Att göra i Estland - 30 sevärdheter och upplevelser

Writer: Helena Bergström

Updated: August 2026 | What can you see and do in Estonia? Here we offer 30 tips for an exciting travel destination with historic cities, beautiful nature, islands, beaches, castles and a lot of Swedish history. Follow us to some of Estonia's best sights and experiences!

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What to do in Estonia - our top tips

There is so much to discover, see and do in Estonia. A year or so ago we travelled around the whole country by motorhome, and we've also visited Tallinn several times. Here we have gathered our best tips.

1. Stroll around historic Tallinn

Estonia's capital Tallinn is an enchanting city with a rich history, medieval charm and 1800 metres of medieval wall. Its beautiful old town centre, with cobbled streets and Gothic buildings, takes visitors on a journey back in time. The old town has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

Some places you can take the opportunity to explore are the narrow street Katariina käik, the medieval Town Hall Square, one of Europe's oldest pharmacies still in operation, the Cathedral Hill, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Kalamaja district.

2. Luxuriate in a hotel and spa in Tallinn

In Tallinn there are several hotels with a luxury feel, where you can also enjoy the spa and pool baths. Hilton Tallinn Park hotel is an example of a nice hotel with very good food, a large breakfast buffet, gym, casino and spa.

3. Have fun at the Proto discovery workshop.

Proto Discovery Workshop is an exciting experience center in Tallinn that takes visitors on a journey through early technological advances. Here, you can explore and experience wonders such as submarines, steam locomotives and hot air balloons. Using virtual reality glasses, you can take amazing journeys straight into the world of imagination.

4. Visit the Kadriorg Palace

Kadriorg Palace is located in the Kadriorg district, just outside the most central parts of Tallinn. The palace was built in Baroque style between 1718 and 1725, during the reign of Peter the Great, and was intended to be used as a summer residence for Empress Catherine I.

After World War I and Estonia's independence, the palace became an art museum. Then it became the presidential palace, and then it became an art museum again. The palace can be visited inside, where you can see beautiful palace rooms and art exhibitions.

5. Take a selfie at Jägala waterfall or Keila waterfall.

Jägala Falls is one of Estonia's largest and most impressive natural waterfalls. It is about eight meters high and more than 50 meters wide. Even when the water is not at its peak, it is wonderful to stand next to the roar and splash of the falls.

While you're at it, waterfalls are... Keila waterfall southwest of Tallinn near the village of Keila-Joa and is about six meters high and 60–70 meters wide. There is a romantic park by the waterfall and next to it is a beautiful mansion that also functions as a hotel.

6. Experience Lahemaa National Park

Lahemaa National Park, or Lahemaa Rahvuspark as the park is called in Estonian, is known for its beautiful nature with hiking trails on wooden planks, but also for its fine old manors. We stopped at Kolga mõis, the Kolga manor, which belonged to the Stenbock family and was enormous, like a small castle. There is lots of Swedish history here.

You can also go to the beautiful mansions of Palmse mõis and Sagadi mõis, where you can also experience beautiful castle gardens. Other places to visit are the captain's village Käsmu, the fishing village Altja and Võsu, where there is a nice beach.

7. Fascinated by the cliffs of Ontika

The cliffs of Ontika in Estonia are dramatically steep rock walls that plunge 55 metres straight into the sea, and can also be called the 'cliff coast of Ontika'. Head to Valaste and a car park to find the steps down the steep cliff face and take a lovely walk along the beach.

Fifteen minutes from Ontika is a large, beautiful and well-maintained castle park called Oru Park in Toila. A castle once stood here, which was the summer residence of President Päts, but during the Second World War it was bombed to pieces. However, there is still plenty to see in this well-maintained park, which is one of our favourite things to do in Estonia.

8. Travel through time at Rakvere Fortress

Rakvere Fortress from the 13th century is located on a hill in the city of Rakvere in northern Estonia, and has at one time belonged to both Denmark and Sweden. The fortress is today a popular tourist attraction for the whole family, and inside the castle activities and performances are arranged that take both children and adults to the 16th century.

How about a restaurant, chapel, torture chamber, prison, alchemist's workshop, wine cellar, knights, archery, horses, carriages, clucking chickens, gallows for hanging, brothel and more.

9. Take a historical excursion to Hermannsborg in Narva.

When visiting Hermannsborg Castle in Narva, which is also the last outpost and the border with Russia, you should also visit Narva Museum. The price includes a visit to the courtyard and a walk up the tower, which is called Långe Hermann. A lot of the history is tied to Sweden and many signs and inscriptions are in Swedish, which makes the visit a little extra fun for a Swede.

At the top of the tower you can see the Russian fortress of Ivangorod, which is so close you can almost touch it. Also visit the Victoria Bastion and see the Swedish lion that symbolises the Battle of Narva 300 years ago.

10. Admire the city of Tartu

Tartu is a thriving university town located in south-eastern Estonia. With its rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, when it was called Dorpat, the city offers a fascinating mix of old and new. The youthful atmosphere of Tartu is evident with its active university and vibrant nightlife.

You can check out the sights on Toomemägi (Cathedral Hill) such as the Bishop's Cathedral, Tartu Observatory and the Monument to Johan Skytte, advisor to Gustav II Adolf and initiator of the University of Estonia in 1632. It is also nice to explore the Town Hall Square, have a coffee at Café Werner, drink a beer at Püssirohukelder or visit the National Museum of Estonia.

READ MORE: 10 things to do in Tartu, Estonia

11. Visit the Estonian National Museum of Modern Art

Just outside the centre of Tartu is the National Museum of Estonia. This new museum, opened in 2016, is housed in an impressive building with a magnificent entrance. Here visitors can explore Estonia's folk history, way of life and traditions.

One exhibition we particularly appreciated was the one on the cultural history of the Finno-Ugric peoples, presented in a modern and beautiful way with many interactive elements. The National Museum of Estonia offers a fascinating and enriching journey through the country's cultural heritage.

12. Learn about the Old Believers at the Pepsimaa Museum

Peipsimaa Museum is a museum that tells the story of the Old Believers in Estonia. The museum is located in Tiheda, just south of Mustvee, on Lake Peipus. Many people living around Lake Peipus are Old Believers, or raskolniks as they are also called. They are the followers of Orthodox Christians in Russia who refused the new order in 1666.

The Old Believers came to the area in the 17th century after religious reforms and persecution in Russia. To this day, a distinctive culture survives along the western shore of Lake Peipus, with prayer houses, samovar traditions, fishing and the famous onion farming.

13. Taste fish from Lake Peipus

Lake Peipus is Europe's fifth largest lake and is home to a wide variety of fish. The lake is 7 meters deep at its deepest and is home to many different fish.

At Peipu's fish kiosk you can try freshly grilled vendace straight from the oven, as well as pike caviar and perch prepared in the traditional way by the Old Believers. The area also offers other delicacies such as soups, pies and various fish and root vegetable dishes.

14. Visit an onion farmer on the Onion Road in Estonia

At Lake Peipus there are plenty of onion growers. The onion grows well in the wet soil and also tastes different from other onions. However, making a living from onion farming is difficult today, and many young people move to Tartu to study or find other jobs. Nevertheless, the onion farms are thriving. Here you can buy onions directly from the onion farmers, or perhaps get a chance to try their onion soup or onion pies.

15. Step inside Alatskivi Castle

Alatskivi Castle on Lake Peipus, built in 1885, is inspired by the Tudor style and the famous Balmoral Castle in Scotland. The castle was built by local landowner Arved von Nolcken as a love gift to Josephine, and it served as their family residence.

Today the castle houses a visitor centre and also offers overnight accommodation, including ghost dinners. On the second floor is a museum dedicated to Estonia's most famous composer, Eduard Tubin, where you can explore his life and works. Nearby is the Kivi kõrts inn.

16. Climb the highest mountain in the Baltics – Suur Munamägi

To climb The highest mountain in the Baltics, Suur Munamägi, takes no more than 10 minutes and you have to do it once you get here. The mountain is 318 meters high and the parking lot is 60 meters from the top. There is an observation tower at the top if you want an even better view.

17. Sunbathe and swim in Pärnu

Pärnu beaches are a paradise on the Baltic Sea coast, with soft fine sand and shallow beaches. There are also beach bars and restaurants here, and it's not hard to see why it has become so popular.

18. Experience mud baths, spas and saunas in Pärnu

The history of the spa dates back to 1838, when baths and saunas were first offered in both summer and winter. After the Soviet era, the "Pärnu Mudarvila" bath was closed, but in 2014 a boutique spa opened in the same building.

Besides this, there is also the ESTONIA Resort Hotel & Spa, a spa well worth a visit. A tip is to walk around Pärnu because the city has many beautiful old turn-of-the-century houses and it is good for the soul just to take part in them.

19. Eat at beautiful Villa Ammende in Pärnu

Among the many villas in Pärnu, Villa Ammende stands out with its unique character. Built in 1905, the villa once belonged to a merchant named Ammende and is an excellent example of Estonia's best Art Nouveau style. Between 1927 and 1935, the villa served as a casino and during World War II it was used as a club.

After an extensive renovation, a hotel and restaurant was opened in the villa in 1999. Here you can experience the Art Nouveau environment and enjoy gourmet dishes such as ostrich starters or lamb baptism for starters, and duck with pea puree or fish with rum and quail eggs for the main course.

20. Discover the island of women, Kyno

Kynö, or Kihnu as the island is called in Estonian, is a small and very special island. The traditional culture is one of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

Kynö is known for its strong and vibrant culture, where women traditionally played a central role when the men were away at sea. The men were sailors and were away for a long time, which led to the women taking on a great deal of responsibility. Feel free to visit the museum to understand the traditions and history.

21. Take the ferry to Saaremaa

Saaremaa, or Saaremaa as the island is called in Estonian, is the largest of the Estonian islands. Here you can see, among other things, the Kaali meteorite crater and discover the high limestone cliff Panga Pank. You can also see the Värdre mills and the Kuressaare Bishop's Castle.

22. Check out the windmills at Angla windmill hill

The island of Saaremaa is known as the island of windmills, and it is almost a must to see Angla windmill hill. Here you will find five windmills, four of which are characteristic ”stump mills” typical of Saaremaa.

23. Be impressed by Kuressaare Bishopric

Kuressaare Bishop's Castle, also known as Kuressaare Castle, is one of Estonia's best-preserved fortresses. The impressive building, built between the 14th and 19th centuries, is surrounded by massive walls and moats, and is adorned with mighty towers. Today, you are welcome to visit the castle and learn about its legends.

24. Experience amazing Dagö

Dago, or Hiiumaa is a green and peaceful island filled with lighthouses, beaches and small harbors. Here you can learn about the history of the Estonian Swedes and visit everything from beaches to mansions and quirky sights such as the ”Eiffel Tower of Dagö”.

25. See the lighthouses on Dagö

One of the things Dagö is really famous for is its historic lighthouses. The three most famous are Kõpu, Ristna and Tahkuna, and all of them are interesting to see because they have different characters. The most famous lighthouse Kõpu Lighthouse, which is considered one of the world's oldest still active lighthouses.

26. Learn about Swedish history on Dagö

One of the most special places on Dagö is Cross Mountain, Ristimägi. The place is associated with the Reigi Swedes who were forced to leave the island in August 1781.

The Estonian Swedes had had special rights since the Middle Ages, but over time conflicts arose over, among other things, the status of the peasants and their obligations towards the landlords. Ultimately, the conflicts led to the dramatic event that still characterizes the story of the Swedes of Dagö.

27. Have fun at Rummu quarry in Estonia

Rummu Quarry in Estonia is one of the country's most unusual sights. Here, turquoise water, sunken buildings and the remains of a large prison area meet. Today, the site has developed into a tourist destination where you can swim, dive, paddle, visit a prison museum – and even spend the night in a camper van.

28. Discover stunning Haapsalu in Estonia

Haapsalu is a charming little coastal town with colorful wooden houses, an old bishop's castle and a long history as a health resort. It is also where Ilon Wikland grew up, and today you can visit Ilon's Fairy Tale Land, a museum and activity center, as well as the Haapsalu Bishop's Castle and a historic railway station.

29. Discover Tallinn's restaurants

Tallinn has developed into a truly exciting foodie city, with everything from traditional Estonian flavors to modern restaurants and international cuisines. There are elegant restaurants in the Old Town, creative eateries in Kalamaja and Telliskivi, and seaside restaurants in Noblessner.

We have tried many different restaurants during our visits to Tallinn, and we definitely think that the food is part of the experience. Feel free to try Estonian produce and local specialties – or book a table at one of the city’s more modern restaurants.

30. Experience the Christmas spirit in Tallinn

Tallinn is not just a summer destination. During Advent, the medieval old town is transformed into an atmospheric Christmas town, with fairy lights, decorations and a Christmas market on the Town Hall Square. In the middle of the square stands the large Christmas tree, surrounded by small market stalls where you can buy crafts, Estonian specialties and warming drinks.

Tallinn Christmas Market is not very large, but the setting amidst the historic houses of the Old Town makes it all the more atmospheric. Feel free to combine the Christmas market with a walk through the Christmas-decorated alleys and the viewpoints on Domberget.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about traveling in Estonia

What not to miss in Estonia?

Tallinn is an obvious destination, but Estonia has much more to discover. Some of our favorites are the islands of Saaremaa and Daugava, Lahemaa National Park, the university city of Tartu, the spa town of Pärnu, Lake Peipus, and the special environment of the Rummu quarry.

What is there to see in Estonia outside Tallinn?

Outside Tallinn, you can find national parks, manor houses, medieval castles, waterfalls, long sandy beaches and charming small towns. You can also visit the islands of Saaremaa, Daugava and Kyno, or travel along Lake Peipus and experience the culture of the Old Believers and the Onion Route.

How many days do you need in Estonia?

For a weekend in Tallinn, two or three days is enough. If you want to discover more of the country, a week is a good start, while two weeks or more gives you the opportunity to combine Tallinn with, for example, Tartu, Pärnu, Lahemaa, Peipus and one of the islands.

When is the best time to travel to Estonia?

Summer is perfect for a tour of Estonia, especially if you want to visit the islands, swim and spend a lot of time outdoors. Spring and autumn are great for city trips and hiking, while Tallinn is popular in winter, especially during the Christmas market.

Is Estonia expensive?

Estonia is no longer the distinctly low-cost country it once was. Prices also vary between Tallinn, tourist resorts and the countryside. Restaurants, accommodation and other travel costs can still be cheaper than in Sweden in some places, but don't expect everything to be cheap.

Is it easy to travel around Estonia?

Yes. Estonia is a relatively small country and distances are short. It is possible to travel by bus and train between many places, while a car or camper van gives the greatest freedom if you want to discover the countryside, national parks and islands.

Which Estonian islands are worth visiting?

Saaremaa and Hiiumaa are the two largest islands in Estonia and are ideal for a longer stay. The smaller Kihnu is known for its unique culture and living traditions. All three are worth a visit, but offer quite different experiences.

Can you travel by campervan in Estonia?

Yes, Estonia is an easy country to explore by motorhome. The roads are generally good, the distances are short and there are both campsites and various options for overnight stays. Please read our separate guide Travelling with a motorhome in Estonia - all you need to know.

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Things to do in Estonia - 30 sights and experiences