A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
The last genuinely European nation before the vast expanse of Russia dominates the east, Estonia presents an intriguing amalgamation of Slavic, Russian, Scandinavian, and distinctly local cultures. Spanning from the picturesque, windswept coastlines of the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland to the expansive forests surrounding Tartu in the south, Estonia reveals remarkable and captivating destinations throughout.
Imagining Estonia as a human being, it would be a hippie-turned-tech entrepreneur: savvy, innovative, forward-looking, and punching above its (tiny) weight, yet deeply rooted in its cultural heritage and ever embracing its wild side.
The northernmost country of the three Baltic States may be small and sparsely populated, yet Estonia’s wild landscapes and fascinating history offer a unique combination of nature and culture.
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania might just be the next big hiking destinations. The Baltic states may lack mountain ranges, making them less enticing for those seeking summits. However, the region offers breathtaking forests, primeval bogs, and a rugged coastline bordered by the cold Baltic waters—all best explored at a leisurely pace.
When you’re situated as far north as Estonia’s fairytale capital, each season has its own distinct personality. Summer days seem to stretch forever, but so do winter nights. Within their turreted old-town walls, the locals have learned to cope with nature’s rhythms with season-specific traditions and tailored festivals to get them through even the coldest months.
With so many destinations touted as ‘the next food capital’, Estonia’s Tallinn has flown under the gourmet radar, overshadowed by its Michelin-starred New Nordic neighbors. Possibly fueled by misconceptions about its cuisine: isn’t it just stodgy dumplings and vodka?
While Estonia is the most visited of the three Baltic States, it remains an unusual and often overlooked European destination. This former Soviet territory offers an intriguing history, charming architecture, and beautifully preserved natural landscapes, making it well worth a visit.