Estonia is easy to overlook since it is a small, northern Baltic country, tucked between Latvia and the Gulf of Finland. Estonia is, however, a destination that has something for everyone. It's a wonderful mix of history, nature, and modern conveniences. And what's more, it is one of Europe's more affordable travel destinations that allows travelers to enjoy traditional food, unique attractions, and comfortable accommodations without spending a small fortune. Here are some of the ways that Estonia stands out in Europe and why you should consider it for your upcoming adventure.
1. It's the Most Digital Country on Earth
Estonia offers e-Residency to anyone on the planet, meaning that you can run a fully EU-registered business from anywhere in the world through Estonia's digital platform. Nearly all of the government services (voting, taxes, business registration, prescriptions, marriage records) are done online. Estonia was the first country to declare internet access a human right.
2. It's Almost Entirely Forest
Over 50% of Estonia is covered by forest. With a population of 1.3 million people in a country the size of Switzerland, Estonia is one of the least densely populated countries in Europe. The forests are full of bears, lynx, wolves, and elk and most Estonians have a legal right to (almost unconditionally) freely forage, hike, and camp anywhere in them called the Right of Public Access.
3. The Singing Revolution Actually Happened
Estonia regained independence from the Soviet Union partly through song. In 1987–1991, hundreds of thousands of Estonians gathered at the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds to sing prohibited patriotic songs. The movement called the Singing Revolution is one of the most creative acts of civil disobedience in modern history. The song festival tradition (Laulupidu) continues every five years and draws 100,000 singers to the city.
In 2028, the youth festival and the national song festival will take place during first two weekends in July and the first weekend will be earmarked for dancing and the following weekend will be for singing.
If you want to experience the festival, here are the key dates for planning your trip around the festival.
- July 1-2, 2028: XXII Dance Celebration and XIV Youth Dance Celebration
- July 8-9, 2028: XXIX Song Celebration and XIV Youth Song Celebration
4. Tallinn's Old Town Is Well Preserved
Tallinn's medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved in all of Northern Europe. When you walk through the limestone towers and cobblestone streets it really feels medieval. The Town Hall Square, 15th-century apothecary (still operating!), and the Toompea Castle are some highlights.
5. Sauna Culture Is An Ancient Cultural Tradition
Estonia, like its Nordic neighbors, takes sauna seriously but with a distinctly Estonian twist. The traditional smoke sauna (suitsusauna) on the island of Saaremaa and Mulgimaa region is a UNESCO-listed cultural heritage practice. It's a meditative and communal experience.
6. It Has 2,222 Islands
Estonia's Baltic coast consists of 2,222 islands, though only about 40 are permanently inhabited. The largest, Saaremaa, has medieval windmills, a bishop's castle, and a meteor crater lake (Kaali) that locals have revered since ancient times. The islands have their own distinct dialect, traditions, and pace of life.
7. It's a Dark Sky Paradise in Winter
Estonia's northern latitude (59°N — the same as southern Alaska) means winter nights are very long. But it also puts Estonia within the Aurora Borealis zone. If you get away from the city lights in Tallinn, then the Northern Lights are a real possibility from October through March, especially on the islands and in the remote southeastern counties.
Estonia is small, yes. But it offers a lot to be experienced.