Estonia

Estonia Highlights

Estonia, a country in Northern Europe, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, medieval architecture, and digital innovations. Tallinn, the capital, boasts well-preserved medieval old town that is a UNESCO World Heritage site with landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the historic Toompea Castle. Beyond the capital, explore the beautiful landscapes of Lahemaa National Park, the charming city of Tartu, or the unique islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. Don`t miss the stunning cliffs of the Panga Pank, the historic manor houses scattered throughout the country, or the unique experience of a traditional Estonian sauna. Estonian cuisine, known for dishes like rye bread, kama, and a variety of unique local beers, is hearty and interesting. Whether you`re exploring a medieval old town, hiking in a beautiful national park, or enjoying the digital convenience of e-residency, Estonia offers a unique and enriching travel experience.

Top 10 Attractions

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn is an awe-inspiring example of Russian Revival architecture. Named after the Russian hero Alexander Nevsky, the cathedral is the main Russian Orthodox church in Estonia. Its onion-shaped domes, ornate decorat... more

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn is an awe-inspiring example of Russian Revival architecture. Named after the Russian hero Alexander Nevsky, the cathedral is the main Russian Orthodox church in Estonia. Its onion-shaped domes, ornate decorations, and richly decorated interior with mosaics and icons provide a visual feast. Despite being a symbol of Russian domination and meeting resistance from Estonians, the cathedral is an architectural gem that attracts tourists from all over the world.

Endla Nature Reserve

Endla Nature Reserve, located in central Estonia, is known for its diverse wetland ecosystems, which include bogs, fens, transitional mires, and various types of forest. The reserve is part of the European Natura 2000 network due to its important bir... more

Endla Nature Reserve, located in central Estonia, is known for its diverse wetland ecosystems, which include bogs, fens, transitional mires, and various types of forest. The reserve is part of the European Natura 2000 network due to its important bird and habitat areas. Hiking trails and observation towers offer opportunities to explore the area and observe its flora and fauna. The Männikjärve bog trail, with its boardwalk, is particularly popular. The nature reserve is a perfect destination for those who appreciate untouched nature and tranquillity.

Estonian History Museum

The Estonian History Museum, located in the Great Guild Hall in Tallinn, offers an engaging overview of Estonia`s past. The museum`s permanent exhibition, "Spirit of Survival," covers 11,000 years of Estonia`s history, from prehistoric times to the e... more

The Estonian History Museum, located in the Great Guild Hall in Tallinn, offers an engaging overview of Estonia`s past. The museum`s permanent exhibition, "Spirit of Survival," covers 11,000 years of Estonia`s history, from prehistoric times to the end of the 20th century. The exhibits are interactive and multimedia-based, making the museum appealing to both adults and children. The museum also houses a significant collection of artifacts, including coins, weapons, and decorative and applied art.

Estonian Open Air Museum

Situated just outside of Tallinn, the Estonian Open Air Museum offers a glimpse into the rural lifestyle and architecture of Estonia through the ages. The museum spans across 72 hectares and is made up of over 70 historical buildings including farms,... more

Situated just outside of Tallinn, the Estonian Open Air Museum offers a glimpse into the rural lifestyle and architecture of Estonia through the ages. The museum spans across 72 hectares and is made up of over 70 historical buildings including farms, mills, a tavern, a schoolhouse, and a church. Each structure has been relocated from its original site, offering an authentic insight into 18th-20th century Estonian life. This interactive experience includes demonstrations of traditional crafts and folk dancing, as well as seasonal festivals. It`s like stepping back in time and a great educational experience for all ages.

Kadriorg Palace

The Kadriorg Palace is a magnificent Baroque palace built for Catherine I of Russia by Peter the Great. Located in Tallinn, the palace is surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden, a park with several monuments, and the KUMU Art Museum. The palac... more

The Kadriorg Palace is a magnificent Baroque palace built for Catherine I of Russia by Peter the Great. Located in Tallinn, the palace is surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden, a park with several monuments, and the KUMU Art Museum. The palace itself now houses the Art Museum of Estonia`s foreign collection. Its stunning facade, intricate interiors, and the surrounding gardens make it a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

KUMU Art Museum

The KUMU Art Museum is the largest museum in the Baltic countries and one of the largest art museums in Northern Europe. It acts as both a traditional art museum showcasing older works, particularly Estonian art from the 18th century onwards, and a m... more

The KUMU Art Museum is the largest museum in the Baltic countries and one of the largest art museums in Northern Europe. It acts as both a traditional art museum showcasing older works, particularly Estonian art from the 18th century onwards, and a modern art museum presenting contemporary art. KUMU, which stands for "KUnstiMUuseum" (Art Museum in Estonian), is located in Kadriorg park in Tallinn. The architecture of the museum itself is a work of art, with its sleek, modern design. Besides its extensive art collection, the museum hosts concerts, lectures, and film screenings, acting as a cultural hub.

Lahemaa National Park

Lahemaa National Park, located on the northern coast of Estonia, is the country`s oldest and largest national park. The park offers diverse landscapes including forests, wetlands, coastal areas, and more. It`s known for its biological diversity, uniq... more

Lahemaa National Park, located on the northern coast of Estonia, is the country`s oldest and largest national park. The park offers diverse landscapes including forests, wetlands, coastal areas, and more. It`s known for its biological diversity, unique landscapes, and the richness of its cultural heritage. The park`s manor houses, such as Palmse and Sagadi, offer a glimpse into the lifestyles of the Baltic German nobility. The park is perfect for activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and exploring traditional Estonian villages.

Matsalu National Park

Matsalu National Park is a protected area and one of the most important bird areas in Europe. It`s a key stopover point for birds migrating between northern Europe and Africa, particularly in spring and autumn, making it a paradise for bird watchers.... more

Matsalu National Park is a protected area and one of the most important bird areas in Europe. It`s a key stopover point for birds migrating between northern Europe and Africa, particularly in spring and autumn, making it a paradise for bird watchers. The park also includes large coastal meadows, wooded meadows, and forests. Matsalu Bay, a shallow coastal lagoon, and the Kasari River delta form the core of the wetland complex. The area is also home to a large population of European moose.

Narva Castle

Narva Castle is the most diverse and best-preserved defense structure in Estonia. The castle was founded in the 13th century by the Danes, and throughout the centuries, it has served as a defensive structure, a luxurious residence, and now as a museu... more

Narva Castle is the most diverse and best-preserved defense structure in Estonia. The castle was founded in the 13th century by the Danes, and throughout the centuries, it has served as a defensive structure, a luxurious residence, and now as a museum. The castle`s most famous feature is the Tall Hermann tower, from where one can enjoy stunning views of Narva and the neighboring Russian town, Ivangorod. The castle hosts the Narva Museum, which provides a detailed look into the city`s history.

Olde Hansa

Olde Hansa is a medieval-themed restaurant in the heart of Tallinn`s Old Town. The restaurant is committed to offering an authentic 15th-century dining experience. The building itself, with its thick stone walls, wooden furnishings, and candlelit amb... more

Olde Hansa is a medieval-themed restaurant in the heart of Tallinn`s Old Town. The restaurant is committed to offering an authentic 15th-century dining experience. The building itself, with its thick stone walls, wooden furnishings, and candlelit ambiance, is reminiscent of a medieval merchant`s home. The menu features a range of historically-inspired dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. This includes unique offerings such as wild boar, elk, and bear meat, along with a variety of traditional spices. Alongside the food, enjoy the medieval musicians and merchants to get a real taste of the era.

Pärnu

Known as Estonia`s summer capital, Pärnu is a resort city on the coast of Pärnu Bay. The city is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, shallow waters, and rich cultural scene. The beach promenade with its parks, fountains, and outdoor cafes is a pop... more

Known as Estonia`s summer capital, Pärnu is a resort city on the coast of Pärnu Bay. The city is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, shallow waters, and rich cultural scene. The beach promenade with its parks, fountains, and outdoor cafes is a popular destination. The city is also home to the Pärnu Museum, which tells the story of the city from prehistoric times to the present. With its health spas, annual film and music festivals, and lively atmosphere, Pärnu offers a mix of relaxation and entertainment.

Saaremaa Island

Saaremaa is the largest island in Estonia, known for its unspoiled nature, traditional culture, and historical sites. The island is characterized by its windmills, thatched-roof houses, and juniper fields. The medieval Bishop`s Castle in the capital,... more

Saaremaa is the largest island in Estonia, known for its unspoiled nature, traditional culture, and historical sites. The island is characterized by its windmills, thatched-roof houses, and juniper fields. The medieval Bishop`s Castle in the capital, Kuressaare, is a well-preserved fortress that houses a museum. The Kaali field of meteorite craters is another unique attraction. The island is also famous for its spa traditions, based on the therapeutic mud found locally.

Seaplane Harbour Museum

The Seaplane Harbour Museum, located in Tallinn, is one of Europe`s most exciting maritime museums. The museum is housed in architecturally unique seaplane hangars from the early 20th century. The museum`s exhibits include a submarine from the 1930s,... more

The Seaplane Harbour Museum, located in Tallinn, is one of Europe`s most exciting maritime museums. The museum is housed in architecturally unique seaplane hangars from the early 20th century. The museum`s exhibits include a submarine from the 1930s, a century-old icebreaker ship, seaplanes, and many other life-sized exhibits. The museum also offers various interactive displays, making it a great destination for families. The combination of the unique architecture and the fascinating naval history make this museum a must-visit.

Soomaa National Park

Soomaa National Park is a unique wilderness located in southern Estonia. The park is known for its "fifth season" or flooding season which brings a magical transformation, turning the park into a vast, navigable waterworld. The park is teeming with w... more

Soomaa National Park is a unique wilderness located in southern Estonia. The park is known for its "fifth season" or flooding season which brings a magical transformation, turning the park into a vast, navigable waterworld. The park is teeming with wildlife such as beavers, elk, and lynx, and its wetlands are a haven for bird watchers. Canoeing, hiking, and bog-shoeing are popular activities. The park is also home to traditional rural cultures, with small communities continuing to live and work in harmony with the land.

Tallinn Old Town

Tallinn Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Northern Europe. It`s characterized by cobblestone lanes, iron street lamps, gothic spires, and charming red-roofed homes. Walking through its streets fee... more

Tallinn Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Northern Europe. It`s characterized by cobblestone lanes, iron street lamps, gothic spires, and charming red-roofed homes. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time, with the town hall square serving as a focal point filled with cafes and historic buildings. From the upper town, Toompea Hill, one can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Town Hall are significant landmarks. The town is also famous for its vibrant Christmas market.

Tallinn TV Tower

The Tallinn TV Tower is Estonia`s tallest structure and offers a panoramic view of Tallinn and, on clear days, the Finnish coast. The tower, built for the 1980 Summer Olympics, hosts a museum about the tower`s history and an interactive exhibit on Es... more

The Tallinn TV Tower is Estonia`s tallest structure and offers a panoramic view of Tallinn and, on clear days, the Finnish coast. The tower, built for the 1980 Summer Olympics, hosts a museum about the tower`s history and an interactive exhibit on Estonian history. The tower`s viewing platform, 170 meters high, is equipped with interactive screens and telescopes. For thrill-seekers, a walk on the edge of the viewing platform, safely harnessed, of course, is a must.

Tartu Old Town

Tartu, the second-largest city of Estonia, is a charming mix of old and new. The city`s Old Town is home to many historical landmarks, including the Town Hall Square, Tartu University, and the ruins of the Tartu Cathedral. The Emajõgi River adds to t... more

Tartu, the second-largest city of Estonia, is a charming mix of old and new. The city`s Old Town is home to many historical landmarks, including the Town Hall Square, Tartu University, and the ruins of the Tartu Cathedral. The Emajõgi River adds to the town`s scenic charm, with parks and walkways along its banks. Tartu is known as a city of youth, due to the large student population, which contributes to its vibrant culture and active nightlife.

Tartu University Museum

The Tartu University Museum is the guardian of the university`s history and academic heritage. The museum is located in the beautiful Tartu Cathedral, which offers stunning views of the city from its towers. The museum traces the history of science a... more

The Tartu University Museum is the guardian of the university`s history and academic heritage. The museum is located in the beautiful Tartu Cathedral, which offers stunning views of the city from its towers. The museum traces the history of science and university education from the 17th century to the present day. Exhibits include antique scientific instruments, a history of the university, and an interactive science centre. The museum`s Dome Church, despite being mostly in ruins, adds to the grandeur and historical feel of the museum.

Toompea Castle

Dominating the skyline of Tallinn, Toompea Castle is a grand structure with an equally impressive history. First built in the 9th century by ancient Estonians, the castle has been developed and expanded by Denmark, the Teutonic Order, Sweden, and Rus... more

Dominating the skyline of Tallinn, Toompea Castle is a grand structure with an equally impressive history. First built in the 9th century by ancient Estonians, the castle has been developed and expanded by Denmark, the Teutonic Order, Sweden, and Russia. Today, it houses Estonia`s parliament. While most of the building is not open to the public, visitors can explore the grounds and admire the pink Baroque facade. The castle also offers stunning views over Tallinn and the Gulf of Finland.

Vilsandi National Park

Vilsandi National Park, located on the west coast of Saaremaa Island, is a haven for wildlife, especially birds and seals. The park consists of the island of Vilsandi, several smaller islands, and parts of western Saaremaa. The park is a popular plac... more

Vilsandi National Park, located on the west coast of Saaremaa Island, is a haven for wildlife, especially birds and seals. The park consists of the island of Vilsandi, several smaller islands, and parts of western Saaremaa. The park is a popular place for hiking, bird-watching, boating, and diving. The diverse landscape ranges from sandy and rocky beaches to forests and marshes. The park`s visitor center provides information about the park`s flora and fauna and organizes guided tours.

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