Writer: Helena Bergström
Updated: August 2026 | Rally Estonia is Estonia's big rally festival, with special stages on the roads of southern Estonia and crowds of spectators along the tracks. When we traveled around Estonia by camper van, we took the opportunity to experience the rally weekend - from the festivities in Tartu to jumping rally cars, dusty curves and crowd celebrations in the countryside.
Tweet
Share
Share
Pin
Share
ShareTable of contents
Rally Estonia – Estonia's big rally party
Rally Estonia is one of Estonia's largest motorsport events and is held on fast gravel roads in southern Estonia. During the rally weekend, large crowds of spectators gather along the special stages and various activities and festivities are usually organized in connection with the competition.
When we were traveling around Estonia by campervan in the summer of 2019, Rally Estonia happened to fit perfectly into our itinerary. We decided to dedicate a few days to the rally – which turned out to be much more of a folk festival than we had expected.
Friday night - prelude to Rally Estonia
When we visited Rally Estonia 2019, the weekend began with festivities in central Tartu. A large stage had been set up in the middle of the city, and there were both speeches and entertainment on offer.
There was also an exhibition with lots of cars. You could look at rally cars, of course, but also some lorries, camper vans and military vehicles.
Some people couldn't resist climbing up on those military vehicles... I (Helena) was taking photos of Peter, while taking photos of helicopters and fireworks. There was a lot going on at the same time!
Rally Estonia - in several locations around Tartu
The rally itself takes place on various special stages in southern Estonia, and as a visitor you have to choose where you want to stand and watch. When we were here in 2019, we actually found it quite difficult to understand where the best spectator spots were and how to get there.
After some research, we found a spot in the countryside south of Tartu where we got a really good view of the course.
Truuta Spectator Area
One of the spectator areas during the 2019 rally was located at Truuta, and lots of people gathered here ahead of one of the day's special stages.
It was really fun to watch the rally, which started with a "bump" so all the cars came flying into the track. Soon after, they had to skid in the corners and the dust was flying.
Many had brought tent chairs, blankets, food bags and drinks to spend the whole day at the rally. Others brought ladders (!) to make sure they got a good view. There were also places to buy food, beer and ice cream, and some activities for children.
Practical for Rally Estonia
Rally routes, spectator areas, times and traffic arrangements change from year to year, so if you are planning to visit Rally Estonia, it is best to check this year's programme and audience information on the official Rally Estonia website before your trip.
Also keep in mind that roads may be closed around the special sections and that it may be a long way between the parking lot and the place where you want to stand. Good shoes, water and something to sit on can be practical – and after seeing the locals on site, we can say that a ladder can also apparently come in handy.
More to see and do in the neighbourhood
There is of course more to see and experience around Estonia. Here are some tips:
FAQ – frequently asked questions about Rally Estonia
What is Rally Estonia?
Rally Estonia is Estonia's largest international rally competition, held mainly on gravel roads in southern Estonia. Over the years, the competition has been included in various international championships.
Where is Rally Estonia held?
The rally is strongly associated with Tartu and southern Estonia, but the special stages themselves are run on various roads in the countryside. Exact routes and spectator locations may change from year to year.
When is Rally Estonia held?
Rally Estonia is usually held during the summer. Dates may vary from year to year, so always check for up-to-date information before visiting.
Is Rally Estonia worth visiting even if you are not a rally fan?
We loved it! For us, the experience was as much a folk festival as it was a motor sport. Many people spend the whole day outside at the special stages with chairs, blankets and packed lunches while the rally cars whizz by.
Can you visit Rally Estonia by motorhome?
We did and found the camper to work well during our trip. However, roads may be closed and parking options may vary depending on the special stages of the year, so check the organiser's information before driving to a spectator area.
Programme "Promoting Estonia as a Tourism Destination" is supported by European Union Regional Development Fund.
You might also like:
What to do in Tallinn - 30 sights and experiences
Things to do in Estonia - 30 sights and experiences
Sinulog festival in Malapascua, Philippines
Christmas market in Tallinn - a brilliant experience
Poland's thriving wine culture – and the country's largest wine festival
She travels the world without a permanent job: "People overestimate money and underestimate each other"”
English (UK) 
Svenska
Britt-Marie Lundgren says:
Rally was actually something I almost grew up with as my 8 years older brother had this as his great interest. In the winters we were in the forests as freezing spectators when the cars skidded in the snowdrifts.
In my early teens, I made a few tentative attempts at a map reading course, but it was nothing for someone with a bit of motion sickness!!!??
14 July 2019 - 9:11
Helena says:
What fun to hear about! Then you feel at home in the rally world! ? Map readers don't seem easy ... I get nauseous sometimes on the twisty roads here when reading on the phone, and then it's not even rallying ... ?
15 July 2019 - 10:08
dianasdrömmar says:
A fast-paced holiday indeed :) hugs to you
14 July 2019 - 9:28
Helena says:
Really! ?
15 July 2019 - 10:08
Nils-Åke Hansson says:
Rally is a fast-paced experience.
14 July 2019 - 19:17
Helena says:
Yes, indeed! ???
15 July 2019 - 10:09
BP says:
What a party! So glad you got to experience it irl! I myself love rallies and cars, old and new.
14 July 2019 - 19:58
Helena says:
Great fun! Also good weather and good atmosphere! ?
15 July 2019 - 10:09
Lena - gott för själen says:
But oh what fun! I have never seen a rally live. It reminds me of when I watched a caravan race on TV. It consisted of just accelerating, the caravans skidded and travelled behind and became more and more broken. I laughed so hard I cried. So funny!
Hug Lena
14 July 2019 - 20:57
Helena says:
Oh help, the caravans must be dragging hysterically! ???
15 July 2019 - 10:10
Bertil Svensson says:
Yes, rallying is really fun to experience, both from the spectator seat and in the driver's seat. Nowadays it's the historical rally for me in a SAAB V4.
15 July 2019 - 21:35