Independent from the Soviet Union since 1991, Estonia, bordering Latvia and Russia is one of the small Baltic States lying on the Gulf of Finland.
For most people, Tallinn, the capital city is the only part of Estonia that they will visit, probably as a long weekend alternative to a more established destination like Prague or Amsterdam. They will not be disappointed either. Tallinn is home to one of the best-preserved old towns in Europe, where twisty cobblestone alleyways that give the area a mysterious otherworldly feel connect fanciful buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries.
There are plenty of bars that serve local beers, and the unusual local liqueur Vana Tallinn which is very sweet, and very strong.
Hotels in Tallinn are mainly situated in the centre of the city. Many buildings have been built in the last ten years since independence, and so, having replaced the Communist architecture and functionality, the newer hotels are on the whole airy and pleasant places to stay. Because the city has developed so fast as a tourist draw that it has not had the time to get the required number of hotel rooms opened to meet demand. Consequently, it is vital to pre-book accommodation in Tallinn to avoid arriving there and finding nowhere to stay.
Away from the city, the biggest tourist draw in Estonia is the Lahemaa National Park, which is roughly an hour by bus to the East of Tallinn. Featuring some astonishing waterfalls and picturesque scenery and manor houses, the park is populated by a wide variety of animals including brown bears and lynxes, so trekkers need to take appropriate precautions when they are there.
Facts for the Traveller:
Name: Republic of Estonia
Capital: Tallinn
Area: 45,226 Sq KM
Population: 1.4 Million
Language: Estonian
Flight Time: 2.5 Hours from London
Currency: Kroon
