Saaremaa, Estonia's largest island
Saaremaa is an island of Vikings and mythical heroes that attracts visitors looking for a relaxing spa getaway or an Estonian-style beach holiday.
Estonia's largest island feels completely different from mainland Estonia.
Saaremaa is an island of adventurers...
Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen was born on Saaremaa, then known as Ösel, in 1778. In 1819, he was one of the leaders of the expedition that discovered Antarctica.
In the 4th century BC, the Greek explorer Pytheas found a mythical island at the northernmost edge of the world and named it Ultima Thule. Islanders say that, according to legend, he was describing Saaremaa. You can learn more about Saaremaa's alternative history at Thule Koda Museum in Kuressaare.
An island with a Viking past...
Excavations in 2008 and 2010 uncovered the remains of two Viking ships in Salme. Archaeologists believe that the ships date back to 700–750 AD. The remains of 40 soldiers were found buried with weapons and other items. A concrete monument marks the site and gives you a sense of the ships' size.
Visitors of all ages can try their hand at axe throwing and archery and learn more about Viking history in Estonia at Asva Viking Village.
Photo author: Elson's, Visit Saaremaa
And home to mythical heroes.
Ancient heroes, such as the giant Suur Tõll and his wife, Piret, once called Saaremaa home. Tõll ruled the island, and his brother, Leiger, lived across the water on Hiiumaa. When Tõll went to visit Leiger, there was no need for a boat; he only had to take a few steps across the sea, and he was there. Suur Tõll's cabbage garden was located on Ruhnu. When Piret put the pot on the fire, Tõll went across the sea, and by the time the water boiled, Tõll returned with cabbages in hand.
Look for Estonian sculptor Tauno Kangro's depiction of Suur Tõll and his wife in front of Meri Seaside Hotel & Spa.
Photo author: Meri Spa Hotel
How to get to Saaremaa
There are two options: by sea or by air.
The most common route from mainland Estonia is to take the ferry to Muhu and then drive over the Väinatamm causeway to Saaremaa. You can board the ferry on foot, with a private car, or by bicycle. The crossing to Muhu takes approximately 27 minutes. Check the ferry schedule and purchase tickets online. Alternatively, you can reach Kuressaare by bus from Tallinn, as the bus boards the ferry. You can buy tickets online at tpilet.ee.
For a quick and comfortable journey from Tallinn to Kuressaare, consider flying; the flight takes around 30 minutes. Book your flight tickets online.
For the adventurous, small ports like Roomassaare Harbor and Kuressaare City Harbour are ready to welcome sailors who wish to navigate their own way to the island.
Photo author: Kristina Mägi, Visit Saaremaa
Kuressaare, the capital of Saaremaa
Once you set foot in Kuressaare, island time takes over.
From here, you can turn your holiday into whatever you want. Relax in a spa, cycle out into the countryside, dip your toes into Saaremaa's history and culture at a museum, or spend the day at the beach.
At the heart of the city stands Kuressaare Castle, a well-preserved stone fortress whose mighty moats and surrounding park invite you to travel back in time. Nearby, you'll find cozy cafés, shops full of local crafts, and restaurants serving authentic island flavors.
But this is only a taste of everything Saaremaa has to offer.
Photo author: Kuressaare TIK
Nature on Saaremaa is different from that on the mainland.
There's more sun than anywhere else in Estonia.
Thanks to the mild climate and limestone-rich soil, Saaremaa has diverse flora and fauna, including wild orchids and flocks of thousands of migratory birds. And just because it's an island doesn't mean you have to spend all your time at the beach. You can also explore the island's bogs with a SUP board or canoe down a tranquil river.
Exciting geological features include the famous Kaali Meteorite Crater Field (Europe's first scientifically proven meteorite crater) and Panga Cliff, which is perfect for scenic walks. The island is also home to one of Estonia's six national parks, Vilsandi National Park.
A green island
Saaremaa was on the 2020 Sustainable Top 100 destinations list.
The competition for international sustainable travel destination success stories is organized by Green Destinations to recognize places that put effort into making the experience of visitors more sustainable and value-based.
The Green Destinations Quality Award shows that the way of life takes the environment more into account: local traditions and heritage are valued, the local community is respected, and mass tourism is avoided. All activities are as environmentally, climate- and nature-friendly as possible.
Photo author: Priidu Saart
Discover Saaremaa's rich cultural heritage
Visit medieval stone churches, a famous castle, lighthouses, farms, and windmills.
Kuressaare Castle is one of the best-preserved establishments of its kind in the Baltics. Angla Windmill Mount is worth a visit, as it houses the region's famous windmills, where you can pick up some handicraft skills at the heritage center's workshops.
Photo author: Allar Liiv
Explore small islands around Saaremaa
Explore the thrill of island hopping in Saaremaa and nearby islands. You can reach them by boat, car, or even by wading through the water on foot.
Viirelaid
This island near Muhu is characterized by wind-battered junipers, tranquility, and a 360-degree sea view.
Viirelaid has long been a landmark for sailors, mentioned as early as 1556. Viirelaid Lighthouse, on the northeastern part of the island, is Estonia's oldest metal lighthouse.
You can get to Viirelaid by boat from Virtsu or Kuivastu; the trip takes about 10-15 minutes. Viirelaiu Island Holiday Complex can accommodate up to 90 people in summer and up to 30 people in winter.
Photo author: Viirelaid
Photo author: Rivo Veber
Abruka Island
This small but beautiful island is home to wooded meadows and rich alvar ecosystems.
Culture enthusiasts can stroll through old village sites, buy ice cream at the museum, climb a charming birdwatching tower, and visit a windmill, a miniature cemetery, and cozy farm buildings.
There is a boat connection organized by the local municipality that runs from Roomassaare (Saaremaa) to Abruka and back. Check schedules and purchase tickets in advance.
Places to stay in Saaremaa
Saaremaa has plenty of accommodation options, from spa hotels in Kuressaare to peaceful rural retreats.
Plan a different kind of island getaway!
Discover more activities on the Visit Saaremaa website.
Photo author: Valmar Voolaid
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Last updated
17.08.2026