Exploring Estonia in 3 Days

  • Day 1: Old Town Tallinn
    20-minute drive (8.6 km) from Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport

    Begin your journey by exploring the fairytale-like Old Town of Tallinn. The cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and charming medieval architecture will transport you to another time. Take a walk to the Toompea Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and enjoy the scenic views from the observation platforms. Make sure to stop by the Town Hall Square, the heart of the city, and indulge in some Estonian treats like black bread, marzipan, or savory pies at the local cafes and restaurants.

  • Day 2: Lahemaa National Park and Rakvere Castle
    1-hour drive (70 km) from Tallinn

    Discover Estonia’s beautiful nature by taking a day trip to the scenic Lahemaa National Park, located along the northern coast. Explore the vast forests, beaches, and bogs, see the charming Viitna fishing village, hike to the Jägala waterfall, or visit the Palmse and Sagadi manors. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Rakvere Castle, one of Estonia’s most magnificent fortresses, and learn about its rich history, legends, and modern-day uses.

  • Day 3: Pärnu and Haapsalu
    2-hour drive (130 km) from Tallinn

    For the last day of your trip, drive to the beautiful seaside town of Pärnu, known for its wide sandy beaches, sunny promenade, and charming old town. Take a stroll on the beach, rent a bike or a scooter, or visit the Pärnu Museum, Pärnu Beach Park, or the Red Tower. In the afternoon, head to the nearby city of Haapsalu, famous for its historic railway station and serene atmosphere. Visit the Haapsalu Castle, the Episcopal Palace, or the Railway and Communication Museum, and enjoy the local cuisine and drinks.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Old Town Tallinn (4-6 hours, free)
  • Lahemaa National Park (6-8 hours, 12€)
  • Rakvere Castle (2-3 hours, 10€)
  • Pärnu (4-6 hours, free)
  • Haapsalu (3-4 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 22€

Transportation

The most convenient way to explore Estonia is by renting a car, which costs around 30€ per day. Alternatively, you can use public transportation, including buses or trains, which are affordable and reliable, but may take longer to reach some destinations. Taxis are also available, but may be more expensive than other options.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore other destinations in Estonia, such as Tartu, Saaremaa, or Hiiumaa. If you have less time, you can skip some of the destinations or combine them in one day, although it may be rushed. Remember to dress accordingly, as the weather can be unpredictable, and carry cash or credit card, as some places may not accept all payment methods.

Airports

Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL) is the main international airport in Estonia, located 4 km from the city center of Tallinn. It serves several airlines, including Finnair, Aeroflot, Ryanair, and LOT, and offers direct flights to various European cities, such as London, Berlin, Paris, or Moscow.

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