Top Things to Do and Not Miss While Visiting Estonia - Exploring History, Nature, and Culture
Estonia, a small country located in Northern Europe, offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culture that makes it an intriguing destination for travelers. From its charming medieval towns to its stunning national parks, Estonia has something to offer every visitor. However, like any other country, there are certain things you can and cannot do when visiting Estonia. In this article, we will explore the top things you can do, things you cannot miss, and things you should avoid doing while exploring this beautiful Baltic gem.
Things You Can Do When Visiting Estonia Country
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Explore the medieval charm: Estonia is known for its well-preserved medieval towns. Tallinn, the capital city, boasts enchanting cobblestone streets, Gothic churches, and medieval fortifications. Take a leisurely stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town and immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural wonders.
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Visit Lahemaa National Park: Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the beauty of Lahemaa National Park, located just an hour's drive from Tallinn. This picturesque park is home to pristine forests, serene lakes, and captivating coastal landscapes. Embark on hiking trails, spot wildlife, and discover charming fishing villages along the Baltic Sea.
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Indulge in traditional Estonian cuisine: Don't miss the opportunity to savor traditional Estonian dishes. Try the mouthwatering blood sausage (verivorst), hearty sauerkraut dishes (hapukapsas), and the famous black bread (leib). For a unique dining experience, visit one of the many cozy farm-to-table restaurants scattered throughout the countryside.
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Explore the islands: Estonia is home to over 2,000 islands, each with its own distinct character. Take a ferry to Saaremaa, the largest island, and explore its pristine beaches, ancient castles, and windmills. Discover the unique culture and traditions of Hiiumaa, or escape to the untouched wilderness of Muhu Island.
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Experience the sauna culture: Saunas hold a special place in Estonian culture. Embrace this tradition by visiting a traditional Estonian sauna, where you can relax, detoxify, and rejuvenate. It is customary to enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake or jump into the snow after a sauna session, which is believed to have health benefits.
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Attend a traditional song and dance festival: Estonia is known for its rich choral tradition. If you have the chance, attend a traditional song and dance festival, where you can witness thousands of singers and dancers coming together in a mesmerizing display of Estonian culture and unity.
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Explore the unique art scene: Estonia has a vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing contemporary and traditional works. Visit the Kumu Art Museum in Tallinn to discover Estonian art from the 18th century to the present, or explore the bohemian art district of Telliskivi Creative City.
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Go wildlife spotting in Soomaa National Park: Soomaa, meaning "land of bogs," is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Embark on a canoe trip through the flooded forests, admire the beautiful flora and fauna, and keep an eye out for beavers, elk, and maybe even a rare European lynx.
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Discover the fairytale-like castles: Estonia is dotted with fairytale-like castles that will transport you back in time. Explore the romantic ruins of Rakvere Castle, walk in the footsteps of knights at Kuressaare Castle, or visit the stunning neo-Gothic architecture of Sangaste Castle.
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Embrace the digital society: Estonia is known as the world's most digitally advanced society. Take advantage of this by exploring the country's e-services, such as e-residency, digital healthcare, and even voting online. Visit the e-Estonia Showroom in Tallinn to learn more about the country's digital innovations.
Things You Cannot Miss While Exploring Estonia
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Tallinn Old Town: The heart and soul of Estonia, the Tallinn Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that cannot be missed. Lose yourself in the narrow streets, admire the beautifully preserved medieval architecture, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere.
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Lahemaa National Park: A haven for nature lovers, Lahemaa National Park is a must-visit destination. Explore its diverse landscapes, visit charming coastal villages, and discover hidden waterfalls. Don't forget to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Jägala Waterfall.
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Hiiumaa Island: Known as the "Island of Folklore," Hiiumaa offers a unique glimpse into Estonian traditions and customs. Immerse yourself in the local way of life, visit the famous Kassari Chapel, and enjoy the stunning beaches of Kõpu Peninsula.
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Saaremaa Island: The largest island in Estonia, Saaremaa is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical sites. Explore the Kuressaare Episcopal Castle, relax on the sandy beaches of Mändjala, and witness the unique Kaali Crater, created by a meteorite impact thousands of years ago.
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Parnu: Known as the summer capital of Estonia, Parnu is a lively coastal town that offers beautiful sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and charming wooden houses. Take a stroll along the historic Rüütli Street, visit the Parnu Museum of New Art, and unwind in one of the many spas.
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Tartu: Estonia's second-largest city, Tartu, is a vibrant university town with a rich history and bohemian atmosphere. Explore the picturesque Old Town, visit the iconic Tartu University, and soak up the intellectual vibe at one of the city's many cafes.
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Seto Kingdom: Experience the unique Seto culture by visiting the Seto Kingdom, a region known for its distinct traditions and customs. Attend a traditional Seto folk festival, sample delicious local delicacies, and explore the beautiful landscapes of Lake Peipus.
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Narva Castle: Situated on the Russian border, Narva Castle is a magnificent medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views of the Narva River. Explore its ancient walls, visit the museum inside the castle, and witness the daily cannon firing ceremony.
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Viljandi: Nestled amidst picturesque lakes, Viljandi is a charming town that hosts one of Estonia's biggest folk festivals. Visit the medieval Viljandi Castle, stroll along the beautiful Lake Viljandi promenade, and enjoy the vibrant cultural scene.
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Soomaa National Park: Known as the "Land of Bogs," Soomaa National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Embark on a guided bog walk, go canoeing on the flooded meadows, and experience the magical atmosphere of this unique wilderness.
Things You Should Avoid Doing in Estonia
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Disrespecting local customs: Estonians value their traditions and customs. Avoid disrespecting them by familiarizing yourself with the basic customs, such as removing your shoes when entering someone's home or giving flowers in odd numbers.
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Ignoring the language: Estonian is the official language of Estonia, and while many locals speak English, it is polite to learn a few basic phrases. Simple greetings and thank yous will go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
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Not following sauna etiquette: Saunas are an important part of Estonian culture, and there are certain rules to follow. Always ask permission before entering someone's private sauna, refrain from wearing swimwear, and remember to wash thoroughly before entering.
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Being overly loud: Estonians are generally reserved people who value peace and quiet. Avoid being excessively loud or obnoxious, especially in public places and residential areas.
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Disregarding nature: Estonia is known for its pristine nature, and it is important to respect and preserve it. Avoid littering, stay on designated trails when hiking, and never disturb wildlife or plants.
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Not carrying cash: While Estonia is highly digitalized, there are still some places where cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small establishments. It is advisable to carry some cash for such situations.
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Not dressing appropriately: Estonia experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and mild summers. Dress accordingly and always carry an extra layer, as weather conditions can change quickly.
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Photographing without permission: Estonians value their privacy, and it is polite to ask for permission before taking someone's photograph, especially in more intimate settings or at cultural events.
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Being late: Punctuality is highly valued in Estonian culture. Make sure to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and cultural events to display respect for others' time.
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Not tipping appropriately: Tipping is not obligatory in Estonia, but it is appreciated for good service. Round up the bill or leave a small tip to show your gratitude.
Estonia is a country that offers a plethora of experiences, from exploring medieval towns to immersing oneself in pristine nature. By knowing what you can and cannot do, you can make the most of your visit to this captivating Baltic nation. Remember to respect the local customs, preserve the beautiful nature, and embrace the unique culture of Estonia.
