Discover Estonia:
Estonia, located in Northern Europe on the shores of the Baltic Sea, is one of Europe’s hidden gems. With its charming medieval cities, unspoiled nature, over 2,000 islands, and rich cultural traditions, Estonia is a dream destination for curious travelers. Whether you’re wandering through the cobbled streets of Tallinn’s Old Town, exploring vast national parks, or relaxing in boutique spas, Estonia offers unique experiences that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best excursions and tours to make the most of your visit — as well as the top hotels where you can relax after a day of exploring.
Top Excursions & Tours in Estonia
1. Tallinn Old Town Walking Tour
Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Europe. A guided walking tour is the perfect way to discover the city’s history and architecture. You’ll visit Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Olaf’s Church, and the picturesque Town Hall Square. Local guides bring the cobblestone streets to life with fascinating stories from the past.
Tip: Combine your walking tour with a medieval lunch in one of the historic taverns!
2. Lahemaa National Park Tour
Just an hour’s drive from Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. This full-day excursion lets you explore lush forests, dramatic coastline, waterfalls, and charming manor houses. It’s a perfect escape from the city and offers incredible photo opportunities. Many tours include stops at Sagadi Manor and Palmse Manor.
Great for: Hikers, nature photographers, and anyone seeking fresh air and tranquility.
3. Day Trip to Helsinki by Ferry
If you have a few days in Tallinn, why not take a quick ferry ride to Finland? A popular day trip is to cross the Gulf of Finland to explore Helsinki. The crossing takes around two hours, giving you time to discover Helsinki’s top sights like Suomenlinna Fortress, the Helsinki Cathedral, and the Design District.
Tip: Book your ferry and guided tour in advance for the best prices.
4. Bog-Shoe Hiking Adventure
Estonia is known for its unique bog landscapes. Join a guided bog-shoe hike through these mystical wetlands and discover flora and fauna you won’t find anywhere else. Tours typically provide all equipment and include educational insights into Estonia’s nature and traditions.
Perfect for adventurous travelers and photographers.
5. Tallinn Food & Craft Beer Tour
Estonia’s culinary scene is on the rise! On a Tallinn food tour, you’ll sample local delicacies such as elk soup, Estonian black bread, craft beer, and handmade chocolates. Learn about modern Estonian cuisine while enjoying the hospitality of local restaurants and bars.
Tip: Look for tours that combine food tasting with Tallinn nightlife for a full evening experience!
6. Tartu & Southern Estonia Excursion
For a more in-depth Estonian adventure, take an excursion to Tartu — the country’s second-largest city and cultural capital. Visit the University of Tartu, wander through bohemian streets, and explore modern art museums. On the way, stop at scenic lakes and rural villages to experience authentic Estonian countryside life.
Best Hotels in Estonia
Tallinn
1. Hotel Telegraaf, Autograph Collection (★★★★★)
Located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, Hotel Telegraaf is a luxurious boutique hotel with elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and an indoor pool. The building once served as Estonia’s main telephone exchange. Today, it offers a perfect blend of history and comfort.
Perfect for couples and luxury travelers.
2. Nordic Hotel Forum (★★★★)
A stylish modern hotel just steps away from the Old Town. It features spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a wellness center, a swimming pool, and a panoramic rooftop bar.
Great choice for business travelers and families.
3. Hestia Hotel Barons Old Town (★★★)
A charming mid-range option set in a historic building. The hotel combines vintage décor with modern comforts and is an excellent base for exploring Tallinn on foot.
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want atmosphere.
Tartu
1. Hotel Lydia (★★★★)
Tartu’s most highly-rated hotel blends contemporary design with top-class amenities. Located in the city center, it offers an excellent breakfast buffet and a relaxing spa area.
Recommended for culture seekers and business trips.
2. Antonius Hotel (★★★★)
Set in a 16th-century building across from the University of Tartu, this hotel offers romantic, boutique-style rooms filled with character.
Perfect for couples and history buffs.
Pärnu (Estonia’s Beach Capital)
1. Hedon Spa & Hotel (★★★★)
A beachfront hotel with spa facilities, stylish rooms, and access to Estonia’s best sandy beaches. The spa treatments here are highly rated, making this an ideal stop for wellness getaways.
Perfect for beach lovers and spa enthusiasts.
2. Estonia Resort Hotel & Spa (★★★★)
A modern resort hotel with extensive pools, saunas, and wellness treatments. It also offers excellent dining with a focus on fresh local products.
Ideal for a relaxing weekend break.
Why Visit Estonia?
Estonia is the perfect destination for those who appreciate history, nature, and authentic cultural experiences. It’s safe, affordable, and still relatively undiscovered — which means fewer crowds and a more personal travel experience. Whether you’re strolling medieval streets, discovering wild nature, or enjoying a cozy spa, Estonia’s charm will win you over.
Pro tip: Estonia is very tech-friendly. You’ll find excellent free Wi-Fi almost everywhere — even in the forests!
How to Book Your Trip
To get the best deals on excursions and accommodations:
- Tours & Activities: Platforms like Get your gide offer a wide selection of excursions with reviews and flexible cancellation policies.
- Hotels: You can book hotels via Booking.com or Hotels.com — often with free cancellation and the best available rates.
If you want a hassle-free experience, consider booking combo packages that include both hotels and tours.
Final Thoughts
Estonia is a fascinating destination that combines medieval charm with modern style and unspoiled nature. From walking through Tallinn’s fairytale streets to hiking in Lahemaa’s forests or relaxing in seaside spas, there’s something here for every traveler.
So — why not add Estonia to your travel bucket list? Whether you visit for a weekend city break or an extended adventure, Estonia will surprise and delight you.