Enjoy winter in magical and snowy Estonia

Although many tourists prefer visiting the Nordic countries during the summer when the warm sun shines, flowers blossom, the sea is warm and cocktails are cold, visiting Estonia during the winter time can be the most magical experience. Crispy cold weather doesn’t attract many tourists that tend to clog up the streets in the summertime, and you can enjoy winter as an authentic experience in magical and snowy Estonia.

Wander in the Tallinn's Old Town 

The most wonderful time, beyond doubt, to visit Estonia’s capital Tallinn is during December when the city is covered with the Christmas lights. Did you know that that Tallinn’s Christmas market located in Raekoja Square was voted the best in Europe in 2018? So, it’s a must-see, every year. When you get enough of watching the tree, various concerts or shows that are organised for visitors, grab a cup of mulled wine from one of the vendors to warm up, and go for a walk on the narrow medieval streets. When the cold starts biting your toes again, cosy up in one of the many cafes. To end your wonderful day in Tallinn’s Old Town, don’t forget to try some of the Estonian traditional Christmas foods, like blood sausage, sauerkraut, pork and boiled potatoes. Delicious! To sweeten the evening up, crunch on a small gingerbread. 

Raekoja plats, Tallinn

Raekoja plats, Tallinn, Estonia, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia

Have some winter fun

Estonia is a snowy country. It can start snowing already in October, and it snows up until March. Crispy cold weather (ranging from zero up to more than -20 degrees Celsius) and fluffy snow make it a great destination for winter activities. Grab your skis, snowboards and sleights, and have some winter fun! If you decide to stay in the capital, hit the ice rink on Harju street – great workout and great mood are guaranteed. If you want to be one with nature, a winter hike in one of the bogs is an unforgettable experience. Just pack your hot chocolate, some sandwiches, dress warm and enjoy beautiful Estonian nature on one of the hiking trails. If you happen to be into serious winter sports, Otepää is the place to go. A small town 230 km south of Tallinn is known as the winter capital of Estonia. 

Otepää looduspark - Otepää Nature Park

Kolga tee 28, 67405 Otepää

Warm yourself up in a sauna

When the sun sets (and it happens quite early at winter time), don’t forget the Estonians' favourite activity – hitting the sauna. Estonia has countless spas to relax and enjoy spa treatments and hot saunas. If you are into a special treat, you might want to hop into an ice hole after sauna – it leaves you feeling more energetic, relieves stress and what’s the most important – keeps you healthy throughout the winter. 

So, no matter what you are into, just stroll leisurely around the streets of Tallinn’s Old Town, give your taste buds a try of a hearty and Christmassy meal, enjoy some winter sports, build a snowman or just take some time off in a spa. Enjoying winter in magical and snowy Estonia offers definitely an unforgettable experience.