When you think of Estonia, the first thing that likely comes to mind is the enchanting medieval Old Town in Tallinn, the country’s capital. The cobblestone streets and ancient buildings offer a stark contrast to the more modern aesthetic and design you’ll find in cities like Helsinki, Stockholm, Oslo, or Copenhagen.
While these four Nordic capitals each possess their own unique charm, they share a distinctly Nordic and Western feel — modern cities with a strong Western influence, though Helsinki is a notable blend of East and West. Tallinn, however, feels different. It has an unmistakable Eastern vibe, its architecture recalling other beautiful Eastern European old towns like those of Prague, Krakow, or Riga. Step outside the Old Town, and you’ll find echoes of Soviet and Russian influence embedded in the architecture and atmosphere.__ And yet, just a short ferry ride away, you can travel from the modern West to this historic Eastern treasure.__ Through its history, culture, and geographical location, Estonia serves as a bridge between Eastern Europe, Central Europe, and Scandinavia — making it a must-visit addition to your Nordic itinerary.
Food: A Tasty Fusion of Influences
Estonian cuisine reflects a rich blend of Russian, Scandinavian, German, and even French influences (in that order!). Similar to the Finns, Estonians have a deep love for dark rye bread, although the flavour profile differs slightly from its Finnish counterpart. Estonians are also known for pickling—everything from fish to mushrooms and beyond. On the menu, you’ll find a variety of smoked fish, hearty pork dishes (especially sausages), and plenty of potatoes, along with an abundance of craft beer to wash it all down.
Estonia’s Song and Dance Celebrations
Estonians are often referred to as the “singing nation” because of their famous Estonian Song Festival, held every five years at the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. The event features a choir of more than 30,000 singers, dressed in traditional costumes, performing to an audience of 80,000 people. It’s an experience unlike any other, and its significance has led UNESCO to designate it as a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.” The festival is held in tandem with the Estonian Dance Festival, making it an unmissable cultural event. The next festival will be held in 2025, and it should be on the must-see list for anyone interested in experiencing an authentic cultural celebration in Estonia.
TOP DESTINATIONS BEYOND TALLINN
Haapsalu
Located less than two hours’ drive from Tallinn, Haapsalu is a quaint town known for its narrow streets and romantic wooden houses. With a long history as a spa resort, Haapsalu has attracted wellness-seekers since the opening of its first mud spa in 1825. The town is a favourite among families and couples, who enjoy picnicking, sailing, walking, and, of course, relaxing in the healing waters of the local spas.
Saaremaa
Saaremaa is Estonia’s largest island, situated off the west coast in the Baltic Sea. It’s accessible by ferry from the mainland and is largely covered by dense forests of pine, spruce, and juniper. The island captures Estonia’s appreciation for traditional cottages by the sea and offers a perfect blend of nature, local cuisine, art, and culture. The island’s capital, Kuressaare, is home to an impressive medieval castle that is a must-see when visiting Saaremaa.
Pärnu
Pärnu is a delightful medieval city and is considered Estonia’s ultimate summer destination. It boasts long, sandy beaches and shallow waters perfect for relaxation and water sports. Whether you’re walking, cycling, or roller-skating along the beach promenade, trying your hand at water skiing or yachting, or paddling a canoe or kayak along the Pärnu River, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy here.
Lahemaa National Park
For nature enthusiasts, Lahemaa National Park is a true haven. As one of Europe’s most important forest conservation areas, it’s home to a vast array of wildlife, including moose, brown bears, lynxes, wild boars, and foxes. The park is an excellent destination for hiking and nature watching, offering an authentic experience of Estonia’s natural landscape.
Tartu
Tartu is Estonia’s second-largest city, easily explored on foot. Known as the country’s cultural capital, Tartu offers a variety of concerts, festivals, and theatrical performances. It’s also home to one of Northern Europe’s oldest universities, and visitors can enjoy numerous museums, cafes, and an active nightlife scene.
Read the full article by TERHI RUNNALLS / Fifty Degrees North
