Estonia Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Tallinn Old Town – UNESCO-listed medieval architecture and cobblestone streets.
- Lahemaa National Park – Forest trails, waterfalls, and traditional manors.
- Saaremaa Island – Castles, spas, and a peaceful Baltic vibe.
- Pärnu – Estonia’s summer capital with beaches and resorts.
- Tartu – Estonia’s university town rich in history and culture.
Language & Culture
Estonian (Eesti keel) is the official language, closely related to Finnish. Estonian culture values quietness, nature, digital innovation, and Nordic design aesthetics. Saunas, folk music, and literature are integral to the identity.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Reliable intercity buses, trains, and ferries to islands. Tallinn has an efficient tram and bus system.
- Currency: Euro (EUR).
- Food: Try verivorst (blood sausage), herring, kama (grain mix), and black bread. Vegetarian options are increasingly common.
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| May – September | Mild to warm | Festivals, beaches, hiking |
| December – February | Cold, snowy | Christmas markets, sauna culture |
Main international entry point is Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport. Buses and ferries link Estonia with Finland, Latvia, and Sweden.
Estimated Budget (Per Day/Traveler)
| Category | Cost (EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €25 – €100 | Hostels to mid-range hotels |
| Meals | €10 – €30 | Local eateries and cafes |
| Transport | €3 – €15 | Public transit and intercity buses |
| Activities | €10 – €40 | Museums, tours, spa entry |
Packing List Suggestions
- Layered clothing for variable weather
- Rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes
- Power adapter (EU plug type C/F)
- Swimsuit for spas and saunas
20 Basic Language Tips
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Tere | Hello |
| Aitäh | Thank you |
| Palun | Please / You’re welcome |
| Head aega | Goodbye |
| Kuidas läheb? | How are you? |
| Väga hästi | Very well |
| Kas te räägite inglise keelt? | Do you speak English? |
| Ma ei saa aru | I don’t understand |
| Vabandust | Sorry / Excuse me |
| Kus on tualett? | Where is the toilet? |
| Kui palju see maksab? | How much does it cost? |
| See on kallis | That is expensive |
| Ma armastan Eestit | I love Estonia |
| Terviseks! | Cheers! |
| Ma olen turist | I am a tourist |
| Jah / Ei | Yes / No |
| Ma vajan abi | I need help |
| Üks hetk | One moment |
| Avatud / Suletud | Open / Closed |
| Kohtumiseni | See you |
Health & Safety
- Tap water is safe to drink
- Pharmacies are well stocked and staff often speak English
- Low crime rates; use standard precautions
- Travel insurance recommended for non-EU visitors
Festivals & Holidays
- Laulupidu – Estonian Song Festival (every 5 years)
- Jaanipäev – Midsummer celebrations in June
- Tallinn Christmas Market – November to January
- Black Nights Film Festival – Late November
Sustainable Tourism
- Use digital services – Estonia is highly digitized
- Explore on foot or by bike to reduce emissions
- Respect nature reserves and follow marked trails
- Support local artisans and eco-certified hotels
