Estonia
Estonia, the smallest of the three Baltic States, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. With just over 1.3 million residents, the country combines medieval architecture, Soviet-era relics, and expansive green spaces. Estonia’s modern history includes a complex sequence of occupations: first by Germany during WWII, then the 1939 Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, which secretly divided the Baltics between Hitler and Stalin. This pact ultimately led to Estonia falling under Soviet control after the war, a status that lasted until it regained independence in 1991.
Our visit to Estonia was brief—just a few days on a road trip through the Baltic states. Entering from Latvia, we first stopped in Pärnu, a coastal town with roots dating back to the 13th century. Known as the “Summer Capital of Estonia,” Pärnu has long been a popular beach retreat and was once a notorious spot for KGB parties during the Soviet era. Though we found Pärnu quieter than expected, it’s the starting point for trips to Kihnu Island, a unique place known for its matriarchal culture and preserved traditions. On Kihnu, locals still wear traditional dress and celebrate seasonal rituals, providing a glimpse into age-old Estonian customs.
Continuing our trip, we headed to Keava Bog, one of Estonia’s beautiful but lesser-known wetlands. Located in central Estonia, these bogs feature surreal, untouched landscapes with a quiet beauty. Exploring requires an experienced guide to navigate the unique, sometimes tricky terrain and to appreciate the local flora and fauna safely.
We wrapped up in Tallinn, Estonia’s capital and our favorite of the three Baltic capitals (Tallinn, Vilnius, and Riga). With its beautifully preserved medieval old town, Tallinn’s charm shines through cobblestone streets and picturesque towers. While Riga had a more energetic, vibrant feel, Tallinn stood out for its intimate atmosphere and historical depth, making it a memorable finale to our Baltic journey. We left the Baltic states from the harbor of Tallinn on an overnight ferry to Stockholm.
Our visit to Estonia was brief—just a few days on a road trip through the Baltic states. Entering from Latvia, we first stopped in Pärnu, a coastal town with roots dating back to the 13th century. Known as the “Summer Capital of Estonia,” Pärnu has long been a popular beach retreat and was once a notorious spot for KGB parties during the Soviet era. Though we found Pärnu quieter than expected, it’s the starting point for trips to Kihnu Island, a unique place known for its matriarchal culture and preserved traditions. On Kihnu, locals still wear traditional dress and celebrate seasonal rituals, providing a glimpse into age-old Estonian customs.
Continuing our trip, we headed to Keava Bog, one of Estonia’s beautiful but lesser-known wetlands. Located in central Estonia, these bogs feature surreal, untouched landscapes with a quiet beauty. Exploring requires an experienced guide to navigate the unique, sometimes tricky terrain and to appreciate the local flora and fauna safely.
We wrapped up in Tallinn, Estonia’s capital and our favorite of the three Baltic capitals (Tallinn, Vilnius, and Riga). With its beautifully preserved medieval old town, Tallinn’s charm shines through cobblestone streets and picturesque towers. While Riga had a more energetic, vibrant feel, Tallinn stood out for its intimate atmosphere and historical depth, making it a memorable finale to our Baltic journey. We left the Baltic states from the harbor of Tallinn on an overnight ferry to Stockholm.