Estonia is a small country in Northern Europe, located on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here’s all the information you need to plan your trip to Estonia.
Getting There
The country is easily accessible by air, sea, and land. The largest airport in Estonia is Tallinn Airport, which is located just 4 km from the city center. Major airlines such as Lufthansa, Finnair, and Ryanair operate regular flights to Tallinn from major European cities. If you prefer traveling by sea, there are ferry connections from Helsinki, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg to Tallinn. You can also travel to Estonia by bus or train from neighboring countries such as Latvia and Russia.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and swimming. However, if you are interested in winter sports, you may want to visit during the winter months of December to February.
Places to Visit
Here are some of the top places to visit in Estonia:
| Place | Description |
|---|---|
| Tallinn | The capital city of Estonia, known for its well-preserved medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Lahemaa National Park | A beautiful national park with stunning coastal landscapes, dense forests, and picturesque villages |
| Tartu | Estonia’s second-largest city, known for its vibrant student culture, medieval Old Town, and beautiful parks |
| Saaremaa Island | The largest island in Estonia, known for its natural beauty, historic castles, and picturesque fishing villages |
| Pärnu | A popular seaside resort town known for its long sandy beaches, beautiful parks, and lively nightlife |
Things to Do
Estonia offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Estonia:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Explore the Old Town of Tallinn | Stroll through the cobbled streets of Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, visit historic landmarks such as Toompea Castle, and enjoy the beautiful views from the top of the city walls |
| Visit a Sauna | Sauna is an important part of Estonian culture. Visit a traditional Estonian sauna, and experience the rejuvenating benefits of this centuries-old tradition |
| Enjoy the Nature | Estonia has over 1,500 islands, beautiful beaches, and pristine forests. Go hiking, cycling, or swimming and explore the beautiful nature of Estonia |
| Attend a Festival | Estonia hosts a wide range of festivals throughout the year, including music festivals, art festivals, and food festivals. Attend a festival to experience the vibrant culture of Estonia |
| Try Estonian Cuisine | Estonian cuisine is influenced by its Nordic, German, and Russian neighbors. Try traditional Estonian dishes such as black bread, smoked fish, and sauerkraut |
Accommodation
Estonia offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top accommodation options in Estonia:
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| Hotel Telegraaf | A luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town |
| Von Stackelberg Hotel | A charming 4-star hotel located in a historic building in Tallinn’s city center |
| Old Town Alur Hostel | A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town |
| Villa Ammende | A luxurious 5-star hotel located in the seaside town of Pärnu |
Transportation
Estonia has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and trains. The best way to get around in Tallinn is by foot, as most of the city’s attractions are located within the Old Town. You can also rent a bicycle or a scooter to explore the city at your own pace. If you are planning to travel outside of Tallinn, you can use the bus or train services to reach your destination.
Currency
The official currency of Estonia is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available throughout the country, and credit cards are accepted in most establishments.
Language
The official language of Estonia is Estonian, but English is widely spoken throughout the country, especially in tourist areas.
Safety
Estonia is a safe country to visit, with a low crime rate. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions while traveling, such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings.
Visa Requirements For Estonia
Citizens of the EU, the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa to enter Estonia for stays up to 90 days. Visitors from other countries may need a visa to enter Estonia, and it’s advisable to check the visa requirements before planning your trip.
Take advantage of the digital nomad visa to stay longer in Estonia .
Tipping
Tipping is not expected in Estonia, as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it’s common to round up the bill or leave a small tip for good service.
Wi-Fi and Internet Access
Wi-Fi is widely available throughout Estonia, and most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi to their customers. You can also purchase a local SIM card to access the internet on your mobile device.
Shopping
Estonia is known for its handicrafts, including hand-woven textiles, ceramics, and wooden toys. You can find these items at local markets, souvenir shops, and handicraft centers. The most popular shopping destinations in Estonia are Tallinn and Pärnu.
Cultural Etiquette
Estonians are generally reserved and quiet people, and it’s important to respect their personal space and privacy. It’s also polite to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact during conversations.
Emergency Numbers
In case of an emergency in Estonia, dial 112 to reach the emergency services. English-speaking operators are available 24/7.
Top Attractions
Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The Old Town is surrounded by a wall with several towers and gates, and it’s home to a number of historic buildings, including the Town Hall, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the St. Olaf’s Church. The narrow streets of the Old Town are filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops selling traditional handicrafts.
Lahemaa National Park
Lahemaa National Park is located on the northern coast of Estonia and is the largest national park in the country. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, which include forests, wetlands, lakes, and coastline. Visitors can hike on one of the many trails, visit the historic manors and fishing villages, and observe the wildlife, including elk, lynx, and brown bears.
Pärnu
Pärnu is a popular beach resort town located on the southwest coast of Estonia. The town is known for its sandy beaches, historic buildings, and lively nightlife. Visitors can relax on the beach, take a stroll along the promenade, and visit the Pärnu Museum to learn about the town’s history.
Tartu
Tartu is the second-largest city in Estonia and is known for its historic university, which was founded in 1632. The city is home to several museums, including the Tartu Art Museum and the Estonian National Museum. Visitors can also explore the Old Town, which is filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Food and Drink
Estonian cuisine is influenced by its neighboring countries, including Russia, Latvia, and Finland. Some of the most popular dishes in Estonia include black bread, smoked fish, and elk stew. Estonia is also known for its beer and vodka, and visitors can sample the local brews at one of the many pubs and breweries throughout the country.
Weather
Estonia has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -5 to 0°C (23 to 32°F). The best time to visit Estonia is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the days are long.
Conclusion
Estonia is a hidden gem in Northern Europe, with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring the medieval streets of Tallinn, hiking in the beautiful forests of Lahemaa National Park, or relaxing on the sandy beaches of Pärnu, Estonia has something for everyone. With its friendly people, efficient public transportation, and affordable prices, Estonia is a perfect destination for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking an authentic cultural experience.
