Ten Great Things To Do When You Visit Estonia By Jonathan Williams At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

Estonia is a Baltic State with fifteen countries. It is located in Northeastern Europe with land boarders with Latvia and Russia and coastline on the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland. Estonia has a unique and rich nature that nourishes the heart and nostalgic atmosphere of small towns.

1.) Sailing

Estonian territorial waters is comparable to well known sailing grounds situated in much farther South. The Estonian summer weather is also a perfect time for sailing. There are a huge number of ports to choose from around Estonia.

2.) Tallinn

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, and Toompea is the historical heart of the city. It is covered with cobbled streets with lots of medieval houses and alleyways, and remnants of the city wall can still be seen there and still protects the lower town spread. Around the wall are green parks perfect for strolling. Tallinn was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997.

3.) Open Air Museum

The Open Air Museum is located outside the Old City in Tallinn. It showcases seventy-two buildings described as “Estonian vernacular architecture and village milieu” of the tsarist time in a dark dense forest. Tourists can get a picture of the life and its hardship of the olden times through the Open Air Museum.

4.) The Kadriorg Palace

The Kadriorg Palace was built by Italian architect Niccolo Michetti for star Peter the Great of Russia in 1718. The construction of the palace signifies the start of Tallinn’s fame as the summer resort for the nobles and rich of Russia. Today, the palace houses some painting and art collection, and s secluded complex of the palace is currently occupied by the Office of the President.

5.) Patarei Prison

This is one of the recent historical attractions. It is a cannon fortress built around 1840 to protect the city from sea-born attacks and as a notorious USSR prison, and the prison only ceased operation in 2004. Patarei Prison tours can last up to five hours.

6.) Lake Peipsi

It is the forth largest lake in Europe and sits in the border of Estonia, Russia and Eastern Europe. It has an average depth of seven meters with the deepest point being fifteen meters. It is ideal for fishing and recreation.

7.) Driving Tours and Cultural Journey

The countries of Estonia may be fifteen, but it can be toured through driving across countries. Each country can be reached in two to three hours of leisurely drive. Historical structures and museum can be seen along the drive as well as the local houses and a glimpse of the life of the Estonian.

8.) Estonian National Museum

The Estonian National Museum is located in Tartu and is devoted to peasant life and agricultural development. It has some imaginatively recreated farmhouse interiors and detailed display of Estonian folk costume from all over Estonia. Tourist will also appreciate the English labeling of the exhibits.

9.) St. Olaf’s Church

The church was named after St. Olaf (King Olaf II of Norway), protector of seafarers. The church’s spire was used as a lookout by the KGB during the Soviet occupation. Today, the view from the spire can be enjoyed by anyone who can climb the winding stone staircase, and the stunning view of the Toompea and the sea is worth every breath you’ll lose in the climb.

10.) Market stalls inside castle wall

Around the ancient fortress where ammunitions and supplies where once stored are now occupied by small stalls that sells goods to locals and visitors alike. The main product of this market is the handmade sweaters which dangle on hangers and cords for display. There are also other Estonian products sold there such as tablecloths, wooden dolls and other handmade crafts.

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