Is Estonia Worth Visiting ? 10 Reasons to See it
If you’re thinking about whether or not you should visit Estonia, It’s a big hell yes.
Do not hesitate one second. Pack your bags and go already!
Since you’re still reading this, I guess you’re still lukewarm to the idea.
So let me tell you all the top reasons why I think you should make it a priority to get to this beautiful Baltic country sooner than later.
Tallin & its Fairytale Old Town
We will start this Estonia travel blog with the most compelling reason of them all, Tallinn’s old town.
Estonia is very unique. But did you know that its old town has been declared a UNESCO world heritage?
Yes this beautiful old town spans millennial and if this is not a top reason for you to get there, then I don’t know what else is.
The second you step in, you will immediately understand why. You will find some of the most colorful houses and you will think you’ve just time travelled to the the medieval days.
Heritage & Culture
Like most of Europe, Estonia is so full of culture. With a robust and very well preserved Medieval architecture, it is also very multifaceted. Yes of course, we can’t deny that stepping into Tallinn often feels like being on a movie set. But there is much more than meets the eyes, Tallinn has a very diverse history. It also used to be part of the Soviet Union.
No Mass Tourism
Perhaps one of my favorite reasons. Yes, Western Europe is nice but you know what’s even nicer?
Not having to fight a hoard of people wherever you go. Because the Baltics are still under the radar, you won’t have this problem. That said, their popularity is also growing quite a lot. This is partly due to the advent of budget airlines serving the region.
Sauna Culture
Sauna culture is a part of most Nordic countries and the Baltics, especially Estonia is not exempt. Especially being so closed to Scandinavia and also the old Russian steam bathing tradition of Banyas.
All of these helped further establish the strong sauna culture. What this means for you, a traveler on your first trip to Estonia, is that you will often find accommodations that come with their own saunas.
Now how cool is that?
The Estonian Islands
Estonia has a very big water culture. And I totally see why. Did you know that there is more than 1500 islands? Saaremaa is a very popular one. This is a whole opportunity to dive deeper in Estonia’s culture and explore a different side. Some people rent or sign up for island hoping adventures. The islands truly are worth your time.
The Beautiful Wooden Houses
Yes, I know, I started this blog by selling Tallinn’s old town. But can I be honest here for a second?
Of course, the old town is pretty. That said, it’s the wooden houses that do it for me. There is something so charming about them. I’m pretty sure you will love zigzagging through them just as much as I do. No better place to get lost, if you ask me.
The Food
Estonian’s food might not be on the same level as, let’s say, Japanese, Thai or Italian cuisines. That said, if you’re like me and are totally obsessed with potatoes and Pork, well you’ll be in for a good time.
Furthermore, I love how the restaurant scene is creating all sorts of fusion.
Check out my Tallinn food blog on the best places to eat. You will see what I mean. If you are a foodie, come with an open mind and you will have a great time.
The Markets
This is a bit related to food but I am also the type to travel for experiences and atmosphere. But I know I can’t be the only one who loves a good market.
They are a bit different in Tallinn. I found the capital had some of the biggest, most extensive and lots of variety. For example, I did not expect a place like Balti Jaama Turg.
It is not only adorable but you can literally spend a whole day there, from shopping for handicrafts to eating and checking out the fish market. It has it all, all with so much authenticity.
Ever thought about trying Uzbek cuisine?
Well, you can do that over there without ever traveling to Uzbekistan.
The Beautiful Seaside Town of Parnu, Estonia
It is no secret that I absolutely love Parnu.
After spending some time in Tallinn, you should definitely make your way to Parnu.
The locals told me that they used to have a train service connecting the cities together. This is no longer the case but it is only a 2 hours bus ride away from the capital. I
usually travel with Flixbus or Lux Express. You an also hire a taxi or any other private transfers. If I sit here, I could talk about Parnu for days. So do check out my numerous Parnu Travel blogs and comprehensive guides for more info.
Parnu Grind Festival
I got to experience one of the biggest electronic music festival in Estonia. And if you’re a fan, I totally recommend it. The crowd was a little bit younger but do not let it stop you from having a fantastic time.
For more Estonia Travel Blogs
- Ultimate guide to Parnu, Estonia Seaside Summer Paradise
- 19 Best Things to do in Parnu
- The Best Beach Bars in Parnu, Estonia ( Don’t Miss These)