Estonia subtleties of tourism. What are the main tourist centers in Estonia? Let's get to know them better
Charming Estonia offers a vacation on the picturesque coast of the Baltic Sea and relaxation on the lake shores, a rich "excursion" and treatment on mineral springs. Ancient Tallinn, the resort of Pärnu and the island of Saaremaa - all about Estonia: visa, map, tours, prices and reviews.
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Holidays in Estonia have a number of obvious advantages: proximity to Russia (you can get here by bus from St. Petersburg in a few hours), not too difficult the process of obtaining a visa, the absence of a language barrier (in large cities, almost everyone speaks Russian), a high level of service. And the Estonian "excursion" is generally beyond praise: it's even amazing how so many sights fit in such a small country. Finally, in the summer you can sunbathe, swim, and at the same time improve your health.
All Estonia is one big resort: hotels and sanatoriums grow wherever there are suitable conditions. Fans of a calm and secluded holiday will be able to have a good rest on the islands, as well as on farms and farms in the Estonian "outback". The entry of the country into the Schengen did not make the visa process more complicated (however, it did not simplify it), but it opened the borders of many European countries to its guests.
Regions and resorts of Estonia
Time difference with Moscow
no in winter −1 hour
- with Kaliningrad
- with Samara
- with Yekaterinburg
- with Omsk
- with Krasnoyarsk
- with Irkutsk
- with Yakutsk
- with Vladivostok
- with Severo-Kurilsk
- with Kamchatka
Climate
The weather in Estonia is subject to the whims of the Baltic. The climate here is temperate, changing from maritime to continental. The west coast is slightly warmer than the southwest, but in general the temperature difference is not significant. Winters are most often mild and snowy, but the local weather has seven Fridays a week: clear sunshine can be abruptly replaced by gusty winds and prickly rain. Most of the precipitation falls in autumn, but an umbrella will come in handy at the end of August. Spring is gray and cool, summer is warm, but not stuffy (winds from the Baltic Sea save from the heat).
Officially, the swimming season lasts from June to August, but it is more comfortable to swim from mid-July: shallow coastal waters warm up to +20...+25 °C by this time.
Visa and customs
Estonia is a member of the Schengen Agreement. A visa and travel health insurance are required to visit the country.
Import and export of foreign currency is not limited, but amounts over 10,000 EUR must be declared. There are no restrictions on the import of personal items, meat and dairy products are prohibited. You can bring 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. Customs will allow 1 liter of spirits (over 22° ABV) or 2 liters of alcohol content less than 22°, 4 liters of wine and 16 liters of beer. You can take 50 ml of perfume or 250 ml with you toilet water. Medicines - in the amount necessary for personal use, baby and medical food - up to 2 kg per person (packages must be sealed). The importation of drugs, weapons, explosives, pornography and any counterfeit goods is strictly prohibited. Cultural property exported from Estonia must be accompanied by official certificates. Prices on the page are for October 2018.
tax free
Shopping in Estonia can become 20% more profitable if all the conditions of the system are met tax free. It is not difficult to do this: it is enough to make purchases in the amount of at least 39 EUR in stores indicated by the corresponding signs, and ask the seller for two checks - a regular cash register and a special one, with a list of purchased goods, indicating VAT rates and personal data of the buyer. All this will be needed at customs at the airport: unpacked goods will be inspected, the Tax free check will be stamped, and at the Global Blue office they will issue the required amount in cash or make a bank transfer.
How to get to Estonia
The largest airport in Estonia, Tallinn, is located within the capital, just 4 km from its historical center. Direct flights from Moscow are carried out only by Aeroflot, departure from Sheremetyevo, you have to spend 1 hour 40 minutes in the air. Getting with one change is a little more profitable: Air Baltic has routes with a connection in Riga, the travel time is from 3 hours 20 minutes. LOT, UTair, Es Seven and other carriers organize flights with two transfers, on the road - from 5.5 hours, connections in Riga, St. Petersburg, Vilnius and other European cities.
There are no direct flights from St. Petersburg to Tallinn. Air Baltic flies via Riga (from 3 hours in the air), Norra and Finnair - via Helsinki (from 7 hours), Scandinavian Airlines - via Stockholm (from 4 hours), LOT - via Warsaw (from 20 hours).
You can also get to the Estonian capital by land. The Baltic Express runs between Moscow and Tallinn, starting from the Leningradsky railway station and following to the destination in 15.5 hours. Tickets in a reserved seat - 80 EUR, in a compartment - 95 EUR. You can get on the same train in St. Petersburg, at the Moscow railway station: the trip will cost 40 EUR and 50 EUR, respectively. Ecolines buses also depart from both Russian capitals to Tallinn: tickets from Moscow - 55 EUR, from St. Petersburg - 20 EUR, schedule and details - at the office. carrier website.
Find flights to Estonia
To Estonia by car
You can also get to Estonia by car (a little less than 8 hours drive from St. Petersburg) through the checkpoints of Narva, Pechora and Luhamaa. However, it should be borne in mind that there may be a large queue at the border.
Information about border checkpoints: Pärnu is located at the same distance from the checkpoint of Narva and Kunichnaya Gora (which is near Pskov), but the queue is traditionally much shorter at Kunicnaya Gora. But on the way back, you can book a place in the queue on the GoSwift website. Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance. Further, the procedure is simple - drive up to Narva, go to the "sump" (turn right immediately after the first gas station at the entrance to the city, and look for a small sign on the left hand on a concrete fence). As soon as the reservation number is displayed, go to the window, go through the necessary procedures and after that go directly to the checkpoint. Do not forget to take out Green Card insurance in advance.
Transport
The main means of transportation between Estonian cities is the train. The railway network is operated by Elron (off. site), the rolling stock has recently been updated: the seats are now soft, there are blackout curtains on the windows, Wi-Fi is available in the cars. Tickets are sold at the box office and online, and electronic tickets can not be printed out: special machines read them directly from the display.
A trip from the capital to Tartu will cost from 10.50 EUR, to Narva - from 11.40 EUR.
Buses serve as an alternative to trains: intercity transport strictly follows the schedule and stops in the centers of all settlements. Major carriers- Sebe, Lux Express (off site), Simple Express (off site). The cost of a trip from Tallinn to Pärnu is 6-9 EUR, to Haapsalu - 8 EUR.
Ferries run between the numerous Estonian islands. Ticket price - from 3-4 EUR depending on the distance, the standard surcharge for a car is 10 EUR.
Public transport within cities
Buses run in most Estonian cities, and there are also trolleybuses and trams in the capital. Tickets are sold at kiosks (1 EUR) and from drivers (2 EUR), it is more profitable to purchase reusable electronic cards (from 3 EUR) and replenish them with the required amount. By the way, Tallinners themselves use public transport for free.
Tourists rarely need taxis in Estonia: most of the sights are located within walking distance from each other. However, you can always catch a car on the street or call by phone, the average landing fee is 2 EUR, for each km - 0.50-1 EUR, at night - twice as expensive.
Bicycles are rented in specialized salons and large hotels. The 1st hour of rental costs from 1.60 EUR, each subsequent hour - from 1.40 EUR, a day - from 10 EUR (plus a mandatory deposit - 100 EUR). The trip will turn out to be as rich as possible if you take a brochure with detailed cycling routes to the travel agency.
Rent a Car
If traveling around Estonia is not limited to Tallinn, car rental is a very good solution. In the capital, the old center is given over to pedestrians, the sights are not far from each other. But beyond its borders - complete freedom of movement: the roads are good, cars are delivered to large islands by ferries.
Rental offices are located at the airport and big cities, the most popular are Alamo, Inter Rent, addCar, Prime Car Rent. Cars are rented to drivers over 19 years old with insurance and international driving license valid for more than a year. Some companies set additional rates for customers under the age of 25. In addition to the rental fee, you will need to pay a deposit (about 450 EUR) from a bank card. The cost of renting a standard car - from 35 EUR, station wagon - from 40 EUR, premium model or SUV - from 70 EUR per day. Gasoline costs 1.10-1.20 EUR per liter, when you return the car you will have to fill up a full tank.
Fines for traffic violations are severe: from 70 EUR for talking on a mobile phone to 1200 EUR for speeding or drunk driving.
Traffic jams happen only in the capital, where it is most difficult to find a parking space. Most parking lots in the centers major cities- paid, equipped with parking meters. You can leave a car for an hour for 0.60-5 EUR, depending on the area.
Communication and Wi-Fi
Using Estonian SIM cards is quite profitable. Key market players mobile communications- Tele2, EMT and Elisa, it is most convenient for tourists to connect the so-called conversational "sim cards" (konekaart), which require no special formalities to activate. They are sold at gas stations, in supermarkets and kiosks of the R-kiosk network and cost from 2-3 EUR. If desired, you can pick up an additional package with Internet traffic for 4-10 EUR.
Calls to your homeland with an EMT operator will cost 0.50 EUR per minute, Tele2 has a special tariff "Russia" for 5 EUR with 50 minutes of calls included during the month.
Payphones are no longer found on the streets of Estonian cities: they were eliminated as unnecessary back in 2010. But there are no problems with the Internet: there is unlimited free Wi-Fi at the airport, restaurants, hotels and many public places in large cities and resorts.
Money
The monetary unit of the country is the Euro (EUR), in 1 euro there are 100 cents. Current exchange rate: 1 EUR = 73 RUB.
It is best to go to Estonia with the euro in your pocket: rubles are changed here, but the exchange rate is not very attractive. Dollars are accepted at all banks and exchange offices Eurex, Tavid and Monex, located everywhere: at the airport, hotels, large shopping malls, at railway stations. The most favorable rates are usually in banks, many exchangers charge a commission for transactions.
Tipping is a voluntary matter: you can always thank an attentive waiter with 5-10% of the bill, but no one will condemn you for paying strictly according to the check.
Estonian banks are open on weekdays from 9:00 to 18:00, exchange offices usually work longer. Some financial institutions are open on Saturdays (until lunch), but Sunday is a day off everywhere. Credit cards of common payment systems are accepted both in large stores and in small souvenir shops. There are ATMs even in the outback, it is safe to use them: credit card fraud is rare in Estonia.
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Estonia- the northernmost of the Baltic countries, the land of coniferous forests, full-flowing rivers and lakes. Proximity to Russia and Finland and Sweden has given rise to an amazing fusion of cultures, embodied in architecture, folk art and crafts, as well as in national cuisine.
Estonia is a very small state with a population of 1.3 million people, so even in the capital of the country you will not meet the hustle and bustle of megacities. Here you can slowly and thoroughly get acquainted with the architecture of medieval fortresses and castles, ancient churches and cathedrals in Estonian style Tallinn and Narva, plunge into the culturally rich life of the university city of Tartu or go to the Baltic coast resorts of Pärnu and Haapsalu, known as centers of beach and wellness holidays.
Geography
Estonia is located in the northeastern part of Europe. The state borders on Russia and Latvia. From the west, Estonia is washed by the waters of the Gulf of Riga and the Baltic Sea, from the north by the waters of the Gulf of Finland. In addition to the continental part, the state includes 1521 islands in the Baltic Sea, including the large islands of Saarema and Muhu.
The relief of Estonia is flat, since the country lies on the northwestern tip of the East European Plain, natural landscapes are represented by swampy lowlands, moraine slightly hilly plains. The relief is characterized by the features of ancient glaciation - stained hills, kams and lakes, basins of glacial lakes.
Estonia has a developed hydrographic network. 7,000 rivers and streams flow through the country. Large water arteries are the Pärnu River with a length of 144 km, the Narva and Emajõgi rivers. There are a large number of lakes in Estonia, the largest of them, Chudskoye, which acts as a natural border with Russia.
The flora of Estonia is vast tracts of coniferous-deciduous forests. About half of the country's area is covered with forests. The most common tree species are spruce, pine, birch, aspen, oak, maple, ash and alder. Nature protection complexes and reserves have been created in the country, including five national parks– Matsalu, Soomaa, Vilsandi, Lahemaa and Karula National Park.
Length coastline Estonia is 3794 km. The beaches here are typical of the Baltic coast - long and wide, with fine whitish sand that forms the dunes.
Climate
Estonia lies in the climate zone of temperate latitudes. In the coastal regions the climate is milder and more humid, coastal, in the eastern part of the country the climate is more continental. On weather influenced by Atlantic air masses.
Winter in Estonia is relatively mild. average temperature February on the coast is -4°C, in the north-east of the country -8°C. Thaws are not uncommon, but there are also sharp cold snaps.
In spring, the central part of the country warms up faster than the seaside. The temperature difference in March-April can reach 3.5°C.
Summer is cool. The average temperature of the warmest month, July, is 16-18°C.
The average annual rainfall in Estonia is 500-800 mm. Most of them are in the summer.
The number of hours of sunshine depending on the region is 1620-1920 per year.
The swimming season in Estonia lasts from June to August. The temperature of the Baltic Sea during this period fluctuates between 17-23°C.
Time
Estonia lives on Eastern European time. The time is 1 hour behind Moscow time in winter. Time zone –UTC+2, UTC+3 in summer.
Language
The official language of Estonia is Estonian. For a quarter of the population of the country, the Russian language is native, to one degree or another, almost half of the population speaks Russian, so for Russian tourists in large cities of the country, there is practically no language barrier.
Population
As of 2015, the population of Estonia is 1,312,252. Most of the country's population, about 69%, are Estonians, a significant part of the population, about 24%, are Russians. Ukrainians, Belarusians, Finns, Poles, Lithuanians and Latvians also live in the country.
Currency
The official currency of Estonia is the euro (EUR). You can change currency in banks and exchange offices. In banks, no commission is charged; they accept the Russian ruble for exchange. Banks are open from 9.00 to 16.00 on weekdays, some banks are open on Saturdays from 9.00 to 12.00.
Cards of world payment systems are accepted for payment everywhere, including in remote cities. There are also ATMs everywhere where you can withdraw cash.
Customs regulations
Undeclared import and export of currency in Estonia is limited to the equivalent of 10,000 EUR. Duty-free import of 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars, 2 liters of spirits with a strength of less than 22 degrees or wine or 1 liter of spirits with a strength of more than 22 degrees, 200 g of coffee and 100 g of tea, perfumes up to 50 ml or toilet water up to 0.25 liters .
In the European Union, including Estonia, there is a ban on the following foodstuffs in personal baggage:
- meat and meat products
- flour products with meat filling or containing meat;
- milk and dairy products
The only exception is baby food.
In addition, the import of explosives, drugs and narcotic preparations, firearms and ammunition is prohibited into the country.
For the import of pets, an international passport of the animal is required, which must contain marks on the immunization of the animal and vaccination against rabies, a certificate of health of the animal received no earlier than 10 days before departure.
Connection
Cellular and mobile internet services in Estonia are offered by Tele 2, Elisa and EMT. All operators have special tariff plans for tourists and SIM cards that do not require a contract. You can buy SIM cards of local operators both in mobile phone shops and in newsstands, gas stations and shops. On the territory of Estonia, SIM cards of Russian mobile operators operate in international roaming mode.
International telephone code Estonia - 372.
To call from Russia to Estonia from a landline phone, dial 8-10-372-city code/operator code-subscriber number.
To call from Russia to Estonia with mobile phone dial +372-city code/operator code-subscriber number.
Estonia is one of the most developed countries in the field of the Internet. Almost 95% of the country's territory is in the coverage area wireless internet. Wi-Fi points are equipped in most hotels, restaurants and cafes, on railway stations, in libraries and recreational areas.
Mains voltage
Mains voltage 230 V, European sockets.
Tourism/features
Types of tourism. Almost all possible types of recreation are available to tourists in Estonia. The rich cultural and historical heritage of the country, a huge number of architectural monuments made it possible to develop excursion tourism as one of the main directions. Primorsky districts are a space for beach holiday on the Baltic Sea and recovery. Central regions rich in forests, lakes and other natural resources offer tourists a wide range of opportunities for active rest and ecotourism.
Traditions and customs. The culture and way of life of Estonians have been formed over many centuries, while the traditions and customs here are close to the cultural traditions of neighboring countries. So, in Estonia, as in Latvia, a holiday dedicated to the summer solstice is celebrated on a grand scale. On the night of June 23-24, Estonians go out into the countryside, remember ancient rituals and dances, and light bonfires. During the day, many Tallinners gather at the Song Festival Grounds, where you can hear choral singing.
There are special, original holidays in Estonia. In early February, Candle Day is celebrated here. On this day, it is customary to cook ritual dishes - porridge and pork, to celebrate the "refraction of winter". Centuries ago, it was customary to make candles on holidays, and recently the old tradition has come back into fashion. By the holiday, exhibitions of candles are opened, master classes on their manufacture are held.
Wedding ceremonies occupy a special place in Estonian culture. To this day, the marriage is considered perfect after such rites of the wedding ceremony as putting on the bride a headdress of a married woman and tying it with an apron. Agriculture is of great importance in the life of the country, therefore, at the beginning of autumn, harvest day is celebrated in Estonia.
One of the components of traditional culture is folk crafts. In Estonia, it is knitting and macrame. A variety of knitwear is decorated with floral ornaments. The country is also famous for its wood and leather craftsmen.
Kitchen. Estonian culinary traditions have evolved under the influence of the traditional peasant way of life. The main products for cooking are agricultural products - pork and beef, poultry, vegetables, dairy products, as well as seafood. The culinary traditions of Sweden, Germany and Russia, the Baltic countries have a considerable influence on the national cuisine.
The first dishes in Estonian cuisine are milk soups, soups with barley or pearl barley, dumplings, peas or potatoes. In coastal areas, herring soup is popular. Dishes that no feast in Estonia can do without are black pudding, herring with sour cream and stuffed eggs. Pastries are served as desserts, and spicy piparkook cookies are an indispensable attribute of the Christmas table.
General rules for staying in the country
The norms of behavior in Estonia correspond to the well-established norms of behavior in Europe. There are no special rules of conduct, however, there are a number of public order rules in the country, for non-observance of which a fine or administrative arrest can be imposed. It is not allowed to carry open bottles of alcoholic beverages in public places, and smoking is allowed only in strictly designated areas.
Safety
Estonia is a safe country for tourists. The crime rate here is traditionally low. However, personal belongings are stolen, especially in crowded places, so it is recommended to follow standard precautions - do not leave personal belongings unattended, store valuables in a hotel safe, avoid unlit and sparsely populated places at night.
Documentation
The list of documents required for crossing the border includes:
- Schengen visa
- foreign passport, the validity of which exceeds the validity of the visa by at least three months and has at least two free pages
- health insurance policy valid in the territory of the Schengen countries
- if you plan to travel by car - a compulsory civil liability insurance policy valid in the Schengen area and in several other countries of the world ( Greencard), driver license international standard
- children under the age of 18 traveling unaccompanied by their parents must have a notarized consent of both parents to leave, indicating the period of validity and countries to be visited
- Embassy of the Russian Federation
The Russian Embassy in Estonia operates at:
Tallinn, st. Pikk, 19;
Phone: +372 646 4170, +372 646 4169, +372 646 4168, +372 646 4089
Fax: +372 646 4178
Email:
The Consular Section of the Embassy of the Russian Federation is located at:
Tallinn, st. Lai, 18, tel. (+372) 6464131; fax (+372) 6464130;
Email:
Important Phones
Phones emergency services in Estonia:
- Fire and rescue service and ambulance - 112
- Police - 110
- Information service of Tallinn - 1345
- Information for tourists in Tallinn - (+372) 645 7777
Directions
- the capital of Estonia, one of the most beautiful corners of Europe. City on south coast The Gulf of Finland attracts romantics and connoisseurs of architecture. Historical Center Tallinn- a tight knot of winding streets connecting ancient squares, cathedrals and churches, parts of a medieval fortress wall and towers, castle and palace complexes. For integrity and historical significance Old city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Geographical position Tallinn provided its guests with the opportunity to relax on the water - yacht piers crash into the waters of the Gulf of Finland, and there are many beaches and recreation areas in the vicinity of the capital.
IN Tallinn of interest are not only silent witnesses of past eras, but also cultural centers. Life in the capital is a series of bright events, festivals, exhibitions and concerts. The city hosts the country's main theatrical and musical scene, extensive museum complexes and galleries. You can feel the spirit of the Baltic capital not only on the streets of the Old Town, but in traditional restaurants or at a medieval festival. Many tourists tend to visit Tallinn in winter. At the end of December, the streets and squares of the city are filled with the aromas of cinnamon and ginger, Christmas melodies sound everywhere, and a fair unfolds near the town hall.
- the easternmost city of Estonia, lying on the very border with Russia. Narva is famous big amount attractions. The city has preserved medieval fortifications and castles, ancient cathedrals and squares. Individual houses and former institutions are architectural monuments here, and cozy parks and a large number of sculptures only betray the charm of the city. Many tourists begin their acquaintance with Estonia from Narva, as the city closest to Russia in all respects.
is a well-known seaside and mud therapy resort on the western coast of Estonia. The small city is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea from three sides, the sea breezes fan the streets of the resort, and the unhurried pace of life and interesting architecture attracted creative intelligentsia. The popularity of the resort was provided by therapeutic mud. The first clinic in Haapsalu was opened in 1825 and to this day silt from the day of the sea is used here in a complex of medical and wellness procedures. Today, there are large spa complexes and hotels.
is a small seaside resort known for its deep tradition of spa therapy. The first bathing establishment in Pärnu, where treatments with sea water and therapeutic mud, accepted the first patients in 1837. Nowadays, rows of hotels and spas line the wide sandy beaches, fringed by the coastal promenade, offering treatment for joint diseases, nervous system and skin. People go to Pärnu not only in summer. Cozy parks, children's playgrounds, craft workshops and courtyards, entertainment centers and architectural sights have provided the resort with popularity throughout the year.
- the second largest city in Estonia, a large Cultural Center The Baltic States and a university city with a rich history. The main type of recreation in Tartu is excursions, visits to museums and cultural institutions. The city, founded in 1030, is the cradle of Estonian statehood, a favorite vacation spot for artists and musicians. In Tartu, the Middle Ages are intertwined with modernity - in the historical quarter of Jaani, where the Gothic church with terracotta decorations is located, Theater Halls and the Toy Museum operate, and the old building of the university founded in the 17th century is still operating. More than three dozen museums and galleries, an interactive science center are waiting for tourists in Tartu « AHHAA", water center "Aura", a chain of bright events and holidays - film, theater and historical festivals, exhibitions, creative meetings.
– largest island Estonia, surrounded by the waters of the Baltic Sea. Saaremaa attracts lovers of active tourism and beach holidays. The island is covered with forests cut through tourist routes, and sea waters are a space for yachting, windsurfing and kitesurfing. The largest city on the island of Kuressaare is a medical resort - spa hotels and spas, mud baths offer a wide range of wellness treatments. Enjoying the nature of Saaremaa can be combined with getting to know local sights – the Episcopal Castle, the Museum of Windmills under open sky and the Pangas Cliff.
Old Town of Tallinn- the historical center of the Estonian capital and a real treasure trove of architectural and historical monuments. Buildings of the 11th-15th centuries have been preserved here in an amazing way, thanks to which Old Tallinn was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Once the capital of Estonia was surrounded by a city wall, a 20-meter stone fortress consisted of more than fifty towers and bastions, of which only half have survived. The most powerful of the buildings of that time - artillery tower "Kik-in-de-Kek", its height is 38 meters, and the walls reach a thickness of 4 meters. The tower houses a museum displaying ancient weapons and armor. "Kik-in-de-Kek" is connected to the bastions by a system of underground passages, which are also open to tourists. Another fortress tower, ironically called "Fat Margaret" is a squat building with a diameter of 25 meters. The tower operates Maritime Museum Estonia, whose exhibits are artifacts raised from the bottom of the Baltic Sea, the first diving suits, materials on shipping and shipbuilding.
A counterweight "Tolstoy Margarita» is in Old Tallinn and « Long German"- the tower of Toompea Castle, standing on the hill of the same name. The national flag of Estonia flutters above the tower, which is solemnly raised every morning to the sound of the national anthem.
The upper and lower parts of the Old City are connected two old streets – « Long leg"(Pikk-Yalg) and " short leg"(Lühike-Yalg). The wide and steep Pikk-Yalg street is paved with cobblestones, and on both sides of it rise old buildings, which are replaced by a fortress wall. The street ends with a gate tower. On weekends, works by local artists are exhibited on the fortress wall, making the Long Leg an open-air gallery. The "short leg" is even steeper and much narrower. For those who dared to climb up to the Toompea hill along Lyukhike-Yalg, a railing was equipped. At the end of the street is the second of the two surviving gate towers in Tallinn.
Town Hall Square - the central square of the city and the heart of the Estonian capital. Here, hundreds of years ago, decrees were announced, there was a brisk trade, and today Christmas is celebrated and tourists walk around, whose eyes are opened by a majestic architectural ensemble.
On the square is located the only Gothic town hall in Northern Europe and one of the oldest buildings in Tallinn. The tall limestone building was erected in 1404. The town hall is decorated with an arcade, on the facade you can see drains in the form of dragon heads. The building is crowned with a slender tower with a spire and a weather vane-figurine of the patron saint of Tallinn, Old Thomas. The austere Gothic façade of the building hides colorful halls with arched ceilings adorned with intricate wood carvings. Visitors can see the Hall of the Magistrate, decorated with murals, the Burgher Hall with the city coats of arms, the kitchen and the treasury. In the former secret room of the town hall, there is a small museum of torture. A spiral staircase inside the town hall tower leads to an observation deck, from a height of 64 meters a panorama of Old Tallinn opens up.
The second most important building on the Town Hall Square pharmacy, one of the oldest operating in the world. Already in the 15th century, medicines and all kinds of drugs were traded in a small room at house No. 11. Today, a small museum operates at the pharmacy, where ancient pharmaceutical instruments, a distillation apparatus, pharmaceutical scales and a press, medicinal powders and herbs are attached.
House of the Blackheads in Tallinn- an old building that belonged to the merchant guild. The patron saint of the guild was the black Saint Mauritius, whose head was emblazoned on the coat of arms of the merchant union. The unusual emblem led to the fact that the guild was called the Brotherhood of the Blackheads.
House of Blackheads is fair Considered a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Red-green carved gates with gilding and the coat of arms of the guild, a relief portal with mascarons made of hewn stones, pediments on the windows and the coats of arms of the brotherhood attract the eye. Inside the building, historical interiors are partially recreated. Visitors can see Olaf's Gothic vaulted hall with carved stone columns, tiled fireplaces and massive chandeliers, the White Hall in the classical style, basement halls with low arches supported by quadrangular pillars. Chamber concerts are held in the House of the Blackheads, excursions are organized with a story about the history of the brotherhood and the architecture of the building.
Tallinn Dome Cathedral - the oldest church in the city and the country's main Lutheran church. The white-stone cathedral, majestically towering on the top of Toompea hill, began to be built in the 13th century, followed by centuries of reconstruction and rebuilding, which gave the temple a unique look.
In the architecture of the Dome Cathedral in an amazing way merged different eras And architectural styles. The Gothic portal with a lancet doorway is harmoniously combined with a high Baroque tower crowned with a gabled roof. Under the arched vaults of the cathedral there is a carved wooden altar in the Baroque style, a carved pulpit, ancient coats of arms and epitaphs of impressive size. On the floor of the cathedral you can see gravestones, among the graves in the church - the grave of the famous navigator Ivan Fedorovich Kruzenshtern.
The pride of the Dome Cathedral is the organ of the end of the 19th century; anyone can attend organ music concerts in the temple. The tower of the cathedral is equipped Observation deck , which offers a panorama of the Upper and Lower Towns, Toompea Castle, surrounded by gardens.
Rocca al Mare - a grandiose ethnographic museum located on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Rocca al Mare occupies the territory of a manor founded in the 19th century. On an area of more than 70 hectares, surrounded by centuries-old pines, there are village houses covered with straw, farmsteads, mills, rural schools and village chapels.
The museum is conditionally divided into four parts - Western, Northern and Southern Estonia, island territories. Each of the departments is represented by farms traditional for these places. All houses, barns and stables are open to tourists, inside you can see household items from dishes and needlework to rocking chairs and handmade carpets, master classes and interactive programs are held in some farms. Visitors to the complex can see the traditions and customs of the Estonian village, participate in folk festivals. Looking at the villages of Rocca al Mare, slowly walking horses harnessed to wagons, people in historical costumes, one can believe that he came to Estonia two hundred or three hundred years ago. The immersion in history is complemented by lunch at the Kolu Farm tavern, where guests are served traditional Estonian treats.
Flying Harbor - Museum-Hydroairport "Lennusadam" one of the most interesting museums Northern Europe. The hangars of the Seaplane Harbor present unique exhibits from the field of shipbuilding and navigation. Visitors will have to visit submarine "Lembit» 1930s, the only surviving submarine of this type, sit at the helm of the British float plane "Short S.184", walk along the deck of the icebreaker "Suur Till", descend into the steam compartment, boiler room, wardroom and cabins, where the atmosphere of the middle of the last century is recreated . The pride of the museum is the remains of a sailboat dating back to 1550, the hull of the ship was raised in 1985 from the day of the Baltic Sea.
In addition to the main attractions of the museum, visitors to Lennusadam can see many small but interesting exhibits - sea mines, torpedoes, buoys, ship guns, and even a yellow submarine, in which a journey through the depths of the sea is simulated through audiovisual effects. The Seaplane Harbor Museum has a lot of interactive stands and simulators– you can virtually shoot from anti-aircraft guns, take pictures in the form of submariners and sailors, control ship models in a special pool. The building of the hangars is also of interest, in order to appreciate the steepness of the vaults, a high arched bridge was built in the hall of the museum. You can climb it only with a guide.
Singing field - largest Estonian concert venue building, unique in its structure and architecture. Estonians jokingly call themselves "singing people" - every five years the country is united by a grandiose singing festival, which involves several tens of thousands of singers. The Singing Field was built for the festival.
The main stage of the country is a stone shell-arch, designed to improve the sound of singing choirs. Under the vault there are passages in the form of an amphitheater, capable of simultaneously accommodating up to 15,000 people. At the same time, the audience is located on the field, and the arch, reflecting the sound, directs it to the public. Often, on the contrary, the stage is set on the field, and the audience is placed under the arch. On one side of the Singing Arch, you can see a 42-meter tower for the fire lit on holidays, on the other - a radio tower.
AHHAA is the largest interactive science center in the Baltics located in the Estonian city of Tartu. The AHHAA exposition is interactive stands, puzzles, interesting experiments and other attributes of entertaining science. On an area of 3000 sq. meters housed the Hall of Technology, where you can ride a bicycle on a cable at a height of 8 meters, capture your own shadow on the wall and balance in a special tunnel, the Hall of Wildlife with a glass anthill, where you can observe the life of insects. Here is an incubator and, if you're lucky, you can see the process of hatching chicks. The rest of the AHHAA collection includes a variety of exhibits - a mirror maze, cocoons-spheres for meditation and water cannons from which you can shoot.
At the center of science operates spherical planetarium, the projector of which allows you to simultaneously show more than five million stars. Several times a day, the Science Theater hosts shows that demonstrate the laws of nature and conduct chemical experiments.
Transport component
Air transport. There are four airports in Estonia, of which only one has an international status. The country's air gateway is the airport Tallinn serving 27 airlines. Regular flights connect the Estonian capital with Moscow, St. Petersburg, Vilnius, Warsaw, Helsinki, Stockholm, Amsterdam and London. On the territory of the airport are bus stops from where they go commuter buses to the center Tallinn And intercity buses to major cities. In addition, the airport has a car rental desk and a taxi dispatch desk.
Railway transport. There are 900 km of railway lines across the country. There are 8 main lines.
Motor transport. Major transport routes run through the territory of Estonia, connecting the state with neighboring countries, including European routes E20, E67, E77. Center for Motor Transport passenger traffic is Tallinn, the International Bus Station operates here, where buses from Russia, Belarus, Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland arrive.
Sea transport. Estonia is connected by international ferry to the ports of Finland, the Åland Islands, Sweden, Germany and Russia. The largest ports of the country are located in Muuga and Tallinn.
Water transport. Estonia has more than 320 km of navigable river routes. Shipping is carried out along the Emajõgi.
Urban public transport in Estonia - buses, trolleybuses, trams and fixed-route taxis.
General information
The center of wellness in Estonia has always been the coast of the Baltic Sea. Expressive natural landscapes, sandy beaches, clean air, saturated with sea salts and healing aromas of pine forests, complement deposits of therapeutic mud. Already in the 20s of the 19th century, the first water and mud baths were opened in Pärnu, Haapsalu and Kuressaare, Kurhauses, embankments and parks for recreational walks were landscaped.
Nowadays, a chain of modern resorts stretches along the Baltic coast of Estonia. All in the same towns Parnu And Kuressaare operate as traditional multidisciplinary sanatoriums and rehabilitation centers, and comfortable hotels, focused not only exclusively on medical, but also on health-improving rest. There are more and more of the latter every year, and the most promising direction is the medical spa - a complete treatment, combined with comfort and a wide range of spa hotel services.
For supporting High Quality Wellness services in Estonia created Union Spa(ESPAL), whose function is to control the quality of services and compliance with international requirements. 16 of the country's leading spa hotels, including the Tervis Medical Spa in Pärnu, the Georg Ots Spa hotel and the Grand Rose Spa in Kuressaare, have received the association certificate.
The main methods used in spa treatment are: balneotherapy and hydrotherapy - therapeutic baths, sea water baths, showers and underwater massage, mud wraps and applications, various types of manual and hardware massages, procedures with paraffin and ozocerite, kinesitherapy, speleotherapy and inhalations. plays an important role in health climatotherapy- health walks along the seashore, thalassotherapy - spa guests are offered wraps with algae, peelings with sea salts. In large health-improving complexes there are own diagnostic centers that allow to conduct basic functional studies.
All resort centers have swimming pools, aquathermal areas with baths and saunas, own park areas with routes for recreational walks and Nordic walking, lawns for yoga or other wellness practices. Tourists are presented with a wide range of programs - medical, lasting 2-3 weeks, and wellness, lasting from one day. There are ample opportunities for recreation with children, in almost all health complexes and hotels implemented programs "Mother and Child" And "Family holiday".
Natural healing factors. The two main healing factors of Estonian resorts are the seaside climate and therapeutic mud. The climate of the resorts of Pärnu, Haapsalu and Kuressaare is seaside, characterized by high air ionization and its saturation with salts, trace elements of iodine and bromine. Pine forests, habitual for the Baltic coast, enrich the air with medicinal phytoncides. At the same time, Estonia is located in the zone of temperate latitudes, which allows even people with diseases of the cardiovascular system to feel comfortable in local resorts.
In Pärnu, there are deposits of therapeutic peat mud with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and analgesic properties. In the form of baths and applications, they are used for diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Natural healing factor are the waters of the Baltic Sea. The high concentration of salts, minerals and trace elements, as well as organic components in the form of algae, make it possible to equate swimming in the sea with balneotherapy procedures. In many spa centers in Estonia, sea waters, algae and salts are used for wellness procedures - baths, massages, body wraps.
Indications for spa treatment in Estonia are:
- diseases of the musculoskeletal system
- diseases of the nervous system
- diseases of the heart and blood vessels
- respiratory diseases
- gynecological and urological diseases
Alean National Tour Operator offers your tourists holiday insurance:
| Age of the insured | Type of insurance | Insurance coverage, euro* | Period of validity of the insurance | |
| Age of the insured | Type of insurance | Insurance coverage, euro* | Policy cost per day, euro* | Period of validity of the insurance |
| up to 64 years | 100 000 | 2,0 | any | |
| 65 to 79 years old | Medical insurance "Standard +" | 100 000 | 4,0 | any |
| from 80 years old | Medical insurance "Standard +" | 100 000 | 8,0 | any |
| Age of the insured | Type of insurance | Insurance coverage, euro* | Policy cost per day, euro* | Period of validity of the insurance |
| Age of the insured | Type of insurance | Insurance coverage, euro* | Policy cost per day, euro* | Period of validity of the insurance |
| up to 64 years | 50 000 | 2,50 | any | |
| 65 to 79 years old | Medical insurance "OPTIMA" | 50 000 | 5,0 | any |
| from 80 years old | Medical insurance "OPTIMA" | 50 000 | 10,0 | any |
| Age of the insured | Type of insurance | Insurance coverage, euro* | Policy cost per day, euro* | Period of validity of the insurance |
| Age of the insured | Type of insurance | Insurance coverage, euro* | Policy cost per day, euro* | Period of validity of the insurance |
| up to 64 years | Medical insurance "OPTIMA" | 100 000 | 3,0 | any |
| 65 to 79 years old | Medical insurance "OPTIMA" | 100 000 | 6,0 | any |
| from 80 years old | Medical insurance "OPTIMA" | 100 000 | 12,0 | any |
* payment in rubles at the rate of the Central Bank (+ 2%) on the day of booking
Information on the conclusion and termination of the insurance contract, the amount of insurance obligations, the actions of the parties in the event of an insured event, the procedure for paying insurance compensation and other necessary information for the insured tourist are specified in the insurance rules.
For a Russian traveler, they are not something exotic and qualitatively new - rather, this is a kind of Russian reality. More calm, more measured and more conducive to rest and relaxation.
It is worth noting the main points why you should visit Estonia:
- It is close - from St. Petersburg by car or bus, the road to Estonia takes several hours.
- Estonia - beautiful country with a huge number of attractions - the tourist centers of Estonia annually amaze a large number of tourists who do not expect anything special from the trip.
- It is relatively easy to open a visa to Estonia.
- Prices in Estonia are low - both by European standards and by ours. IN last years there is a tendency to purchase housing in this country - people buy apartments and houses just to come there to relax in the summer.
What are the main tourist centers in Estonia? Let's get to know them better
It is rather difficult to single out centers in Estonia - Estonia itself is a center for recreation and tourism. Tallinn, its environs, Narva, Pärnu, Haapsalu, Laulasmaa, Prangle, Otepää and many others - each town is attractive in its own way.
Capital Tallinn- embodiment of the present fabulous city- just walk around the Old Town, which belongs to world heritage UNESCO. This city seems impossible not to fall in love with! Ancient temples, cathedrals, the Town Hall, numerous museums and even more numerous houses - all this creates a unique aura of this Medieval city charm. An endless number of excursions, which is remarkable, many of them are conducted in Russian, in large cities the majority of the population speaks it. This is especially true of the older generation, although young people also often surprise tourists with excellent pronunciation and vocabulary.
However, it will not be difficult for you to get your bearings in Tallinn - in numerous tourist offices you can take a map of the city and get to know it yourself. It might even be more fun than a tour!
A fairly large city by Estonian standards - Tartu, is also of great interest to those interested in history. And just those who appreciate beauty in all its manifestations. Tartu can safely be put on a par with the most beautiful and ancient cities in Europe. Museums, old houses, the very atmosphere of the city is conducive to long walks.
The famous Narva is practically a small Russia on the territory of Estonia - both adults and children will understand you here. A calm and quiet corner in a picturesque area, a number of historical buildings, old manufactories, a museum, a castle - the standard content for a small town in Estonia. If you are tired of life big city, if you want to change the rhythm, you are in Narva! For residents of small Russian towns, holidays in Narva may seem boring and monotonous; they usually come here for a couple of days or even just passing by.
It may seem that in Estonia only sights are everywhere. This is only partly true - in Estonia there are beach resorts, which also have excursions and interesting places. For example, Narva - Jõesuu - beautiful place with pine forests and sandy beaches, where tourists love to spend time. From all over the country, as well as from other European countries, lovers of spa treatments also come there - therapeutic and simply relaxing and regenerating. The resort is located on the coast of the Gulf of Finland, not far from Narva, which allows vacationers to combine cultural program with a beach holiday.
If you are in Estonia in winter, you should definitely go at least for a few days to the town of Otepää, which rightfully bears the title of one of the best winter places in the country. For lovers winter views sports this place is a godsend! And, of course, you are in Estonia! - you will find ruins ancient castle, museums and a lot of interesting things. Otepaa is also famous for its spa resorts, which traditionally offer treatments for every taste.
In Estonia, there are also a number of smaller, but no less interesting places - Haapsalu with its therapeutic mud and beaches with the warmest water, Prangli Island, on which time has stopped, retaining all the best from ancient times, Laulasmaa with its legendary singing sands, Pärnu, which has been welcoming guests to its spa resorts since the mid-19th century.
As you can see, Estonia is extremely interesting for tourists, everyone can visit it - the process of paperwork is not too tedious, it is not far to go. Many choose this country for honeymoon trip(photos even by non-professional photographers are simply amazing because of the local color) or for the first trip with a small child - due to the fact that there is no cardinal climate change, children endure the trip easily and rarely get sick.
Interesting holidays are held in Estonia- each region has its own customs, but it is interesting to visit everywhere - many tourists speak especially warmly about the celebration of Fisherman's Day - Estonian fishermen cook real fish soup in large bowls and treat everyone to it.
Practically throughout Estonia, there are excellent conditions for cycling enthusiasts or for those who like hiking, for more extreme-minded guests of the country, kayaking and canoeing along numerous rivers can be offered.
Contrary to the opinion that appeared that Russians are not liked in Estonia, tourists who annually vacation there, on the contrary, say that local residents are very complacent not only in Russian, but in general - to tourists.
The Republic of Estonia is located in the northeast of Europe.
In the east, Estonia borders on Russia, in the south - on Latvia. In the west and north, the country is washed by the Gulf of Riga and the Gulf of Finland of the Baltic Sea. The area of the state is 45.2 thousand km 2. Approximately 10% of Estonia consists of islands. In total, there are more than 1500 islands in Estonia, both large and very tiny.
The capital of the state is the city of Tallinn. Other major cities in Estonia: Tartu, Narva, Kohtla-Jarve, Pärnu.
Estonia is a member of the Eurozone and the European Union, participates in the Schengen area.
Time
Estonia is in the Eastern European time zone, that is, the UTC + 2 time zone. Due to the transition of Estonia to summer time, along with most European countries, the time here is one hour behind Moscow in summer and two hours in winter. Summer time starts at 03:00 on the last Sunday in March, the country changes to standard time at 04:00 on the last Sunday in October.
In summer, the sun rises at 04:12 and sets at 22:38. In winter, the sun rises at 10:16 and sets at 16:35.
Climate
The type of climate in Estonia is temperate, smoothly changing from maritime to continental as you move inland from the coast. Autumn is the rainiest time of the year. Due to the influence of sea air masses, the weather in Estonia is very changeable and can noticeably change several times even within one day, but this does not significantly affect the tourism sector.
Average temperature in winter time in Estonia - -5 °С, and in summer - +15 °С.
The best time for a beach holiday in Estonia is summer, which lasts from June to August. A cultural tourism with excursions and sightseeing is good from May to September.
Population
The population of Estonia is about 1.3 million people, in the capital Tallinn - more than 410 thousand people. There are more than 62% of Estonians in the country, the second largest nation is Russians (30%), Ukrainians (3%), Belarusians (1.5%), Finns (1%) also live here.
Device
According to the form of government, Estonia is a parliamentary republic.
The country is divided into 15 maakonds (counties).
Language
The only one official language Estonian - Estonian. Russian and Finnish languages are very common in the field of tourism, English is much less common. But for residents of European countries who do not know Russian and Finnish, it will be useful to take Estonian phrasebooks on the road.
Money
The national currency of Estonia is the euro. Credit cards can be used throughout the country, they are accepted in stores, large shopping malls, hotels and restaurants.
You can exchange money in banks, exchange offices, which are located at the airport, railway stations and hotels. The rate is different everywhere, information about the rate and commission for the exchange must be found out in advance. It is usually best to change money in banks.
Customs
You can import and export cash in any amount, both local and foreign currency. However, amounts in excess of $4,350 (or equivalent) must be declared upon entry.
Information on the volumes of goods allowed for duty-free import into Estonia:
Tobacco products: 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 100 cigarillos, 250 gr. tobacco products;
Alcohol: 1 liter of spirits, 2 liters of wine;
Perfumes: 50 ml perfume, 250 ml eau de toilette.
You can also import personal goods for a total amount of 430 euros.
Visa
Estonia is part of the Schengen area, therefore, to enter the country for tourism and recreation, you must have a Schengen visa or a national Estonian visa to cross the border of the state.
An application for an Estonian visa must be completed electronically, and then printed out and submitted to the Consulate in hard copy. An exception is made only for pensioners.
Information on the procedure for obtaining an Estonian Schengen visa: http://www.estemb.ru/konsulskaja_informatsija/cat-472/aid-2137
healthcare
Medical services are sufficient high level, but for tourists - only for a fee, including calling an ambulance. At the same time, only a small amount of medicines can be bought without a prescription, it is better to take the necessary medicines on vacation with you. All tourists need to have medical insurance, there are no exceptions for Russians.
Behavior rules
This country honorably preserves the culture, traditions and customs inherited from its ancestors. Estonians are a nation of calm, friendly and patient people. They are simple in everyday life, even their everyday clothes are extremely simple and functional. This is partly why you should not dress too pretentiously on weekdays so as not to attract too much attention from local residents.
Smoking is strictly prohibited in public places. World War II and Soviet times are inappropriate topics in communication with Estonians. Some of them, even knowing Russian, prefer to communicate with Russian-speakers in English, thus maintaining a distance. But in general, residents treat Russians calmly and with restraint, especially workers in the tourism sector.
It is not necessary to leave a tip, as by default they are included in the bill in the amount of 5-10%. But if you wish, you can leave a trifle or change for a very good service.
Attractions
Estonia is often called the Country of Gulfs - it is located on the coast of the Gulf of Finland. The nature of Estonia is unique, there are few places on earth where you will find such amazing landscapes that amazingly combine forests and seas, lakes and meadows.
For most tourists, a vacation in Estonia is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the original history of this region, look at the ancient settlements that have stood here for centuries, and, of course, relax on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Estonia is suitable for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
The capital of the state - Tallinn - one of the oldest cities in Europe - has preserved its historical sights. The city center, also known as the Old Town, is still built up with ancient buildings, towers, fortresses, here is the castle of Vyshgorod. The lower city was previously built up with defensive structures, some of which have survived to this day. One of the ancient sights of Tallinn is the Town Hall Square, which houses one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, a complex of buildings of the Great Guild, a monument to the sailors of the battleship Rusalka.
Guidebooks also recommend tourists to see the Narva Castle and the city of Narva itself, visit resort area Narva-Jõesuu, observation tower and a memorial cross in Sinimäe in the province of Viruuma, the Mourning Park of the Victims of Evil in Hiemägi, Saaremaa Island, Hiiumaa Island and many other places of interest.
Holidays
Information about numerous popular holidays in Estonia:
March/April - Good Friday
In June, the festival "Slavic Wreath" is celebrated, in July - the folklore festival "Viru Saru" and the Folk Festival of the Baltic, one of the largest in the country, and in October - the Days of the Finno-Ugric peoples. In summer, the Olesummer Beer Festival and the International Organ Music Festival, as well as the White Lady Festival, take place.
In the spring, it is worth visiting Estonia for the Estonian Film Week, the Days of Estonian Music, and the Jazz Festival. In autumn - to the film festival and jazz festival "Joulujazz", timed to coincide with the imminent Christmas in December.
The first visit to the All-Estonian Song Festival will seem truly wonderful for a tourist, when a huge crowd gathers on the Song Festival Grounds and sings in chorus.
One of the most curious traditions, for which it is worth planning a vacation in Estonia for the summer, is the Grillfest holiday, which is held on the day of Ivan Kupala, aka Janov's Day or Jaanipäev, aka the summer solstice. Across the country, bonfires are lit on the night before, people dance around them, sing and search for the magical fern flower. A lot of Estonians plan their own holidays during this time.
Traditional cuisine
National Estonian cuisine has much in common with German and Swedish, but still very different from them. Estonian dishes are simple but varied and filling, often including meat, including blood and liver, fish, potatoes, cereals, and vegetables. But very rarely Estonians use spices and seasonings.
Popular both among locals and tourists are dishes such as: stewed cabbage with pork and barley, peas with pork legs, sausage, cheese (original curd mass dish), smoked trout, blood dumplings and pancakes with blood, barley dumplings, porridge swede with potatoes, pea porridge with buckwheat, beer soup.
Estonian sweets cannot be compared with others, especially chocolate with nuts, sweets with liquor, cherries and other fillings - they are fundamentally different, special.
The national drink is light beer, as well as beer with honey and unique mulled wine.
Estonia is a relatively inexpensive country, so food here is much cheaper than in many European countries.
Airports
There is only one in Estonia international Airport, which is located in the state capital of Tallinn.
Transport
Rail transport in Estonia has become less and less popular over the years, although there are plenty of roads in the country. Mostly commuter trains are used.
The cost of mobile communications and the Internet in Estonia is low, especially in comparison with others European countries. There are three major mobile operators - Tele2, Elisa and EMT. SIM cards are sold in salons, post offices, kiosks of the R-kiosk network, supermarkets and other points of sale.
As for the Internet, all operators provide relatively inexpensive Mobile Internet, which is purchased in "packages". Any tourist can use Wi-Fi, since it is free of charge in most hotels, restaurants and some shopping centers.
Language and communication
The most widely spoken language is, of course, Estonian, followed by Russian. Estonian is a very specific language, not everyone will be able to master it, but still, if you are going to visit the country, I recommend learning a few words. Local residents are pleased if a tourist says hello or thanks in their native language. Many people know the Russian language, especially in the eastern part, bordering Russia, and in the capital. Almost everyone speaks basic English.
Features of the Estonian mentality
Estonians are a rather reserved people. That is why many foreigners who come to the country, local residents may seem inhospitable and indifferent. Actually, it is not. Estonians are really calm and phlegmatic, and direct all their energy to themselves and their families. But it’s worth a little to stir up a person, to get to know him better, as you will understand that in fact he is a very pleasant conversationalist and companion.
Many Russian tourists before traveling to Estonia fear that Estonians will treat Russian-speaking tourists arrogantly, and sometimes even aggressively. There is some truth in this, but it is the exception rather than the rule. Most Estonians, especially those who work in the tourism sector, are always ready to help guests, regardless of their nationality.
Shopping. What is worth bringing?
Of course, you should not compare Estonia with other European countries in terms of shopping. However, there are some must-have items here.
Products. Many of the products you see on store shelves are made in Estonia to the highest standards. First of all, it is high-quality meat and milk. In addition, the country is known for its Kalev confectionery factory, which produces delicious sweets and chocolates. You can also buy famous Estonian liqueurs for memory or as a souvenir.
Wool items. In Estonia, you can buy both expensive handmade woolen goods and more modest things, but in any case, they will delight you with warmth and quality.
Souvenirs. If you really want to buy a few trinkets, then let them not be banal magnets and key chains, but interesting handmade items made of leather, glass or metal. Such souvenirs are sold mainly in the old town of Tallinn. Local craftsmen put their soul into them, so handmade souvenirs will fill your home with warmth and bring good luck.
Kitchen. What and where to eat in Estonia?
Estonian cuisine was first influenced by Sweden and Germany, and later by Russia. The food here is quite simple, satisfying. The basis is local products: meat, fish, cereals, bread, vegetables and milk in all variations. Since the set of available products is initially quite scarce, the Estonians have come up with some crazy combinations of them that are not always to the taste of foreigners, for example, herring with sour cream, pancakes with blood or milk soups. Those who dare to try such dishes are very satisfied. And Estonians have a big sweet tooth. Among the local desserts you will find not only pastries, but also, for example, sweet soups and kissels. As for alcohol, we can distinguish local beer, which, by the way, is quite good, as well as liqueurs, the most famous of which are Vana Tallinn and Vannu Kukk.
Top 5 Estonian dishes
1. Kartulipors (or potato piglets). This dish is pork baked in mashed potatoes. The dish is tasty and satisfying, very popular at Christmas.
2. Kama. This is a mixture of barley, rye or oatmeal with peas, filled with milk or curdled milk. For sweetness, you can add honey, jam or fruit there. Such mixtures are sold in ordinary supermarkets in the grocery departments.
3. Multicapsad. This hearty dish is prepared mainly in winter, its ingredients are pork, sauerkraut and pearl barley.
4. Verivorst (or black pudding). Here, probably, it is not necessary to explain what it is made of. To be honest, the product is not for everyone, but nevertheless, the dish is an integral part of Estonian cuisine. Verivorst is usually served with berry sauces.
5. Pyparkook. This cookie is loved by many Estonian sweet tooth. The biscuit contains a mixture of spices: cinnamon, cloves, ginger and pepper, which gives it its special spicy taste.
Holidays and events
Despite the fact that Estonians are not a particularly religious nation, religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter are among the most popular and celebrated. Already long before these dates, all shops are filled with holiday goods, and housewives remember recipes to treat their family to a delicious dinner.
On Christmas Eve, it is customary for Estonians to visit each other, where traditional food serves as a treat: black pudding, kartulipors and piparkok.
Another very interesting holiday is Yaanov (Ivanov) day. Midsummer Day is a traditional summer holiday with a touch of paganism and mysticism. It is celebrated on the day of the summer equinox. The event is famous for its interesting tradition- searching for a fern flower at night (according to legend, the fern blooms only once a year and on that night, and whoever finds the flower will be lucky and lucky). On the night of Ivanov's Day, people have fun, sing and light bonfires.
Safety
In general, the security situation in the country is not bad. The crime rate is low, and the average person in the evening on the street can feel quite comfortable. However, do not forget about simple rules to avoid trouble.
Firstly, you need to keep track of your belongings and money in crowded places of tourists, yes, no one has canceled pickpockets. Secondly, you should not vigorously discuss political, national and other controversial issues with unfamiliar people. local residents, especially after a couple of glasses of beer or something stronger. Third, park wisely. If you came to Estonia by car, then you should not leave your car in places where it can interfere in any way, or in places not intended for parking. Also Personal car it is not recommended to leave it in an open parking lot near the port in Tallinn. If you decide to go somewhere by ferry, it is better to prefer the so-called multi-storey "parking houses". Fourth, before the trip, be sure to write down separately the most important phone numbers - the numbers of relatives and relatives, your bank, police, ambulance and the Russian embassy. If you get into trouble, you will know where to turn. It is also not superfluous to have photocopies or scans of documents. For example, before each trip I send myself a photo of my documents by e-mail.
3 tips that you will definitely need when traveling around the country
1. So that your vacation in Estonia does not start with many hours of waiting in line at the border, I recommend that you make sure to book the time of departure from the country. It does not cost a lot of money, but it will allow you to pass the Estonian part of the border within one hour. On our first car trip to Estonia, we didn't do that, which cost us six hours of downtime. By the way, this procedure does not apply to entry, you will have to stand in a general queue.
2. Be sure to visit an Estonian spa hotel. You can hardly find such value for money anywhere else.
3. Calculate the budget. When I first went to Tallinn, I was sure that Estonia is quite a budget country, but this is not entirely true. Hotels, food and souvenirs cost a lot of money. For example, in Tallinn, a more or less decent hotel will cost at least fifty euros per night for Double Room, and to dine in an inexpensive institution, for example, in the dining room, will cost no less than 20 euros for two.
The material uses photos from Visit Estonia