ESTONIA

Welcome to Estonia! The smallest of the Baltic States, this digital-savvy nation is a captivating mix of medieval cities, dense forests, and a stunning coastline dotted with islands. From the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Tallinn to its bogs, beaches, and innovative tech scene, prepare to discover a country where ancient traditions meet modern advancements.

Region: Northern Europe (Baltic States)

Capital: Tallinn

Official Language: Estonian

Level of Travel Safety: Generally very safe. Crime rates are low, but take normal precautions against petty theft, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.

A map of Europe with Estonia highlighted in green.

Why Visit Estonia?

Timeless Old Towns: Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed medieval core is among Europe’s best preserved, complete with stone towers and cobbled alleys.

Digital Nomad Heaven: Estonia offers e-residency, robust Wi-Fi, and a welcoming remote work culture.

Island Escapes: Saaremaa and Hiiumaa are peaceful, pine-scented retreats filled with lighthouses, windmills, and folklore.

An aerial view of a city at night, illuminated by streetlights, with a large, bright square in the foreground.

Nordic Calm, Baltic Soul: Estonia fuses Scandinavian design and Slavic depth—expect minimalist cafés next to wooden Orthodox churches.

Nature All Around: Half the country is forest. Hike boardwalks in Soomaa’s bogs, kayak its floodplains, or bird-watch in Lahemaa.

Seasonal Beauty: Snow-dusted towns in winter, endless daylight in summer, and brilliant golden forests in autumn.

A large, grand white building with a red roof, nestled among tall, bare trees in an autumn setting.

Essential Trip Information

Estonia is part of the Schengen Area. Travelers from many countries (including the U.S., Canada, Australia, and many South American nations) can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Check the official website for specific requirements based on your nationality.

Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds.

For detailed and up-to-date information, please refer to the official Estonian Police and Border Guard Board website: https://www.politsei.ee/en/instructions/travelling-to-estonia

The official currency of Estonia is the Euro (€).

Bills: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500. Coins: 1¢, 2¢, 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, €1, €2.

Best Ways to Handle Currency:

  • Before Your Trip: It’s not necessary to exchange a large amount of cash beforehand. ATMs are widely available upon arrival and offer competitive exchange rates.
  • During Your Trip: ATMs are readily available throughout cities and towns. Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted even in smaller shops and restaurants. It’s advisable to carry €20–50 in cash for small purchases or in rural areas.
  • What to Avoid: Currency exchange kiosks (often have high fees) and dynamic currency conversion (always choose to pay in EUR when offered).

Estonian is the official language. Russian and English are widely spoken, especially in cities.

Helpful phrases: Tere! (Hello), Aitäh! (Thank you), Kus on…? (Where is…?)

Estonia is very safe. Violent crime is rare.

Be mindful of pickpockets in Tallinn’s Old Town, especially during peak tourist months.

Emergency number: 112

No special vaccinations required.

Tap water is safe and delicious.

Pharmacies (“Apteek”) are common in urban areas.

Travel insurance recommended (EU healthcare doesn’t cover non-EU citizens).

Public transport in Tallinn: Efficient trams, buses, and trolleybuses. Free for Tallinn residents—but not for tourists.

Use Bolt (Estonian Uber rival) for reliable and affordable rides.

Intercity buses (Lux Express, GoBus) are comfortable and punctual.

Cycling is safe in cities and islands—rentals available from US$10/day.

Estonia is moderately priced by European standards—more affordable than Western Europe, especially outside Tallinn.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels/guesthouses (US$30–60/night)

  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$80–120/night)

  • Luxury: Boutique & 4-star hotels (US$150–250/night)

Food

  • Cafés/bakeries: US$6–12

  • Casual dining: US$15–30/person

  • Fine dining: US$40–70/person

Drinks

  • Beer: US$3–6 (bars) / US$1–2 (stores)

  • Wine: US$5–8/glass, cocktails from US$10

Transportation

  • City buses/trams: US$2/ride, day passes ~US$5

  • Long-distance buses: US$6–15 (e.g., Tallinn to Tartu)

  • Car rental: US$30–60/day

  • Taxis: Start at US$3.50, ~US$0.80/km

Money-Saving Tips

  • Use the Tallinn Card for unlimited transport and museum entry.

  • Eat lunch at söögikohad (canteens) for budget-friendly Estonian meals.

  • Explore nature—national parks and beaches are free to access.

Explore Estonia

Estonia’s capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a remarkably preserved medieval Old Town with cobblestone streets and Gothic architecture. It’s located on the northern coast of Estonia, overlooking the Gulf of Finland.

One of Europe’s largest national parks, offering diverse landscapes including coastal areas, forests, rivers, and bogs. Explore manor houses and fishing villages. Situated in northern Estonia, east of Tallinn.

Estonia’s second-largest city and intellectual hub, home to a prestigious university and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its charming old town and Kissing Students Fountain. Located in southern Estonia.

Estonia’s largest island, known for its untouched nature, windmills, historic castles, and the unique Kaali meteorite crater. Accessible by ferry from the western coast of Estonia.

A popular summer resort town on the southwestern coast, famous for its sandy beaches, spas, and lively promenade. It’s often called Estonia’s “summer capital.”

Renowned for its “fifth season,” a period of high water levels where canoeing becomes the primary mode of transport. Features extensive bogs and diverse wildlife. Located in southwestern Estonia.

A charming seaside resort town on the western coast, known for its therapeutic mud, romantic wooden villas, and the medieval Haapsalu Castle.

A picturesque town with a rich history, centered around its impressive castle ruins and beautiful lake. It’s known for its folk music festival. Located in southern Estonia.

Estonia’s third-largest city, boasting the impressive Hermann Castle which faces the Russian Ivangorod Fortress across the Narva River. Located in northeastern Estonia, on the border with Russia.

The capital of Saaremaa Island, dominated by the remarkably well-preserved Kuressaare Castle, a 13th-century episcopal castle now housing a museum. Located on the southern coast of Saaremaa.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Winter Sports (excluding peak)
  • Cozy Atmosphere

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cold Temperatures (often below 0°F / -18°C)
  • Shorter Days (as little as 6 hours of daylight)
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski)
  • Some closures

Key Regions:

  • Tallinn: Enchanting medieval Old Town, perfect for cozy exploration.
  • Tartu: University city with a vibrant indoor cultural scene.
  • Otepää: Estonia’s winter sports capital for skiing and snowboarding.
  • Saaremaa: Quiet island escape, ideal for serene winter walks.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (temperatures ranging from 40-60°F / 4-15°C)
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices (e.g., hotels for US$70-120/night)
  • Festivals & Events
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Spring Mud Season (especially in rural areas)
  • Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn)
  • Some attractions might have reduced hours early Spring/late Autumn

Key Regions:

  • Tallinn: Explore the Old Town and enjoy fewer queues at attractions.
  • Lahemaa National Park: Stunning for hiking and admiring nature’s awakening or autumn hues.
  • Pärnu: Coastal resort town, quieter before the summer rush or after it.
  • Soomaa National Park: Famous for its “fifth season” (spring floods), unique canoeing experiences.
  • Viljandi: Medieval town, often hosts cultural events in shoulder seasons.
  • Mid-Summer (June-August)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Peak Ski Season (February-March)

Planning Your Trip

Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated—round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants.

Quiet culture: Estonians value personal space and silence. Avoid loud conversations in public places.

Shoes off indoors: Many locals remove shoes inside homes or guesthouses.

Sauna etiquette: Nudity is common in same-gender saunas—follow local practice or ask if unsure.

Respect for nature: Estonia is eco-conscious; recycling and litter rules are strict.

Accommodation: Hostels (US$25–60), mid-range hotels (US$100–180), luxury (US$250+).

Food: Cafés and lunch deals (US$8–15), restaurants (US$20–35), gourmet (US$60+).

Transport: Intercity buses/trains (US$5–20), Tallinn public transport (US$1.50/ride), car rentals (US$30–60/day).

Activities: Museums (US$5–15), national parks (free), spa days (US$30–70).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$70–100 (hostels, transit, local meals).

  • Mid-range: US$150–220 (nice hotels, full meals, car rental).

  • Luxury: US$300+ (historic manors, fine dining, private tours).

Free Wi-Fi: Widely available in cafes, hotels, and even public buses.

SIM Cards: Prepaid SIMs from Telia, Elisa, or Tele2 (~US$7–15 for 10GB+).

eSIMs: Supported—check Airalo or Nomad for quick activation.

Highly recommended for:

  • Medical emergencies (Estonian healthcare is excellent but not free for foreigners).

  • Trip delays/cancellations, especially in winter.

  • Outdoor activities: Ensure coverage for cross-country skiing, island kayaking, or snowmobiling.

Estonia offers a surprising range of options, from medieval boutique hotels to countryside manor houses.

Luxury:

  • Boutique hotels in historic buildings: Schlössle Hotel (Tallinn), Pädaste Manor (Muhu Island).
  • Rates: US$250–500+/night.

Mid-range:

  • Modern and stylish: Hotel Lydia (Tartu), Hotel Telegraaf (Tallinn).
  • Prices: US$100–180/night.

Budget:

  • Clean hostels and guesthouses: The Monk’s Bunk (Tallinn), Tartu Backpackers.
  • Rates: US$25–60/night.

Unique Stays:

  • Manor houses: Historic countryside estates like Sagadi Manor.
  • Island guesthouses: Rustic stays on Saaremaa or Kihnu Island.

Tip: Book Tallinn accommodations early in summer and during Christmas season.

Compact and well-connected, Estonia offers a variety of efficient and affordable transport options.

Buses:

  • Most common intercity travel method. Comfortable coaches (Lux Express, Ecolines) with Wi-Fi and entertainment.
  • Prices: US$5–20 depending on the route (e.g., Tallinn–Tartu).

Trains:

  • Modern and punctual. Tallinn–Tartu or Tallinn–Narva are scenic and fast (~2–3 hours).
  • Tickets: ~US$10–15.

Local Transport:

  • Tallinn public transport (buses, trolleys, trams): Free for residents, cheap for tourists (~US$1.50 per ride).
  • Smartcard or QR-ticket via app recommended.

Car Rentals:

  • Ideal for exploring national parks or remote beaches. Costs start at US$30–60/day.
  • Roads are well-maintained and signage is tourist-friendly.

Ferries:

  • Serve Estonia’s islands (Saaremaa, Hiiumaa). Tickets US$5–10 per person.

Bold Recommendation: Use buses for intercity travel and rent a car for off-the-beaten-path nature trips.

Handy Tips

Estonia uses the Euro (€). Banknotes come in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500 denominations; coins range from 1 cent to €2.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks. Use ATMs or banks for the best exchange rates.

  • Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted—even at small cafés and market stalls. American Express is less common.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is not obligatory, but appreciated (5–10% is common).

    • Restaurants/Bars: 5–10%, or round up.

    • Taxis: Not required—rounding up is enough.

    • Hotel Staff: €1–2 for porters; €1–2/day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: €5–10 per person for a good experience.

The official language is Estonian, but most young people speak good English.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Kus on lähim bussipeatus?” – “Where is the nearest bus stop?”

  • “Kui palju see maksab?” – “How much does this cost?”

  • “Kas ma saaksin arve?” – “Can I get a receipt?”

Pro Tip: Locals are reserved but kind. Don’t expect small talk, especially with strangers or service workers—it’s not considered rude.

Estonia is one of Europe’s safest countries. Petty theft can occur in touristy areas, but violent crime is rare.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 112 – All emergencies (police, medical, fire).
    Your Embassy: Most embassies are in Tallinn. Keep a digital copy of your passport.

Estonia uses 230V/50Hz and Type C/F plugs (two round pins).
Bring an adapter for U.S. devices; a voltage converter may be needed for older appliances.

Tap water is perfectly safe to drink—clean, fresh, and often rated among the best in Europe. Don’t waste money on bottled water.

Many shops and attractions close or have reduced hours on public holidays:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 24 Feb: Independence Day

  • Good Friday / Easter Monday (dates vary)

  • 1 May: Spring Day

  • 23 Jun: Victory Day

  • 24 Jun: Midsummer Day

  • 20 Aug: Day of Restoration of Independence

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 26 Dec: Boxing Day

Note: Jaanipäev (Midsummer’s Day) is a major celebration—expect bonfires and countryside festivities.

Stores: Usually open 10:00–20:00, including weekends.

Supermarkets: Some (like Rimi, Prisma) open 8:00–23:00.

Pharmacies: Open 9:00–20:00 (24/7 pharmacies only in major cities like Tallinn).

Markets: Saturdays are best for local food and crafts (e.g., Tallinn’s Balti Jaam Market).

Verivorst: Blood sausage served with sauerkraut—traditional winter dish.

Mulgipuder: Barley and potato mash with bacon and onions.

Sült: Jellied pork, eaten cold with mustard (a polarizing favorite).

Kiluvõileib: Open-faced rye sandwich with sprats, egg, and herbs.

Smoked Fish: Especially Baltic herring or eel—get them at coastal markets.

Wild Mushroom Soup: Earthy, creamy dish often made with chanterelles.

Elk or Boar Stew: Common in country taverns—served with root vegetables.

Kohuke: Chocolate-covered curd snacks (sold everywhere!).

Kama: A dessert powder (barley, pea, and rye flour) mixed with yogurt.

Vana Tallinn Cake: A boozy dessert flavored with Estonia’s famous liqueur.

Alcoholic:

  • Vana Tallinn: A sweet rum-based herbal liqueur—Estonia’s national spirit.

  • Craft Beers: Try Põhjala Brewery or Lehe Brewery—Baltic porters are rich and dark.

  • Saaremaa Vodka: Crisp, clean—locally distilled.

  • Estonian Mead: Rare but excellent—look for metsamesi (forest honey) mead.

  • Mulled Wine (Glögi): Popular during winter markets.

  • Cloudberry Schnapps: Fruity and strong—found in countryside guesthouses.

  • Rye Ale: A traditional farmhouse-style beer.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Kali: A fermented rye drink (mildly fizzy and sweet).

  • Birch Sap: Available in spring—light, mildly sweet.

  • Herbal Teas: Often homemade using chamomile, peppermint, or juniper.

  • Kefir: Fermented milk drink (tangy, probiotic-rich).

  • Lingonberry Juice: Tart and refreshing.

Song Festival Grounds (Tallinn): Site of the Singing Revolution—visit the stage or attend a choral concert.

Seto Culture: Visit Võru County to experience a unique blend of Orthodox and pagan tradition.

KGB Prison Cells (Tartu & Tallinn): A grim yet important Cold War history site.

Estonian National Museum: Deep dive into folklore, folk costumes, and Finno-Ugric heritage.

Manor Houses: Elegant countryside estates like Palmse or Sagadi.

Ethnographic Open-Air Museum: Historic buildings, windmills, and farms outside Tallinn.

St. Olaf’s Church: Climb the spire for the best city view.

Jaanilinn Castle Ruins: Border fortress with Russian views across the river.

Old Believer Villages: Along Lake Peipus, home to Russian-speaking religious communities.

Kihnu Island: Matriarchal society with a unique dialect and vibrant clothing.

Tallinn Old Town: Medieval walls, towers, cobblestones—UNESCO-listed.

Telliskivi Creative City: Street art, cafés, and indie shops in a former factory zone.

Seaplane Harbour Museum: Interactive maritime museum inside a WWI hangar.

Kadriorg Park & Palace: Baroque palace built by Peter the Great.

Kumu Art Museum: Estonia’s top modern art museum.

Lahemaa National Park: Hike, bike, or swim among bogs, manors, and pine forests.

Spa Culture: Head to Pärnu or Haapsalu for thermal baths and treatments.

Rooftop Bars: Lounge at Lounge 24 or Fotografiska’s rooftop.

Opera or Ballet at Estonia Theatre: Inexpensive tickets for high-quality performances.

Tartu Nightlife: Student bars, live music, and festivals in Estonia’s second city.

Pudel Bar: Craft beer heaven in Telliskivi.

Frank Underground: Speakeasy-style cocktail bar with velvet vibes.

Sveta Baar: Queer-friendly, artsy nightlife spot.

Club Studio: One of Tallinn’s top dance clubs—electronic-heavy.

Heldeke!: Hidden theater-bar with burlesque and comedy.

NOA Restaurant: Upscale dining with a sea view.

Fotografiska Tallinn: Art gallery by day, rooftop bar and DJ sets by night.

Noblessner District: Industrial-chic harbor with bars, saunas, and sea views.

Apollo Kino Solarise: Watch indie films or 4DX blockbusters with a beer in hand.

EKKM (Contemporary Art Museum): Grungy and hip—frequent gigs and installations