Estonia - a country of many cultures
Located in Eastern Europe, Estonia is positioned against the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland. Latvia is situated to the south and as a result many Latvian holidaymakers choose to visit the coastal regions during the summer months. Estonia has a rich history influenced by Finnish, Baltic, Germanic and Slavic nations; this heritage is evident in the architecture, traditions and customs. Tour the exhibits on display at the Kumu Art Museum and Niguliste Museum in Tallinn and learn about Estonia’s resilient past in the Mahtra Peasant Museum. Spend an afternoon sailing a yacht on the Baltic coast or wander around the Botanical Gardens of Pirita. Explore the capital city’s 18th century Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and enjoy views over Tallinn from the tower of St. Olaf's Church. Estonian cuisine is based around the season; visitors can enjoy fresh berries and garden vegetables in summer or hearty beef stews from the winter menu.
Why Go?
Travel to Estonia to marvel over a country influenced by several cultures and nations. Stroll through the cobbled old town of the capital city and discover historic architecture including cathedrals, museums and a palace. Explore the port and marina or take a yacht trip along the sweeping Estonian coastline.
When to Go?
Estonia has a continental climate influenced by coastal winds from the Baltic Sea. The summer weather appeals to both local and international holiday makers looking to sunbathe by the shore. Temperatures are at their best during July and August with average temperatures exceeding 25°C. Humid breezes generally keep the temperatures bearable. Winter months can be very cold, with temperatures dropping rapidly from the start of October. Snowfall is common from December to March.
How to get there?
Estonia is served by four international airports. Fly direct from the UK to Tallinn-Ülemiste Airport (TLL). easyJet operate flights from London Stansted and Estonian Air from London Gatwick; journey time is approximately three hours. Tartu-Ülenurme Airport (TAY), Pärnu Airport (EPU) and Kuressaare Airport (URE) all offer domestic flights throughout Estonia and daily services to Swedish and Latvian destinations.
Must see
Travel to Estonia and take a tour of the country’s best loved cities including Tartu, Nava and the capital city Tallinn. Each city offers unique architecture, quaint old town squares and great seasonal markets. Explore the Toompea, Upper Town of Tallinn for impressive boutiques or relax with a coffee overlooking the Raekoja Plats, Town Hall Square. Tourists can spend an enchanting afternoon wandering the halls of Kadriorg Palace or stumble across small antique shops of the All-Linn quarter. Walk through the cobbled St Catherine’s Passage to see the iconic 14th century Viru Gate and entrance to the Old Town.