Estonia is a small but beautiful country in Northern Europe, bordering Russia, Latvia, the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea. It has a rich and diverse culture, history and nature that make it a great destination for travelers who want to explore something different. In this blog post, I will share with you some of the most interesting places to visit in Estonia, from medieval cities to scenic islands to national parks.
The capital and largest city of Estonia, Tallinn is a charming blend of old and new. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, Gothic churches and ancient fortifications. You can walk along the Town Hall Square, admire the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, climb the Toompea Hill for panoramic views and visit the Kiek in de Kok Museum to learn about the city’s military history. Tallinn also has a vibrant modern side, with trendy cafes, bars, restaurants and museums. You can enjoy the cultural events, nightlife and shopping opportunities in the city center or explore the creative district of Telliskivi.
Lahemaa National Park
The Lahemaa National Park is the largest and oldest national park in Estonia, located just an hour’s drive from Tallinn. It covers an area of 725 square kilometers, encompassing forests, bogs, lakes, rivers and coastline. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as deer, elk, boars, beavers and eagles. One of the highlights of the park is the Viru Bog or Viru Raba, a stunning wetland area with boardwalks and observation towers. You can also visit the historic manor houses of Palmse, Sagadi and Vihula, which offer museums, gardens and accommodation.
Hiiumaa is the second largest island in Estonia, situated in the Baltic Sea. It is a peaceful and scenic place to visit, with sandy beaches, pine forests, lighthouses and windmills. You can reach Hiiumaa by plane from Tallinn or by ferry from several coastal cities on the mainland. The island is popular among surfers, sailors and hikers who enjoy its natural beauty and tranquility. Some of the attractions on Hiiumaa include the Tahkuna Lighthouse, the tallest in Estonia; the Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world; and the Kassari Chapel, a wooden church dating back to the 18th century.
Viljandi is a small city in Southern Estonia that has a long and rich history. It was founded by ancient Estonians and later became an important trading center during the Hanseatic League. The city’s main attraction is the Viljandi Order Castle, which was built in the 16th century by the Livonian Order. The castle is now in ruins but still offers impressive views of the surrounding lake and park. Viljandi is also famous for its annual folk music festival, which attracts thousands of visitors every July. The festival features dozens of concerts in various venues across the city, celebrating Estonian and international folk music.
Rakvere Castle
Rakvere Castle is a 16th century fortress located in Northern Estonia. It was originally built by the Danes in the 13th century but later expanded and renovated by different rulers. Today, Rakvere Castle is a medieval theme park where you can experience life in the Middle Ages. You can see knights polishing their armor, alchemists working in their labs, wine makers producing their drinks and cooks preparing their dishes. You can also try your hand at archery, sword fighting or pottery making. The castle also has a museum that displays artifacts and exhibits related to its history.
These are just some of the many places to visit in Estonia that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable. Estonia is a country that has something for everyone: history, culture, nature and adventure. If you are looking for a cool experience in Europe, don’t miss out on this hidden gem!
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