Estonia Country In World Map
If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Europe, Estonia should definitely be on your list. This small country located in Northern Europe may not be as popular as its neighboring countries, but it has a lot to offer to travelers. From its vibrant nightlife to its natural wonders, Estonia has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in Estonia is the Old Town of Tallinn. This medieval town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and stunning views of the Baltic Sea. The Kadriorg Palace and Park is another must-visit attraction in Tallinn. This palace was built by Peter the Great and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains.
If you’re a nature lover, make sure to visit Lahemaa National Park. This park is filled with forests, lakes, and rivers, making it a great place to hike and explore. The Soomaa National Park is another natural wonder in Estonia. This park is known for its flooded forests and is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking.
Hidden Gems
While Tallinn is the most popular destination in Estonia, there are many hidden gems to discover. The island of Saaremaa is one of them. This island is located off the west coast of Estonia and is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque countryside, and historic windmills.
The town of Tartu is another hidden gem in Estonia. This town is considered to be the intellectual capital of Estonia and is home to the University of Tartu. You can explore the town’s museums, galleries, and cafes, or take a stroll along the Emajõgi River.
Food Scene
Estonian cuisine is influenced by its neighboring countries, but it also has its own unique flavors. One of the most popular dishes in Estonia is black bread, which is made from rye flour. Another must-try dish is the Estonian meat jelly, which may sound strange but is actually quite delicious.
If you’re looking for something sweet, try the kringel, which is a sweet pastry filled with cinnamon and sugar. The marzipan museum in Tallinn is also worth a visit, where you can learn about the history of marzipan and even make your own marzipan figurine.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Estonia is a budget-friendly destination compared to other countries in Europe. One way to save money is to use public transportation, which is affordable and efficient. You can also save money by eating at local cafes and markets, where you can find traditional Estonian dishes at a lower price.
Many attractions in Estonia are free or have a small entrance fee. For example, the Tallinn City Museum and the Kumu Art Museum offer free admission on certain days of the month.
Outdoor Adventures
Estonia is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike in the forests of Lahemaa National Park, go canoeing in Soomaa National Park, or explore the islands on a boat tour.
In the winter, you can go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in Otepää, which is known as the winter capital of Estonia. You can also try ice fishing on one of Estonia’s frozen lakes.
Historical Landmarks
Estonia has a rich history, and you can learn about it by visiting its historical landmarks. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn is a Russian Orthodox cathedral that dates back to the 19th century. The Toompea Castle is another historical landmark in Tallinn. This castle was built in the 13th century and is now home to the Estonian Parliament.
The Pühtitsa Convent in Kuremäe is another historical site worth visiting. This Orthodox convent was built in the 19th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Family-Friendly Activities
Estonia is a great destination for families. The Tallinn Zoo is a popular attraction, where you can see animals from all over the world. The Estonian Open Air Museum is another family-friendly attraction, where you can learn about Estonia’s rural life and traditions.
The Seaplane Harbor Museum in Tallinn is also worth a visit. This museum has interactive exhibits and displays, including a real submarine that you can explore.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences in Estonia, there are plenty to choose from. You can visit the abandoned Patarei Prison in Tallinn, which was once a Soviet-era prison. The Rummu Quarry is another off-the-beaten-path destination. This quarry is now a popular spot for swimming and diving.
The Alutaguse Forest in northeastern Estonia is also a great destination for off-the-beaten-path experiences. This forest is home to wolves, lynx, and brown bears, and you can go on a wildlife excursion to see these animals in their natural habitat.
Natural Wonders
Estonia is a country filled with natural wonders. The Viru Bog is one of them. This bog is located in Lahemaa National Park and is a great place to explore on a boardwalk trail. The Jägala Waterfall is another natural wonder in Estonia. This waterfall is located on the Jägala River and is one of the largest waterfalls in Estonia.
The Piusa Caves are another natural wonder in Estonia. These limestone caves were formed over thousands of years and are now a popular spot for tourists.
Vibrant Nightlife
Tallinn has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. The Old Town is a popular spot for nightlife, with many bars and clubs located within walking distance of each other.
The Telliskivi Creative City is another popular spot for nightlife in Tallinn. This former industrial complex is now home to many bars, restaurants, and clubs.
Local Markets
Estonia has many local markets where you can buy traditional Estonian products. The Balti Jaama Turg in Tallinn is one of the most popular markets. This market sells everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
The Tartu Market Hall is another great market to visit. This market has been around since the 19th century and is known for its fresh meat and fish.
Beaches and Mountains
Estonia has many beautiful beaches and mountains to explore. The beach town of Pärnu is one of the most popular beach destinations in Estonia. This town has a long sandy beach and many restaurants and cafes.
The Haanja Mountains are another destination worth visiting. These mountains are located in southern Estonia and are known for their stunning views and hiking trails.
Cultural Immersion
If you want to immerse yourself in Estonian culture, there are many ways to do so. You can attend a traditional Estonian folk concert, visit a local museum, or even learn the Estonian language.
The Seto Külävüü is a cultural trail that takes you through the Seto region of Estonia. This trail includes visits to local museums, churches, and farms, giving you an insight into the traditional way of life in Estonia.
Art and Music Scene
Estonia has a thriving art and music scene. The Kumu Art Museum in Tallinn is one of the most popular art museums in Estonia. This museum has a collection of Estonian and international art, including works by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali.
The Estonian National Opera is another cultural attraction in Tallinn. This opera house has a wide range of performances, from classical operas to modern productions.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore Estonia’s cities and towns. The Old Town of Tallinn is a popular destination for walking tours. You can explore the town’s medieval streets and learn about its history and culture.
The town of Haapsalu is another destination worth visiting on a walking tour. This town is known for its historic wooden houses and its seaside promenade.
Architectural Marvels
Estonia has many architectural marvels to explore. The St. Mary’s Cathedral in Tallinn is one of them. This cathedral was built in the 13th century and is known for its Gothic architecture.
The Song Festival Grounds in Tallinn are another architectural marvel. This outdoor arena was built in 1959 and is used for the Estonian Song Festival, which is held every five years.
Historical Sites
Estonia has a rich history, and there are many historical sites to explore. The Rakvere Castle is one of them. This castle was built in the 13th century and is now a museum where you can learn about Estonia’s medieval history.
The KGB Museum in Tallinn is another historical site worth visiting. This museum is located in a former KGB headquarters and gives you an insight into Estonia’s Soviet past.
Biking Routes
Estonia has many biking routes that take you through its beautiful countryside. The