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City Guides - Estonia
Find interesting places to go, entertaining things to do and a bunch of surprises in this Estonian city guide section.
The capital, Tallinn, has around 400,000 inhabitants and yet it is home to the most intact, and UNESCO protected, medieval city centre in the world.
Tallinn's ability to blend medieval architecture with Scandinavian modernity whilst still retaining a unique sense of Estonian identity is what attracts most people.
Being the capital it has the widest choice of accommodation, attractions and events to choose from.
The university city of Tartu sits on the Emajõgi river. The large student population and wealth of museums means that the city is always alive with interesting and new events to entertain you. Come to Tartu and see the famous kissing sculpture, meet the Tartu ghost (perhaps) and use it as a base for your South Estonia explorations.
Rakvere is close to the north coast and Lahemaa National Park.
It is dominated by a medieval castle and by a giant statue of 'Tarvas' the bull. It's a small, attractive and developing city and hosts a growing number of art events.
The Hermann Fortress, which looks across the Narva River to the Russian castle on the other side, is the best-preserved castle in Estonia. Narva is largely populated by Russian language speakers and the city has fine examples of Soviet architecture.
Pärnu is a beautiful, historic seaside resort city and the summer capital of Estonia. It plays host to a large number of festivals and other events and has become an internationally recognised spa resort. Its small harbour is popular with people sailing the Baltic Sea.
Viljandi is an ancient hilly city in South Estonia topped by impressive ruins of a once-powerful Livonian Order castle. Cobbled streets, ancient oak trees and a beautiful lake conjure up a very special atmosphere. Each year the Viljandi Folk Festival attracts thousands of people who sing and dance in 100 events over 4 days.
Haapsalu is a major seaside resort famous for its range of spa hotels and fine beach. The old town is popular too and Haapsalu Castle, haunted by a white lady, hosts many events including various music festivals.
A small city it might be but in winter, hilly Otepää is the winter capital of Estonia and attracts skiers, snowboarders, snowmobile riders, snow tubers and sledgers from all over Estonia and beyond. It's home to international cross-country skiing (Estonia's favourite sport) events and in summer, the hills are alive with hikers and climbers.
