ESTONIA TRAVEL GUIDE
Estonia is a Baltic gem offering visitors the chance to see a tiny dynamic land on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Glorious beaches pepper the extensive coastline, although the swimming season is short.
One of the few countries to have emerged out of the Soviet set-up and learned quickly to pull its own weight, Estonia is, without doubt, the showcase story. In the early part of the last decade, the country got its first taste of independence – sweet and bitter though it was – the euphoria of freedom foiled by long lines to get rations and fuel - in addition to skyrocketing inflation. Today Estonia is catching up with the rest of Europe but is luckily still affordable for the budget traveller.
If you are fascinated by the thought of blood sausages on your dinner plate, love crisp sea breezes and lush forests, are adventurous enough to go bog walking, and willing to try a syrupy liquor of dubious distillation, Estonia is waiting for you.
- Capital: Tallinn
- Currency: Euro
- Area: total: 45,227 km²
- Population: 1,329 million (2020)
- Language: Estonian (official)
- Electricity: 230V/50Hz (European plug)
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BEST TIME TO VISIT ESTONIA
The best time to visit the Baltic States is late spring or summer when there’s usually enough fine weather to allow you to stroll around the cities and make significant forays into the great outdoors. On the whole, though, the only thing that’s predictable about the Baltic climate is the deep, dark winters – in all other seasons, the weather can be changeable in the extreme.
Summers are relatively short (roughly mid-June to late August), and although you may well experience a string of hot, dry days during this period, showers and chilly nights are equally likely. Remember to pack a waterproof jacket and warm sweater alongside your T-shirts.
Temperatures cool down rapidly from mid-September onwards, although autumn can be an extraordinarily beautiful season in which to visit, with the golden brown leaves of deciduous trees contrasting with the dark-green pines.
The first snowfalls can come as early as mid-November and by early to mid-December winter sets in with a vengeance. Average daytime temperatures can remain below zero right through until March, plummeting to minus 15–20°C in particularly cold spells. Winter can of course be a magical time, with lakes, rivers, and large expanses of the Baltic Sea freezing over, and crunchy snow cover adding an air of enchantment to medieval city centers.
Even when the spring thaw sets in, the countryside can remain grey and barren until well into April (or even May in northern Estonia), when a sudden explosion of colour transforms the landscape. The countryside takes on a green lushness, drawing cattle and horses out from their winter barns, while city-dwellers indulge in a frenzied stampede for the pavement cafés.
April & May - See the country shake off winter’s gloom.
June to August - White nights, beach parties, and loads of summer festivals.
December - Christmas markets, mulled wine, and long, cozy nights.
ESTONIA WEATHER SYNOPSIS
Estonia’s climate is largely influenced by its geographical position. Local climatic differences are mainly caused by the neighbouring Baltic Sea, which warms up the coastal zone in winter and later has a cooling effect, especially in spring. Estonia lies in the transition zone between maritime and continental climates. Sea-level rise may be one of the main impacts of climate change for Estonia, which could strongly affect the territory of the country because of its relatively long coastline and extensive low-lying coastal areas.
ESTONIA TOURIST SEASONS
Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists.
Peak Season
Shoulder Season
Off Peak Season
JANUARY
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COLD
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FEBRUARY
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MARCH
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APRIL
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MAY
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JUNE
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JULY
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AUGUST
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SEPTEMBER
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OCTOBER
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NOVEMBER
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DECEMBER
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BEST TIME FOR
SNOW SPORT IN ESTONIA
The snow sports season in Estonia can start in November and last until the end of March. The best time for fresh snow is often mid-March.
Estonia offers a variety of snow sports opportunities, particularly for skiing and snowboarding. The country may not have high mountains, but it compensates with charming resorts like Tuhamägi at the Kiviõli Adventure Center and Kuutsemäe, which provide a range of slopes suitable for different skill levels. Cross-country skiing is also popular, with places like Otepää being known as the winter sports capital of Estonia. For those looking for a unique experience, Estonia's winter landscape can be explored through activities like snowshoeing and kicksledding, offering a magical winter wonderland adventure.
HIKING & CYCLING IN ESTONIA
The best time for outdoor activities in Estonia is from May to October.
Estonia offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different levels of experience and accessibility needs. The Viru Bog trail in Lahemaa National Park is a popular choice, featuring a boardwalk and an observation tower, and is accessible to wheelchair users and strollers. For a more unique experience, the Mukri Bog allows for bog-shoeing and has a viewing tower to take in the vast landscape. Additionally, the Meenikunno trail offers a serene walk through a beautiful bog area, complete with cabins and another observation tower for nature enthusiasts.
BEACH OPTIONS IN ESTONIA
Estonia has some beautiful beaches with their short summer beach season stretching from the beginning of June to the end of August. Pärnu Beach, known for its sandy shores and summer vibrancy, is a popular spot for sunbathers and swimmers. For a more serene experience, the beaches within Lahemaa National Park provide a peaceful retreat with pure northern waters and natural surroundings.
SURFING IN ESTONIA
The surf season in Estonia is anytime from September to May, with the best surfing conditions during the colder months of September to December.
Estonia may not be the first place that comes to mind for surfing, but it does offer unique opportunities for the sport. The country has a surprisingly long coastline with several spots that are suitable for surfing, especially near the capital, Tallinn. Locations like Stroomi Beach, Kakumäe Beach, and Vääna-Jõesuu Beach are known for their surf breaks, particularly during the wind swells of the colder months. While the surfing conditions are not as consistent as more famous destinations, the Estonian surf scene is active and welcoming, with a number of surf schools and clubs providing lessons and equipment for enthusiasts.
KITESURF IN ESTONIA
Estonia can have good winds for both windsurfing and kitesurfing almost all year round, except when it's snowing! May to October are the best months.
The south coast and the Estonian Islands are known for their kitesurfing spots, with the season sometimes extending into April and November with the use of warm equipment. Enthusiasts can find friendly locals, beautiful nature, and good conditions, although it's advisable to prepare for the cold with at least a 5/3mm wetsuit. For those looking to learn or improve their skills, there are several kitesurf schools and rental services available across the country.
BEST TIME FOR
The snow sports season in Estonia can start in November and last until the end of March. The best time for fresh snow is often mid-March.
Estonia offers a variety of snow sports opportunities, particularly for skiing and snowboarding. The country may not have high mountains, but it compensates with charming resorts like Tuhamägi at the Kiviõli Adventure Center and Kuutsemäe, which provide a range of slopes suitable for different skill levels. Cross-country skiing is also popular, with places like Otepää being known as the winter sports capital of Estonia. For those looking for a unique experience, Estonia's winter landscape can be explored through activities like snowshoeing and kicksledding, offering a magical winter wonderland adventure.
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HEALTH RISKS IN ESTONIA
Be aware of possible health risks in
Estonia
Yellow fever - The yellow fever virus is found in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and South America. The virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no medicine to treat or cure an infection. To prevent getting sick from yellow fever, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and get vaccinated.
Zika Virus - Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika.
Malaria - Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness. Although malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from malaria can usually be prevented.
Dengue - Dengue is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. About one in four people infected with dengue will get sick. For people who get sick with dengue, symptoms can be mild or severe.
ESTONIA TRAVEL COSTS
Estonia is generally cheaper than Western Europe, but it is no longer the bargain it used to be in the 1990s; and in touristy areas (like Tallinn's Old Town), prices are at Scandinavian levels.
A bottle of local beer (0,5l) costs around 1€ in shops and 2,5-3,5€ in modest pubs. Hard liquor, especially vodka is cheap compared to Western standards, with a 0.5l bottle of local mid-range vodka going for around 10€ in supermarkets. Food prices are close to Western European standards, usually somewhat cheaper but with some being paradoxically more expensive and can even be closer to Finnish prices. Western goods like clothes and electronics are as expensive (or even more so) than in the actual West.
In general, Estonia tends to be more expensive than its Baltic neighbors (Latvia and Lithuania) but cheaper than Finland. It's also generally more expensive than Russia.
ESTONIA TRAVEL TIPS
Traveling to Estonia can be a delightful experience with its blend of medieval charm, natural beauty, and modern culture. Here are some travel tips for visiting Estonia:
Visit Tallinn: Start your journey in Tallinn, the capital city, known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town. Explore its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming cafes.
Learn a Few Estonian Phrases: While many Estonians speak English, learning a few basic Estonian phrases like "Tere" (Hello) and "Aitäh" (Thank you) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
Try Estonian Cuisine: Sample traditional Estonian dishes such as black bread, marinated herring, and elk soup. Don't forget to try the local specialty, marzipan, which has been made in Tallinn since the Middle Ages.
Explore Nature: Estonia is blessed with beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and islands. Visit Lahemaa National Park or Soomaa National Park for hiking, birdwatching, and canoeing.
Experience Sauna Culture: Saunas are an important part of Estonian culture. Try to experience an authentic Estonian sauna, either in a spa or a traditional smoke sauna in the countryside.
Respect the Environment: Estonia takes pride in its clean and well-preserved natural environment. Be sure to respect nature by disposing of waste properly and following designated trails while hiking.
Travel Outside Tallinn: While Tallinn is the main attraction, consider exploring other parts of Estonia such as Tartu, the university town, or the islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Pack Accordingly: Estonia experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and mild summers. Pack accordingly depending on the time of year you plan to visit, and don't forget to bring layers, especially if you're visiting in spring or autumn.
Use Public Transportation: Estonia has an efficient public transportation system, especially in Tallinn. Consider using buses or trams to get around the city, or rent a bike to explore on two wheels.
Respect Local Customs: Estonians are generally reserved but friendly people. Respect their personal space and avoid loud or disruptive behavior, especially in public places.
By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy all that Estonia has to offer during your travels.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN ESTONIA
Buses are a good option domestically, as they're more frequent than trains and cover many destinations not serviced by the limited rail network. TPilet (www.tpilet.ee) has schedules and prices for all services. For comfortable, low-cost bus travel you can also have a look at FlixBus who runs the largest bus network in Europe.
Trains are handy for getting between Tallinn and Tartu, but services to Pärnu are extremely limited. Check 12Go for the best variety of options.
SIGHTS & HIGHLIGHTS OF ESTONIA
Estonia is a small but diverse country with several regions offering unique attractions and experiences. Here are some of the main regions worth visiting and their highlights:
Tallinn and Harju County
Tallinn: Explore the charming medieval Old Town with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and panoramic viewpoints from Toompea Hill. Don't miss landmarks like Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the Town Hall Square. This city has charm by the bucket load, fusing the modern and medieval to come up with a vibrant vibe all of its own. It’s an intoxicating mix of church spires, glass skyscrapers, baroque palaces, appealing eateries, brooding battlements, shiny shopping malls, run-down wooden houses, and cafes set on sunny squares – with a few Soviet throwbacks in the mix.
Kadriorg: Visit the elegant Kadriorg Palace and Park, home to the Estonian Art Museum, as well as other museums and monuments.
Pirita: Enjoy outdoor activities such as beach walks, sailing, and visiting the ruins of St. Bridget's Convent.
Tartu and Tartu County
Tartu: Experience the lively atmosphere of Estonia's second-largest city, known for its university, vibrant cultural scene, and historical sites like Tartu Cathedral and the Town Hall Square. Tartu was the cradle of Estonia’s 19th-century national revival and lays claim to being the nation's cultural capital. Locals talk about a special Tartu vaim (spirit), created by the time-stands-still feel of its wooden houses and stately buildings, and by the beauty of its parks and riverfront. It's also Estonia’s premier university town, with students making up nearly one-fifth of the population – guaranteeing a vibrant nightlife for a city of its size.
Tartu University Museum: Explore the history of the university, one of the oldest in Northern Europe.
Ahja River Valley: Discover picturesque landscapes, hiking trails, and the stunning Ahja Waterfall.
Pärnu and Pärnu County
Pärnu: Relax in Estonia's summer capital, famous for its sandy beaches, spa resorts, and lively promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. Local families, young party-goers, and German, Swedish and Finnish holidaymakers join together in a collective prayer for sunny weather while strolling the golden-sand beaches, sprawling parks, and picturesque historic center of Pärnu (pair-nu), Estonia's premier seaside resort. The main thoroughfare of the old town is Rüütli, lined with splendid buildings dating back to the 17th century.
Pärnu Beach: Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports on one of the best beaches in Estonia.
Pärnu Old Town: Wander through the historic center with its colorful wooden houses and charming streets.
Saaremaa
Kuressaare: Explore the island's main town with its medieval castle, Kuressaare Episcopal Castle, which now houses a museum.
Kaali Meteorite Crater Field: Visit one of the most impressive meteorite craters in Europe, surrounded by myth and legend.
Angla Windmills: See the iconic windmills that are symbols of Saaremaa's rural heritage.
Hiiumaa
Kärdla: Discover the island's capital with its wooden architecture, museums, and cozy cafes.
Kõpu Lighthouse: Climb the oldest lighthouse in the Baltic States for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Sääretirp: Walk along the narrow isthmus connecting two parts of the island, offering scenic views of the sea on both sides.
Lahemaa National Park (Located in Harju and Lääne-Viru Counties)
Palmse Manor: Visit the beautifully restored manor house and gardens, representing Estonia's noble heritage.
Viru Bog: Explore the wooden boardwalks through the picturesque bog landscape, rich in flora and fauna.
Jägala Waterfall: Admire the highest natural waterfall in Estonia, surrounded by lush forest.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR VISITING ESTONIA
For first-time visitors to Estonia, here's a suggested itinerary that covers the country's highlights and allows you to experience its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes over the course of about 7-10 days:
Day 1: Arrival in Tallinn
Arrive in Tallinn, Estonia's capital city.
Check into your accommodation and take some time to rest.
In the evening, explore Tallinn's Old Town, stroll along its cobblestone streets, and admire its medieval architecture.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Estonian restaurant.
Day 2: Tallinn Exploration
Visit Toompea Hill for panoramic views of the city and explore attractions such as Toompea Castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Wander through Town Hall Square and visit the Town Hall and Town Hall Pharmacy Museum.
Explore Kadriorg Palace and Park, including the Kumu Art Museum.
Optional: Visit the Seaplane Harbour Museum to learn about Estonia's maritime history.
Day 3: Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park
Take a day trip to Lahemaa National Park, located about an hour's drive from Tallinn.
Explore the park's diverse landscapes, including forests, bogs, and coastal cliffs.
Visit Palmse Manor and Sagadi Manor to learn about Estonia's noble heritage.
Enjoy nature walks or guided hikes in the park.
Return to Tallinn in the evening.
Day 4: Travel to Tartu
Travel to Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city and a center of culture and education.
Explore the historic center, including Tartu Cathedral and Town Hall Square.
Visit Tartu University Museum and the quirky AHHAA Science Centre.
Enjoy dinner at one of Tartu's cozy cafes or restaurants.
Day 5: Tartu and Surroundings
Explore more of Tartu, including the Botanical Gardens and Toome Hill Park.
Visit the Estonian National Museum to learn about Estonian history and culture.
Take a day trip to the Ahja River Valley for hiking and nature exploration.
Return to Tartu for the evening.
Day 6: Travel to Pärnu
Travel to Pärnu, Estonia's summer capital, known for its sandy beaches and spa resorts.
Relax on Pärnu Beach and take a stroll along the promenade.
Visit the Pärnu Museum to learn about the city's history.
Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant overlooking the Gulf of Finland.
Day 7: Explore Saaremaa
Take a ferry to Saaremaa, Estonia's largest island.
Explore the charming town of Kuressaare and visit Kuressaare Castle.
Visit the Kaali Meteorite Crater Field and Angla Windmills.
Enjoy the island's peaceful atmosphere and scenic landscapes.
Return to Pärnu in the evening.
Day 8: Return to Tallinn
Travel back to Tallinn from Pärnu or Saaremaa.
Spend your last day in Tallinn exploring any remaining attractions or shopping for souvenirs.
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant in Tallinn's Old Town.
Day 9: Departure
Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time to explore Tallinn further or relax before heading to the airport.
Depart from Tallinn, concluding your trip to Estonia.
This itinerary provides a well-rounded introduction to Estonia, covering its major cities, historical sites, and natural attractions. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests and available time.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN ESTONIA
When visiting Estonia, there's a wealth of experiences awaiting you, ranging from exploring medieval towns to immersing yourself in pristine nature. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Estonia
Explore Tallinn's Old Town: Wander through the cobblestone streets of Tallinn's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire its well-preserved medieval architecture, including Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and Town Hall Square.
Visit Kadriorg Palace and Park: Explore the elegant Kadriorg Palace, built by Peter the Great, and stroll through the beautiful park, which houses several museums, including the Kumu Art Museum.
Experience Estonian Sauna Culture: Relax and rejuvenate in an authentic Estonian sauna experience. Whether in a modern spa or a traditional smoke sauna in the countryside, saunas are an integral part of Estonian culture.
Discover Lahemaa National Park: Explore Estonia's largest national park, Lahemaa, known for its diverse landscapes, including forests, bogs, coastal cliffs, and historic manor houses.
Relax in Pärnu: Enjoy the sandy beaches and spa resorts of Pärnu, Estonia's summer capital. Take leisurely walks along the promenade, indulge in spa treatments, and soak up the sun.
Visit Tartu: Explore the vibrant university town of Tartu, known for its intellectual atmosphere, historical sites, and lively cultural scene. Don't miss attractions like Tartu University Museum and the quirky AHHAA Science Centre.
Experience Island Life: Take a ferry to the picturesque islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. Explore their charming towns, visit historic sites like Kuressaare Castle, and enjoy the tranquility of the island landscapes.
Hike in Soomaa National Park: Venture into the "land of bogs" and experience the unique wilderness of Soomaa National Park. Join guided bog walks, canoe through flooded forests during the spring, and immerse yourself in nature.
Try Estonian Cuisine: Sample traditional Estonian dishes such as black bread, smoked fish, and hearty soups. Don't forget to indulge in local specialties like marzipan and Vana Tallinn liqueur.
Attend Festivals and Events: Experience Estonia's vibrant cultural scene by attending festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Tallinn Music Week, Viljandi Folk Music Festival, and Christmas markets in Tallinn's Old Town.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN ESTONIA
When visiting Estonia, there's a wealth of experiences awaiting you, ranging from exploring medieval towns to immersing yourself in pristine nature. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Estonia:
Explore Tallinn's Old Town: Wander through the cobblestone streets of Tallinn's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire its well-preserved medieval architecture, including Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and Town Hall Square.
Visit Kadriorg Palace and Park: Explore the elegant Kadriorg Palace, built by Peter the Great, and stroll through the beautiful park, which houses several museums, including the Kumu Art Museum.
Experience Estonian Sauna Culture: Relax and rejuvenate in an authentic Estonian sauna experience. Whether in a modern spa or a traditional smoke sauna in the countryside, saunas are an integral part of Estonian culture.
Discover Lahemaa National Park: Explore Estonia's largest national park, Lahemaa, known for its diverse landscapes, including forests, bogs, coastal cliffs, and historic manor houses.
Relax in Pärnu: Enjoy the sandy beaches and spa resorts of Pärnu, Estonia's summer capital. Take leisurely walks along the promenade, indulge in spa treatments, and soak up the sun.
Visit Tartu: Explore the vibrant university town of Tartu, known for its intellectual atmosphere, historical sites, and lively cultural scene. Don't miss attractions like Tartu University Museum and the quirky AHHAA Science Centre.
Experience Island Life: Take a ferry to the picturesque islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. Explore their charming towns, visit historic sites like Kuressaare Castle, and enjoy the tranquility of the island landscapes.
Hike in Soomaa National Park: Venture into the "land of bogs" and experience the unique wilderness of Soomaa National Park. Join guided bog walks, canoe through flooded forests during the spring, and immerse yourself in nature.
Try Estonian Cuisine: Sample traditional Estonian dishes such as black bread, smoked fish, and hearty soups. Don't forget to indulge in local specialties like marzipan and Vana Tallinn liqueur.
Attend Festivals and Events: Experience Estonia's vibrant cultural scene by attending festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Tallinn Music Week, Viljandi Folk Music Festival, and Christmas markets in Tallinn's Old Town.
WHAT TO EAT IN ESTONIA
Estonian gastronomy mixes Nordic, Russian and German influences, and prizes local and seasonal produce. The closest thing to a national dish is verivorst, black pudding, served with mulgikapsad, which is basically sauerkraut stew.
Pork and potatoes -The traditional stodgy standbys, prepared a hundred different ways.
Other favourites - Black bread, sauerkraut, black pudding, smoked meat and fish, creamy salted butter and sour cream, which is served with almost everything.
Desserts - On the sweet side, you'll find delicious chocolates, marzipan and cakes.
Seasonal In summer - Berries enter the menu in both sweet and savoury dishes, while everyone goes crazy for forest mushrooms in the autumn.
Favourite drinks - Õlu (beer) is the favourite alcoholic drink. Popular brands include Saku and A Le Coq, and aficionados should seek out the product of the local microbreweries such as Tallinn's Põhjala. Other tipples include vodka (Viru Valge and Saremaa are the best-known local brands) and Vana Tallinn, a syrupy sweet liqueur, also available in a cream version.
LGBTQ IN ESTONIA
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people in Estonia face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity are legal in Estonia. Since 1 January 2016, same-sex couples may register their relationship as a cohabitation agreement, which gives them almost all the same legal protections available to opposite-sex couples. Nevertheless, same-sex couples are unable to marry or jointly adopt.
Estonia is considered, by most, to be the most liberal former-Soviet country when it comes to LGBT rights. Acceptance of LGBT people has grown significantly since the early 21st century, though there is a notable age gap, as younger people tend to be more tolerant and liberal, while older people tend to be more socially conservative. Although there is still not an overwhelming majority who accept same-sex relationships, Estonia does host an annual Baltic Pride Parade.
WHERE TO STAY IN ESTONIA
For a first-time visit to Estonia, choosing the right base is crucial to explore the country's diverse attractions efficiently. Here are some suggestions for different regions and cities along with accommodation options:
Where to stay in Tallinn:
Tallinn, the capital city, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval old town and vibrant cultural scene.
Budget: 16eur Old Town Munkenhof: Situated near Tallinn's Town Hall Square, 16eur Old Town Munkenhof offers affordable accommodations in a convenient location. Guests can stay in simple yet comfortable rooms and enjoy easy access to the city's attractions.
Mid-range: Hotel Palace Tallinn: Located in the city center, Hotel Palace Tallinn offers mid-range accommodations with elegant decor and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a fitness center, sauna, and on-site dining options.
Luxury: Swissotel Tallinn: This luxury hotel is located in Tallinn's tallest building, offering stunning views of the Old Town and Baltic Sea. Swissotel Tallinn features luxurious rooms and suites, a rooftop bar, spa, fitness center, and on-site dining options.
Best value tip: Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to find better deals on accommodation.
Where to stay in Tartu:
Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city, is famous for its university town vibe, historical sites, and green spaces.
Budget: Hektor Design Hostel: Located near the city center, Hektor Design Hostel offers budget-friendly accommodations in a stylish and modern setting. Guests appreciate its clean rooms, friendly atmosphere, and on-site facilities such as a sauna and bicycle rental.
Mid-range: Dorpat Hotel & Convention Centre: Situated on the banks of the Emajõgi River, this hotel offers mid-range accommodations with scenic views. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a sauna, fitness center, and on-site dining options.
Luxury: Hotel Antonius: Situated in a 16th-century building in Tartu's Old Town, Hotel Antonius offers luxurious accommodations with a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy beautifully decorated rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a cozy courtyard garden.
Best value tip: Look for accommodation deals during weekdays rather than weekends for better rates.
Where to stay in Pärnu:
Pärnu is a charming coastal town known for its sandy beaches, spa resorts, and relaxed atmosphere.
Budget: Hostel Louna: Situated in the heart of Pärnu, Hostel Louna offers budget-friendly accommodations within walking distance of the beach and other attractions. Guests appreciate its clean rooms, friendly staff, and communal kitchen facilities.
Mid-range: Hotel Victoria: Situated near the beach and Pärnu's main promenade, Hotel Victoria offers mid-range accommodations with modern amenities. Guests appreciate its central location, comfortable rooms, and friendly service.
Luxury: Hedon Spa & Hotel: Located on the beachfront, Hedon Spa & Hotel offers luxury accommodations with panoramic views of the sea. Guests can indulge in spacious rooms and suites, relax at the spa, dine at the gourmet restaurant, and enjoy beachfront access.
Best value tip: Consider visiting during the offseason (late spring or early autumn) to find better deals on accommodation and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
For hassle-free bookings, use platforms like Booking.com for competitive rates or Holiday Swap for unique homes worldwide. Ensure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and align your preferences with nearby activities such as surfing, snorkeling, or cultural exploration.
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