danish fortification. The building is now home to the Riigikogu, Estonia’s parliament.

Exploring Tallinn's Old Town - one of the best things to do in Estonia © ESB Professional/Shutterstock

The Old Town is the tourists’ favourite part of Tallinn, but at weekends the locals wander in the parks on the east side of Tallinn Bay. The best-loved of these is Kadriorg Park, a name synonymous with affluence, nature and, most of all, tranquillity. Most of it remains a wooded, informal park, planted with lime, oak, ash, birch and chestnut trees and punctuated by open fields.

Among the more developed exceptions are the large rectangular Swan Pond with fountains and a beautiful white gazebo, which provide a fittingly romantic introduction to the park. The jewel in the Kadriorg’s crown is without a doubt the lavish, Baroque Kadriorg Palace (Kadrioru loss) that Peter had built in 1718. The palace is a stunning monument to imperial extravagance.

Kadriorg National Museum, Estonia © Pixabay

Just to the east of Tallinn, the space-age Teletorn dominates the skyline. 314 metres (1,030ft) in height, it offers unforgettable views of the city and surrounding ports from its observation deck and café at the 170-metre (558ft) level. A few metres from the tower’s base is the Tallinn Botanical Garden (Tallinna botaanikaaed), covering 123 hectares (304 acres) of the Pirita Valley with its beautiful gardens and nature trails.

On this tailor-made City hopping in Finland and Estonia , you will explore enchanting Helsinki with its blend of modernity and nature, and Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, with its rich heritage.

Tallinn Botanic Garden© Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Just along the coast from here is Tallinn’s Lennusadam housing Seaplane Harbour Maritime Museum. In addition to a minesweeper and a patrol boat, the collection includes Europe’s largest steam-powered ice-breaker, dating from 1914, the Lembit submarine, built in Britain in 1938. From its decks, you can peer across the Old Town’s skyline and imagine what a tempting prize Tallinn would have been to any seafaring invaders.

Lennusadam Seaplane, Tallinn, Estonia © Hans Põldoja/Flickr under CC BY 2.0 license

The Lauluväljak at Narva, just to the northeast of Kadriorg Park in Tallinn, is a vast amphitheatre which is the venue for Estonia’s Song Festivals. These gatherings, featuring a 25,000-strong choir, are held every five years. They have been an important form of national expression since the first all-Estonia Song Festival was held in Tartu in 1869.

The grounds were filled to their 45,000-person capacity in the summer of 1988 when people assembled here spontaneously to sing patriotic songs in protest against Soviet rule, in what became known as the “Singing Revolution”. The next Song Festival is in July 2024.

Where to stay in Tallinn:

• For luxury: Radisson Collection Hotel, Tallinn
• For Old Town: Hestia Hotel Ilmarine
• For families: Nordic Hotel Forum

Find more accommodation options to stay in Tallinn

Kadriorg amphitheater in Tallinn © Dennis Jarvis/Flickr under CC BY-SA 2.0 license

The largest of Estonia’s national parks, 725-square-kilometre Lahemaa lies an hour’s drive or bus ride from Tallinn. It stretches along the north coast, comprising lush forests, pristine lakes, and ruggedly beautiful coves and wetlands. The land is dotted with erratic boulders (giant rocks left over from the last Ice Age) and tiny villages throughout. Meanwhile, the forest is home to brown bears, wild boar, moose and lynx.

The Rough Guides to Estonia and related travel guides

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

One of the best things to do in Estonia is to explore the park by bicycle, the villages are all connected by well-paved roads. Parts of the park are doable as a day trip, but you may well be charmed into staying longer.

Lahemaa National Park, Estonia© Inspired By Maps/Shutterstock

Just over two hours southeast of Tallinn, Tartu is in many ways the undiscovered gem of the Baltic States. A small-scale university town is full of youthful energy but happily free from the city-break tourism that tends to swamp the Estonian capital. With plenty of diversions and events all year round, it’s worth a stay of a couple of days.

Tartu is especially proud of its nostalgic Toy Museum and the Science Centre AHHAA showing that science can be really fun. Science Centre AHHAA is one of the largest science centres in the Baltic and has a wide range of interactive exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations which makes visiting the centre one of the best things to do in Estonia with kids.

Tartu, Estonia © Ikars/Shutterstock

North-east of Tartu City Museum, at Muuseumi tee 2, is the Estonian National Museum with the country’s most important permanent folklore collection. The new museum building was inaugurated in 2016 on the grounds of the Raadi Manor, formerly home to the Baltic German von Liphard family. The building is ultra-modern and huge, complete with a cinema, library, restaurant and cafe. The manor park is open to the public.

Where to stay in Tartu:

• For families: V Spa & Conference Hotel
• For Old Town: Lydia Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Tartu

Estonian National Museum © Lauri/Flickr/Public Domain

Pärnu, Estonia’s main seaside resort , comes into its own in summer, when it fills up with locals and tourists, and hosts daily cultural and musical events. Rüütli, cutting east–west through the centre, is the Old Town’s main pedestrianized thoroughfare, lined with shops and a mix of seventeenth- to twentieth-century buildings, while parallel Kuninga boasts the largest concentration of restaurants.

Follow Nikolai south from the centre and you’ll reach the Kunsti Museum, set in the former Communist Party HQ. It holds excellent temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. South of here Nikolai joins Supeluse, which leads to the beach, passing beneath the trees of the shady Rannapark. Just beyond the dunes lies Pärnu’s main attraction: the wide, clean sandy Pärnu beach, lined with see-saws, changing booths and volleyball nets.

Where to stay in Pärnu:

• For a sea location: Estonia Resort Hotel & Spa
• For boutique stays: Hotel Villa Wesset

Find more accommodation options to stay in Pärnu

Parnu Beach, Estonia © woodyM/Shutterstock

From Pärnu, a side-trip north to the Soomaa National Park is one of the best things to do in Estonia for the landscape that’s little seen elsewhere in Europe. At the end of the route, 59 through Tori and Jõesuu signs direct drivers into the heart of the 371 sq km (143 sq mile) nature reserve. Soomaa means “land of bogs”.

The area is known for its floodplains and wildlife, its unique feature is its mysterious and often misty bogs – clear areas with peaty land, low trees and small ponds – a scene that doesn’t look like it belongs on our planet. They can only be reached by carefully walking over specially built plank pathways.

Soomaa National Park, Estonia © Shutterstock

Route 60 northwest of Pärnu leads to the small town of Lihula, which has a huge, Soviet-built cultural centre, a plaster-and-stone Orthodox church and a point-spired Lutheran church. Just 3km (2 miles) north of Lihula, the village of Penijõe is the gateway to the Matsalu National Park (Matsalu rahvuspark). Matsalu Bay has a range of habitats including reed beds, water meadows, hay meadows and coastal pastures.

It was already noted for its birdlife back in 1870. Among the species found here today are avocet, sandwich tern, mute swan, greylag goose and bittern. There are also some white-tailed eagles. The reserve was formed from 39,700 hectares (98,000 acres) of the bay area in 1957. It can be visited by car or since water covers some 26,300 hectares (65,000 acres) of this same area, by boat.

Matsalu National Park in Estonia © Martin Sillaots/Flickr under CC BY-SA 2.0 license

The E20 reaches the Russian border at Narva. With just 56,000 inhabitants, it is Estonia’s third-largest city and its least Estonian. The border itself is the city’s most striking feature. Ivangorod Castle and Narva Castle stand facing one another across the Narva River Promenade like sentries guarding their respective lands.

The “Friendship Bridge” stretches across the river between them, with EU flags on one side and Russian flags on the other. The 15km (9-mile) drive north along the river leads to Narva Jõesuu, a popular beach resort town in the 19th century.

Where to stay in Narva:

• For central location: Narva Hotell
• For couples: Top Stage

Find more accommodation options to stay in Narva

Ivangorod Castle - Narva river, Estonia © Pixabay

Either route leads to the shore of Lake Peipus (Peipsi järv), where there are forests of tall conifers and white beaches of bleached oyster shells. There are occasional fishing villages strung along the water’s edge. Their attractive clapboard houses are painted a variety of colours, each fronted by banks of vibrant flowers and backed by greenhouses which are used to extend the short growing season.

Mustvee, 65km (40 miles) north of Tartu, is Lake Peipsi’s largest town, and the centre of Estonia’s community of Old Believers. These are Russians who fled to Estonia in the 17th century to avoid religious persecution, and they have since developed their own distinct culture and traditions.

Lake Peipus, Estonia © Sergei Gussev/Flickr under CC BY 2.0 license

Rummu Underwater Prison is a unique Estonian landmark located in the Rummu quarry. The quarry is a former prison and labour camp where prisoners were forced to mine limestone. In the 1990s, the prison was closed and the quarry was flooded.

Today, Rummu Underwater Prison has become a popular tourist attraction, and it's one of the best things to do in Estonia for scuba divers who can explore the submerged remains of the prison. The transparent waters of the quarry allow for a full, detailed exploration of the prison ruins.

Rummu ruins © Pixabay

Visiting Estonia is a truly unforgettable experience. For more inspirational travel tips check our Rough Guide books .

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We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

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The Best of The Baltic Highlights in 8 days

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Best Places to Visit in Estonia

Book & tour, baltic tours 2024, baltic tours, poland tours, all programs.

Posted by Baltic Tours   |  July 04, 2019

Estonia is one of the most popular travel destinations for many Europeans, especially from neighboring countries such as Lithuania or Latvia. Every year, it becomes increasingly popular to spend New Year’s Eve in Tallinn or visit the Tartu ski resort. The country is comparatively cheap and easily reachable, and weather conditions are not so harsh. In this article, we have compiled the best places to visit in Estonia, whether you are traveling solo, with family, seeking extreme activities, or just a plate of local food.

If You Are Traveling to Estonia in Autumn

Don’t be afraid of having to spend your vacation inside. There are plenty of places to go, and here are just a few of the best places to visit in Estonia in autumn!

National park Lahemaa , 70 km east from Tallinn, preserves ancient manor houses (mõisa in Estonian). Now, these estates host hotels and museums. One such hotel is Vihula Manor, where you can stay overnight. Spend a few days here, enjoying the peace and beauty of nature and walking in the picturesque park. A morning walk will charge you with energy for the whole day.

Palmse , once owned by the barons of von Palen, is a real museum with a recreated setting of the last century, its own greenhouse, and a French park. Explore the dressing room with costumes from the last century, sewn these days, allowing guests to try on hats and numerous dresses. Visit the garage near the manor house, showcasing a solid collection of bicycles, motorcycles, and cars.

Viljandi is a charming town, sunlit and dazzling with flowers, seemingly improbable and idyllic, like a place from the canvas of a romantic painter.

Island Saaremaa , or “SPAremaa,” due to the abundance of SPA resorts, is famous for grey seals that surround the island. Seal-watching tours are usually organized from Papissaare harbor. The “furry fish” often come close to the boat to check out the guests. Waterproof clothes and a camera are recommended to capture these amazing creatures.

If You Prefer to Have a Family Vacation

Here are some good places to visit in Estonia when traveling with children and family:

Vudila Mängumaa, Kaiavere village, located in the Vooremaa nature reserve, includes various outdoor game attractions like swings, slides, obstacle courses, trampolines, electric cars, ATV, water park, rowing boats, catamarans, game rooms, picnic areas, animal families, horseback riding, and more.

Pikajärve Village , Valgjärve Rural Municipality, Põlva County, features the fabulous Canterville Castle with a large theme park-play zone, showcasing the life of landlords from old times, a water park, various cars, a climbing platform, trampolines, a labyrinth, a wardrobe room, and more exciting activities.

Uue-Antsla , Urvaste parish, Võru county, boasts the Automobile City, a unique town with real streets, crossroads, pedestrian crossings, traffic signs, trees, lawns, flowers, and even traffic lights. The AutoCity offers a chance for adults to ride in large battery cars and children in small cars. There is a gas station in the Auto City, where you can pretend to refuel, a police station, and even a punishment cell.

Tallinn is Obviously One of the Must-Visit Cities in Estonia

Best places to visit in Tallinn include:

Lennusadam (or the port of sea ships) is a fantastic place where real hydroplanes are stored and reconstructed in huge concrete hangars. Here, you can learn all about Estonian shipbuilding, ships, and military gadgets used in the fleet. There is even a submarine from the 1930s that you can enter and explore from the inside. Outside the museum, near the pier, there are a lot of real ships.

Another place that I would definitely recommend for my guests is KUMU (Valge, 1). It is not only the largest art museum in Tallinn but also a cultural center that hosts music, cinematographic, or art events.

If you are wondering which place in Tallinn is the best for meeting the sunrise, it is the observation deck Patkuli , located on top of the hill Toompea in the Old Town. Since Estonia is very close to the North Pole, in the summer, the sun rises very early in Tallinn. Therefore, it is logical to go there immediately after a fun night.

Photographer’s Paradise

If you are a photographer working for “National Geographic” or you just admire the calm atmosphere of untouched woods, cloudy clay cliffs, or dangerously attractive marshlands, here are 10 best places to visit in Estonia if you are a professional or beginner photographer and want to capture the most outstanding views.

And once again, the most amazing island in the world, Saaremaa , is the largest island in Estonia. You can get there by ferry from the village of Virtsu. The nature of Saaremaa is beautiful, and it boasts completely untouched corners of civilization, offering silence, peace, and tranquility. At the same time, the city of Kuressaare (the capital of the island) boasts an excellent tourism infrastructure. You should definitely visit the island of Saaremaa if you want to learn more about Estonian culture and enjoy the beauty of untouched nature.

The Falling House is an interesting landmark of Tartu, an Estonian “Tower of Pisa.” It is one of the most unique places to go to in Estonia. With a slight tilt on its side, the building resembles the famous architectural monument in Italy. The unusual “Falling House” is located on Tartu Town Hall Square, in the historic center of the city. You can reach it by bus, and the nearest stop is “Raeplats.”

The sculptural composition “Kissing Students” has become one of the symbols of the city of Tartu. Bronze-molded figures of young people merged in a passionate kiss are installed in the fountain located on Town Hall Square. The authors of the monument accurately reflected the spirit and youth of the city, recognized as the student capital of Estonia. It is one of the famous places to visit in Estonia.

In the South of Estonia, there are Big and Small Taevaskoda natural trails with Väike-Taevaskoda sandstone, Ahja river, the Emelyate Cave, the Maiden’s Cave, and the highest outcrop of the Suur-Taevaskoda sandstone at 22.5 meters height.

Island Hiiumaa , located to the north of Saaremaa, is the second-largest island in Estonia and one of the most picturesque places.

Emumägi Hill , the highest point of Northern Estonia, features an observation tower, Emumemm treehouse, the House of the Sunrise, an old cemetery, a campsite, and picnic areas.

Blue Springs of Saula is one of the most amazing places. There are three large springs with crystal clear water, where even the sandy bottom is visible in detail. It is believed that the Siniallikad water cures diseases if you throw a silver coin, jewelry, or beads into the springs.

The Männikjärve hiking trail offers beautiful views of Männikjärve and the surrounding marshlands.

The Ontika limestone cliff , the highest cliff in Estonia at 55 m above sea level, is located in Kohtla in the northeast of Estonia. It looks like a stone book, revealing layers of different eras. There is also the Valaste waterfall and a unique glint forest, worth visiting.

In Saaremaa island, there is Panga village and an amazing place to visit – the Panga cliff , with an ancient altar remaining from old pagan times here.

Best Places to Visit in North Estonia

Northern Estonia is a crossroad, full of beauty and contrasts, where different cultures meet: seas and forests, industrial and rural, Lutheranism and Orthodoxy. Here, you can see the domes of the Orthodox Church and the stormy Lutheran spire, wander along the rocky shore, and get acquainted with the life of the fishing village of Altja. An Orthodox monastery operating in a quiet place Kuremäe for over a hundred years is a place of pilgrimage for believers from many countries and delights tourists with the measured calmness of their lives.

The most important sights of Estonia are ancient castles. Currently, every Estonian castle is an architectural value, and many of them have museums and expositions with historical values. Here are 10 places to visit in Estonia if you like castles, dungeons, and old abandoned cemeteries.

Maasilinna Castle of Saaremaa is located in the village of Maasi, on the coast.

Varbola , an old fortress in Raplamaa, located just 54 kilometers from Tallinn, is a kind of open-air museum for which no entrance fee is charged.

Haapsalu Castle , built in the XIII century and preserved to this day in good condition, brought the legend of the White Lady. Her ghost appears only at night in August, looking out of a single window.

Paide is another ruined medieval castle, which, however, was restored to the dungeon. Now inside the castle, there is a cafe, and you can find some sculptures around the castle.

Castle Toolse , previously called Tolsburg, is recognized as the youngest castle located on the north coast of the country. Originally established by the Minister of the Livonian Order Johan Waldhoun von Gers in the XIV century, it served as the basis for the protection of the city and nearby roads. Now, guided tours are available for guests to explore the ruins and learn about the history of this place. An adventure trail and a pirate ship are also present.

Narva Castle miraculously survived many invasions and conflicts. It was reconstructed many times but still remains in excellent form to this day.

Alatskivi Castle , located on the eastern border of the country, allows visitors to learn about the life of the family of landlords and listen to their stories about the fortress in the last century.

Purtse Castle , built in 1533, combines Gothic and Renaissance styles, retaining both architectural influences. Like many castles in Estonia, Purtse Castle experienced destruction and reconstruction. The Livonian and Northern Wars were particularly challenging times for this castle.

Taagepera Castle : The first mention of the castle in history dates back to the XVI century. It combines elegance and a rural atmosphere, as well as history and the modern world. The castle was officially recognized as a landmark in Estonia at the end of the last millennium.

Rakvere Castle : Despite being in a ruined state, Rakvere Castle still impresses with its location on the hill. Inside, there is a museum with entertainment, particularly appealing to kids of all ages.

Top Places for the Best Local Food and Beverages

Visit Restaurant Farm on Müürivahe, 27b street in Tallinn, to try traditional Estonian dishes made from local ingredients. Rost Bakery on Rottermani Street in Tallinn offers traditional Estonian pastries. F-hoone Restaurant in the creative town Telliskivi is an extremely convenient place with friendly prices. JUUR Restaurant in Tallinn showcases organic Estonian ingredients, northern bracing flavors, and culinary brilliance.

Rannahotell’s restaurant and summer terrace of the hotel are favorites in Pärnu, offering classic favorites since its opening in 1937. Põhjaka is a cozy restaurant in the countryside serving comfort food made from the best Estonian ingredients. Hõlm is a restaurant ranked among the best in the Baltic and Nordic region according to gastronomical guides. If you find yourself in Tartu, don’t forget to visit Vilde Health Cafe (Vallikraavi 4). This cafe is well-known among locals, who call it “an island of calm.” Edelweiss is a warm and cozy restaurant in the center of Pärnu.

Top Places to See in Estonia in Summer

Despite its size, Estonia always surprises with an abundance of sights and natural objects. If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, you can go to the contemplation of local beauties.

Toomemägi Hill in Tartu : During the summer months, walking through city parks or visiting the observatory is recommended. You can climb the central city hill of Toomemägi, the heart of Old Tartu and the place of the oldest settlement where Estonians settled more than 4,000 years ago.

Captains Village in Käsmu : Käsmu, known as the “Village of Captains,” was once a school of seamen. Today, it is a popular summer holiday destination with various events.

Kakerdaya Marsh Trail : Kakerdaja Bog is one of the largest bogs in Kõrvemaa. The picturesque bog features many lakes and is a stopping point for waterfowl in spring and autumn.

Onion Path : The Onion Path unites three cultures and the history of different people, forming the unique culture of Fad. Interesting attractions along the path include Alatskivi Castle, the museum of writer Juhan Liiva, the village Nina, and the sandstone outcrop in Kallaste.

Haan Hill : Haanja Nature Park, located in the center of Võrumaa on the Haanja Upland, offers beautiful scenery with the highest point in the entire Baltic, Suur Munamyagi, and the deepest lake in Estonia, Rõuge Suurjärv.

Kuressaare Castle : The episcopal fortress in Kuressaare, also known as the Kuressaare Castle, was built in the 14th century and currently houses the Saaremaa Museum.

Ristna Beach : One of the most beautiful beaches in Estonia, located on the island of Hiiumaa on the top of the Kõpu Peninsula. Ideal waves for surfing are formed here with a westerly wind.

Where to Go in Estonia in April

Haapsalu: Haapsalu, the main resort of the country, is surrounded on three sides by the sea, earning it the nickname ‘Venice of the North.’ It is loved for its cozy atmosphere, warm water, curative mud baths, and friendly inhabitants. On the seashore, stands Kurzal, one of the most beautiful wooden buildings in all of Estonia.

Matsalu: Matsalu, which includes the bay of the same name and the area around the Kasari river delta, along with its surrounding floodplains, coastal meadows, reed beds, and forests, is a national park recognized as a nature reserve. Covering more than 450 km² of land and sea, the park is inhabited by various species of fish, mammals, and vascular plants. Explore the unique landscape on foot, by bicycle, or by boat. For bird watching, there are seven observation towers, with the most popular located in Haesk, Keemu, and Kloostri.

Places to Go in Estonia If You Are a Budget Tourist

The Transition of St. Katharina is one of the most beautiful and attractive places in the Old Town. Ancient slabs adorn the walls of the alley, and the pavement has remained untouched since the Middle Ages. At the end of the street, from the middle of the 17th century, there is the Masters’ Yard – a nice place with a bunch of shops and workshops where artisans work: glassmakers, mosaic houses, carpenters, sculptors, potters, furriers.

The Dome Cathedral is one of the oldest Lutheran churches in Europe; construction began in the 13th century. The white-stone cathedral is situated in Vyshgorod (part of the Old Town), and the entrance to the temple is free of charge. In addition to ancient frescoes and tombstones, you can see the grave of Ivan Fedorovich Kruzenshtern. On Saturdays, free concerts of organ music are held in the Dome Cathedral. Anyone can enter the Town Hall pharmacy on the main square for free and look at the ancient methods of treatment: dried frogs, embalmed hedgehogs and worms, potions in dusty flasks, nests of swallows, powder from bats.

A visit to the Marzipan Museum Room on Pikk Street, 16 is also free of charge. Here you can watch the process of making marzipan figures and taste some sweets for free.

Where to Go in Estonia at Night

Tartu , where the fifth of the total population consists of students. Therefore, this small town lives a lively life, and it cannot be called sleepy even at night, as I discovered during an informative night walk. Once a year, on the eve of May 1, the mayor of the city gives up his authority to students for one night. Many traditions and customs are connected with this night. For example, a real champagne wash with a statue of Baron von Baer is arranged, after which a tie bought in advance is put on him.

Where to Go to in South Estonia

Lake Peipsi is Europe’s fifth-largest lake, and it has its own unique water and ice conditions, currents, and storms. In 1242, the Russians under Alexander Nevsky defeated the Teutonic Knights on frozen Lake Peipus.

A common sight in South Estonia is onion fields. You will notice many onions grown, gathered, and sold in local villages. Kolkja Kala is an interesting place to familiarize yourself with the culture and cuisine of the Old Believers, which is based on fish from the local lake and onions grown in local beds. Simple and tasty. Recommended.

Tartu food and wine festival , which takes place in the main town hall every year. Here you can try different edible souvenirs, such as goat cheese with raisins, canapé with famous Estonian sprat, carrot cake, and carpaccio with onion jam.

Best Places to Visit in Estonia in Winter

Tallinn , which looks like a fairy-tale illustration at any time of the year, becomes completely magical in winter. The streets lit by lights converge at the large Christmas market on the Town Hall Square. Here, in the pavilion houses, you can buy adorable items and traditional products, eat sweets, admire ice sculptures, and children can visit the real Santa Claus and share their dreams.

Otepää: The small town of Otepää is a great place for sports recreation. Situated on the hills of Southern Estonia, Otepää has become the most famous winter sports center in the Baltics.

Kadriorg: For this palace, one of Estonia’s symbols, locals need to thank Peter I and his romantic mood. A year after Peter occupied Tallinn during the Northern War, he traveled here with Catherine. The Russian emperor himself called the complex in German “Yekaterinental,” that is, “Catherine Valley.” But the locals began calling it Kadriorg.

Despite Pärnu being considered the summer capital of Estonia, you can have a good time at this largest resort in winter, especially for those who want to enjoy peace and quietness among the romantic wooden architecture without tourist crowds or those who do not mind wandering along the deserted beach of the Baltic Sea.

As you can see, there are many great places to visit in Estonia!

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Iveta Gruodytė

E-mail: [email protected]

Tel. +370 698 45681

Professionally educated in sports and tourism management, Iveta is passionate about encouraging guests to explore the Northeastern region of Europe in the most attractive way. She has been working in the tourism industry since 2013, assisting customers from 64 countries, and she loves doing it!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Estonia

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.

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• 12 Best Places To Visit In Estonia In 2024 For Seeking The Ultimate Adventure

23 Mar 2023

Estonia is a largely underrated place, laying peacefully in Northern Europe, a country that has its and bits of all. The country boasts of scenic coastlines, medieval cities, and a massively interesting history to keep people on the hook. The country is bordered by Russia, the Baltic Sea, the Gulf of Finland and Latvia, making it accessible from many places, then what travellers tend to raise questions about. The best thing about travelling to Estonia is, the country is affordable for visitors and does not add to your debts. Among the many places to visit in Estonia , the largest and most visited city is Tallinn. Apart from which, there are many other places that one needs to see when in Estonia.

12 Best Places To Visit In Estonia

The country’s main intriguing sights are sprawled among the various cites all over the country. It is replete with history and scenery which makes it a great place for photography. Although the noteworthy sights are a must visit, one should try and embrace the history from the 15th and 16th Century that the country imbibes on. Therefore, we have made a list of 10 places to visit in Estonia :

• Lahemaa National Park
• Narva Castle
• Rakvere Castle
• Soomaa National Park
• Lake Peipus
• Matsalu National Park

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It would be immoral of us to not have mentioned Tallinn in the numero uno spot, for it deserves it. Among the many famous places to visit in Estonia , Tallinn is the foremost in the running. The main attraction or heart of the city is Toompea and it still has kept the ancient and historic ambience very much alive with Cobblestones Street and 15th Century establishments. The region is well preserved and is accessible by walking for history lovers. From the topmost region of Toompea, you can get a view of the hustling and bustling, Old City.

Must Read: 35 Best Places To Spend Christmas In Europe

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2. Lahemaa National Park

The Lahemaa National Park is certainly the most famous places to visit in Estonia . This park is just an hour’s drive from the capital and makes for an ideal day trip. When in the park, do not miss out the Viru Bog or Viru Raba. With an ethereal quality that comprises the beauty of this place, a fascinating thing is the trees poking from the swampy ground. To explore the Viru Bog take the 3-mile broad walk, which is a dry path that helps keep you away from the water for you to enjoy the scenery closely? Also, you can visit the Sagadi Manor, a fascinating spot in the Sagadi Village, located in the center of the park.

3. Saaremaa

Saaremaa is the best places to visit in Estonia . The island comprises a history that is 8000 years old. It was ruled by the Swedes, Danes, Russians and the Germans over the years. Visitors who come here spend their time in the capital city of the island, Kuressaare, where you can explore the intact medieval castles. You can even opt for hiking, birdwatching, sightseeing, and photography in and around this area, with the Saaremaa’s Sorve Peninsula’s spectacular scenic destination for visitors to explore.

Suggested Read: 13 Frolicsome Beaches In Europe For All The Excited Beach Bums Across The Globe

Considered as the intellectual hub of the country, Tartu is well known for the University of Tartu. It is the oldest city in the nation which makes it more interesting to visit. The city centre is classically designed with 18th Century buildings, most being an outlet for innovative requirements. The soup neighbourhood is the quirkiest attraction of the city, with street names being named after soup ingredients like beans! It is touted as the best places to visit in Estonia .

5. Narva Castle

The easternmost destination on the map of Estonia is the city of Narva. This particular city was heavily bombed during the WWII. However, the beautiful and historic castle of Narva still stands today. The castle is also known as the Hermann Castle, wcentrehich was built in the 13th Century. The castle repletes a good collection of handicraft workshops for people to learn which also includes a museum. The most gorgeous view here is the tower of the Narva castle that overlooks the Russian side of the river.

Suggested Read: 17 Spots For Snorkeling In Europe Every Underwater Enthusiast Must Visit

The coastal resort city of Parnu is located where the Parnu River falls into the Gulf of Riga. The major attraction here is the beach of Parnu, boasting off about the gorgeous dunes and powdery white sand. Parnu is also famous as the summer capital because most of the Estonians choose to spend their summer vacations here. You can also visit the indoor water park in the area named as the Vee Park. Well, it is one of the best places to visit in Estonia in winter.

7. Rakvere Castle

The Rakvere Castle lays in the northern part of Estonia. Rakvere is a city where humans have lived for 1500 years and the biggest attraction of this place is the Rakvere Castle. It is like a cosplay event every day, where people are dressed. You will find knights polishing their armour, alchemist’s workshops and also get a tour of the ancient wine cellar. There is a place in the castle called Shenkenberg Tavern for you to enjoy a history-themed, ancient dining experience. The Rakvere Castle is among the famous places to visit in Estonia .

Suggested Read: Guess Which European City Gets The Title Of World’s Most Liveable City This Year!

If you were to think of Estonia, the island would probably not make it to your imagination. However, Hiiumaa is one of the many islands in Estonia. You can reach this gorgeous piece of land by taking a plane from Tallinn or avail to ferries from multiple coastal cities. Hiiumaa Is a great place to visit for relaxation and having a stress free quiet day. There is a lighthouse from the 19th century of cast iron known as the Tahkuna Lighthouse. It is the tallest in the country.

9. Soomaa National Park

Another one of the fascinating destinations of Estonia is the Soomaa National Park. It was primarily a peat bog, which was formed as a result of glaciers melting more than 10000 years ago. In this area, canoeing is the most popular activity. Also, you can spot deer, elk, beavers, boars, golden eagle and many other animals in this park. The most suggested season to visit this park is the spring season. For its amazing weather and natural feature changes.

Suggested Read: This Winter, Escape To The Best Honeymoon Destinations In Europe!

10. Viljandi

Viljandi is located in southern Estonia. It is a small city but has a rich history, which dates back to 2600 years. The historic architecture though not all, some of which still remains for the world to see. Among which, the Viljandi Order Castle is a major attraction. It is a ruin from the 16th century, which attracts visitors every year. In the month of July, the city attracts around 20000 visitors for the annual folk music festivals and concerts that are held here. It makes for the largest music festival in all of Estonia.

11. Lake Peipus

One of the largest lakes in Western Europe, Peipus is located on the border between Russia and Estonia. The abundance of fishes and wide country roads make this lake a popular holiday destination among locals and foreigners alike. You can explore mansions, traditional markets, lighthouses, and traditional cottages here. It is fairly clean. You can stop by here while you’re visiting Estonia with your family and friends to a picnic by the lake.

Suggested Read: 17 Fascinating Things To Do In Estonia For An Extraordinary Trip

12. Matsalu National Park

Matsalu National Park is located in the key part of the East Atlantic Flyway. This is a 48,610-hectare nature park created to preserve a plethora of migrating, nesting, and molting birds. It houses a number of highly endangered species, like the white-tailed eagle. Matsalu is famous among bird watchers. All nature lovers must stop by here. This experience will last with you for a lifetime.

Further Read: 31 Festivals In Europe That Will Up The Fun Factor Of Your Euro Tour

Well, to conclude, we should look at Estonia more than just a country that barely exists in the European Union. There is so much history that resides in this place, which compels a die-hard history lover to come here and relive the beauty of it. Also, there are many good places to visit in Estonia. If you are looking for a new place, this is it. So, plan a trip to Europe , visit Estonia and indulge in the fun!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Estonia

Which is the famous food of Estonia?

Räim is touted as the most famous traditional dish of Estonia. Some other delicacies that one must try include Sült, Rosolje, Mulgikapsad, Lillkapsas Juustukastmes, and Kruubipuder.

What is Estonia famous for?

Estonia is known for its wonderfully preserved Medieval Architectures which has earned itself the title of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Two such locations are the city of Tallinn and the Struve Geodetic Arc.

Can I visit Estonia during the current Covid situation?

Yes, you can now plan a visit to Estonia. To ensure a safe trip, adhere to the Government protocols, maintain required social distance, keep wearing a mask when in public, and keep sanitizing your hands at certain intervals.

Which are the best places to visit in Estonia?

The top-rated tourist attractions in Estonia are: 1. Tallinn 2. Lahemaa National Park 3. Saaremaa 4. Tartu 5. Narva Castle 6. Parnu 7. Rakvere Castle 8. Hiiumaa 9. Soomaa National Park 10. Viljandi

Which is the best time to visit Estonia?

The summer months of May to late August is the best time to visit Estonia. These dry and warm months are the best time to enjoy the Baltic beaches and inland lakes.

Is Estonia safe for tourists?

Estonia is quite safe for tourists. It has very low crime rates, and though there are areas to avoid, pickpockets, mugging or other types of assault are not common. However, the capital city of Tallinn can get a bit dangerous, like any other major city.

What is there to do in Estonia?

Some of the amazing things to do in Estonia are: 1. Explore the Karula National Park 2. Watch a puppet show at the NUKU Theater 3. Enjoy a relaxing day at the Parnu Beach 4. Enjoy birdwatching at Matsalu National Park 5. Enjoy the scenic landscape around Jägala Waterfall 6. Explore the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Which is the best area to stay in Estonia?

The best areas to stay in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia are the old town and the city center. If you are coming to Tallinn by ferry, these two areas are just a short walk from the port.

Are there Beaches in Estonia?

Yes, you can find a number of stunning Estonian Beaches. Some of the best ones include Parnu Beach, Pirita Beach, Mandjala Beach, Paralepa Beach, and Lake Tamula Beach.

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26 Best Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is often overlooked as a tourist destination in Europe. Although it is getting more and more visitors every year, it is still far from how many visits get to cities like Prague, Vienna, or Rome. This is a good thing for you if you want to see the city before everyone else.

Walking around Tallinn is amazing because everything is close by, the city is clean and safe, and the architecture is stunning. It is a combination of Scandinavian and Russian architecture, with a hint of western Europe, mostly Germany. In the Old Town, you will see all kinds of churches, buildings, and other historical locations. It is one of the most photogenic cities that I’ve been to.

The vibe is also inviting, with locals who are very helpful and who love to interact and tell you about their city. The only person that didn’t speak English that I ran into was one taxi driver. He also overcharged me, but as everywhere, asked for the price before entering the price. It was my rookie mistake because I didn’t expect it to happen since he drove me only for a mile.

Still, nothing can change my opinion of this beautiful city and its people. Try out their food, beer, and especially marzipan candies. Visit the small galleries around the old town, and look for street art. This city will crawl under your skin, for sure.

Bastion passages in the Old Town

The Old Town is surrounded by the walls of the centuries-old fortress. You can observe the walls while walking through the park surrounding the city. I got lost while taking photos, so make sure to use google maps or some other app for navigation, because after a while everything looks the same.

You can explore mysterious passages that were built in the 17th and 18th centuries, the same time as the fortress was built. They were used by soldiers to move around without being noticed by the enemy. Note that these passages can be visited only with the guide. The ticket is €8.

Lennusadam Seaplane Harbor, a maritime history epicenter

Estonia is a coastal country with over 2300 islands. No wonder why they have a strong maritime culture. At this historic harbor, you can enter a 1930s Submarine EML Lembit. It is one of few submarines of that era in the world, so this is a very unique experience.

Another attraction here is the Suur Toll icebreaker that you can enter as well. The view from the top is beautiful with the Baltic sea spreading in front of your eyes. Inside you’ll see the steamer’s captain’s cabin, crew cabins, and officers’ mess. 

Numerous historic artifacts are on the display in the museum. The museum is inside the building that was supposed to be home to seaplanes for Peter the Great’s Naval Fortress. It was used until World War II. It is the first structure of its kind in the world, columnless thin-shell concrete domes. 

The ticket for the entire facility is €50, but you can buy individual tickets: for just the ships it is €6; for ships, hangar, and the temporary exhibit is €16; and for the harbor and the submarine it is €22. There are family tickets available as well.

TV tower, the tallest building in Estonia

A little outside of the city, this 314-meter tall construction that looks like a needle, will allow you to see the entire area if you climb to the top. The observation deck is on the 21st floor, but don’t worry there is a high-speed elevator that will arrive at the top in 40 seconds.

They offer a “Walk on the Edge Experience”, where they will strap you into a harness and let you walk on the edge of the outdoor terrace, similar to the one in Toronto, Canada. The ticket for the attraction is €30, and the ticket for the entrance is €15.

Toompea Castle

The first time the castle was mentioned in history books was as early as the 9th century. Since then it has been the center of political power in which many rulers have changed. Nowadays it is the home of the Estonian parliament.

The styles of the castle have changed over time too, and the most recent one is a baroque style from the time of Catherine the Great. It is possible to visit the castle but you have to book ahead of time. Guided tours are free and they are held on weekdays in English, Russian, and Estonian.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Across the street from Toompea castle, there is a 120 years old orthodox church, dedicated to Alexander Nevsky. It looks like it was transported somewhere from St. Petersburg directly to Tallinn because it doesn’t really fit into the surrounding architecture.

This red and white church is built in Russian Orthodox style with onion-shaped domes, crowned by huge crosses. It has 11 bells, one of which is the largest bell in Tallinn and has 15 tones. Inside is also colorful, and often busy with visitors. 

My guide wasn’t very pleased with the church, which I later learned is the feeling of most Estonians who resent Russian rule from the first half of the 20th century. It is best if you avoid talking to Estonians about Estonian-Russian politics altogether. The entrance is free, and it is worth taking a look, especially if you haven’t been to a Russian church yet.

Kadriorg park

This is the second location I have found that resembles St. Petersburg. The palace and the park were built by Peter the Great and Catherine the Great in 1718, in the same style as their summer palaces in Russia. This beautiful park is only 4 km from the Old Town and you can walk there or take tram numbers 3 and 1, or busses numbers 60 and 5. 

The park is impressive, with geometric flower beds, luxurious swan ponds, a Japanese garden, an English landscape park, and oak trees. The smell of flowers combined with Tallinn’s mild climate will make you wanna stay here forever, or at least until you finish the book you bought with you.

The palace is today home to the Estonian Art museum, where you can see artworks from famous international artists of the 16th to 20th century. Near the palace, there is another building, which is the office of the current president of Estonia. 

Other beautiful buildings in the park are also museums, including Children’s Museum Miiamilla, Kadriorg Museum – Library, Mikkel Museum, Peter the Great house Museum, Museum of Eduard Vilde, and Kumu Art Museum. If you want to visit all of them, reserve one day only for this place.

Kumu Art Museum

If you choose to see only one museum in Kadriorg park, I would recommend Kumu Art Museum. This modern award-winning museum houses an impressive contemporary art collection. It is also a popular space for educational programs and events.

Besides temporary exhibits that change every few months, there is an amazing permanent exhibit on the third floor that features Estonian artists from the 18th to the second half of the 20th century. You can see art of Johann Koler, Kristjan Raud, and Konrad Magi, among others. The tickets are €10 only.

Estonian Open-Air Museum

Whenever there is an opportunity to see authentic museums like this open-air museum I jump! It is a walk through the past centuries, followed by stories and beautiful culture. It is also a nice walk in the fresh air and the best thing to do on a sunny day in Tallinn.

The museum is less than 8 km from Tallinn Old Town, and you can get there by bus or taxi. The museum is open year-round but the ticket price is different, in summer it is €10, and in winter it is €8. Exploring 14 farms in this complex you will learn about life in Estonia from the 18th to 20th century.

This huge 72-hectare land has 74 buildings, including a schoolhouse, inn, fishing sheds, homes, windmills, and even a fire station. You can try authentic food in the inn, like bread, fish, mushroom soup, and grits with turnip. If you are interested in joining different activities there are options of folk dances, yesteryear, midsummer bonfires, and horseback riding.

Kalev Chocolate Shop And Workshop

I stumbled upon this place accidentally, I didn’t know it was famous. As soon as I came in I realized that it is a special place because I haven’t seen anything like that in my life. Little figurines made of marzipan, all kinds of souvenirs and gifts sold on the counter, a gallery of marzipan, and chocolate artwork. 

The shop is connected to a cafe where you can have coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and a side of cookies, cakes, and marzipan. The shop also offers a two-hour-long workshop where you can learn how to shape and paint marzipan, and create all kinds of chocolate truffles. 

Although Germans would say they invented marzipan, here you will hear a different story. Kalev was a man who worked in Raeapteek pharmacy, and he was the creator of almond-based sweets. The shop looks like a cute little museum, and it is located on a picturesque street in a historic building in the Old Town.

St Olaf’s Church

St Olaf’s church is the tallest medieval building in Tallinn, and it was named after Norwegian king Olaf II Haraldsson. The first mention of the church was in the early 13th century, but it is believed that it was built in the 12h century. It was a hub for merchants, craftsmen, and locals.

Estonian reformation started in 1523 in this church, by the teachings of Zacharias Hasse. The church has suffered through several fires caused by lightning that has struck the tower.  Today the tower is 123.8 meters tall. You can climb the tower to see the views of the city, and the entrance is €2 for adults and €1 for kids.

Telliskivi Loomelinnak

The Telliskivi Creative City is the new addition to the city, and basically a new heart of the city’s creative scene. It is located in the former industrial complex, in Scandinavian architectural style. It is the largest leisure center in Estonia that many locals are visiting daily, since several startups, NGOs, and companies are located here.

The streets are filled with eateries and cafes, shops with unique Estonian design brands, three theaters, and several galleries. On Saturdays, you can shop at the flea market, and year-round you can attend cultural events that are happening here. 

This place is home to the most beautiful graffiti wall in the city. A wall that was painted by 12 artists from different countries. If you take a walking tour you will get some insights into the origins of the idea for this wall.

Fotografiska

While exploring Telliskivi Loomelinnak you can visit the famous Fotografiska Museum. The museum is internationally famous and it has originated in Stockholm. The interior is filled with a cafe, restaurant, event area, gallery, and fine art shop. This museum is moving around the globe, and after Tallinn, it is going to visit New York and London.

They describe themselves as an open-minded meeting place with great photography, sustainable food, and live music. The regular ticket for adults is €15, and if you join a group of 10+ people to go on a guided tour, the price is €65 per person.

PROTO Invention Factory

Located on the shore, this is an amusement park with a long tradition. Explore the fantasy inventions world and enjoy interactive exhibits. Although this is mostly children’s attractions, all ages are welcome and it is something everyone would enjoy. Some of the inventions are self-driving cars, exploring the ocean floor, drilling into the center of the earth, and so much more.

Kids love the science section where they can send the rocket into space, race at the racetrack, and fly above the heads of the others. Adult tickets are €14 per person, while the family ticket is €32. Kids younger than 6 can enter for free accompanied by a paying adult.

Skywheel of Tallinn

London has the London Eye, and Tallinn has the Skywheel of Tallinn. With attractions like this one Tallinn is competing with popular tourist destinations. The wheel will take you 120 meters above the ground, and you can enjoy the scenery from above. The view shows the skyline of the city, the Baltic Sea, and the coastline, as well as Lake Ulemiste.

27 gondolas are closed and safe for riding in all weather conditions the entire year. Every gondola has wheelchair access and it fits six people total. One adult ticket is €10 or one family ticket is €28, but if you want to experience a “sparkling ride” where you will also drink Champagne while enjoying the view, the ticket is €27 per person.

Estonian History Museum

The Estonian History Museum is located in the city center and it consists of several different buildings which are all separate exhibits. It includes the Great Guild Hall, Maarjamae Palace, Film Museum, and Theater and Music Museum. 

A very interesting tour where I’ve learned a lot about Estonian history was “My free country”. The cost of a guided tour per person is €45, and you will learn of Estonia’s fight for independence from Russia and everything they as a nation ensured in the past 100 and more years.

The Great Guild Hall is 600 years old and attractions by itself, and let alone the exhibit it houses 11000 years of history on Estonian grounds. This gothic-style building was finished in 1410, and it served as a Town Hall at the time. Tickets for Great Guild Hall are €8 per person, Maarjamae Historica Center is €10, and Theater and Music Museum is €6.

Town Hall and Town Hall Tower

This gorgeous building on the main square, Raekoja plats, was built in the late 13th century. In the written sources it was mentioned in 1322 for the first time, and the form it has today was finished in 1404. It is the oldest surviving Town Hall in all of the Baltic and Scandinavia.

Until 1970, the building served as a Town Hall, and since 1975 it is only a ceremonial building that is used for concerts and as a museum. The groups are guided and the museum is open only for a few hours every day. Tickets are €5 per person or €10 per family.

Interestingly, the visit to Town Hall doesn’t include a visit to a Town Hall Tower, which you will need a separate ticket for. To climb the tower, be prepared for a narrow spiral staircase that is at least a few centuries old, and that you have to be very careful how you step on. 

You can’t just pass by somebody, one of you will have to step aside and wait for the other to pass by him. When you get to the top and see beautiful views of the old town you will know it was worth it, but going down will still worry you. I felt an adrenaline rush while climbing this tower.

Bohemian Kalamaja

A walking distance from the Old Town, you will stumble upon a bohemian quarter, that once was an industrial area. Before it developed into an industrial area and home to factory workers at the beginning of the 20th century, it used to be a medieval fishing village on the shore of the Baltic sea.

Although one of the oldest districts in Tallinn, Kalamaja is now a hub for everything trendy. It is like a hip village inside a regular city, with a lot of greenery, popular cafes and restaurants, and a center for creative minds. The most authentic part of the area are preserved old wooden houses that are known as “Tallinn Houses”.

Attractions and landmarks in this district are Energy Discovery Center, Seaplane Harbor, PROTO Invention Factory, Fotografiska Museum, as well as Telliskivi Creative City. Add a variety of pubs and bars and you will get a city within a city.

Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform

If the views and panoramic photos are important to you, put this attraction on your list for the trip to Tallinn. When you come here you will get the opportunity to take a perfect postcard-like photo of Tallinn with the entire Old Town below your eyes.

This popular photo spot is nestled on the east corner of Toompea hill. In the summertime, the cafe is open here and in the evenings you can come here to listen to music, soak in the views, and go dancing. While you are taking photos look for the seagull named Steven, he is the friendliest seagull in the world and loves taking photos.

Balti Jaama Market

The city’s biggest open-air market is located close to the city center and offers fresh produce, pastries, souvenirs, handmade products, as well as second-hand products. Often you will find some real gems here, including antiquities, €1 books, lace, vinyl records, etc.

The produce and meat market is open every day from 9 am till 5 pm, but if you want to buy fresh produce go there before noon. The street food corner is open until 8 pm, as well as the shops on the second floor. 

Everything you need you can find here, including a fitness center, a hairdresser, boutiques, shoe stores, bicycle parking, and a lot more. Visit this market if you want to see how locals live, interact with each other, and how friendly they are to the foreigners.

Viru KGB Museum, a hotel with two faces

In the Soviet Union, which Estonia was part of at the time, hotel Viru was used as a KGB center, as well as a regular hotel. You can see various items and artifacts from the 70s and the Soviet era in Estonia, and you can learn about controlling and spying on Soviet Russia on its own citizens.

The story of communism in Russia and across the Soviet Union was very complicated and nothing was as it seemed on the paper. Before your visit to ex-Soviet countries try to familiarize yourself with some facts, like what was allowed and what wasn’t allowed, how was life for non-Russians, etc. Tickets for this museum are €11 for adults and €5.50 for 10 to 15-year-olds.

Jägala Waterfall

For those who like hiking and the outdoors, near the city of Tallinn, there is a gorgeous natural area where you can go to see the most famous waterfall in Estonia, Jägala waterfall. It is located in the lower course of the Jägala river before the river flows into the Baltic sea. The waterfall is 8 meters high and 50 meters wide, making it a perfect location for photography and relaxation.

You can visit the waterfall in any season, but it is especially beautiful in wintertime when water freezes. In the fishing season, the lower part of the Jägala river is one of the richest locations for large trout and salmon fishing in Estonia. Hike to the waterfall, and make this a day trip with a picnic as a perfect getaway from the busy city.

Estonian Food, Drinks, and History Tour

A trip to a new country wouldn’t be complete without trying out all the food and drinks produced locally. Tasting different traditional dishes will help you understand the culture. On this tour , you will understand the history of the country through its culinary exhibits.

You will visit museum-like restaurants, try several dishes, and at least 3 different local drinks. Get familiar with the cuisine of Hanseatic merchants, Estonian peasants, Soviet workers, and find out what locals love eating nowadays. In the end, taste amazing desserts.

Estonian Museum of Natural History

Do you like nature? If you do, don’t miss out on this one. More than half of the country is covered in untouched nature, which is incredible for wildlife. Estonia is one of the rare countries in Europe with so much nature preserved.

The museum contains about 320 000 different species, including plants, beetles, butterflies, birds, and mammals. There are over 300 000 photos and videos in the museum collection, followed by scientific research and discoveries.

The museum offers natural education not only for children but for adults as well. Sign up for one of their programs and learn about animal and plant life in the area. Tickets for this museum are €10.

Lahemaa National Park, a day trip from Tallinn

Another amazing natural area just a short drive from Tallinn is Lahemaa National Park. For those who are visiting Tallinn for only a few days, trips like this are too ambitious, but if you are staying at least a week, consider coming here for a day trip.

The park is only 70 km north of Tallinn, and it is the largest national park in Estonia and all of Europe. Forest covers more than 70% of the park, and it is very rich in natural life. Here you can see wolves, boars, red deer, bears, and lynx. 

There are numerous hiking trails and you can choose the one that fits your time and moderation. If you don’t want to wander the forest alone, book a tour from Tallinn, as many tourist companies have this trip on their offer.

St Mary’s Cathedral, the oldest church in mainland Estonia

St Mary’s Cathedral is the oldest church in Tallinn, dating back to 1233. Originally it was a catholic church but now it belongs to the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran church. Inside you can see some impressive artworks and historic artifacts. There is a 69 meters tall bell tower that you can climb as well if you want to enjoy the views of the Old Town.

The original church was built by Danes and it was made out of wood, but in the 17th century, it was destroyed and rebuilt again. The dome dates back to the 15th century, and the spire is from the 18th century. The entry ticket is €5.

KGB Prison Cells and Vabamu Museum of Occupation and Freedom

History buffs will love this one. These horrific cells represent the darkest part of Estonia’s history when the country was under Soviet oppression. The original cells that were used for interrogation of the “enemies” still look very spooky.

Walking through these halls will give you goosebumps, and looking at the exhibit to understand the background of everything will make it easier for you to understand what happened here.

The ticket to the cells is €5, while the ticket to Vabamu and the KGB is €14. Vabamu is a museum dedicated to the freedom of Estonia. It completes the story about the Soviet Union and KGB. You will see stories about crimes against humanity and personal stories of many witnesses from that time.

And That Was Beautiful Tallinn!

Tallinn is the city of positive vibes and economic hub for all the digital nomads from Europe and beyond. It is affordable, has great internet, and many places you can work from, so it is a great place to work and travel. It looks like a miniature Scandinavia with a little bit of Russian spice.

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Best Places to Visit in Estonia

Introduction.

Estonia is a country in the heart of the Baltic region and offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From picturesque medieval towns to lush forests, Estonia has something for every traveller. In this article, we will explore the best places to visit in Estonia.

Discovering Tallinn – The Capital City

Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Here, you can wander through the well-preserved medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Song Festival Grounds – A Cultural Legacy

Estonians are passionate about music, and the Song Festival Grounds in Tallinn are a testament to this. It’s the site of the famous Estonian Song Festival, a celebration of music and national pride.

Tallinn Old Town – A Glimpse into the Past

The Tallinn Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and quaint squares. Be sure to visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Toompea Castle for a taste of Estonia’s rich history.

Lahemaa National Park – A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Lahemaa National Park, with its dense forests, bogs, and coastal areas, is a haven for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park offers numerous trails and the chance to spot unique flora and fauna.

Saaremaa Island – Tranquility by the Sea

Saaremaa, the largest Estonian island, is renowned for its beautiful coastline and serene atmosphere. The historic Kuressaare Castle and Panga Cliffs are must-see attractions.

Kadriorg Palace – A Regal Retreat

Kadriorg Palace, a Baroque masterpiece, houses the Kadriorg Art Museum and beautifully landscaped gardens. It’s a place to immerse yourself in art and history.ka

Relax in Pärnu

Pärnu, known as the summer capital of Estonia, offers a serene coastal escape with sandy beaches and spa resorts.

Pärnu Beach – A Slice of Paradise

Pärnu’s sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, and the nearby promenade features cafes and restaurants where you can savour delicious Estonian cuisine.

Smoked Fish – A Delicacy from the Baltic

Estonia is known for its smoked fish, which is a culinary delight for seafood lovers. Try the smoked herring or salmon for a taste of authentic Estonian flavours.

Tartu – The University Town

Tartu, with its prestigious university, is a hub of culture and innovation. The town’s youthful energy and historic architecture make it a fascinating destination among de best places to visit in Estonia.

Estonia, with its captivating history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a travel destination that should not be missed. From the medieval charm of Tallinn to the pristine nature in Lahemaa National Park, Estonia offers every traveller a unique and enriching experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Estonia a safe country to visit?

Estonia is generally considered safe for tourists. It has a low crime rate and is known for its friendly and welcoming people.

What’s the best time to visit Estonia?

The best time to visit Estonia is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do I need a visa to visit Estonia?

Most European Union citizens do not require a visa to visit Estonia for short stays. However, it’s essential to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality.

Can I find vegetarian or vegan food in Estonia?

Yes, you can find vegetarian and vegan options in Estonia. Many restaurants and cafes offer plant-based dishes.

What is the local currency in Estonia?

The official currency of Estonia is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.

So, why wait? Get ready to explore the charming and diverse landscapes of Estonia. Plan your trip now and discover the hidden treasures of this Baltic jewel.

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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. 

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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

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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!

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• Visit Estonia: A Guide to the Best Places to See and Things to Do
• November 12, 2023

Table of Contents

Visit Estonia, a small country in Northern Europe, is often overlooked by tourists. However, those who do visit are in for a treat. Estonia boasts a unique blend of medieval architecture, untouched nature, and Nordic cuisine. The country is often referred to as a hidden gem, and for good reason.

One of the main draws of Estonia is its capital city, Tallinn . The Old Town of Tallinn is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. With its cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and colourful buildings, it feels like stepping back in time. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history by visiting museums, churches, and other landmarks. In addition to its historical charm, Tallinn is also home to a thriving food and drink scene. From traditional Estonian cuisine to modern fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Estonia at a Glance

Estonia is a country located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. It is bordered to the north by the Gulf of Finland, to the west by the Baltic Sea , to the south by Latvia, and to the east by Lake Peipus and Russia. Across the Baltic Sea lie Sweden and Finland. The country covers an area of 45,227 km² and has a population of approximately 1.3 million people.

Estonia is known for its natural beauty, with over half of the country covered in forests and nearly 1,500 islands dotting its coastline. The country has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The official language of Estonia is Estonian, which is closely related to Finnish. However, many Estonians also speak English, Russian, and other European languages.

Estonia has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of influences from its Baltic, Nordic, and Russian neighbors. The country is home to many museums, galleries, and cultural events, including the Black Nights Film Festival and the Tallinn Christmas Market .

In recent years, Estonia has become known as a hub for technology and innovation. The country has a highly developed digital infrastructure and is home to many tech start-ups and entrepreneurs. It is also a leader in e-government, with many public services available online.

Overall, Estonia is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and technological innovation.

Geographical Overview

Estonia is a country located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, bordered to the north by the Gulf of Finland, to the west by the Baltic Sea, to the south by Latvia, and to the east by Lake Peipus and Russia. Across the Baltic Sea lie Sweden and Finland. The country has a total area of 45,228 square kilometres, which includes 1,520 islands in the Baltic Sea.

Estonia is known for its diverse landscape, which includes forests, bogs, and wetlands. The country has a relatively flat terrain, with its highest peak, Suur Munamägi, standing at just 318 metres. Forests cover around half of Estonia’s land area, making it one of the most forested countries in Europe.

Lahemaa National Park, located on the northern coast of Estonia, is the country’s largest national park and a popular destination for tourists. The park covers an area of 725 square kilometres and includes a range of landscapes, including forests, bogs, and coastal areas. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, cycle paths, and scenic drives.

Estonia is also home to several islands, the largest of which is Saaremaa. Located in the Baltic Sea, Saaremaa is known for its unique culture, stunning beaches, and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the island’s medieval castle, visit the Kaali meteorite crater, or relax in one of the island’s many spas.

Overall, Estonia’s diverse landscape and natural beauty make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its proximity to Russia and Latvia also makes it a convenient stop for travellers exploring the Baltic region.

Tallinn, the Capital City

Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is a perfect blend of old and new. The city’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its historical setting, while its modern amenities and vibrant nightlife make it a popular tourist destination.

Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. With its cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and Gothic architecture, it is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. Visitors can explore the city’s numerous museums, churches, and galleries, or simply wander around the charming streets and soak up the atmosphere.

Modern Tallinn

Despite its medieval roots, Tallinn is a modern and vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors. The city boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theatres, and concert halls showcasing local and international talent. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and nightlife, with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs to suit all tastes.

Telliskivi Creative City

Telliskivi Creative City is a former industrial complex that has been transformed into a hub for creativity and innovation. Located just outside the Old Town, it is home to a wide variety of shops, cafes, studios, and galleries, as well as regular events and festivals. Visitors can explore the area on foot, taking in the street art and vibrant atmosphere, or simply relax and enjoy the creative energy of the city.

In summary, Tallinn is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history and culture, or simply want to enjoy the modern amenities and vibrant nightlife, there is plenty to see and do in this beautiful capital city.

Estonian Cuisine

Estonian cuisine is a reflection of the country’s history, geography, and culture. The cuisine is a blend of Nordic, Russian, and German influences. The dishes are simple, hearty, and made from local ingredients. Estonians take pride in their cuisine and often use fresh, organic, and seasonal produce.

One of the most popular ingredients in Estonian cuisine is fish. With 3,800 km of coastline, Estonia has a deep connection to the sea. Coastal delicacies of fish and seafood are abundant in the north and in the islands. Smoked fish, pickled herring, and fish soup are some of the traditional Estonian dishes that are still popular today.

In addition to fish, cuisine in Northern Estonia traditionally combines potatoes, barley, and greenhouse-grown produce. Black bread, made from rye flour, is a staple in Estonian cuisine. It is dense, dark, and has a slightly sweet taste. It is often served with butter and cheese or as an accompaniment to soups and stews.

Estonian cuisine also has a range of meat dishes. Pork, beef, and game meat are commonly used. One of the most famous Estonian meat dishes is the blood sausage, also known as verivorst. It is made from pork blood, barley, and spices. It is often served during the Christmas season.

Estonians have a sweet tooth and love their desserts. Kringel, a sweet bread with cinnamon and sugar, is a popular pastry. Rye bread pudding, also known as leivasupp, is a dessert made from black bread, cream, and sugar.

Overall, Estonian cuisine is simple, hearty, and made from fresh, local ingredients. It reflects the country’s history, culture, and geography. Visitors to Estonia should try the traditional dishes and experience the unique flavours of Estonian cuisine.

Cultural Highlights

Estonia is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a unique blend of influences from its Nordic, German, and Russian past. Here are some of the cultural highlights that visitors should not miss.

Song and Dance Celebration

Estonians are known for their love of music, and the Song and Dance Celebration is a perfect example of this. The event, which takes place every five years, brings together thousands of singers and dancers from all over the country to perform traditional songs and dances. The first Song Celebration was held in 1869, and since then it has become one of the most important cultural events in Estonia. In 2003, the Song and Dance Celebration was added to the UNESCO list of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Museums and Castles

Estonia has a rich history and culture, and there are many museums and castles that visitors can explore to learn more about the country’s past. The Estonian Open Air Museum, located just outside of Tallinn, is a great place to learn about traditional Estonian life. The museum features over 70 buildings, including farmhouses, windmills, and a village school, all set in a picturesque rural landscape. The castle ruins in Rakvere and Kuressaare are also worth a visit, as they offer a glimpse into Estonia’s medieval past.

In addition to these cultural highlights, there are many other museums and cultural institutions throughout Estonia that showcase the country’s art, history, and traditions. Whether you’re interested in music, art, or history, there is something for everyone in Estonia.

Other Notable Cities

Estonia is a country with many beautiful cities, each with its own unique charm. While Tallinn is the most famous city in Estonia, there are other notable cities that are worth visiting. Here are two cities that stand out:

Considered as the intellectual hub of Estonia, Tartu is known for the University of Tartu, which is one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The city has a rich history and is filled with beautiful architecture. Visitors can explore the Old Town, which is home to many museums, galleries, and cafes. Some of the must-visit places in Tartu include the Tartu Art Museum, the Tartu Toy Museum, and the Tartu University Botanical Gardens.

Pärnu is a beautiful coastal city located in southwestern Estonia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, spas, and parks. Visitors can take a stroll along the beach promenade, which is lined with cafes and restaurants. The city is also home to many historic buildings, including the Red Tower, which is a symbol of the city. Other notable attractions in Pärnu include the Pärnu Museum, the Pärnu Beach Park, and the Pärnu Mud Baths.

Overall, Tartu and Pärnu are two cities that are worth visiting if you are planning a trip to Estonia. They offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the country and are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Exploring the Countryside

Estonia’s countryside is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the country’s wild nature. The countryside is easily accessible by car, with a good road network running across the entire country, making it stress-free to get around.

One of the best ways to explore the countryside is by foraging. Estonia’s forests are rich in berries, mushrooms, and wild herbs, making it a forager’s paradise. Visitors can join guided foraging tours to learn about the different types of flora and fauna that grow in the countryside and how to identify them. Some of the most popular foraged items in Estonia include lingonberries, blueberries, chanterelles, and wild garlic.

In addition to foraging, visitors can also explore the countryside by hiking or cycling. Estonia has a network of well-maintained hiking and cycling trails that wind their way through the countryside, offering stunning views of the landscape. Some of the most popular hiking trails in Estonia include the Lahemaa National Park and the Soomaa National Park.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, Estonia’s countryside is home to many charming villages and towns. Visitors can take a stroll through the cobbled streets of the medieval town of Tallinn or explore the quaint fishing village of Käsmu. The island of Saaremaa is also worth a visit, with its unspoilt countryside, fine castle, and inexpensive spa treatments.

Overall, exploring Estonia’s countryside is a must-do activity for visitors. Whether it’s foraging for wild berries, hiking through national parks, or simply taking a stroll through a charming village, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Seasonal Attractions

Estonia is a country that offers a variety of seasonal attractions throughout the year. Each season comes with its own unique experiences that visitors can enjoy. Here are some of the seasonal attractions that Estonia has to offer.

Spring in Estonia is a time of rejuvenation and renewal. The snow melts away, and the countryside comes to life with blooming flowers and greenery. Spring is an excellent time to explore Estonia’s national parks, such as Matsalu National Park, where visitors can see migratory birds and other wildlife. The spring also brings the annual Tallinn Music Week, a festival that showcases local and international musicians.

Summer is the peak tourist season in Estonia, and for good reason. The weather is warm, and the days are long, giving visitors plenty of time to explore the country’s many attractions. The beaches of Pärnu are a popular destination for sun-seekers, while the island of Saaremaa is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Estonia. The summer also brings the Viljandi Folk Music Festival, which celebrates Estonia’s rich folk music tradition.

Autumn in Estonia is a time of change, as the leaves turn beautiful shades of red and gold. The autumn is an excellent time to explore Estonia’s forests, where visitors can go mushroom picking or hiking. The Black Nights Film Festival, which takes place in November, is also a popular attraction for film lovers.

Winter in Estonia is a magical time, with snow-covered landscapes and festive lights. The Christmas markets in Tallinn and Tartu are a must-visit, with their traditional food and handicrafts. Visitors can also enjoy winter sports such as skiing and ice-skating. The winter also brings the annual Tallinn Light Festival, where the city is illuminated by stunning light installations.

In conclusion, Estonia has something to offer visitors in every season. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural events, or simply a relaxing holiday, Estonia has it all.

Getting Around Estonia

Travelling around Estonia is easy and convenient, with a well-developed infrastructure and multiple transportation options available. Visitors can choose to drive, take public transportation, or even walk to explore the country’s many attractions.

Driving in Estonia

Driving in Estonia is a popular option for visitors who want to explore the country at their own pace. The country has a well-maintained road network and a right-hand traffic system. Visitors should note that the speed limit is 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 110 km/h on motorways. It is mandatory to wear seat belts, and there is a zero-tolerance policy towards drink-driving. Visitors must carry a valid driving license, third party liability insurance, and a green card or proof of insurance. Cross-border insurance is also required for foreign vehicles.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is a reliable and affordable way to travel around Estonia. The country has an extensive bus network that connects major cities and towns. Visitors can also take ferries to explore Estonia’s many islands. It is important to note that Estonia is a member of the EEA, which means that visitors from other EEA countries can use their national ID cards as proof of identity when travelling by public transportation.

In conclusion, visitors to Estonia have multiple options for getting around the country, whether they choose to drive, take public transportation, or walk. By following the rules of the road and taking advantage of the many transportation options available, visitors can make the most of their time in this beautiful country.

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10 Awesome & Best Places To Visit in Estonia 2023

Things to do & estonia's tour attractions.

Situated in Northern Europe, Estonia is a to a great extent an underestimated jewel. Along with being affordable for explorers, Estonia flaunts medieval urban communities, beautiful coastlines and a captivating history. Here’s a list of top ten best places to visit in Estonia;

10 Best Places To Visit in Estonia

1# Viljandi

The city has a rich history that is about 2,600 years of age, and a lot of ancient engineering still remains.

The sixteenth century remnants of the Viljandi Order Castle, for instance, are a noteworthy fascination. The most compelling motivation to visit Viljandiis the yearly society music celebration. Nearly 20,000 tourists come to experience the annual music festival every July.

2# Soomaa National Park

Soomaa National Park is a captivating goal. Essentially a peat marsh framed because of icy mass soften from over 10,000 years prior, Soomaa National Park is cut by a few lovely streams.

The most ideal approach to explore Soomaa is with a canoe. You lease canoe or join an independently guided visit, and as you paddle you’ll have the benefit to spot deer, elk, hogs, beavers, brilliant falcons and the sky is the limit from there.

3# Rakvere Castle

Northern Estonia is home to Rakvere, a city where people have lived for about 1,500 years. The city’s greatest attractions is Rakvere Castle, which was developed in the sixteenth century.

The palace has turned into a sort of medieval amusement park, and costumed guests and staff meander the grounds. People can watch the alchemist’s workshops, the knights, and the ancient wine cellar.

At the point when a great many people picture Estonia, they don’t picture islands. In any case, Hiiumaa is only one of a few islands off the coast and in the Baltic Sea.

To reach Hiiumaa, you can fly from Tallinn or a ship from various beach front urban areas on the territory. Similarly cherished by surfers, mariners, and explorers, Hiiumaa is incredible spot to visit for those searching for quietness and calmness.

5# Narva Castle

The city of Narva is the easternmost goal in the nation, also the whole European Union. The city was intensely bombarded during World War II, however fortunately the delightful and memorable Narva Castle still stands.

The manor, which is otherwise called Hermann Castle, was worked in the thirteenth century. Inside the castle, people can find a collection of the handicrafts workshops and can even learn them.

Where the Parnu River meets the Gulf of Riga, you’ll locate the beach front hotel city of Parnu. Parnu is known as the late spring capital, since it is the place such a large number of Estonians take their late spring get-aways.

The most compelling reason to come to Parnu is the shoreline, which flaunts fine, white sand and beautiful ridges. The shoreline promenade keeps running along the shore and makes the customary beach resort feel in the city.

7# Saaremaa

The biggest Estonian island is called Saaremaa, and it is situated in the Baltic Sea. The island has an 8,000 year old history, and was controlled by Danes, Swedes, Germans and Russians in that time.

Today, most tourists invest their energy in the island’s capital city of Kuressaare. In Kuressaare, you can find the totally flawless medieval castle.

8# Lahemaa National Park

A standout amongst the most prominent national stops in Estonia is Lahemaa. Since it is only an hour’s drive from the capital, it is the perfect day trip.

Trees jab from the swampy ground, and there is a positive ethereal quality. To make it simple to explore, there is a 5-km walk that is typically dry.

The city of Tartu is viewed as the scholarly center point of the nation, on account of the noteworthy University of Tartu.

Between the college and the way that Tartu is the most seasoned city in the country, this city is obviously a fascinating goal. Its attractive focus is fixed with traditionally structured eighteenth century structures, a large number of which have been put to creative uses.

10# Tallinn

The most prominent spot to visit in Estonia is Tallinn, the capital and the center of medieval architecture.

The core of the city is called Toompea, a slope that holds an amazing environment on account of cobblestone avenues and fifteenth century structures. The zone is incredibly protected and available by pedestrians too.

PS: More best places to visit in Estonia will be shared soon.

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Sobiya (Staff Writer)

Sobiya is a staff writer at tripfore.com. She loves to feature best places, tour attractions and worldwide destinations in her travel blogs.

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I've been to 107 countries. Italy and Mexico are great, but these 5 underrated destinations should be on your travel radar.

• I've visited 107 countries, and I recommend these 5 that can be overlooked for more popular places. 
• Estonia is a European dream, and Namibia is one of my favorite places in the world . 
• Costa Rica is popular but not as packed with tourists as some similarly beautiful places nearby. 

This year, travelers are looking to visit more under-the-radar destinations than popular ones — in part to dodge crowds and in part to save money.

Some are specifically looking for "travel dupes," a term for destinations similar to popular spots that are often cheaper with fewer crowds.

And, as someone who's been to 107 countries , I can tell you each region of the world has an often overlooked country that may offer a more rewarding experience than a more well-known place. These more under-the-radar destinations are often less crowded, and your dollar just might go further.

Popular travel destinations like Italy, France, and Mexico are great picks — but consider visiting these alternative options to the more popular choices in the region.

Estonia is a European dream.

I was immediately captivated by the fairy-tale appearance of Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia.

Walking the cobblestoned streets within the fortress-like walls of the old city transported me back to medieval times.

The city is small enough to explore on foot, and there's plenty to entertain history and architecture enthusiasts. Enjoying a coffee or a beer in the Town Hall Square while people watching is a highlight of my European travels.

Although many people visit Tallinn as a day trip from Helsinki, which is a two-hour ferry ride away, it's worth staying here for a few days and heading into the Estonian countryside. The roads are often quite empty and incredibly peaceful.

I enjoyed Estonia so much that I returned twice more in the 18 months after my first visit.

I've enjoyed visiting Oman, a country in the Middle East.

Dubai gets a lot of attention for its luxurious travel opportunities , and many know Qatar because it recently hosted the World Cup, but nearby Oman should not be skipped.

After all, Oman's capital, Muscat, provides an excellent gateway to the country.

A stroll along the beautiful Corniche will take you along the water and by the bustling Grand Bazaar. For those who love hikes, there are plenty of options in Oman, including several easily accessible trails in Muscat that offer great city views.

Better still, the amazing Wadi Shab is less than two hours from the capital city and is one of the best hikes I've ever experienced . The trail takes you through narrow gorges and across streams and ends with a surreal swim through incredible caves.

It's an experience so breathtaking I'd expected it to be packed with tourists, but it wasn't when we visited. We only saw a handful of people, which allowed us to really enjoy our trip.

I've seen many parts of Africa, but Namibia may just be my favorite spot.

I have been fortunate to go on safaris in Kenya , Botswana, and Tanzania, but Namibia is my favorite travel destination of the bunch.

While there, we rented a campervan and did a self-drive tour of the country, allowing us to explore independently. Yet again, we avoided the crowds and the campsites were usually just us and local animals.

Waking up to the sounds of monkeys, elephants, and even lions was a special treat, especially knowing we were safe inside our campervan.

In addition to the wildlife, there's a lot to explore in Namibia, including colossal dunes, which we hiked up and surfed down —undoubtedly the trip highlight for my children.

Sri Lanka showcases a lot of what Asia landscapes have to offer.

Asia has some beautiful beaches, but Sri Lanka has beaches and tea plantations, mountains, rocks, waterfalls, and more.

We visited Sri Lanka last year and hired a driver and guide who showcased the diverse landscapes of this island country. The food was terrific and extremely cheap — our family of four was fed for less than $10 on most occasions.

The locals I interacted with were incredibly friendly and the island is also small enough to allow for in-depth exploration in a relatively short time.

Costa Rica is an excellent place to visit in Central America.

Growing up in Texas, my wife has been to Mexico many times since the state shares a border with the country. But to explore somewhere new, smaller, and in the same region, we chose to have our honeymoon in Costa Rica .

Although it's still popular, Costa Rica offers an authentic travel experience as I feel it has yet to be overrun by tourists. Like the other countries on this list, it has a diverse landscape, from white-sand beaches to rainforests to volcanoes, so there's plenty to do.

We also visited during the rainy season, so we took advantage of low crowds , low prices, and often received upgrades — and, as a bonus, it rarely rained!

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Estonia Tourist Attractions

Discover the beyond magical places to visit in Estonia

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Best Tourist Places to Visit in Estonia

Seaplane Harbour

The Seaplane Harbour is a maritime museum in Tallinn Estonia opened in spring 2012. The museum is part of the Estonian Maritime Museum. The museum is located in the Tallinn aeroplane harbour in a building originally constructed as a hangar for seaplanes in the area of Peter the Greats Naval Fortress. The hall has an area of 8000 m. The hall was put out of service d

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Tallinn

The spectacular onion-domed shaped structure is one of the grandest Orthodox Church in Tallinn. It’s designed in a different historical style perched atop on Toompea hill in 1900. Within the tower of the church is the most powerful collection of church bells. There are about 11 bells in there, including its largest bell which weighs about 15 tonnes. Before each service starts, you can hear the whole ensemble playing so in tune. As for its interiors, it’s so beautifully adorned and decorated with icons and mosaic; it’s such an attraction that’s worth to visit.

Toompea Hill

This is an ancient 10-century fortress that stands on a high limestone plateau. And, this old section of Tallinn is what keeps most visitors busy during their stay. Its cobbled winding street will take you to the past hidden country yards, lanes, spire churches and old merchant houses. The old town is now divided into two parts which are the Toompea Hill and the lower town. The place is very well managed and preserved. Besides, the lanes, streets etc, there’s more to get visitors to enjoy the place! Climb on to the higher to Pikk jalg, and you will find yourself in the castle square and have a bird’s eye view of the city.

Tallinn Town Hall

The Tallinn Town Hall is a building in the Tallinn Old Town Estonia next to the Town Hall Square. It is the oldest town hall in the whole of the Baltic region and Scandinavia.

Raekoja plats is a town square beside Tallinn Town Hall in the center of the Tallinn Old Town in Tallinn Estonia. It is a venue for numerous small festivals or concerts like Tallinn Old Town Days and several bars and restaurants are located in the near vicinity.

Tallinn TV Tower

The Tallinn TV tower is a free-standing structure with an observation deck built to provide better telecommunication services for the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics regatta event. It is located near the suburb Pirita six km northeast of the Tallinn city center. With its 313 m the TV tower is the tallest building in Tallinn. The tower was officially opened on 11 July 1980.

Tallinn Zoo

Tallinn Zoo is a zoo in Tallinn Estonia that was founded in 1939. It is the only zoo in Estonia and as of 2012 it housed 13336 animals representing 548 species. Since 2009 it is the most visited zoo in the Baltic states.

Tallinn and its UNESCO-protected Old Town have put its charm on Europe. And, now it is one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Estonia’s quiet countryside and green forest provide spiritual sustenance for nature-lovers. Tallinn Tourist Places offers Sightseeing, Tours, Activities, Shopping, Events and Nightlife. The city is full of life and there are many restaurants, Cafés Pubs & Bars Vinotheques to find food and drinks. When you feel like you need to relax and recharging after an exhausting day, you can always visit these serene places such as Green City, Pirita Promenade, and TV Tower or take up Spa etc.

Tartu is one of the smartest locations in Estonia. It also claims to be the Spiritual city of Estonia as locals talk about Tartu vaim, a special spirit created by the timely traditional wooden houses and buildings. It’s a small provincial town that has the river, Emajogi flowing through it. There are a lot of students in this town as its Estonia’s university town; it makes the city more vibrant as there are more of the youth population. The city is less populated in the summer as the students leave the city for the beach. Summer is always pleasant in Tartu and it’s nice to visit and see one of the Estonia Tourist Spots!

This is Estonia’s premier seaside and summer holiday destination for local families, youths and holidaymakers. It’s one of Estonia Tourist Places that are popular among the tourists. While jaywalking along the beach, the park...they can also relax in many cocktail bars, restaurants and spas around the area. It’s Estonia’s biggest towns, almost as big as Milan, Berlin and other places. In spite of being a large city, yet Parnus had a population of only about 60 people per sq km. There’s always a romantic flair due to its medieval monuments and landscapes. It’s also home to many water parks, spas and historical bathhouses.

Narva Castle

Located in the northern point of Estonia and it’s the country third largest city. It’s separated by Narva River, and the area is mostly populated by the Russians. The city was found in the middle ages by Denmark. It quite a border town located at the end of the main street right up to the edge of the town square. Most of its architecture was destroyed in WWII, and only a few of its magnificent castle and baroque old town hall. The city has a downtrodden air to it which makes it unique from other cities in Estonia.

This place is the centre of a pictorial area of lakes, forests and rivers. This small district lies in the southern Estonian valleys and hills. Well known and beloved by tourist as a winter holiday destination. There are several winter activities to do here such as ice skating, skiing and snowboarding in all its forms. These winter activities are available at many winter resorts, spa hotels and restaurants. The place has its own beauty in the summertime as you can see the natural beauty of the place with its landscapes, flowers, and trees. Summer is the best time to hike along the park and see the lakes, village roads and the whole beauty of this place.

Hiiumaa Island

A popular place out of all Estonia attraction and the second largest island in Estonia. It’s well-known for its untouched nature, historical lighthouses and makes this place a gateway year round. During the coldest time, it’s fun to drive along the island across the longest ice road of Europe. The place is equally loved by nature holiday-makers, sailors, surfers and hikers. For those looking out for peace and reticent, this is an ideal destination. There are a lot of local sites to explore, and the much-admired Kopu lighthouse is one of the oldest in the world.

Lahemaa National Park

The Park serves as natural and cultural landscapes in Estonia. Lahemaa is one of Europe’s most important forest conservation areas. It’s Estonia’s natural charms that are perfect for a retreat from the nearby capital. The park takes a stretch of the coast as well as several bays and peninsulas, plus the pine-land encompasses lakes, forests, rivers, and bogs with many areas of historical and cultural interests. The last Ice age has left with stony sandy seashores, rivers, erratic rocks, and pine and cliff forests. There’s a very popular town within the park called Loksa, which is visited by many visitors for its sandy beach.

Rakvere Castle

This site is one of Estonia’s earliest fortifications dating back to the fifth and sixth centuries. Though built in the 14th century by the Danes, yet the castle had many other masters like the German, Russians, Polish and the Swedish. The castle holds the remains of its architecture, and inside the castle, there’s a theme park exhibiting the 16th-century life. The castle is visited by both young and old people who like to spend time gearing up as entertainers, knights and warriors or even learn about the middle ages or the early modern period.

Viljandi is one of Estonia’s most charming towns hidden deep within Estonian’s southern forests. In the 13th century, the Knights of the Sword found the castle. Later on, there were many towns that grew around it and joined the Hanseatic League but subsequently were at the mercy of other rulers. The place is now different altogether; it’s a relaxing place perfect for time-travelling who wants to see the castle ruins, historic buildings and abundant greenery. The crowd of visitors flock here during summer as its one of Estonia’s most visited festive destination. It’s a perfect place for both nature and culture lovers.

Saaremaa Island

Saaremaa is an Estonian island famous for its beaches, spas and traditional villages. It’s also home to medieval Kuressaare Castle. For about eight thousand years, the territory of Saaremaa has been inhabited. There have been many battles in Saaremaa and like most cities in Estonia; this did not survive the ruling of Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Russia. For some reason due to its location and isolation, Saaremaa has retained its uniqueness. One can still see stone fences and houses with thatched roofs in the villages.

Witches Well

The Witch’s well is a peculiar attraction in the Estonian village of Tuhala. But after a heavy downpour, the entire area begins to spout water and floods. The locals have a belief that it’s the doings of the witch. According to legend, the witches live under the ground of the well, beating each other vigorously with birch branches. Thus the whole story of the noises heard by the people makes sense. The truth is, it overflows during times of high-water at very high speed and thus his creates the natural effect phenomenon. The pressure is created by an underground river.

Estonia is a small town and the capital of the largest. The town is big in its shipping industry. Though it’s a small and secluded town, there are daily flights from Tallinn to Kuressaare making it very easy for travellers to travel to this place. The place was mentioned the first time on Arab maps in 1154. This town has been living without any disturbance, and there have not been many ruins as the islands have not been affected like the mainland. There's more touch and fell of human life on the island than the mainland. It a good place for families as it got pristine nature and sea around it.

This place was very popular among the Russian aristocracy, but now it hosts a lot of festivals and its home to many restaurants. For many centuries, this place has been known for its peaceful atmosphere, seawater and curative mud. It is 20th century wooden along the narrow streets which make it look somewhat similar to Venice. Therefore it is also commonly known as “Venice of the Baltic”. The place is so romantic with its seaside promenade and deeply rooted spa culture. There are many things to do and see here like the cathedral, festivals, music hall, island, nature and much more.

Nova & Noarootsi

Nõva and Noarootsi are located on the coasts of Estonia. Over the years, travellers have been enchanted with their Scandinavian feel and untouched nature. Due to the footsteps left behind by the Swedes, there's a great amount of wealth of history and traditions. One can find the oldest and smallest wooden church of Estonia in here. Due to the Noarootsi peninsula, visitors are drawn to its pine tree forest, it’s beautiful sandy beach and are popular places for bird watching in Estonia. There are many things to do here such as windsurfing, sailing, kayaking and touring. Once can still enjoy and see the traces left by Soviet military history in Noarootsi.

Lake Peipus

The fifth largest lake in Europe is only about 15 m in depth. On its sandy, there are some un-crowded beaches to be found in and around the place. The lake has remnants of a water body which existed during an era of the Ice age. The Lake has three islands which consist of Lake Peipsi, Lake Pskov and Lake Lammijarv. During the Soviet time, this was a popular resort area, but many of them were crumbling and new development took over them. There’s a beautiful isolated fishing village with few residents and an Orthodox monastery.

An Estonian island with a picturesque atmosphere offers unique beach experiences. Located in the Gulf of Riga, it has few inhabitants and can be accessed by plane or ferry service. Most of the artefacts found on these islands date back to 5000B.C. But the first record of a document that found to be evident is a letter sent by the Bishop of Courland in 1341 in regards to the islander. The island has an impressive tower lighthouse which stands on the highest point of the hill Haubejerre, and the fascinating fact was that the tower was designed by Gustave Eiffel himself.

The seventh largest island in Estonia is located southeast from Saaremaa. The men and women of this island have been the guardian of its heritage, culture, handicrafts, music and other activities. It’s an ancient island of fishermen and seafarers. The whole place along with its culture, music, language clothing and handicrafts are part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. To experience the old traditions of the island, visit the place during St. Catherine’s day, Mid-summer Day or exciting event organised by the island on the month of May, June, July, August and October.

Setomaa is located on the south of Lake Peipus and inhabited by the Seto people. This ethnic and linguistic group are much admired and loved for their authentic traditional villages, vocal heritage and food. The best place to explore some European indigenous culture due to their geographical location, culture, religion and roots. And, to see Seto traditional villages, head to the south-eastern border of Estonia. They are also well known for the old singing tradition; it is well kept alive till today by both the older and younger generations alike. The food should be something on any visitor’s list to try out like their home cooked pie, fish and dairy products.

The mesmerising town is located near the Gulf of Finland at the mouth of Sotke River. The area has its first mentioned by the locality named Sillamaggi under the control of Livonian Order. In 1964, the first industrial city was created and decided to establish a metallurgy plant in order to get the uranium oxides from the oil shale ore. Today, the town stands proud to show its buildings from the post-war period of Stalin, museums and classical avenues. There is excursion available if one wants to see the Silamae Museum and the exhibition of the museum. It’s also a favourite of Estonia attractions.

It’s a town in southern Estonia contended between Latvia and Estonia. It is the capital City of Valga County. Until 1920, the town of Valka and Valga was one town. A British mediator was called to settle the dispute and suggested to split the town into two. As a result, when you walk around the centre of town, you will find yourself in and out of Valga and Valka. There’s a very slow process of gratification that Valga is enjoying, but some parks and old wooden houses are still skimmed by some industrial areas. There are a lot of interesting things to see both on the Valka side and Estonian side of the border.

Võru is a municipality and town in south-eastern Estonia. It is the capital of Võru County and the centre of Võru Parish. Võru County officially is a county in Southern Estonia. It is bordered by Põlva County and Valga County. It is the only Estonian county bordering two countries - Latvia and Russian Federation in the east. There were few places that visitors can visit such as Dr. Fr. R. Kreutzwald Memorial Museum, St Catherine’s Lutheran Church, St Catherine’s Orthodox Church, Võru County Museum and many others.

Korvemaa Nature Reserve

What makes Kõrvemaa a popular nature getaway destination in northern Estonia is its beautiful nature, unique landscape, versatile selection of plants and wild animals. Tourist comes here for its lakes, forests, and marshes. Take an adventure trip by climbing the hills, stroll across the wooden trails or even go hiking into the forests. Kõrvemaa is also a popular holiday destination for skiing as its tourist best places to visit in Estonia. During the autumn season, wild animals attract photographers and nature enthusiasts as it’s a natural habitat for many rare and protected species of birds.

Pirita Beach

Pirita beach is the most popular one in Tallinn and most visited of Tallinn Attractions. There are beach-goers and lovers from all over the city. The beach has lockers, changing rooms, playgrounds for children and areas for ball games. Volleyball is quite popular here, and one of the popular activities is done in and around the beach. In the summertime, there's a ten-pin bowling club bar and kiosks. That's not it; they're also a small market to stroll around!

Tallinn Old Town

This is the best-preserved city in Northern Europe, and thus visitors from all over the world drop around to see the beauty of this place. The town boasts well of its enchanting architecture, winding cobblestones and Gothic spires. Once it was home to rich merchants from Denmark, Germany and beyond the old town. Now many visitors visit museums, restaurants, bars, galleries and historical centres. Tallinn, unlike many cities in Europe, has managed to keep and preserve its structure of medieval origin. In 1997, the Old Town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tallinn Town Hall Square

Since the middle ages, Town hall square was well known for being a market place. For almost eight centuries, it’s been the heart of the city life. During the 13th and 14 century, it’s the centre of the Lower town and thus plays an important role even today. Its summer is alive with medieval festivals, plays, outdoor cafes, concerts, fairs and many more interesting activities. In the winter, the town is magical with the Christmas feel and festive throughout the market. And, Christmas means more to the town than any place as it was believed to have erected the first Christmas tree by the brotherhood of the blackheads.

Toompea Castle

The castle tower over the rest of the city as it’s laid right on the limestone cliff. It’s always been the seating power of Estonia. The castle was built on the foundations of the collapsing fortress built on this side in the 13th and 14 centuries. It’s made in a Baroque style between 1767 and 1773. The history of try of the castle lies in the story of the rulers and conquerors of Estonia. And, today, it Estonia's parliament, they even have the flag at the top of the Hermann tower to represent Estonia's independence.

Kadriorg Palace

The palace is home to a number of captivating 19th and 20th-century art museums and villas. It’s considered to be one of the grandest examples in Estonian architectural history. Since the 18th century, the palace has been well preserved as it was an imperial summer residence. The king’s crown, however, is in the palace. Peter the great established a family retreat here that was responsible for building Kadriorg. The palace was designed in such a way of trying to resemble the Italian palaces of the time. Today, it houses the best foreign art collection of the Estonian art museum.

Oleviste Church

There was a time when this Gothic architectural church was one of the tallest buildings in the world, soaring up to 159 meters in height. The church was completed in the 16th century and has always known to be a grand structure. It’s also has a 124-meter tower, known to be one of Estonia’s symbols. The church is supposedly known to have taken its name from sainted Norwegian king Olav II Haraldsson. The reformation in Tallinn started in 1523 by the preaching of Zacharias Hasse, who was then the chaplain of the church.

Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour

The Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour is part of the Estonian maritime museum devoted to exhibiting all things related to seafaring. See the Viking ships, shipwreck and seaplane cramped in this maritime museum. There are original watercraft set in the hangar which was built in 1916 and 1917. At the time of its construction, it was considered to be an architectural marvel because of its vast building and engineering advances. Seaplanes hangars are one of the most unique architecture in the whole world. The museum consists of very modern exhibitions at different sections of which many are connected to the cold war period.

It’s a great Soviet monolith that’s become of Estonia’s main attractions. The museum was once a hotel by the name of Viru. It was a luxurious hotel in the 1970s that was appropriate for foreign visitors. The museums tell a story of two different worlds altogether where the Soviet citizens living here wanted nothing more than friendship. It was full of all-powerful men where there was never any trouble or accidents or catastrophe. Not many people can visit the hotel’s top floor as it was supposed to be a technical room. After the Soviets fled, it was discovered that the technical rooms had these high vintage James bond equipment.

Kadriorg Park

It’s an outstanding park with urban and palatial features covering around 70 hectares. The construction of this park began in 1718 on the orders of Peter I, the Russian. The elements of the 18th -20th centuries design can be seen here. The best places to see around the park are the flower beds that circle the Swan Pond and the promenade that leads to the palace of the President. There are a number of museums to visit in the park such as KUMU, Mikkeli Museum, Kardriog Art Museum, monuments and sculptural works.

It’s situated beyond the walls of the old town and now stands as a concrete ghost town. It was commissioned by the Soviet Union to show the skills of concrete pouring. At the time, while the world could not really show the potential of building seats, they certainly show to the world that it was possible. They built the massive 5,000 concrete amphitheatre seats. But over the years, this place started to degrade under the stress of time, and the rocks finally crumble. Though the arena is used for the certain occasion from time to time, the seats are generally empty.

Kumu Art Museum

One of Estonia’s largest museums is in Tallinn. It was opened in the year 2006 as headquarter of Art Museum Estonia. The museum has a huge collection of Estonia’s art museum and preserves it well. It houses many permanent and viable exhibitions of Kumu art museum, accommodates the conservation department, an auditorium, gallery of modern exhibitions and an educational centre. The museum is one of the main branches of Estonia’s art museum that houses Estonia’s art right from the 18th century up to the year 1991. There’s a lot of artwork collected in the museum over the centuries.

St Mary’s Cathedral

The Dome church stands right at the centre of the town of Toompea. It’s one of the most popular historical attractions of Estonia. It was firstly mentioned in the year 1233, and there are many gravestones that can be found here dating from centuries as well as epitaphs. There were many famous people that were buried here such as King Johann III's daughter Sophia Gyllenhelm, Pontus De la Gardie, the Swedish military officer along with his wife, Swedish Admiral Samuel Greigh; and Admiral Adam Johan von Krusenstern.

The Russalka Memorial

The memorial was built in memory to those who lost their lives in the Gulf of Finland on Russalka, the Russian naval vessel. It was built in the year 1902 by Amandus Adamson. It’s a 16-meter sculpture of an angel facing the sea where the Palace comes down to meet the Bay of Tallinn. There were at least about 177 men who were tragically sunk in the Russian military ship while they were on their way to Helsinki in 1893. This monument now become has a Tallinn main attractions and a traditional spot for Russian couples to lay flowers on their wedding day.

St. Nicholas’ Orthodox Church

Built-in 827 and considered to be the first neoclassical structure church in Tallinn. It was a focal point of trading for the Russian traders as it’s known for its iconostasis. It was designed by Luigi Rusca, who was St. Petersburgh court architecture. The church features its dome copper and twin bell tower with intriguing interior design. As for its history, it dates back much further and as far as the 12th century. When the town was being rebuilt in the year 1442, the church that was in the middle of the market was being replaced with a new one

Estonian Open Air Museum

The Museum is just 15 min drive away from the centre of Tallinn. It is a big and well known museum that showcases the country’s rural architectural life and the life around it. There are about 14 farms that shows the status of different family life who were living in the 18-20th centuries. Just like in any village, there’s also church, inn, school, mills, shop, fires station, and fishing harbour by the sea. While strolling around the museum, you can also have a look at the shops that sells handicrafts as souvenirs or ride horses or even try local dish at the inn.

Estonian History Museum

The Great medieval great hall has always been part and parcel in the life of the city. There’s a permanent exhibition at Museum know as Spirit of survival helps to understand 11,000 years of Estonian’s history along with the traditional and cultural life of the people. It also shows the historical events that have affected the people the most. The story of Estonian past is disclosed through rooms with different topics, such as the Gun Room that tell the history of the war that happens in Estonia. There’s also a special exhibition called the Power of elite that talk about the Great Guild and trade in the medieval time.

Balti Jaama Turg

To explore the main market in Estonia, this is the place to shop for all you need. People here sell and buys food, products and many more. It can be manufactured goods, antiques and many others. There are at least about 300 different sellers and shops you will find in the market. There are three different levels that the trading takes place, and in the kioska and standing outside the buildings. Underground of the market, there’s a big supermarket and a gym.

Kiek in de Kök

To learn and understand the history of Tallinn’s defences, the museum is an excellent introduction to all the new visitors to this place. It was built in the 14th century with six store cannon tower which played a very important role in the War. On its walls, it still has Ivan’s IV’s nine cannonballs. There’s a joke that the tower got its name from its tops as the kitchen view of the houses below could be seen right through. The tower has been remodelled a lot of time, the upper floor has new ceiling and outer whereas the two lowest floors were hidden by earthworks.

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10 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina

From mountain towns to beach cities, these are the best places to retire in North Carolina.

The state of North Carolina boasts beaches , the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains , and year-round moderate weather. College towns , historic cities, farming communities, and coastal areas provide a range of lifestyles and beautiful places to live , with something for every retiree. And it's not just scenic beauty and diverse cities that make North Carolina a good place to retire: There is no state tax on Social Security benefits, and state income tax is modest at about 5.25 percent.

In order to determine the best places to retire in North Carolina, we considered ratings from Niche.com , which factors in data about housing access, cost of living, crime, weather, outdoor activities, and more to rate cities with a letter grade, along with additional data on housing prices, safety ratings, and nearby amenities.

Related: 11 Best Cities to Retire in the U.S.

If you love the beach, an easy-going lifestyle, and a small-town atmosphere, the Outer Banks city of Duck might be an ideal place to retire. There’s a one-mile boardwalk for morning strolls, shopping, and dining, plus free guided walks to learn about the island's flora and fauna. Local events include a jazz festival, Independence Day parade, winter holiday celebration, summer concerts, and outdoor fitness classes.

Duck gets high marks on safety, nightlife, and housing metrics from Niche.com , and according to Redfin.com , the overall cost of living in Duck is about five percent lower than the national average.

For retirees who enjoy history, outdoor activities, and the advantages of being near a larger city, Belmont is an attractive retirement destination. Located about 12 miles west of Charlotte, Belmont is a growing city. Its Downtown Belmont Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its fine vintage architecture, while two colleges (Belmont Abbey College and Gaston College) bring a youthful element to the city. 

According to data from Salary.com and BestPlaces.com , the cost of living in Belmont is slightly less than the national average, and Belmont received an overall rating of A from Niche.com .

If you plan to hit the links in retirement, Pinehurst might be the right destination for you. Known for its golf courses and pleasant small-town style, Pinehurst is centrally located two hours from the coast, three hours from the Blue Ridge Mountains, and one hour from Raleigh. And there’s more than golf, with outdoor activities, museums, art galleries, wineries, and farms to visit in the greater Sandhill area. The Village of Pinehurst offers a variety of programs for adults as well.

Named by SmartAsset.com as one of the best places to retire in North Carolina for its healthcare access and large population of retirees, Pinehurst received an overall rating of A from Niche.com .

Carolina Beach

A suburb of Wilmington, Carolina Beach will delight retirees who enjoy its vintage feel, lively nightlife, world-class fishing, and miles of beaches and picturesque sand dunes. Its classic boardwalk features shops, restaurants, and entertainment along with ocean breezes. Music festivals and events make summer especially exciting in the Carolina Beach area, and nearby Wilmington offers museums, restaurants, performing arts, and historical sites.

Niche.com gives Carolina Beach an overall A- rating with high marks for health and fitness, nightlife, and outdoor activities. According to Niche.com, about 70 percent of residents own their homes, and Realtor.com estimates the median home price as $695,000.

Laurinburg is located in the south-central part of North Carolina with convenient access to Charlotte, Raleigh, and the coast. Outdoor activities abound with the nearby Lumber River providing opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Golf courses, wineries, historical sites, and art museums offer activities for a variety of interests. 

The city is one of the more affordable retirement destinations on this list; according to Realtor.com , the median home price in Laurinburg is $159,000, and Niche.com gives the city an overall B- rating, with a B+ for cost of living.

Retirees seeking outdoor activities, a lively downtown, and mountain views might consider Marion , located about 36 miles northeast of Asheville. Residents enjoy Marion’s restaurants, art galleries, and festivals along with nearby state and national parks that offer opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Want to spend more time with Mother Nature without breaking a sweat? Take a drive on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway .

Marion is a Certified Retirement Community according to Retire NC, meaning it meets the criteria for “providing amenities, services, and opportunities for retirees to enjoy active and productive lives.” According to Realtor.com , the median home price is $275,000.

Located minutes from Greensboro in the northern part of the state, Reidsville is an affordable community combining a small-town feel with nearby big-city amenities. Two public lakes, parks, walking trails, and an active community make Reidsville an attractive retirement destination. Cheering for high school football games, playing golf, or enjoying street art and vintage homes — there’s much to do in Reidsville.

Reidsville is a Certified Retirement Community , and the Reidsville Center for Active Retirement Enterprises (RCARE) offers trips and activities including bowling, bocce ball, pickle ball, dancing, card games, and fitness classes. Realtor.com estimates the median home price at $205,000.

Once the capital of North Carolina, New Bern is the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola and the inspiration for novelist Nicholas Sparks. This 300-year-old city , set on the Neuse River, is located about 30 miles from the Atlantic Coast, so residents are never too far from the beach. Historic homes, downtown condos, and gated communities provide a range of housing options, and boating, hiking, biking, and golf are among outdoor activities. Cultural opportunities include art galleries, concerts, and performances at the New Bern Civic Theater .

New Bern received an overall grade of B+ from Niche.com , and Realtor.com estimates the median home price at $330,000. New Bern is also a Certified Retirement Community .

Winterville

Located south of Greenville and about 20 miles from the coast, Winterville is a small but growing family-oriented community that's big on local flavor. Strawberry picking at the town’s farms, the annual Watermelon Festival, and eateries serving up fresh seafood and Carolina-style BBQ are some of the town's tasty attractions. And better yet, Winterville is another Certified Retirement Community.

Niche.com named Winterville one of the best places to live in North Carolina and awarded it an overall A grade. The city is listed as one of North Carolina’s safest cities by SafeWise , and according to Realtor.com , the median home price is $315,000.

This community is located in the “Research Triangle” of North Carolina, near Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill and the universities of Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University. Residents can look forward to festivals and events like the North Carolina Symphony’s Summerfest Series at Koka Booth Amphitheater , set among 14 forested acres next to Symphony Lake.

Called “one of the best places to live in North Carolina” by Niche.com , Cary received a grade of A+, and it was named one of North Carolina’s safest cities by SafeWise . The median home price is $575,000, according to Realtor.com .

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• TOP family attractions in Estonia

In category: Family holidays , History & culture , Activities & Adventure

Source: Stina Kase/ ukauka.eu

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You'll find some of these attractions on the Museum Card , which offers access to over a hundred museums all over Estonia, so take a road trip and explore the countryside on the way to these kid-friendly destinations.

Kiviõli Adventure Centre, Family Adventure Park

Ida-Viru maakond, Kiviõli linn

Bring your family and visit the new family adventure park, located at the foot of the hill of Kiviõli Adventure Centre. We offer activities for everyone: from 2-year-old children to their grandparents. Test your skills and courage in a high-altitude adventure park, dig with a real excavator in an exciting quarry, try firefighting in the Firefighting Academy, go on a boat ride among the islands in the artificial lake, take a ride on the longest zipline in Estonia, drive on the tracks of the traffic city, participate in the performances of the science theatre, and be ready for a lot more. Good to know: visitors who are shorter than 1 m can visit the adventure park for free.

Lottemaa Theme Park - the largest family theme park in Estonia!

Pärnu maakond, Reiu küla

In Lottemaa, over a hundred attractions, thematic houses, pleasant culinary experiences, souvenir shops, and a beach are waiting to be discovered. There is more than enough to do and see as well as incredibly exciting adventures for the entire family to fill an entire day. Lottemaa, the largest theme park in the Baltic states, is located in a lovely forest by the sea. This place might already be familiar from the Lotte cartoons, musicals, and books. Here, you can meet Lotte, Bruno, Albert, and other villagers from Gadgetville to play and create with them. The theme park is located six kilometres from Pärnu, the summer capital of Estonia.

Vudila Playland

Tartu maakond, Kaiavere küla

Vudila Playland has a large outdoor water park with a three-tier slide and a tube, saunas, swings, climbing attractions, trampolines, sky-jump, bumper cars, adventure trails, ATVs, electronic games, paddle boats, water bikes, a large playroom, animals, horse riding, and more. Vudila also offers catering and you can fish for trout here. On Sundays we have plays for the entire family! All children, their parents, grandparents, and friends are welcome – everyone will find something to do here for the whole day! Vudila Playland is located in Tartu County, near the picturesque Kaiavere Lake, 1.7 km from Elistvere Animal Park.

PROTO Invention Factory

Harju maakond, Põhja-Tallinna linnaosa

Imagine driving the world’s first, car, locomotive, or hot air balloon, or walking on the seabed. Now, you can do it because PROTO Invention Factory, which is unique in Europe, is open! Only here, in the former secret submarine factory, you will see prototypes of incredible inventions come to life thanks to the latest technology. You will feel like you are in the laboratory of Jules Verne – this place is wilder than dreams! Want to create, invent, or fly? Come to PROTO – we have something for both younger and older visitors.

Otepää Adventure Park

Valga maakond, Otepää linn

Otepää Adventure Park is a place you can easily spend a whole day experiencing real thrills!  Whether you get your shot of adrenaline on the various climbing tracks, the 350 m flight above the valley of the fort, or by catapulting yourself up to 20 m high in the air, there is an opportunity for every thrill seeker. So as not to be left out, the smallest members of your family can also have an adventure of their own, too, on the safe children’s track. With a professional team to advise and support families visiting the Adventure Park, all challenges will be conquered together! A great place to forget about your daily worries and stress, the Otepää Adventure Park is the spot to enjoy an adventure on your own, with family, friends, or colleagues.

Estonian Police Museum

Lääne-Viru maakond, Rakvere

The Estonian Police Museum gives your whole family the chance to experience the work of the police in a fun way. Here, you can test your reaction times at the wheel of a car, try on a police uniform, take someone’s fingerprints, become a team member of the Special Unit or a specialist in a pre-trial forensic lab (dissect a heart or identify the murder weapon), measure speed on the streets, and much more. Children can have fun in the Children’s Museum and in the courtyard (a skill track, electric cars, a helicopter, a motorcycle, a police department). We guarantee an exciting day for the whole family!

Vembu-Tembumaa family park

Harju maakond, Kurtna küla

Vembu-Tembumaa is a theme park for the whole family! It offers a fun experience for toddlers, schoolchildren, and everyone else who is young at heart. The park has tracks for go-karts, ATVs, and electrical cars, as well as water slides and heated pools, saunas, trampolines, a mini golf course, game rooms, etc. The park has several restaurants and cafés; alternatively, you can bring your own food – we have BBQ areas with tables. We also offer accommodation in our cottages; you are welcome to park your caravans here. Come to Vembu-Tembumaa for a fun summer day with the whole family!

WOW Family Attraction and Interactive Leisure Centre

Saare maakond, Kuressaare linn

The WOW Family Attraction and Interactive Leisure Centre is a great place to spend meaningful time with your family and friends and experience new things. Our exhibits do not require instruction and visitors can use them on their own. The centre consists of five areas. In the active area, you can run endlessly, jump and climb; in the water area, you have all the opportunities to play with water; in the energy area, you can discover different forms of energy around us; and in the simulators area, you can experience virtual reality. In addition, there is a children's area for guests aged 2–6. You can take selfies with interesting backgrounds in the whole centre, thus creating exciting illusions with your photos.

AHHAA Science Centre

Tartu maakond, Tartu linn

Want to surprise yourself? The AHHAA Science Centre offers science, excitement, adventure, and fun for everyone. Our centre is an attractive learning environment in which you are bound to learn something new. The majority of our exhibits are 'hands-on', so you can try everything yourself, whether it be the planetarium, creating educational materials in the school laboratory, or the science theatre. You can even host your birthday party here.

Traffic City and Gamehouse in Laitse RallyPark

Harju maakond, Hingu küla

Traffic City and Gamehouse of Laitse RallyPark is a perfect place to celebrate a child's birthday, take a trip with kindergarten or school children, and spend time with your family! Our 600 m2 Gamehouse has a separate crawling area for the little ones, a playroom with a kitchenette, doll house and other facilities for older children, a little movie theatre, an area for playing with Lego toys, an Xbox, a SlotCar track, PS3 consoles, and a racing simulator. The Traffic City has a large sandbox, play houses and a swing. You can drive bicycles, rent pedal go-karts, electric cars and gasoline-engined cars to teach traffic signs and traffic to children at an early age.

Windtower Experience Centre

Hiiu maakond, Käina alevik

QUIET ISLAND, GENUINE EXPERIENCE Just as Hiiumaa is very diverse with its beautiful nature and culture, the Windtower is a combination of a museum, a research centre, and a game world. You will experience something completely new while discovering this quiet island. ◊ What is the underwater world of Hiiumaa like? ◊ What does Breckland thyme smell like? ◊ What is the feeling of Hiiumaa and what is it like to control the weather? The heights of Hiiumaa can be conquered on the highest indoor climbing wall (20 m) in the Baltics. In the gift shop, you will find cute souvenirs that will always remind you of the Windtower. The lovely Café RUUDI is also located here.

Estonian Road Museum

Põlva maakond, Varbuse küla

The newest part of the museum is the Machinery Hall, opened in July 2019, with the exhibition The Rule of Machines – a fascinating interactive exhibition on car mechanics and traffic physics, safe driving, and building safe roads. The outdoor exhibition Road Time is a road going through time and space where you can see old and modern vehicles. Visitors can also explore Eastern Europe’s largest collection of road construction machines. For children, we have a wide selection of two-wheeled and electric cars in the 'traffic jungle.'  At the Varbuse Post Station, you can learn about the development of roads and modes of travel and there is a children’s museum on the first floor of the house.

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TOP interactive museums for family-friendly fun

Discover everything from medieval strongholds to modern inventions. These interactive museums are guaranteed to be fun for the whole family!

Estonia's TOP museums off the beaten track

Some of the best science, natural, children’s, art & history museums are also the smallest and most quirky. Explore off-the-beaten-path exhibitions!

TOP 10 family vacation experiences near Pärnu

Pärnu is renowned for its charming beach, but there are also many exciting places here for families to visit.

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8 of the best places to catch the solar eclipse in North Texas

 We’re down to less than a week until the total solar eclipse of 2024 . Unless you’ve been in a coma for the last few months, you are bound to have heard about the biggest celestial thing to hit North Texas since the cast of Dallas came to town. The big question on everyone’s mind in our neck of the woods is where to watch this once-in-a-lifetime solar happening.

Sure, you could just walk out into your front yard and look up (with your certified eclipse glasses, of course), but an event this big deserves to be celebrated big. With that in mind, we’ve created a Watch Party Super List featuring of some of the best parties and gathering places to catch the eclipse in the North Texas area.

Here are just a few highlights.

THE SUN, THE MOON AND YOU: TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE VIEWING AT THE COTTON BOWL Where: Cotton Bowl Stadium at Fair Park – 3750 The Midway, Dallas When: April 8, doors open at 8:30 a.m., the event starts at 9:30 a.m. Cost: Free, but you must register for tickets

This event at Cotton Bowl Stadium features astrophysicist, Neil deGrasse Tyson, along with PBS series Ready, Jet, Go! Additional experts from NOAA, NSF, and NASA talk about the eclipse, space weather, and why we study the sun. The actual eclipse doesn't happen until around 12:30 p.m. but gates open at 8:30 a.m., so come early and visit booths and exhibits, which include hands-on activities and take-home giveaways from various STEM organizations. Solar eclipse glasses are provided and food is available for purchase. 

SOLAR-BRATION AT UTA Where: UT Arlington Planetarium Mall, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington When: April 8, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: Free

Join the UTA campus in watching and celebrating the total eclipse on Monday, April 8. There are several events and activities planned leading up to the big event including the special presentation, "Total Eclipse of the Heart: How Solar Eclipses struck fear and wonder into the hearts of people for thousands of years" and an exhibition featuring over 500 years of eclipse history from Special Collections.  

SOLAR ECLIPSE WATCH PARTY AT MEOW WOLF Where : Meow Wolf – 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Suite 253, Grapevine When: April 8, noon to 3 p.m. Cost: $25-$50

Spend the day (and the temporary night) with the interdimensional beings at Meow Wolf. From noon to 3 p.m., step outside, grab a pair of protective eclipse glasses, and watch this once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon. Guests can also take part in activities like cyanotype paper crafting sessions, shadow puppetry, and space-age face painting. The party also includes galactic-themed food and beverages. 

GREAT NORTH AMERICAN ECLIPSE AT KLYDE WARREN PARK Where : Klyde Warren Park – 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy., Dallas When: April 8, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: Free

Dallas sits halfway between the western edge and the centerline of the eclipse path, making Klyde Warren Park an ideal spot to experience this rare phenomenon. Enjoy a variety of activities related to the eclipse including a panel discussion with astronomers from the Carnegie Institution for Science and the Perot Museum's interactive TECH Truck. The event also features live music from Central Standard Band, complimentary eclipse-viewing glasses and other family-friendly activities. As always, be sure to come hungry because a vast assortment of food trucks will be on hand to satisfy your every craving.   GRAPEVINE RAILROAD ECLIPSE TRAIN EXCURSION Where : Grapevine Vintage Railroad – 705 Main St., Grapevine When: April 8, departures at 9:50 a.m. and 11:50 a.m. Cost: $25

Take a nostalgic ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad before the solar event. The one-hour trip departs the Cotton Belt Depot in Grapevine for a quick tour around the city. After riding the rails, be sure to explore the businesses on Historic Main Street in Grapevine. Many local businesses and eateries are offering galactic-themed food and drink items to mark the solar eclipse. 

IRVING’S TOTAL ECLIPSE IN THE PARK Where : Levy Event Plaza – 501 E. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving When: April 8, Noon – 3 p.m. Cost: Free

Irving welcomes the solar eclipse with live music, food trucks and goodies like free eclipse glasses, festive drinks and moon pies. And speaking of moon pies, don't miss getting a slice of the World's Largest Edible Moon Pie while you’re there.

ECLIPSE OVER ENNIS Where : Downtown Ennis – 119 N. Dallas St., Ennis When: April 8, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Cost: Free

The City of Ennis is directly on the center line of totality meaning they will experience a longer duration of totality than cities. This makes Ennis one of the best places to experience the eclipse. To celebrate being the best, Ennis is throwing a party where you can enjoy live music, food trucks, kids activities and of course, 4 minutes and 23 seconds of totality! 

SOLAR COASTER AT SIX FLAGS Where : Six Flags Over Texas – 2201 Road to Six Flags, Arlington When: April 8, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost: Admission starts at $19.61 per person, with various add-ons available for purchase. Free for children 2 and younger

Six Flags is offering a unique way to experience the once-in-a-lifetime celestial phenomenon with its Solar Coaster event. Get your thrills with a selection of rides before and after the eclipse. The rides will pause right before the eclipse, then five minutes before totality enjoy a fireworks and drone show.

Visit  Go See DFW  to find more Eclipse events.

The Go See DFW calendar is a partnership between KERA and The Dallas Morning News.

Got a tip? Email Therese Powell at [email protected].

KERA Arts is made possible through the generosity of our members. If you find this reporting valuable, consider making a tax-deductible gift today. Thank you.  

Watch CBS News

Maps show where trillions of cicadas will emerge in the U.S. this spring

By Caitlin O'Kane

Updated on: April 11, 2024 / 4:30 PM EDT / CBS News

Trillions of periodical cicadas will emerge from the ground this spring, bringing with them their loud buzzing and molted exoskeletons. Here's where you will be able to see cicadas in the U.S. 

When are the cicadas coming in 2024?

There are two groups of periodical cicadas — those that emerge every 13 years and those that emerge every 17 years. For most of their lives, cicadas live underground and then emerge once the soil reaches 64 degrees. 

Because they are temperature-dependent, their emergences may vary depending on the location. In 2024, they are expected sometime in May or early June, according to Ken Johnson, a horticulture educator at the  University of Illinois.

Since it may warm up faster in southern states, such as South Carolina, the cicadas might emerge as soon as April, while in cooler states, such as those in the upper Midwest, they might not emerge until June. 

This year, both the 13-year and the 17-year cicadas will emerge, arriving in numbers that have not been seen in generations.

They mate, molt and then die, leaving behind their offspring to bury themselves into the soil and lay dormant until their brood's next cycle. They only last about a month above ground, and no, they aren't dangerous. Unlike locusts, which eat plants, cicadas get their nutrients from small branches. Most trees, however, will remain unharmed. 

Still, Johnson advises not planting any new trees ahead of a periodical cicada emergence. You can put netting around small trees and shrubs to keep them away, making sure openings are no larger than 1/4 of an inch so the bugs can't get in. 

Where will cicadas be in 2024?

The 13-year cicadas, called  Brood XIX , will emerge in Georgia and the Southeast. The 17-year cicadas, called  Brood XIII , will  appear in Illinois . This will be the first time since 1803 that two broods emerged at the same time. The next time this happens will be 2037.

The overlap of these two broods has been dubbed by an expert as "cicada-geddon" — but it won't be the biggest cicada event. In 2076, the two largest broods –XIX and XIV – will come out together. "That is the cicada-palooza," University of Connecticut  cicada  expert John Cooley said.

The broods will emerge peacefully, but Cooley said hundreds of trillions, or even quadrillions, of cicadas are expected. That's an average of 1 million per acre over millions of acres. 

Some of the cicadas, however, may have come in contact with a fungal pathogen called  Massospora cicadina, which makes them hyper-sexual. The sexually transmitted fungal infection turns them into so-called "zombie cicadas," with a chalky, white plug erupting out of their bodies and making their genitals fall off. Cicada expert Matthew Kasson says it's not yet clear how the fungus impacts other wildlife, animals or humans.

"The cicada continues to participate in normal activities, like it would if it was healthy," Kasson, an associate professor of Mycology and Forest Pathology at West Virginia University, told CBS News. "Like it tries to mate, it flies around, it walks on plants. Yet, a third of its body has been replaced by fungus. That's really kind of bizarre." 

Maps show where in the U.S. to see cicadas

The dual cicada brood emergence will primarily be seen in parts of Illinois and Iowa, as well as parts of Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia. 

The two broods will co-emerge in north-central Illinois for the first time since 1803.

A map from the U.S. Department of Agriculture  tracks the emergence of both the 13- and 17-year cicada broods from 2013 to 2029. 

Caitlin O'Kane is a New York City journalist who works on the CBS News social media team as a senior manager of content and production. She writes about a variety of topics and produces "The Uplift," CBS News' streaming show that focuses on good news.

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The April 8 solar eclipse is here. How to watch in North Jersey

Turn around, (and cover your) bright eyes — eclipse day is officially here in North Jersey.

By 2:09 p.m. Monday, the Garden State will begin its descent into eerie, daytime darkness, with 90% of the sun being covered in our area by 3:24 p.m.

If you want to see 100% of the sun covered, though? Hopefully you're reading this article early; because you'll need to hop in the car and get to upstate New York or Pennsylvania pronto.

But if you're Gen Z, don't worry about it. The next total eclipse in New Jersey is forecast for May 2079, so — as long as your nursing home has buses — you can totally get to the Catskills on time for that one.

Saving 2079 for 2079, however, here's how you can watch the solar eclipse in North Jersey this afternoon, April 8:

What time is the solar eclipse in North Jersey?

According to USA TODAY (which compiled a database of the best times to view the eclipse based on ZIP code), the partial eclipse will begin in North Jersey at 2:09 p.m., with peak coverage occurring at 3:24 pm.

Where can I watch the eclipse (in person) in New Jersey?

Unfortunately for those of us here in North Jersey, you'll have to travel out of state  to get the best view of the eclipse . Most Americans will get a glimpse, but the Garden State is at least a four- to five-hour drive from areas of upstate New York and northwest Pennsylvania that will be in the path of totality, which will stretch in the U.S. from Texas into Maine.

In New Jersey, then, we recommend driving to the most northwestern part of the state, as that area will be closest to the action. High Point State Park , in Sussex County, would make a great viewing spot.

Where can I watch the full eclipse (online)?

If you prefer not to watch outside (or would like a view of the full eclipse without having to suffer through a flight on JetBlue), USA TODAY will be livestreaming the eclipse on YouTube.

How will the weather be during the eclipse?

According to top weather outlets, North Jersey will have "pretty good to great" conditions for viewing this afternoon.

The Weather Channel and Weather Underground both are forecasting “partly cloudy” skies, with a high of 65 degrees.

What will the eclipse look like?

Though our state will not offer a full eclipse, North Jersey will still be able to see 90% to 95% of the sun being covered, which is pretty darn close.

Kris Kootale, a board member and trustee with the United Astronomy Clubs of New Jersey, said the blockage will make for a "very interesting visual spectacle," with only a small, crescent sliver of sunlight still visible as the moon passes in front of the star.

We'll also get more blockage than South Jersey, which is forecast to have only 85% to 90% of the sun covered — just another reason, beyond Taylor ham, Star Tavern and hot dogs all-the-way, why North Jersey is the king of the state.

Do I need eclipse glasses?

Though about 90% of the sun will be covered in our area, that's still enough light to do serious damage to your eyes, so yes, you will need protective eyewear .

Get solar eclipse glasses at department stores like Target or Walmart, or for free at many libraries and science museums.

NOTE: Regular sunglasses will not supply adequate protection from the eclipse.

Where can I find solar eclipse 'watch parties' in North Jersey?

Don't want to watch the eclipse alone? No problem. Many local organizations are offering watch parties where you can view the occurrence with like-minded enthusiasts.

One such event is  The Great Eclipse at Liberty Science Center  in Jersey City. Throughout the day, the center will give out free solar viewing glasses and host various eclipse-themed activities, including a telescope viewing, a live webcast, shows in the planetarium, hands-on astronomy activities and more.

Another option is the United Astronomy Clubs of New Jersey's Total Solar Eclipse Event in Hope, where astronomy lovers are invited — from 1 to 6 p.m. — to watch the eclipse with other space junkies. Glasses, of course, will be provided.

A few schools, such as Rockaway Valley in Boonton Township, which even bought a telescope for the event, will also be hosting watch parties to ensure that their students observe the eclipse safely.

Visit a business that is offering eclipse deals — like Beenie's Ice Cream , which is serving black cocoa waffle cones with edible stardust for the occasion — at the time of the crossing, and you're sure to find fellow viewers.

How long will the eclipse last?

The April, 8 solar eclipse will end around 4:35 p.m.

Kara VanDooijeweert is a food and news writer for NorthJersey.com and The Record. If you can't find her in Jersey's best restaurants, she's probably off running a race course in the mountains. Catch her on Instagram:  @karanicolev  &  @northjerseyeats , and sign up for her  North Jersey Eats newsletter .