5 facts you should know before travelling to Estonia
Estonia, a small yet captivating country in Northeastern Europe, often flies under the radar for many travellers. However, its history, people, landscapes, and innovative spirit make it a place worth exploring. Whether you're drawn to its mediaeval cities, its culture, or its nature, Estonia has a lot to offer. Before you pack your bags, CarJet brings you five facts you should know before travelling to Estonia.
Estonia has little to do with neighbouring countries Latvia and Lithuania
Although Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are collectively known as the Baltic States due to their geographical location along the Baltic Sea, Estonia has little in common with its southern neighbours. Culturally and linguistically, Estonians are much closer to Finns than to Latvians or Lithuanians. The Estonian language is similar to Finnish, whereas Latvian and Lithuanian belong to the Baltic language family. The strong cultural influence of the Nordic countries is evident in Estonia's love for saunas, among other traditions. If you plan to visit any of these countries, make sure to check if you can cross borders with a rental car first.
Estonia is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and one of the greenest countries in Europe, with forests covering over 50% of its land. The country is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, foxes, rabbits, and deer. In fact, Estonia boasts the largest population of brown bears in Europe, with more than 700 individuals spread across the country. Plus, Estonia is dotted with over 1,400 lakes, which make up nearly 5% of its territory.
Estonia's well-marked trails and flat terrain attract hikers of all skill levels. Estonia is, in fact, one of the flattest countries in Europe. With an average altitude of just 50 metres, and Suur Munamägi—the country's highest point—standing at only 300 metres, it offers accessible routes for beginners.
Additionally, Estonia is known for its exceptional air quality, ranked among the cleanest in the world by the WHO (World Health Organization), and Tallinn was named Europe’s Green Capital for 2023. This makes Estonia an ideal destination for hiking lovers, who can explore the country while enjoying its stunning natural beauty. If you're planning to explore Estonia by car, consider hiring an electric vehicle, as the country provides plenty of facilities for EVs. Doing so allows you to contribute to Estonia’s ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance its ecosystems.
Estonia isn’t just a haven for mountain lovers; it's also a perfect destination for those who are drawn to the sea. What many might not know is that the Baltic Sea is dotted with more than 2000 islands from Estonia. If you're a true adventurer, these islands are worth exploring. However, don't expect typical paradisiacal islands with sandy beaches—many of these islands are uninhabited and offer a glimpse into ancient mediaeval and Viking culture.
Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, and Muhu are the largest islands, located close to Estonia’s coast and connected to one another. In Saaremaa, the biggest of them all, you can easily spend an entire day exploring. Be sure to visit Kuressaare Castle, a 14th-century fortress that now houses the Museum of Saaremaa, where you can learn about the island's rich history and nature.
Tallinn's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you'll quickly understand why as you stroll through its cobblestone streets. You'll feel as though you've travelled back in time, passing by 13th-century buildings, old city walls, towers, and lively squares. Don’t miss the chance to visit iconic landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Toompea Castle, St. Olaf’s Church, and the Town Hall Square, which attract millions of tourists each year.
Tallinn not only boasts a stunning historic centre but also serves as the country’s main social and economic hub, offering plenty of entertainment and cultural experiences. With a third of the country’s population living in the capital, it’s the ideal place to connect with locals, experience the vibrant nightlife, and immerse yourself in Estonia's urban life. Communicating with locals will be easy, as most Estonians are fluent in English, Russian, or other European languages.
Estonia has been a pioneer in integrating technology and digitalization into daily life. The government offers essential public services online, to the point where it became the first country in the world to hold elections online. This earned Estonia the nickname "E-Estonia".
Innovation in Estonia isn’t limited to the government. The country has also become a hub for entrepreneurs, thanks to its tech-savvy population and supportive policies. In Estonia, you can find more than 1,000 startups, making it the country with the most startups per capita in the world. Many of these startups, such as Skype, Playtech, Wise, and Bolt, have gained international recognition, establishing Estonia as a leading player in the global tech scene.
Planning a trip to Estonia and wondering how to make the most of your adventure? Here’s everything you need to know:
To fully immerse yourself in Estonia, hiring a car is a must. With your own vehicle, you can journey from Estonia’s green forests to its bustling capital and charming villages scattered across the country. Start by hiring a car in Tallinn, then explore often-overlooked cities like Tartu, Pärnu, and Haapsalu. Having a car transforms you from a typical tourist into a traveller seeking deeper cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The best time to visit Estonia is in spring when the cold winter has passed, and the tourist crowds haven’t yet arrived. Estonia is a country of contrasts when it comes to weather: in summer, temperatures can exceed 30ºC, while in winter, they may drop below -15ºC. Additionally, the difference between seasons is striking in terms of daylight; in winter, you may have just six hours of light, while summer offers up to 19 hours of daylight. For those looking to fully experience Estonia, visiting during the warmer months is ideal.
When planning your trip to Estonia, transportation is key to fully experiencing everything the country has to offer. CarJet provides the lowest car hire prices in Estonia, ensuring you can explore comfortably and affordably. With a wide range of vehicles and multiple pick-up and drop-off locations, CarJet makes it easy to travel around Estonia. For a hassle-free and budget-friendly journey, CarJet has you covered!
