Travel Tips for Estonia

After spending centuries under Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian rule, Estonia finally achieved full independence on August 20, 1991. A country of about 1.5 million people, tiny Estonia is progressively growing into a modern market economy, spurred by strong telecom and electronics industries, and growing ties to the West.

Estonia's capital, Tallinn, is one of the more industrialized cities in the Baltics, and Tallinn's Old Town, which dates from the 11th century, is a big favorite with tourists. Its cobbled streets wind through both, Lower Town, which operated independently, and Toompea Hill, the residential area of the aristocracy. By the 16th century, the walls and fortresses of Old Town were one of the strongest defensive formations in northern Europe. Old Town's most dominating landmark was not built until 1894, but the Alexander Nevsky Russian Orthodox Cathedral, is worth a trip to see.

Tallinn's Zoo has close to 6,000 animals, making it a favorite with tourists, and another top-draw is Rocca al Mare Tivoli, Estonia's largest amusement park. The Botanical Garden is worth a visit, as it covers over 110 hectares and has more than 8,000 plant species, brought in from all over the world.

You will find Kadriorg Palace in Tallinn, as well. This lovely pink baroque palace provided Russian Tsar, Peter I, with a summer home, and today stands in the center of a seaside resort. Housing the Estonia Art Museum, it is also the setting for numerous concerts, theatrical performances, lectures, and receptions.

Tallinn is not the only place worth seeing in Estonia. Check out the Estonian Open Air Museum, which can be found on Kopli Bay. You will discover this lovely parkland is home to a compilation of preserved, historic Estonian buildings, which have been relocated from around the country. Situated on the western coast of Estonia, Haapsalu is well worth a visit. You will enjoy the guest lodges, deserted beaches, and 13th century ruins, not to mention a Gothic cathedral. There is also a castle with a female ghost, but you will not see her unless it's a full moon in August.

Located on the southern coast, Parnu is another favorite stop. This town has been a human settlement since 7500 B.C., and visitors can walk through both the Old Town and Town Center.

Parnu is another attraction. Found on the southern coast, this city has been a human settlement since 7500 B.C. Tourists can walk through the Old Town and Town Center, and see the Red Tower, Swedish ramparts, and a 17th century house. Moreover, do not forget the Neoclassical baths, where visitors restore their skin and enhance beauty with traditional mud baths.

Summer is the most popular time for visiting Estonia, but spring and fall are excellent times, as well. However, if you want to see the Christmas Market, you need to visit Tallinn's Old Town in December.