Estonia might be small, but it’s full of surprises. Here, medieval stone walls surround modern cities where public Wi-Fi is almost everywhere—even in the forests. Cobblestone lanes wind through Tallinn’s Old Town, while just a short drive away, pine woods, sandy beaches, and quiet lakes invite you to slow down.

This is one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world. Yet, it’s also a place where tradition matters—where saunas are sacred, folk songs are passed down through generations, and midsummer bonfires light up the coast.

Located in Northern Europe, between Latvia and Russia, Estonia blends Baltic charm with Nordic cool. It’s home to over 2,000 islands, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, and a quiet countryside where elk and lynx still roam.

In this guide, we’ll explore Estonia’s top destinations, local flavors, and how to stay connected without missing a beat.

Must-See Places in Estonia

Tallinn – Where Past and Present Meet

Tallinn’s Old Town looks like a fairytale, with stone towers, winding streets, and medieval churches. Climb Toompea Hill for sweeping views of the city’s red rooftops and spires. Just outside the walls, the Telliskivi Creative City adds a modern twist—think street art, cozy cafés, and indie boutiques.

Saaremaa – Island of Windmills and Castles

Estonia’s largest island is peaceful and laid-back. You’ll find wooden windmills, quiet beaches, and the well-preserved Kuressaare Castle. The island’s natural beauty and small villages make it perfect for a relaxed escape.

Lahemaa National Park – Forest Trails and Seaside Manors

Just an hour from Tallinn, Lahemaa offers a deep breath of fresh air. Walk through mossy pine forests, visit coastal fishing villages, and explore old manor houses. The park is ideal for hiking, biking, or simply slowing down.

Tartu – Estonia’s Soul and Smarts

Tartu is Estonia’s oldest city and its university town. It’s full of life, with bookshops, riverside cafés, and quirky street sculptures. The vibe is youthful and creative, with plenty of museums and green spaces to explore.

Pärnu – Summer Capital by the Sea

In warmer months, Pärnu comes alive. Its sandy beach, long promenade, and spa hotels make it Estonia’s favorite summer getaway. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find something to love—whether sunbathing, biking, or just enjoying an ice cream by the water.

Hiiumaa – For Peace and Nature

Smaller and quieter than Saaremaa, Hiiumaa is known for its lighthouses, pine forests, and untouched coastlines. It’s a place to disconnect and recharge, especially if you’re after slow walks, local seafood, and peaceful views.

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Estonia

Verivorst – Blood Sausage with a Holiday Twist

This traditional sausage is made with barley and blood, usually served with lingonberry jam and sauerkraut. A must-try around Christmastime, though locals enjoy it all year.

Mulgipuder – Rustic Comfort Food

A warm and hearty mash of potatoes and barley, cooked with bits of fatty pork and topped with sour cream. Simple, filling, and deeply Estonian.

Smoked Baltic Herring – Straight from the Sea

Fresh-caught Baltic herring is often smoked and served with black bread, pickled onions, and boiled potatoes. The flavor is rich but not overpowering—a coastal staple done right.

Rosolje – Beetroot Salad with a Twist

This colorful salad mixes beets, potatoes, herring, and pickles with a creamy dressing. It’s sweet, salty, and slightly tangy—all in one bite.

Seljanka – Tangy Soup to Warm the Soul

A bold soup with roots in Slavic kitchens, seljanka is full of smoked meat, olives, and pickles in a tomato broth. Estonians love it for its rich, slightly sour flavor.

Essential Travel Tips for Estonia

Money & Payments

Estonia uses the Euro (EUR). You can pay by card almost everywhere—even at outdoor markets and food trucks. Mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also popular. Still, it’s a good idea to carry a bit of cash, especially if you're heading to smaller towns or need to tip.

Getting Around

Tallinn’s public transport is easy to use. Buses, trams, and trolleys are reliable, and tickets are affordable. For long-distance travel, buses connect cities across Estonia, and trains are a great way to reach places like Tartu or Narva.

Driving

If you plan to rent a car, Estonia’s roads are in excellent condition. Driving is straightforward, but keep an eye out for animals when passing through forests. You’ll need an EU or international driver’s license. Parking apps are commonly used in urban areas.

Staying Safe

Estonia is very safe, even at night. Serious crime is rare, and cities are easy to walk. Like anywhere, keep an eye on your belongings in busy tourist spots. In winter, sidewalks can get icy—wear good shoes and take your time.

Language & Local Customs

English is widely spoken, especially among younger people and in cities. A friendly “tere” (hello) or “aitäh” (thank you) is always appreciated. Estonians may seem reserved at first, but they’re helpful and polite. The country is also highly digital—most services, including prescriptions and public services, can be accessed online.

Staying Connected in Estonia

Estonia is one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world. It’s the birthplace of Skype, a pioneer in e-governance, and even offers digital residency. So naturally, staying connected here is easy.

Free public Wi-Fi is widely available in cafés, hotels, buses, and even parks—especially in Tallinn and other major towns. But while convenient, public networks aren’t always secure. Using them for things like online banking or entering personal data can expose you to cyber risks.

For safe and stable mobile data, many travelers pick up a local SIM card. They’re sold at the airport, supermarkets, and telecom stores, and registration requires a passport. Coverage is excellent even in rural areas, but setting everything up can take a little time.

If you’d rather skip the hassle and want a more secure connection, Estonia JetSet eSIM is the best option. No store visits, no SIM swapping—just scan, activate, and go. You’ll be online the moment you land, with no roaming fees or surprise charges.

Need more data? Just order another eSIM online in seconds.

Explore Estonia with peace of mind—JetSet eSIM keeps you connected and protected.