Enchanting Estonia: Top 10 Places to Visit in 2024

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore enchanting Estonia’s top 10 places to visit in 2024, ensuring seamless communication while discovering its historic sites, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Tucked away in Northern Europe, the Baltic gem of Estonia beckons with its perfect blend of medieval charm, unspoiled nature, and vibrant culture. This small country punches well above its weight when it comes to tourist attractions. In 2024, Estonia’s best places to visit include everything from fairytale old towns to serene islands, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveller.

1. Tallinn’s Old Town: A Medieval Marvel

Estonia’s famous capital city is home to one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval old towns. The UNESCO-listed Tallinn Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and pastel-hued merchant houses. Don’t miss these highlights:

• Toompea Hill: Climb up for sweeping views over the old town’s red rooftops.

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: This onion-domed Orthodox church is a symbol of Tallinn.

• Town Hall Square: The heart of the old town, lined with outdoor cafes perfect for people-watching.

2. Saaremaa Island: Estonia’s Largest Isle

Saaremaa is the largest of Estonia’s islands and one of the most beautiful places in Estonia. This tranquil isle is dotted with thatched-roof farmhouses, wooden windmills, and pristine beaches. Top things to do include:

• Kuressaare Castle: A 14th-century fortress that now houses the Saaremaa Museum.

• Kaali Meteorite Crater: The 9 craters formed by a meteor crash 3500 years ago.

• Panga Cliff: A 20-metre-high limestone cliff with views over the Baltic Sea.

3. Lahemaa National Park: Estonia’s Wild Side

Just an hour’s drive from Tallinn, Lahemaa is one of Estonia’s top tourist places for nature lovers. This vast park encompasses rugged coastline, dense forests, and serene bogs and lakes. Highlights include:

• Viru Bog: Walk the 3.5 kilometres boardwalk trail through this mystical peat bog.

• Altja Fishing Village: A picturesque coastal hamlet with a popular beach.

• Palmse Manor: A beautifully restored 18th-century Baltic-German manor house.

4. Tartu: Estonia’s Cultural Capital

Estonia’s second-largest city, Tartu, is a charming university town with a lively, youthful vibe. Stroll along the picturesque Emajõgi River, explore the ruins of the 13th-century cathedral, and soak up the intellectual atmosphere. Must-visit spots include:

• Tartu University: Founded in 1632, it’s one of Northern Europe’s oldest universities.

• Tartu Old Town: Filled with neoclassical buildings, cafes, and boutiques.

• AHHAA Science Centre: An interactive science museum great for kids.

5. Parnu: Estonia’s Summer Capital

This coastal resort town is one of the best places to visit in Estonia in summer. Parnu boasts beautiful sandy beaches, a charming old town, and lush parks. Top activities include:

• Parnu Beach: Rent a sun lounger and relax on this wide stretch of white sand.

• Parnu Museum: Learn about the town’s history in a 1905 villa.

• Red Tower: Climb this 15th-century tower for panoramic town views.

6. Hiiumaa Island: A Hidden Gem

Quiet, sparsely populated Hiiumaa is a true hidden gem among Estonia’s tourist places. The island offers pristine nature, a peaceful atmosphere, and plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports. Don’t miss:

• Kõpu Lighthouse: Dating from 1531, it’s one of the world’s oldest lighthouses.

• Suuremõisa Castle: A grand 16th-century manor house surrounded by apple orchards.

• Käina Bay: A shallow bay with a 2 kilometre nature trail great for birdwatching.

7. Narva: Estonia’s Eastern Frontier

Sitting on the border with Russia, Narva is unlike anywhere else in Estonia. The city’s star attraction is the colossal Narva Castle, standing guard over the Narva River. Other highlights include:

• Narva Triumphal Arch: An ornate arch erected for a 1704 visit by Peter the Great.

• Narva College: An ultra-modern building contrasting with the castle.

• Narva-Jõesuu Beach: An 8 kilometre-long sandy beach on the Gulf of Finland.

8. Rakvere: The Heart of Lahemaa

The small town of Rakvere makes an excellent base for exploring Lahemaa National Park. But the town itself has a few worthwhile attractions, including:

• Rakvere Castle: A 13th-century castle offering medieval-themed activities.

• Aqva Hotel & Spa: Soak in the spa’s Dead Sea pool and 8 saunas.

• Police Museum: Housed in a former police station, with Soviet-era exhibits.

9. Viljandi: Estonia’s Folk Music Capital

The small southern Estonian town of Viljandi is best known for its annual folk music festival in July. But it’s worth a visit year-round for its pretty lakeside setting and charming old town. Main sights include:

• Viljandi Order Castle Ruins: The crumbling remains of a 13th-century castle.

• Lake Viljandi: Stroll or bike along the 11 kilometre trail around the lake.

• Kondas Centre: An art museum dedicated to naïve Estonian artist Paul Kondas.

10. Matsalu National Park: A Birder’s Paradise

Matsalu National Park in western Estonia is one of Europe’s best birdwatching spots. Every spring and autumn, millions of migratory birds pass through the park’s wetlands, meadows, and reed beds. Top spots for birders include:

• Haeska watchtower: Climb the tower for views over the wetlands and coast.

• Saastna Peninsula: Walk the nature trail through dunes, pine forest, and juniper groves.

• Penijõe Manor: Join a guided tour of this historic manor house.

When to Go & Getting Around

The best time to visit Estonia is from May to September. Summers are mild with long daylight hours—perfect for exploring Estonia’s famous places. Tallinn and Tartu are well-connected by bus and train to other cities. To reach islands and national parks, renting a car is most convenient.

Staying Connected in Estonia with Airtel

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From UNESCO-listed old towns to wetlands teeming with birdlife, Estonia offers a wealth of attractions belying its small size. In 2024, these 10 best places to visit in Estonia are sure to charm visitors with their unique blend of history, nature, and culture. So why not start planning your Estonia trip today?