Estonia Travel Guide

The Republic of Estonia is a small country in Northern Europe, bordering Russia to the east, Latvia to the south, and with coastlines on the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea. Finland is located only 80km north across the Gulf of Finland. Estonia covers an area of around 45200 sq km with mainly low-lying terrain in the north, becoming more hilly towards the Latvian border. Around 50% of Estonia is forest and another 40% is marshlands. There are also more than 1500 islands in the country, ranging from tiny rocky outcrops to large island communities like Saaremaa.

Estonia’s history of human habitation dates back to around 8500BC, soon after the end of the Ice Age. The country came under foreign rule in the early 13th century and has endured about seven centuries of control under Denmark, Sweden, Germany or Russia. Independence was achieved in 1918 however in 1940 Estonia was forced to become part of the USSR. Fifty-one years of occupation by Russia was ended in 1991 when Estonia regained its independence with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Estonia has since forged ties with Western Europe, becoming a member of the European Union and NATO in 2004.

Estonia has been ‘discovered’ by tourists in the last decade, and has become one of the most visited European countries. From the exquisite natural beauty of the forests and marshlands, to the quaint little country towns and seaside villages, Estonia overflows with charm, history and lush green scenery. It is known for magnificent medieval castles and other ruins, beautiful historic churches and outside of the towns and cities, huge tracts of untouched national park, overflowing with wildlife and perfect for hiking, camping, and canoeing in the summer months, and popular for winter sports for six months of the year.

Fifteen counties make up Estonia. The capital Tallinn, located in the northern county of Harjumaa, blends cobblestone streets and renovated buildings from the 1300’s together with a cosmopolitan atmosphere of trendy cafes, restaurants and lively nightlife. Nearby is Estonia’s largest waterfall, Jagala Falls, which is a stunning place to spend time at sunrise or sunset. The central eastern county of Tartumaa is home to historic university town Tartu, brimming with culture and vibrancy, and gateway to the glorious southeast counties and trendy ski resorts like Otepaa. The island counties of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa also boast stunning medieval castles and pristine beaches and bays.