Baltic States Travel Guide: Travel Tips for Baltics
Baltic States are identifying countries that are geographically coastal to the Baltic Sea. Among the Baltic States are three countries: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
The three Baltic States are a strong trio. These countries made great progress after leaving the Soviet Union in the 1990s. The three countries in Northeastern Europe are members of the European Union since 2004.
The Baltic States are perhaps one of the most underrated regions in Europe but now the names of the capitals of these countries, Riga, Tallinn and Vilnius are expressed more frequently for tourists.
General Information of the Baltic States
Location of the Baltic States
Located in north-east of Europe, the Baltic States border with Russia, Belarus, Poland and the Baltic Sea.
Languages
Latvian is spoken in Latvia, Estonian in Estonia and Lithuanian in Lithuania, however there is a very good level of English among the population, especially in tourist areas and among young people.
Currency
Euro is the official currency of all three Baltic States. The use of credit cards is already widespread, even in small shops.
Visas
All three countries are part of the European Union and the Schengen area, so for entering any of the Baltic States you need to show a valid passport and Schengen Visa, which allows you to stay in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. You will need to check your visa requirements at the nearest embassy of the destination country yourself.
For EU / EEA citizens, no visa is required before traveling to Baltic States. You just need a valid passport or chip ID card as a travel document. If the stay is longer than 90 days, you will need to request a residence certificate from the Migration Service.
Destinations to explore in Baltic States
In another article, we introduce you to Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia with the good reasons to visit Baltic States.
Destinations in Estonia
Estonia is the northernmost of the three Baltic States, and the smallest in both area and population of 1.2 million. The capital Tallinn with its incredible charm is located on the coast, on the Gulf of Finland.
Tourism in Estonia is still concentrated in Tallinn. Tallinn Old Town is surrounded by ramparts with a rich medieval heritage, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow streets are full of unique architecture and culture with evident influences on buildings from previous Russian, Swedish and Danish dominations.
In this area, the beautiful Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is worth a visit, whose tower houses the largest bell in the country. It was built in 1900, when Estonia was part of the Russian empire, and symbolizes Russia's ancient religious and political domination. Another stop is the ancient Gothic-style Town Hall in the square of the same name in the heart of the Old Town. You can take the 115-step spiral staircase to enjoy the magical view from its tower. The square has been an important marketplace since the 13th century. The Fat Margaret and Hermann Towers, St Mary's cathedral, Pikk Street, St. Nicholas Church with its tower of 124 meters are some of the surprises in the old town. Keep an eye on the oldest operating Raeapteek pharmacy in Europe, opened in 1422, and on many Tallinn walking tours that can let you explore the history and myths of the Old City.
Tallinn is very photogenic from high, especially from the best viewpoints of Tallinn. For the best panoramic views of Tallinn Old Town, head to Toompea Hill.
Tallinn Old Town is a short walk from the business center, with its skyscrapers, modern hotels, restaurants and shopping centers. You can also take a stroll to Kadriorg Park with lush gardens and the Kadriorg Castle from the Baroque era. Tallinn TV Tower is another interesting place where to can Walk on the Edge of the roof at a height of 175 meters, from the 22nd floor of the tower.
In addition, you should definitely visit the KUMU Art museum and the Maritime Museum. Tallinn is quite small and compact, but offers enough sights and attractions to spend several interesting days, just check the full list of top things to do in Tallinn.
A big part of Estonian territory is covered by forests, many of which are easily accessible, and Estonians are obviously very attached to nature and outdoor activities. The Estonian flag is not by chance composed of blue, black and white colors, which recall the typical Estonian landscape made up of blue skies, dark and dense forests and white snow on the ground. In terms of getaways from the capital, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the peninsulas, bays, forests, beaches, waterfalls and marshes of Lahemaa National Park Day Trip.
To enjoy the natural beauty of the Baltic Sea, you can explore the island of Prangli off the coast of Estonia and discover an authentic fishing village dating back over 600 years.
Parnu is the most famous city for summer holidays with its white beaches, hot springs and beautiful parks, which can be reached from Tallinn in 2.5 hours by train or bus. The islands of Hiiuma and Saaremaa are also often recommended for lovers of nature and the great outdoors.
Another popular place to visit is the town of Tartu which is apparently very charming with young and dynamic atmosphere with a university and students. The city is also Estonia's only port city and there are ferries coming here from both Helsinki and Stockholm, for those who prefer to travel there. For more information, check out the extended list of Estonian destinations that every traveler should have on their bucket list.
Estonia is a big name in high technologies and mobile-using people and most purchases are now online and cashless, that's why this Baltic country is called E-stonia. Estonia is undoubtedly the most economically dynamic country of the 3 Baltic States. During the trip to Estonia, you will always have internet access, Wi-Fi is available everywhere, even in some forests.
If you dream of experiencing a white Christmas, don't underestimate this small Estonian capital. The magical Christmas market exists here.
Destinations in Latvia
Latvia has gone through different nations for centuries. Throughout the country you will find old castles and churches from different eras. The country also has a long coastline made up of sandy beaches, dunes and rock formations with lots of untouched nature. There is Gauja National Park in Sigulda, less than an hour's drive from Riga. This is where you can explore gorgeous nature in the pristine setting by taking Private Sigulda, Turaida, and Gauja National Park Tour. You will see the 350 million-year-old Gauja River Valley with its sandstone cliffs.
In Riga, referred to as the Paris of the North, you will come across one of the most beautiful cities of Latvia. Latvian capital city is the largest and most diverse of the Baltic cities.
You'll fall in love with the city's varied and colorful architecture, especially Art Noveau Buildings. Of course, the old Riga is not a mere Art Nouveau, the center also has an atmospheric medieval old town. Highlights include Riga Cathedral and St. Peter's Church, which offer stunning views of the city from the 72-meter-high tower.
If you are planning to visit Riga in the near future, make sure you include these top tourist attractions in Riga into your must-see list!
In Latvia, you can also find Rundale Palace, the most beautiful baroque palace in Latvia. The palace was built in 18th century and is an outstanding example of the early work of Italian-Russian architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, who also designed the famous Winter Palace in St. Petersburg.
It is essential in this country to go to Turaida, a beautiful city with an impressive medieval castle and museum. It is a wonderful place to get to know the Latvian way of life, culture, history, and spirit.
Jurmala, which is right next to Riga, is a spa town with chic villas and bathhouses. Almost 26 km long, white sandy beach invites you. Liepaja, on the Baltic Sea, is the most famous port in southwestern Latvia. There is Liepaja beach which has been a popular swimming area since the 1860s.
The best part when travelling in Latvia is that everywhere is close and there are so many great places to visit that can be found in this list of top tourist destinations in Latvia. If you want to go and see another farthest city by train or bus, this takes no more than 3-4 hours.
Destinations in Lithuania
Lithuania is the southernmost of the three Baltic States. According to the Guinness Book, the geographical center of Europe is about 20 kilometers northeast of Vilnius, the capital. In 1990, Lithuania was the first Soviet Republic to declare its independence from the Soviet Union, and today Lithuania is one of the fastest growing economies in the EU.
The most exciting tourist destination is probably the capital Vilnius, it inspires the visitors with the best-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site old town, an excellent range of restaurants and numerous sights. This city has more than 40 churches belonging to different faiths and religions and is also in possession of many examples of Gothic, Renaissance and strongly Baroque architecture. Exploring the old town is worth starting from the edge of the old town at the Gate of Dawn, which was originally part of the city walls. The Cathedral Square acts as the nerve center of the city of Vilnius. It highlights the Cathedral of Saint Stanislaus and Saint Vladislav, a white building with an entrance of columns that are reminiscent of Greek or Roman buildings. You can't miss the Jewish area with its narrow streets or step up in the bell tower of St. John's Church for views of the city. One of the important complexes in the old town is Vilnius University, Europe's oldest university, which was founded by the Jesuits in the early 16th century.
Vilnius is located in the Neris River valley, surrounded by many green hills. You can climb the hill to Gediminas Castle Tower or Three Crosses for spectacular views. Close to the historic center of Vilnius, there is a bohemian district called Uzupis, which declared itself a free state on April 1997. This peaceful community along Paupio Street posted their constitution, which was translated into many languages.
If you're interested in Lithuania and are looking for more attractions in Vilnius, you'll be in the right place with our list of things to do in Vilnius.
West of Vilnius you can find Trakai, a beautiful historic town, which is easily reachable from Vilnius by bus (30 min journey). Trakai has an impressive castle on the island of Lake Galve, which has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Lithuania.
The city of Kaunas is a medieval town with a huge Orthodox church, colorful alleys and old houses, also reachable from Vilnius by bus in 1 hour 30 minutes. This is the second city in the country, both demographically and in importance, located on the banks of the Nemunas River. Kaunas is also worth strolling through the perimeter area of the Nine Forts, standing there from the time of the Russian Empire.
The city of Klaipeda is a port town mixing German and Scandinavian architecture. It is best known for its Sea Festival, which is held every year on the last weekend of July. From Klaipeda, you can easily visit the natural destination with breathtaking landscapes on a day trip to the Curonian Spit. The Curonian Spit is about one hundred kilometers long Lithuanian and Russian peninsula, which separates the Baltic Sea from the Curonian Lagoon.
The Hill of Crosses is an absolutely UNIQUE place in Lithuania, located near the town of Siauliai. You’ll see crosses dedicated to the partisans, to the most important dates of Lithuanian history and to famous individuals, such as Pope John Paul II and US President Ronald Reagan.
If you will decide to visit this country, check the top destinations in Lithuania that you should not miss.
Where to stay in the Baltic States
The Baltic States have a very large range of hotels and other accommodations, so it is not difficult to find a place to stay at a good price. Baltic accommodations are generally not run down and you can usually trust the comments on Booking.com. Accommodation is usually cheaper than in many European capitals, but it is advisable to book in advance especially during summer.
All three capital cities of the Baltic States have two clearly defined areas with an old town and the rest of the city. The best area to stay in all three cities is right in the old town, where the main attractions of the city are located. For more information about the best neighborhoods to stay in each city as well as the top hotels to stay, check out the following details.
Estonia
For several years, Estonia has been one of the jewels of tourist destinations in the Baltic States so it is possible to find a large number of accommodations here. If like the majority of tourists, you are planning to stay in the capital city of Estonia, get familiar with the best areas to stay in Tallinn.
Latvia
In Latvia, the main tourist attractions are clustered around the capital Riga. Almost all of the best accommodation options are located in the same region and it is a good base to travel around Latvia. To choose the best accommodation in the capital city of Latvia, you can explore the best areas to stay in Riga and find the top hotels in Riga.
Lithuania
Lithuania has been a travel destination for centuries, so there is a decent variety of accommodation options in the country. The best accommodations of the country can be found in the capital city Vilnius. You can discover accommodations in the Lithuanian capital by exploring the list of the best hotels in Vilnius and getting familiar with the best areas to stay in Vilnius.
How to travel between the Baltic States
The best way to travel between the Baltic cities is by bus, the most efficient and comfortable means of transport. The two main companies that offer connections between the countries are Ecolines and Lux Express.
Both companies offer very comfortable buses, with screens in each seat with multi-language movies, USB charger, free Wi-Fi and coffee onboard.
Latvia is located right in the middle of the Baltic States, therefore traveling time from Riga to Vilnius or vice versa is around 4 hours (the distance between cities is 295 km), while from Riga to Tallinn or vice versa takes about 4 hours 25 minutes (the distance between cities is 309 km). The bus ticket price for such a ride is approximately 15-20 EUR, depending on the company chosen and the time. Bus stations in all three capital cities are just a few minutes from the city center.
Best time to visit the Baltic States
The weather in the Baltic States can be defined as the maritime climate with very cold winters and mild summers.
The best time to visit the Baltic States is in summer, when the temperatures are quite mild and the long days allow you to appreciate the landscapes and cities of the countries. The nights are short, the days are long and the temperatures are pleasant with about 20-25 degrees Celsius. Many festivals are celebrated in this period.
Spring brings the air temperature between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius, and sometimes it can be colder at night. Early autumn during September and early October could be an excellent option for visiting the Baltic States as well. Winter days are usually cold with an average of 0 degrees Celsius, and can drop even below -20 degrees Celsius. Estonia is the northernmost country so it has the coldest temperatures. However, Baltic States is very beautiful in December, especially during the Christmas holidays.
