Estonia is quickly becoming one of Europe’s hottest new getaway destinations. With a completely unique culture that’s unlike any of its neighbours, vast swathes of forest-studded countryside and an enchanting capital whose Old Town has UNESCO status, it’s hardly surprising it’s making waves in the travel space. Whether you are coming to explore Tallinn’s long list of museums or galleries, joining the locals at one of the hedonistic underground clubs or diving into Estonia’s cuisine, you’ll never be disappointed. If you have the time, don’t confine yourself to just the capital. If you’ve scored an Estonia car rental, you can make a dash beyond the city walls to find outdoorsy adventures aplenty.
Dining in Estonia
Estonian cuisine is steeped in tradition. Over the centuries, influences from Russia, Denmark and Germany has permeated every pore of Estonia’s gastronomy. This is a country where food is seasonal, and pork is king. Look out for verivorst, a typical blood sausage served with sauerkraut or sult, a type of jellied meat. During the summer months, the countryside bursts into life with wild strawberries and berries. Whenever you visit, don’t avoid trying leib, a wholesome rye black bread. If you take your Estonia car hire out of the city, you’ll find other typical dishes like beet salads, herring and pancakes topped with jam and cottage cheese.
Attractions in Estonia
The capital Tallinn is packed with things to do – whether it’s bar hopping with the locals, making a dash for one of the world-class museums or galleries or simply strolling through the cobbled streets in the Old Town. Beyond the city walls, there are plenty more places to visit in your Estonia car rental. Try Tartu, a creative student city with won’t break the budget or the waterfront town of Parnu which is often crowned the summer capital of Estonia. Then there are the outdoor activities which are seemingly endless. Saddle up to gallop along the beach, lace up your boots to go hiking in the national parks or don those snow-shoes for wintery adventures.
Estonia driving routes
If you plan to pick up a hire care in Tallinn, you’re in luck because the country is made for road trips. After you’ve had your fill of the capital, you can take to the gorgeous country roads and make a beeline for the national parks. An almost 400-mile route can take you to Matsalu National Park, one of the best places to see birdlife on the continent, the wetlands and rivers of Soomaa National Park, and the beautiful marshlands of Emajõe-Suursoo Nature Reserve. Continue on to Puhatu Nature Reserve to see plenty more birds and mammals and end at Lahemaa National Park to photograph the seriously Instagramable Jagala Falls.
Estonia car rental
If you’re sold on a car hire in Estonia, your best bet is picking up your vehicle at the international airport in Tallinn. The process couldn’t be simpler, and you’ll quickly be on your way. Try to book a hotel in the capital with free parking spots for your car as finding a place to leave your car overnight can be a little tricky. In Estonia, you drive on the right-hand side and overtake on the left. Like much of Europe, all passengers must wear a seat belt and using your mobile phone while driving is illegal. The country has particularly strict rules on drinking and driving – in fact the blood alcohol content limit is absolutely zero.