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The 8 Best Day Trips from Tallinn, Estonia

Narva and Ivangorod fortresses | © Tony Bowden/Flickr
Narva and Ivangorod fortresses | © Tony Bowden/Flickr
Photo of Kasparas Asmonaitis
Kasparas Asmonaitis
20 September 2017

Tallinn is the top tourist destination in Estonia because of its wonderful and unique architecture, lovely people and lively bars. However, there are also so many other spectacular places to see in the country, which can be reached from Tallinn in a nick of time. Here are the best day trips from Tallinn for everyone’s taste.

Lahemaa National Park

Lahemaa National Park, located only 50 kilometers away from Tallinn, is one of the most beautiful national parks in Estonia, where you can see various species of animal, including moose, lynxes, and brown bears. Nature is also extremely diverse in Lahemaa National Park, so you can choose to wander through magical forests, explore bogs, or even walk on sandy beaches. It is perfect for a day trip, but people who want to experience even more of Estonia’s countryside should consider staying in Lahemaa even longer.

Lahemaa National Park, Estonia

Haapsalu

Haapsalu resort town is located on the west coast of Estonia, only one hour and 20 minutes away from Tallin. This small town is a must-visit place if you want to learn more about the unique culture of Estonia and relax on the most beautiful white sand beaches. People who love mechanics and technology should visit the Estonian train museum, which is located in Haapsalu train station, often nominated as the most beautiful of its kind in the whole country.

Haapsalu, Lääne County, Estonia

Helsinki

It might sound crazy but you can reach Helsinki from Tallinn in under two hours. There are plenty of ferries which can take you to the capital of Finland. There are way too many things to do in Helsinki to list them all, but one thing is for sure – everyone can find something they love in Helsinki, from visiting historic museums to hitting local bars to walking around stunning streets to experiencing Finnish saunas.

Helsinki, Finland

Tartu

Tartu is the capital of students in Estonia, so the best time to visit this city is autumn when all the students rush in for the new academic year and the city comes to life. Visit the oldest university in Estonia, learn more about the country’s dramatic past in the KGB museum, or bring your kids to see some old toys in Tartu toy museum. There are also plenty of wonderful restaurants and bars to try some delicious and traditional Estonian food.

Tartu, Estonia

Parnu

If you want to take your other half on a romantic date, Parnu is definitely the place to go. The beaches are stunning and there are various activities you can choose from, including windsurfing and playing mini-golf. Also, the food is extremely delicious in Parnu and some locals even come here just for the pizza, arguably the best in Estonia.

Parnu, Pärnu County, Estonia

Narva

People who want to see how the Soviet Union once looked, should consider visiting Narva. Most of the buildings were built during the Soviet era and nothing has changed much since, creating a unique atmosphere of older times. People also come to see two huge fortresses, which are only separated by Narva River. The first one, Narva fortress, stands in Narva and belongs to Estonia, while the other one, Ivangorod fortress, is already in the Russian territory.

Narva, Estonia

Soomaa National Park

Soomaa National Park has a wonderful infrastructure, including stroller accessible trails, and is open all year long. During the rainy season, the park floods to the point that it can only be accessed via canoes and boats, adding even more color to the whole experience. People who want to see beavers and their dams can hike the special Beaver Trail.

Soomaa National Park, Estonia, +372 435 7134

Prangli Island

Prangli Island is the only permanently inhabited island in Estonia’s north, inviting its visitors for a unique and unforgettable experience. You can visit the local fishermen villages, try traditional fish dishes, walk around sandy beaches and pine forests, and meet the locals to learn more about their customs and culture.

Prangli, Harju County, Estonia

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