Estonia

For many years, the Baltic States of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia seemed hidden from the rest of the world. Sandwiched between Poland and Russia, they are geographically distant from most of Europe, and over the centuries they have suffered invasions, annexations and intrusions by Germany, Sweden and Russia. Since 2004 part of the European Union, tourism has landed full force in the Baltic States.

When you travel through these countries, you’ll soon see that they have their own distinct cultures, traditions, landscapes and languages. Like the precious amber which is washed up on the Baltic coastline, the beauty of each is hidden until you choose to search for it. In addition to history and landscapes, some of the most ancient regional traditions are still kept alive at special events, such as Estonia’s song festivals. Each country bountifully celebrates Saint’s Days and solstices with dances, singing, processions and feasts.

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The capital cities of Riga, Vilnius and Tallinn each have an individual character, boasting beautifully-preserved medieval buildings and fascinating museums reminiscent of their chequered histories. Lithuania is famous for its sweeping national parks and thriving plants and wildlife. Latvia boasts Riga as the largest and most vibrant city in the Baltic region, and Jurmala is a beautiful seaside town where you can explore the shores of the Baltic. Estonia’s medieval heritage is amazingly well preserved, especially in Tallinn’s Old Town, which is listed as a protected UNESCO site. Trying the varied regional cuisine of each country is also a good way to learn about local customs and delicacies. Wherever you travel within the Baltic States, you’ll find them rich in handicrafts, history, culture and natural beauty, as well as people eager to share them with you.

PRACTICAL INFO

Estonia

Currency: Euro (EUR)

US $1= 0.74 Euro
GBP £1= 1. 20 Euro

Exchange rate at time of writing. For up to date currency information, check xe.com.

Languages: Estonian is the national language which is a form of Finnic that is part of the Uralic languages.

Population: 1.4 million

Don’t Forget to Pack:

Comfortable shoes
Rain gear
During the winter months the average temperature is 17°F (-8°C) so warm clothing is a necessity
During summer months the average temperature is 70°F (21°C) so pack cool clothing

Latvia

Currency: Lat (LVL)

US $1= 0.52 Lats
GBP £1=0.84 Lats
EUR €1= 0.70 Lats

Languages: Latvian, also known as Lettish, is the official language of Latvia. It is a Baltic languages and resembles Lithuanian.

Population: 2 million

Lithuania

Currency: Lita (LTL)

US$1= 2.55 Litas
GBP £1= 4.13 Litas
EUR €1= 3.45 Litas

Languages: Lithuanian is the official language. It is a Baltic language that resembles Latvian.

Population: 3 million

MUST SEE & DO

Kiek in de Kok: housing a large a medieval cannon tower with a name translated into English meaning “peek into the kitchen.” The museum also displays an intricate system of underground tunnels.
Estonian History Musem: details the history of Estonia from the pre-historic time period to the 20th century.
Olviste Church and Tower: for a time in the 16th- 17th century it was known as the tallest building in the world.
Tallinn TV Tower: visit the highest building in Estonia and while at the top enjoy the cafe and its views.
Bastion Tunnels: an underground network of tunnels built during the 17th century.
Holy Spirit Church: a national treasure displaying the nations’s oldest timepiece.
Toomkirik: Estonia’s oldest church
Lahemaa National Park: the first landscape to be declared a national park by the Soviet Union

WHEN TO GO

The winter months are December to March when the temperatures drop below freezing and there is a loss of daylight. Winter is not suitable for the best travel experience. The best time to travel is late spring and early summer, April to June.

FOOD & DRINK

Meat and potatoes are the basis of traditional Estonian cuisine. Areas near water rely more heavily on fish. Four major foods that are a staple to an Estonian diet include beer, vodka, rye, and pork.

If you happen to over hear locals say “jatku leiba” before enjoying a meal it is their version of bon appetit, which translates to “may your bread last.”