10 Interesting Tourist Attractions in Estonia to Explore

Explore Estonia’s best tourist destinations, from the charm of Tallinn’s Old Town to its stunning natural beauty and history.
Estonia, a small country in Northern Europe, may not be well-known to many travelers, but with its incredible natural charm and rich historical sites, Estonia offers many interesting tourist destinations that are worth exploring.
With a mix of historic cities, ancient fortresses, tranquil islands, and expansive national parks, the country promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
Here are the 10 best tourist destinations in Estonia that you must visit to experience the beauty and uniqueness of this country.
1. Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn Old Town is the heart of Estonia’s charming capital. Known as one of the finest Old Towns in Europe, the area is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Narrow cobbled streets, well-preserved medieval buildings and picturesque squares create a very charming atmosphere.
Here, you can visit various historical sites such as Toompea Castle, the Dome Cathedral, and the Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral. Walking around the city gives you the opportunity to see beautiful architecture and feel the atmosphere that has been preserved for centuries.
2. Kihnu Island
Kihnu Island is a small island located in the Baltic Sea and has a unique culture. Interestingly, the majority of the island’s population are women, who play an important role in daily life, from farming to making traditional clothing.
The island is known for its unique traditions and natural beauty, and has been recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage.
In Kihnu, you can enjoy stunning natural scenery, explore traditional villages, and experience a life that is still very much preserved with a strong local culture.
3. Toompea Castle
Toompea Castle, located in Tallinn’s Old Town, is one of Estonia’s major landmarks. Standing proudly on a hill offering spectacular views of the entire city, the castle has been a symbol of the country’s power for centuries.
Built in the 13th century, the castle now houses the Estonian parliament and is open to visitors interested in the country’s political and architectural history. Visiting this castle provides a deep insight into Estonian history and also allows visitors to enjoy beautiful views from above.
4. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Tallinn’s Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is the largest Orthodox church in the country and is a stunning architectural masterpiece. Built in the late 19th century, the church is a magnificent example of the Neo-Byzantine style with its gilded domes and grand interior.
In addition to being a place of worship, the cathedral is also an important symbol of Estonian history, given its association with Russian influence during that time.
This cathedral is often a prime destination for tourists interested in the Orthodox history and culture of the Baltic region.
5. Lahemaa National Park
Lahemaa National Park is one of the largest and oldest national parks in Estonia, renowned for its natural beauty. The park offers a wide variety of landscapes, from sandy beaches to dense forests and beautiful waterfalls.
This place is perfect for nature lovers who like to do outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. Lahemaa National Park is also home to various species of birds and mammals, making it an ideal destination for wildlife lovers.
6. Saaremaa Island
Saaremaa Island is the largest island in Estonia and is a very popular place among tourists seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Known for its tranquil rural atmosphere, Saaremaa offers beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes and ancient architecture.
The island is also famous for its various historical monuments, including medieval castles, old churches and traditional houses. Besides enjoying nature, visitors can also try various activities such as cycling, fishing, or exploring the stunning seaside area.
7. Narva Castle
Narva Castle, or Herman’s Castle, is located in the city of Narva on the border between Estonia and Russia. The castle was built in the 13th century and offers stunning views of the Narva River and the Ivangorod fortress on the Russian side.
The castle is one of the main symbols of the city of Narva and has a long history involving many important events in Estonia.
Visitors can explore the castle, learn about its history, and enjoy the beautiful scenery around it. Narva Castle is a perfect destination for those interested in military history and medieval architecture.
8. Piusa Cave
Piusa Cave is a very interesting place for tourists who love adventure and unique natural phenomena. This cave is located in the Piusa River valley and was formed by sand excavation that began in 1922 to 1966. Today, these caves are home to the largest bat colony in Europe.
Piusa Cave is also a very popular tourist attraction in the winter, when bats gather inside the cave. Visiting Piusa Cave gives you the opportunity to explore a fascinating underground world, with dramatic views and fresh air.
9. Soomaa National Park
Soomaa National Park is known for its unique natural phenomenon, the annual flooding that creates the “fifth season”. Located in southwestern Estonia, the park protects untouched marshes, forests, and grasslands.
With its diverse ecosystems, the park is home to a rich flora and fauna. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as walking on wooden bridges built over the marshes or canoeing to explore the spectacular natural scenery.
10. Rakvere Castle
Rakvere Castle is a medieval castle located in the town of Rakvere, northern Estonia. The castle was built in the 13th century and is now one of the main tourist destinations in the area.
Inside the castle, visitors can try various interactive activities, such as archery, sword fighting, or watch a theater performance depicting life in the Middle Ages.
The castle also offers an immersive experience of the history of Rakvere and is an ideal place to spend time with the family.
Estonia, with all its charm, offers a variety of fascinating and historical tourist destinations. From Tallinn’s Old Town filled with ancient monuments to the untouched wilderness of its national parks, the country offers a travel experience rich in natural beauty, culture, and history.
Interestingly, just like the remote island of Pingelap, known for its unique cultural heritage and natural beauty, Estonia also preserves its historical charm. If you are planning to explore Europe, Estonia is a place not to be missed.
With a variety of tourist destinations available, every visitor will find something unique and memorable in this small country.