Estonia-7-day-itinerary

Estonia Travel Itinerary (7 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Tallinn

  • Arrival: Arrive at Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport or by ferry from Helsinki.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi, bus, or walk to your accommodation. Consider purchasing an Estonian SIM card with data for navigation and communication.
  • Accommodation: Stay in the Old Town (Vanalinn), specifically near Raekoja Plats for easy access to main attractions.
  • Evening Activities:
    • Explore the medieval streets of Tallinn’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Visit the Town Hall Square and its iconic clock tower.
    • Enjoy traditional Estonian cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Day 2: Tallinn

  • Morning:
    • Visit Kadriorg Park and Palace, a beautiful baroque park built by Peter the Great for his daughter Elizabeth. The palace contains an impressive art collection.
    • Stop by the nearby Kadrioru Stalaktiit concert hall and lake for a peaceful morning stroll.
  • Afternoon:
    • Head to the Kalamaja district, known as “fisherman’s quarter,” which is home to some of Tallinn’s most beautiful wooden architecture. Take a stroll along the coastal promenade, Põlva Promenade, for views of the Baltic Sea.
    • Visit the Tallinn City Museum (Linnamuuseum) in Kadriorg Park for an insight into the city’s history and culture.
  • Evening Activities:
    • Enjoy a dinner at a traditional Estonian restaurant, perhaps trying some local dishes like verivorst or mulgikapsad.
    • Visit the nearby AHHAA Science Centre for a fun-filled evening of science experiments and interactive exhibits.

Day 3: Lahemaa National Park

  • Day Trip: Take a day trip to Lahemaa National Park, which is located about an hour north-east of Tallinn. The park offers scenic hiking trails, historic manor houses, and beaches along the Baltic coast.
  • Places to Visit:
    • Sagadi Manor, known for its beautiful gardens and art exhibitions.
    • Altja Beach and village, offering stunning views of the sea and a chance to see traditional Estonian seaside life.
    • Palmse Open-Air Museum, showcasing historic buildings from around Estonia.

Day 4: Tartu

  • Travel: Travel to Tartu, the second-largest city in Estonia. It’s known for its university, beautiful architecture, and cultural events.
  • Places to Visit:
    • The University of Tartu Botanical Garden (Tartu Ülikooli Botaanikaaed) is a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city life.
    • Explore the Tartu Old Town, which features a charming town hall square with a medieval atmosphere.
    • Visit the AHHAA Science Centre in Tallinn if you have time before traveling to Tartu.

Day 5: Tartu

  • Morning:
    • Start your day at the Tartu Art Museum (Tartu Kunstimuuseum) for an insight into Estonian art from the 19th century onwards.
    • Visit the Tartu City Museum (Linnamuuseum) to learn about the history of Tartu and Estonia.
  • Afternoon:
    • Take a stroll along the Emajõgi River, which flows through the heart of Tartu. This area is perfect for a leisurely walk or to grab a snack from one of the many cafes.
    • Visit the Tartu Cathedral (Domekirik), which offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

Day 6: Saaremaa Island

  • Travel: Travel to the Saaremaa Island, known for its rugged beauty, historic sites, and traditional seaside life. You can take a ferry from the mainland or fly from Tallinn.
  • Places to Visit:
    • Kuressaare Castle (Saaremaa Muuseum) is a significant historical site that now serves as a museum and cultural center.
    • Enjoy the scenic views of the island, its villages, and the sea.

Day 7: Return to Tallinn

  • Return: End your journey by returning to Tallinn. Consider visiting any last-minute attractions or shopping for souvenirs.
  • Evening Activities:
    • Celebrate your trip with a traditional Estonian dinner.
    • Enjoy a farewell stroll through the Old Town of Tallinn.

Visa Requirements:

For citizens of many countries, including those in the EU and some visa-exempt nations (such as the USA, Canada, Australia), no visa is required for tourism or business stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, it’s always best to check with your country’s travel advisory department or the Estonian embassy in your home country for the most current and accurate information.

Transportation:

Estonia has a well-developed public transportation system. Trains are efficient but fewer in number compared to buses. Buses cover most of the country, including rural areas. Taxis are widely available. Renting cars or using ride-sharing services are also options if you prefer personal mobility.