Estonia — where to go and where to stay

Estonia is the smallest and most northerly of the Baltic states — a green, digital-savvy little country of dense forests, islands and bogs, with a fairy-tale medieval capital in Tallinn. It blends Nordic cool and efficiency (this is the birthplace of Skype and e-government) with a Hanseatic-Germanic old-town charm, a buzzing start-up-and-café scene, and a quiet, nature-loving soul. Compact, affordable by Nordic standards and easy to explore, it's one of Europe's most underrated and rewarding short-break destinations. Charming and forward-looking.

What things cost: Estonia is cheaper than its Nordic neighbours across the Baltic but pricier than much of Eastern Europe — good value for the region. Tallinn's old town is the most expensive spot; eating and drinking a little outside it is far cheaper. Everything is card-friendly and digital. When a zone says 'low', it's genuinely affordable by Western European standards.

The cities

Tallinn

Estonia's fairy-tale medieval Baltic capital15 must-dos · 4 areas to stay

What’s on in Estonia

Sometimes the event picks the city for you.

Jun23–24

Jaanipäev (Midsummer)

Estonia's most beloved celebration — Jaanipäev (Midsummer / St John's Day), when Estonians flee to the countryside and coast to gather around huge bonfires, feast, sing and celebrate the light-filled 'white nights' of the summer solstice, when the sun barely sets. It's the highlight of the Estonian year, steeped in ancient tradition and joyful abandon. Head to a bonfire celebration to experience it (much of the city empties out); a magical, atmospheric time of endless daylight. A wonderful, deeply Estonian midsummer highlight. Join a bonfire and enjoy the long light nights.

Tallinn · Countryside, coast & across the country

Jul3–5

Estonian Song Festival

One of the world's most moving cultural events — the Estonian Song Festival (Laulupidu), a vast, UNESCO-recognised choral gathering held every five years, when tens of thousands of singers in national dress perform together before a crowd of over 100,000 at the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. Deeply tied to Estonia's identity and its peaceful 'Singing Revolution' to independence, it's an overwhelming, emotional spectacle of national spirit. If your visit coincides with a festival year, it's an unforgettable experience. Check the schedule; profoundly moving.

Tallinn · Tallinn Song Festival Grounds

26 Nov – 26 Dec

Tallinn Christmas Market

One of the most enchanting Christmas markets in Europe — the Tallinn Christmas Market fills the medieval Town Hall Square with a glittering forest of wooden stalls around a towering tree, selling handmade crafts, wool knitwear, gingerbread, hot spiced wine and Estonian treats, amid carol singing and (usually) snow. The fairy-tale medieval old town under twinkling lights and snow is pure magic. A wonderful, cosy reason to brave the winter cold; wrap up warm and soak up the festive charm. Beautiful, atmospheric and one of the continent's loveliest. A seasonal must.

Tallinn · Town Hall Square