Estonia

 

 

 

 

F or a country that’s just a bit larger than the State of Maryland, Estonia packs a punch. Nestled in a corner of the Baltic south of Finland and west of Russia, it has evolved into a major tourism destination in recent years.

The reason for its popularity has been its mix of splendid castles, charming country villages and seaside towns, as well as the medieval old town within Tallinn, its capital. Walk the cobbled streets of the old town and you’ll find 14th-century buildings, elegant courtyards and back alleys, cafes and boutiques.

Further east of Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park, with its forests and coastal trails that run along the Baltic Sea, lures those who love the outdoors. To the west, the picturesque town of Kuressaare on the island of Saaremaais a jewel. Around it windmills and medieval ruins pepper the land.

Pärnu, called the country’s “summer capital” because of the throngs that flock to its beach in the warm weather, is a mix of 19th-century villas and pastel-colored wooden houses

Top Experiences:

Tallinn – a magnificent Old Town
Saaremaa Island – jewel of the archipelago
Pärnu Beach – the summer capital
Tartu – the intellectual capital

Good to Know

Tallinn’s Old Town, Peter the Great’s Kadriorg Palace

Transportation

You can’t fly to Tallinn’s from North American, but you can make connections through many other European capitals. You can also arrive via ferry from Finland, Sweden and Germany. There is no internal rail network although one connecting the capital with Riga and Vilnius is schedule to be completed in 2013. Bus services within the country are inexpensive and reliable, and travel by car is good.

Hotels

Estonia offers a wide range of hotels from guesthouses to luxury properties.

Food

Dining options are extensive, and restaurants range from traditional to international.

Quality of Medical Care (Good/Fair/Poor)

Good