
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."
The temperate maritime climate is suitable for all year round.
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.
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.
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.
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.
3–7 days, depending on whether you focus on cities like Tallinn and Tartu or explore nature and islands like Saaremaa and Hiiumaa.
Yes, guided tours are widely available in English, Estonian, Russian, and sometimes German. Audio guides are offered in several major museums.
Yes, Tallinn offers night tours, medieval-themed evening walks, and summer cultural festivals. Seasonal light displays may occur during Christmas and New Year.
Summer is peak tourist season; spring and autumn are quieter. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends in major attractions.
Major museums and city areas are accessible; some historic sites and cobblestone streets may be challenging for wheelchairs or strollers.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is rarely necessary.
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly common; halal options are limited but available in some cities and international restaurants.