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Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary for Discovering Estonia

Day 1: Arrive in Tallinn

Your adventure in Estonia begins in Tallinn, the capital and largest city. Start by getting familiar with the city, especially its Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area is packed with medieval charm, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautifully preserved architecture.

Take a stroll through Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square) in the heart of Old Town. The square is surrounded by cafes, shops, and Tallinn’s stunning Gothic Town Hall. Try some traditional Estonian food at one of the local restaurants here, like Olde Hansa or III Draakon.

For a great sunset view, head up to Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform. From here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the city’s medieval rooftops and towers, along with the modern skyline in the distance.

Day 2: Tallinn – Continue Exploring

Start day two of your Tallinn adventure by exploring Toompea Hill, where you’ll visit Toompea Castle, along with Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Both are iconic landmarks and reveal Estonia’s mix of cultural influences, especially Russian Orthodox architecture.

Walk over to the Estonian Parliament building, right next to the castle, and admire its pastel-colored façade. Don’t miss visiting St. Mary’s Cathedral either, the oldest church in Tallinn.

After lunch, explore the Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour. This maritime museum is one of Tallinn’s most interactive, with old warships, submarines, and interesting exhibits on Estonia’s naval history. It’s perfect if you’re interested in military history or just want to learn more about Estonia’s role on the Baltic Sea.

If you have time, take a short bus or taxi ride to the edgy and creative district of Kalamaja. This area is home to cool cafes, street art, and Telliskivi Creative City, where you’ll find art galleries, local shops, and even a flea market.

Day 3: Lahemaa National Park

Today, leave the city for some fresh air by heading to Lahemaa National Park. It’s about an hour’s drive from Tallinn and offers a stunning mix of forests, bogs, and coastal landscapes. If you’re renting a car, the drive there is easy, but there are also guided tours leaving from Tallinn.

Start by exploring Viru Bog. There’s a boardwalk trail that takes you through the beautiful bog landscape, giving you a peaceful nature experience. Climb the observation tower for panoramic views of the park.

After the bog, visit some of the park’s historic manors. Palmse Manor and Sagadi Manor are both beautiful estates that offer a glimpse into the region’s aristocratic past. You can walk through the gardens, check out the exhibitions, and even stop at a local café for a break.

End your day with a walk along the coast. The small fishing villages like Altja and Käsmu are charming and offer a relaxing end after a full day of outdoor exploration.

Day 4: Tartu

Make your way to Tartu today. Known as Estonia’s university town, Tartu has a lively student atmosphere combined with a rich cultural history. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive or a quick train ride from Tallinn.

Start your visit by checking out Tartu’s Old Town square—Raekoja plats. This is a cute place to walk around and grab lunch.

In the afternoon, visit the University of Tartu’s main building. It’s an impressive sight, and you can learn about the history of the oldest university in Estonia. Don’t miss the Tartu Art Museum nearby, where you’ll find both contemporary and classical Estonian art.

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Walk down the Emajõgi River to relax in the parks or even visit the quirky sculpture-filled Toomemägi Park. This is a great spot to stretch your legs and soak up Tartu’s calm atmosphere.

Day 5: Tartu and AHHAA Science Centre

On your second day in Tartu, check out the AHHAA Science Centre. This family-friendly attraction is interactive and fun, with all kinds of hands-on exhibits. It’s surprisingly engaging even for adults.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Estonian National Museum. This museum tells the story of the Estonian people, covering everything from prehistory to modern times. It’s fascinating and well worth the time, especially if you’re interested in diving deeper into the history and traditions of the country.

If you have extra time left in the day, relax at one of Tartu’s local coffee shops or the lively bars in the student-friendly neighborhoods.

Day 6: Pärnu – Estonia’s Summer Capital

Today, head to Pärnu on Estonia’s southwest coast. It’s a relaxing seaside town known for its long sandy beaches. In summer, it’s a popular holiday spot for locals, but even outside peak season, the coastal charm is undeniable.

Spend your day walking along the beach and checking out the Pärnu Beach Promenade. If weather permits, take a dip in the shallow waters, perfect for a refreshing swim.

For lunch, check out one of the beachside cafés or restaurants. A local favorite is Supelsaksad, known for great food and Instagram-worthy décor.

In the afternoon, you can visit the Pärnu Museum, which gives a broad overview of the city’s history, going back to medieval times when Pärnu was an important trading hub.

Day 7: Pärnu to Tallinn – Slow Return

On your last day, enjoy a slow return drive from Pärnu back to Tallinn. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, but there are several good stops along the way.

Consider stopping in Viljandi if you find yourself with some extra time. It’s a small town known for its medieval castle ruins and green spaces. You can take a peaceful walk by Viljandi Lake or check out the ruins of the Livonian Order’s Castle, which offers stunning views over the countryside.

Once you’re back in Tallinn, end your trip with a relaxing dinner in one of the many modern restaurants the city has to offer, like Rataskaevu 16 or Pegasus. It’s your chance to reflect on your Estonian adventure with a final taste of the local flavors.

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