Discover the best tourist destinations in Estonia, from Tallinn’s Old Town to incredible natural beauty and history.
Estonia, a small country in Northern Europe, may not be well known to many international tourists. However, the country offers a variety of stunning tourist destinations, combining stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture.
From historic cities with ancient architecture to stunning national parks, Estonia is a place that offers a different experience for every visitor. Here are the 10 best tourist destinations in Estonia that you must visit to enjoy all the beauty and cultural richness it has to offer.
1. Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn Old Town is one of the best-preserved historical cities in Europe and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city offers a beautiful view of cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares.
One of the must-see places is Toompea Castle, which is perched on a hill, offering spectacular views of the entire city.
The city is also known for its historic Dome Cathedral and the Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which show the Russian influence of the past. A walk around Tallinn Old Town will give you a fascinating insight into Estonia’s well-preserved history.
2. Kihnu Island
Kihnu Island is one of the unique must-visit destinations in Estonia. Located in the Baltic Sea, the island is famous for its predominantly female population, who carry out many activities such as farming, making clothes, and tending livestock.
This island has very strong traditions, and its local culture is recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage. Besides enjoying the stunning natural scenery, you can learn about the lives of the Kihnu people who still maintain their traditional culture. Kihnu Island also offers beautiful beaches and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation.
3. Toompea Castle
The majestic Toompea Castle has been a symbol of Estonian power for centuries. Standing proudly on a hill overlooking Tallinn’s Old Town, it offers stunning views of the city’s surroundings.
Built in the 13th century, the castle has a long history and now serves as the home of the Estonian parliament.
Visiting Toompea Castle is an opportunity to explore Estonia’s historical heritage while enjoying the beautiful views from the top of the hill. You can also see many other historical places around this castle which adds to its appeal as a major tourist destination.
4. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is the largest Orthodox church in Estonia and one of Tallinn’s most iconic monuments. Built in the late 19th century, the church features magnificent Neo-Byzantine architecture with five large gold-plated domes.
The cathedral serves not only as a place of worship but also as an important symbol in Estonian history, given its role in Russian influence. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of its beautiful architecture and interior, and feel the peace that radiates from this church.
5. Lahemaa National Park
Lahemaa National Park is one of the largest and oldest national parks in Estonia and is known for its stunning natural beauty. The park includes sandy beaches, beautiful bays, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls.
It also has many hiking trails that allow you to explore nature in a very enjoyable way. In addition, Lahemaa is home to various species of birds and mammals, making it a perfect place for nature lovers and wildlife watchers.
6. Saaremaa Island
Saaremaa Island is the largest island in Estonia and is a popular destination among tourists. Located in the Baltic Sea, the island offers stunning natural beauty and tranquil rural landscapes.
You can enjoy beautiful beaches, explore traditional villages, and visit magnificent medieval castles. Apart from its stunning nature, the island also has various historical and cultural monuments, as well as recreational activities such as cycling, fishing and boating. Saaremaa Island offers a complete experience for every traveler.
7. Narva Castle
Narva Castle, also known as Herman ‘s Castle, is located in the city of Narva on the border between Estonia and Russia. The castle was built in the 13th century and is one of the main symbols of the city of Narva.
With its strategic position above the Narva River, the castle offers a very beautiful view. Besides exploring the castle, you can also enjoy the view of the Ivangorod Fortress on the Russian side.
Narva Castle is a perfect choice for visitors interested in military history and medieval architecture.
8. Piusa Cave
Piusa Caves is one of the unique tourist destinations in Estonia, located in the Piusa River valley. The caves were formed during the sand excavation process from 1922 to 1966 and are now home to the largest bat colony in Europe.
Piusa Caves offers an interesting experience for visitors who want to explore the dramatic underground world. Visitors can walk along the cave and enjoy the stunning views while learning more about the natural phenomena that occur in this area.
9. Soomaa National Park
Soomaa National Park is a destination known for its unique annual flooding phenomenon, which creates a phenomenon known as the “fifth season”.
The park is renowned for its biodiversity, which includes a variety of flora and fauna species, as well as natural phenomena that are rarely seen anywhere else.
You can walk on wooden bridges built over the swamp or take a canoe to explore the natural beauty of the national park. Soomaa offers a natural experience that cannot be found anywhere else, making it a very attractive destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
10. Rakvere Castle
Rakvere Castle is a medieval castle located in the town of Rakvere, northern Estonia. The castle is known for its well-preserved medieval atmosphere, complete with interactive activities such as archery, sword fighting, and theater performances.
Visitors can experience life in the Middle Ages with a variety of activities on offer, as well as explore the history of the castle which has been around since the 13th century.
Rakvere Castle also offers beautiful views of the surroundings, making it a great tourist destination for families and history buffs.
Estonia offers a variety of interesting tourist destinations, from historic cities filled with ancient monuments to enchanting wilderness. With its pristine natural beauty and rich historical sites, Estonia is a fascinating destination to explore.
Whether you are interested in the beauty of Tallinn’s Old Town, enjoying the serenity of Kihnu Island, or exploring the vast national parks, Estonia has something for everyone.
Similarly, the remote island of Pingelap is known for its untouched landscapes and unique cultural heritage, making it an intriguing place for travelers seeking hidden gems.
Don’t miss the chance to visit this enchanting country and experience the beauty and uniqueness it has to offer!