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There’s no Eiffel Tower, except for a homemade replica on Hiiumaa. No mountains, either, and our summers aren’t known to be sweltering.
So what does Estonia have? Space to rest, relax, and recharge. You shouldn’t need a holiday to recover from going on holiday. This is why Estonia is perfect for “calmcations” — time away to protect your peace of mind from the demands of daily life.
Sea swimming and sauna
To calm a feisty toddler, many parents know to “just add water”. A splash in the tub can turn a tantrum into playtime. It turns out that it works for grownups, too. A long bath is relaxing, but a dip in the sea does wonders for the soul. This is why Estonians do it year-round! Ease your way into the Baltic at the Iglupark igloo saunas in Noblessner. Heat up in the sauna, climb down a ladder into the sea, and repeat as often as you’d like!
Take a break in Tallinn
Tallinn has a bit more hustle and bustle during the summer, especially this year when Estonians from all ends of the earth gather for the Song and Dance Celebration. Yet many visitors don’t go beyond the cobblestoned streets of the Old Town.Take a page from the book of French flâneurs and stretch your legs in neighbourhoods and natural areas outside the city centre.
Urban oases
The Japanese may have given it the fancy name of “forest bathing” – for Estonians, a trip to the forest is just something you do, like going to grandma’s house on the weekend.
Locals have understood the unparalleled power of nature to help and heal for centuries. You don’t even have to leave the city, as urban green space abounds in Tallinn.
Check out Kadriorg Park for a more polished natural experience. The well-tended gardens around Kadriorg Palace are sure to spark joy, and careful observers may spot a red squirrel or two scampering up the towering oak and chestnut trees.
Paljassaare Peninsula is more wild. Located a mere 6 kilometres from the city centre, this coastal area was off-limits to Tallinners during the Soviet occupation. Now, it is a nature preserve and a favourite of migrating birds. You can always find a spot on the beach for sunbathing, and during the off-season, you may have the sand all to yourself!
Seasonal Day Trips from Tallinn
- Spring: Canoeing in Kõrvemaa – Go when the water levels are high during the spring thaw to explore areas that are inaccessible during other seasons.
- Summer: Rummu Quarry SUP board trip – Float on crystal clear, turquoise water and glide over a submerged forest in an otherworldly post-industrial setting.
- Autumn: Day hike and spa – Start at Keila Waterfall and bask in the colours of the season. Hike the Baltic Coastal Trail to Laulasmaa. Then soothe your sore muscles at LaSpa Hotel & Spa.
- Winter: Snowshoe in Viru Bog – The only sound you’ll hear is your own breathing and the crunch of the snow underfoot. End with a campfire and a cup of hot tea.
Island Hopping
Aegna
When you drop anchor in Aegna, you’ll feel as if you’ve been magically transported to another world. Technically, though, you’ll have never left Tallinn.
When World War I began, all the island’s inhabitants were evacuated, and it became a military base. It wasn’t until 1991 that the island was opened to visitors. Like the nearby island of Naissaar, Aegna is designated as a landscape conservation area.
Hiking trails go past massive boulders and an ancient cemetery, and a flock of sheep maintains the island meadows in summer. Turn off your phone, settle down on the sand, and wonder why you didn’t visit sooner.
Kihnu
If you visit when the lilacs bloom (around the end of May), add “stop and smell the flowers” to your itinerary. Lilacs are everywhere – on the beach, lining the roads, and surrounding homes like a sweet-smelling fence. The tiny blossoms will remind you to slow down and appreciate the island’s beauty.
Make your visit more sustainable by staying overnight and eating locally; a trip to Kihnu would not be complete without trying freshly smoked fish – caught in the morning, smoked during the day, and enjoyed in the evening with a slice of hearty black bread. Supporting Kihnu’s entrepreneurs means you’ll be helping them protect their unique way of life.
Saaremaa
A hop, skip, and 40-minute flight from Tallinn takes you to Kuressaare, the capital of Saaremaa, Estonia’s largest island.
To while away a few days in town, you can linger over the catch of the day at Ku-Kuu Fish Restaurant overlooking the impressive Kuressaare Episcopal Castle, and maybe play a round or two at Saare Golf.
Retreat to the western end of the island to explore Vilsandi National Park, one of 6 national parks in Estonia. Afterwards, check in and check out at the eco-friendly Pilguse Hotel and Residency.
Stop Time in These Small Towns
Viljandi
This town of about 17,000 people is only two hours from Tallinn by train. The city is not known for its nightlife, but it does have relaxed vibes, creative-minded people, and enough to keep you busy (but not too busy).
Viljandi’s castle ruins provide a romantic backdrop to popular events like the Viljandi Folk Festival. They sit atop a hill overlooking Lake Viljandi. Take in the view and feel your heart rate slow. Be warned – you may be overcome with the desire to change your flight home and stay in Estonia just a little bit longer.
Haapsalu
Once a summer destination favoured by Russian monarchs and celebrities, Haapsalu enchants visitors with its fresh sea air, waterfront promenade, and castle ruins.
Mud from the bay has been used in medicinal treatments in Haapsalu since 1825, when the first mud therapy resort opened. Discover its healing properties and enjoy gorgeous sea views at Fra Mare Thalasso or Hestia Hotel Haapsalu SPA.
The statistics speak for themselves
A recent Esquire article called Estonia “Clean, green, and serene.” We have the receipts:
- Breathe easy: Estonia was only one of 12 countries in the world to meet the WHO’s clean air standards in 2024.
- So fresh and so clean: Estonia ranked first in the 2024 Environmental Performance Index.
- Room to move: Estonia has about 31 people per square kilometre, making it one of Europe’s least densely populated countries.
