Understand

Estonia, a Baltic gem, offers visitors the chance to explore a dynamic and captivating land on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Although the swimming season is short due to the region's cool climate, the glorious beaches that decorate the extensive coastline beckon with their natural beauty and tranquility. Immerse yourself in history as you step into the enchanting medieval old town of Tallinn. Built by German crusaders in the Late Middle Ages, this extraordinary city still stands tall, its medieval walls and towers intact, making it one of Europe's best-preserved medieval old towns. As you wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, you will feel as if you have traveled back in time. But Estonia is not just a historical destination; it is also a country that has emerged from its past. Having transitioned from Soviet occupation to becoming a proud member of the European Union, Estonia has traces of its Soviet era that can still be seen today. Take a day trip to Paldiski, a once-off-limits Soviet army base that offers a fascinating glimpse into Estonia's past. Embark on a journey to Estonia and uncover a world that combines history, natural beauty, and the triumph of a nation.

Get in

Planning a visit to Estonia is both exciting and convenient, thanks to its membership in the Schengen Agreement. This means that once you enter Estonia, you'll enjoy borderless travel to other Schengen member countries. Picture yourself exploring the beautiful landscapes of Europe without having to worry about border controls. The participating countries include the European Union nations (except Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania, and the United Kingdom), Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. It's important to note that a visa granted for any Schengen member country applies to all the others. This simplifies your travel arrangements and eliminates the need for multiple visas. However, keep in mind that not all European Union members have signed the Schengen treaty, and not all Schengen members are part of the European Union. This means that while you may encounter spot customs checks, you won't have to go through immigration checks within the Schengen Area, but you might need to clear immigration when traveling between the EU and non-Schengen countries. For a comprehensive understanding of how the Schengen Zone works and its entry requirements, we recommend reading our article, "Travel in the Schengen Zone." It will provide you with all the necessary information and guidelines to make your trip to Estonia seamless. Estonia has become an increasingly popular destination, attracting a growing number of foreign visitors in recent years. According to Statistics Estonia, the nation's statistics agency, the country welcomed 1.3 million foreigners in 2000. By 2005, this number had soared by an impressive 38% to reach 1.8 million foreigners. It's clear why more and more people are discovering the allure of Estonia.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first popular Estonian dish is called "Värivorst", which translates to "colored forest". It's a colorful and vibrant salad made of grated beets, carrots, cabbage, potatoes, and radishes. The dish is often served with a sour cream dressing and accompanied by smoked meat or fish.

The second popular dish is "Sülve jouluperaat", known as Christmas porridge. It is a hearty dish prepared using whole grain rye flour, potatoes, onions, and served with homemade pork sausage, black pudding, and smoked bacon. The combination of these ingredients creates a comforting, filling meal that is enjoyed during the festive season.

Lastly, "Maza Salat" is a popular Estonian party snack consisting of mashed potatoes mixed with mayonnaise, pickles, onion, and seasonings. Sometimes it includes chicken or other meats, making it a versatile dish for various occasions. It is often served cold and enjoyed at gatherings and celebrations.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing