Estonia

What are the most recommended things to do in Estonia?

  • Explore Tallinn Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Visit Kadriorg Palace and its gardens
  • Relax at the Lahemaa National Park with hiking and nature trails
  • Tour the Seaplane Harbour Maritime Museum in Tallinn
  • Discover Estonian history at the Estonian Open Air Museum
  • Enjoy spa and wellness resorts along the Baltic coast
  • Experience local cuisine and coffee culture in cafes and restaurants
  • Attend cultural festivals like Song and Dance Festival or Tallinn Music Week

Introducing Estonia

The Republic of Estonia (Estonian: Eesti Vabariik, English: Republic of Estonia), abbreviated as Estonia, is one of the three Baltic states along with Latvia and Lithuania to the south. Estonia is located on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland, and on the southwest bordering the Gulf of Riga. It borders Latvia to the south and Russia to the east. It has a total area of ​​45,339 square kilometers. The majority ethnic group is Estonian, with a total population of 1.313 million (2015). Its capital is Tallinn.

Estonia is a developed capitalist country, joining NATO in 1994, the European Union in 2004, and the Eurozone in 2011. Due to its rapidly growing economy and advanced information technology, Estonia is often referred to as the "Baltic Tiger." The World Bank classifies Estonia as a high-income country. Estonia also boasts the best and most comfortable air quality in the world, with its capital, Tallinn, being hailed as a "lung cleansing paradise."

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate maritime climate is suitable for all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tallinn Old Town

In 1997, Tallinn's Old Town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to the best-preserved medieval castle in Europe, and home to numerous medieval churches, it is the only city in Northern Europe to retain its medieval architectural style and appearance. Visitors can walk along the city walls to savor the charm of history, or climb to the city's highest points for a panoramic view of the Old Town.


Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Tallinn's Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is Tallinn's largest and tallest domed Orthodox church. Located in Tallinn's Upper Town (Toompea), the cathedral is a 19th-century Russian Orthodox church named after Alexander Nevsky, who fought against the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century. Located in the Upper Town section of Tallinn's Old Town, the cathedral offers panoramic views of both Old Town and the city.


Kadriorg Gardens

The creation and development of Kadriorg was influenced by the upper classes of Tsarist Russia. Its streets resemble a unique architectural museum, a fusion of cultures from different centuries. Today, Kadriorg remains one of Tallinn's most elegant and charming districts, and one of its most popular residential areas.


Most Popular FAQs for Estonia

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Estonia, located in Northern Europe on the Baltic Sea, has a rich history influenced by Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian rule. Its medieval towns, especially Tallinn, and its culture reflect centuries of European heritage. Estonia is known for its digital innovation, natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural traditions.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Estonia is in Northern Europe, bordering Latvia to the south and Russia to the east. Tallinn, the capital, is the main entry point via Tallinn Airport, ferry from Helsinki, or by train/bus from neighboring countries. Local travel is mainly by bus, taxi, bike, or walking in cities.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Museums and attractions typically open 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Summer (June–August) offers long daylight hours and mild weather
  • Winter (December–February) is best for snowy landscapes and winter activities

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Tallinn Old Town museums: €5–€15, tickets available online or on-site
  • Kadriorg Palace: approx. €10, tickets online or at the entrance
  • Lahemaa National Park: free, parking fees may apply
  • Seaplane Harbour: approx. €15–€20, tickets online recommended

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular museums and tours, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended during summer or holiday seasons. National parks and outdoor sites generally do not require advance booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–7 days, depending on whether you focus on cities like Tallinn and Tartu or explore nature and islands like Saaremaa and Hiiumaa.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Tallinn Old Town and Toompea Hill
  • Kadriorg Palace and Art Museum
  • Seaplane Harbour Maritime Museum
  • Lahemaa National Park and coastal villages
  • Estonian Open Air Museum

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours are widely available in English, Estonian, Russian, and sometimes German. Audio guides are offered in several major museums.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Toompea Hill for panoramic views of Tallinn
  • Tallinn city walls and towers
  • Kadriorg Palace gardens
  • Lahemaa National Park coastlines
  • Historic windmills and manors on Estonian islands

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Day 1: Explore Tallinn Old Town, Toompea Castle, and city walls
  • Day 2: Visit Kadriorg Palace and Art Museum
  • Day 3: Seaplane Harbour and Estonian Open Air Museum
  • Day 4: Day trip to Lahemaa National Park or nearby islands
  • Day 5: Optional trips to Tartu or other historical towns

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, Tallinn offers night tours, medieval-themed evening walks, and summer cultural festivals. Seasonal light displays may occur during Christmas and New Year.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Summer is peak tourist season; spring and autumn are quieter. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends in major attractions.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Public toilets and rest areas in cities
  • Cafes, restaurants, and grocery stores widely available
  • Souvenir shops and tourist information centers in Tallinn and other towns

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Major museums and city areas are accessible; some historic sites and cobblestone streets may be challenging for wheelchairs or strollers.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is rarely necessary.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Olde Hansa – medieval-themed restaurant in Tallinn
  • F-hoone – modern Estonian cuisine in Tallinn
  • Rataskaevu 16 – popular local dining
  • Cafes and bakeries throughout Tallinn and Tartu

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly common; halal options are limited but available in some cities and international restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Hotel Telegraaf Tallinn
  • Schlössle Hotel Tallinn
  • Swissôtel Tallinn
  • Guesthouses and Airbnb options throughout cities

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Lahemaa National Park
  • Pärnu for beach and spa
  • Saaremaa and Hiiumaa islands
  • Tartu city with museums and university

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Traditional handicrafts and knitwear
  • Marzipan and local sweets
  • Estonian jewelry and art
  • Postcards and small wooden or amber items

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Domestic flights from Tallinn to other Estonian cities or neighboring countries
  • Train or bus connections to Riga, Helsinki, or Saint Petersburg
  • Ferries to Finnish and Baltic ports

Nearby Attractions