The Baltic States include the countries of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Although this trio is often mentioned in the same breath, the countries are actually different with their own character. These countries will surprise you with a wide range of experience options from the picturesque and trendy capitals with a long history scene, endless forests, magnificent lakes to the islands off the Baltic coast.
So, why should you visit the Baltic States? In this article, we will introduce you to Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, three Baltic countries that are still too little known by tourists, and will provide good reasons why visiting the Baltic States should be on your list.
1. The charm of capital old towns
The simple fact is that the three capitals, Tallinn, Riga or Vilnius are World Heritage Sites, that makes it already a good reason to visit the Baltic States.
Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is the ideal destination if you want to combine the comfort of the modern world and discovery of a rich cultural scene.
The old town of Tallinn (Vanalinn) is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe. Its narrow streets are full of unique architecture and culture. It is surrounded by the original 14th century medieval walls covering almost 2 kilometers. The historical sites such as Kiek in de Kok and the Fat Margareta are definitely worth a visit. The prominent Dom Church and the Russian Orthodox Cathedral can also be found in the city. You can enter through the Viru Gate and explore the many beautiful buildings of the Middle Ages, Gothic bell towers, secret courtyards and medieval squares lined with colored gable houses, restaurants and cafes. Nearby, you can walk along the gulf to the Baltic Sea, then spend time in the romantic park of the baroque palace of Kadriorg, built by the Russian Tsar Peter the Great.
There is a Tallinn Medieval Walking Tour where you will get acquainted with Tallinn history through interesting stories and legends, see the medieval dwellings from the 14th to the 15th-century and take pictures from viewing platforms.
Riga Old Town
Riga, the beautiful capital of Latvia, deserves its nickname "pearl of the Baltic". Riga Old Town (Vecrīga) also resembles medieval times, but much of the architecture was actually rebuilt in the 1990s.
For lovers of architectural beauties, it is possible to stroll through the streets of Riga admiring over 800 Art Nouveau buildings, located along the main streets of Alberta Iela and Elizabetes Iela, which are surprisingly well preserved. You should join the History of Art Nouveau Walking Tour in Riga and walk down some of Eastern Europe's most beautiful streets as well as learn about the city's architectural history.
Vilnius Old Town
The Lithuanian capital has one of the largest historic centers in Europe. You can find a surprising number of churches in Vilnius, which is beautifully situated in the middle of forested hills.
Vilnius Old Town is clearly different in appearance from Tallinn and Riga, instead of the Middle Ages, Vilnius shows the masterpieces of Baroque. You can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city at the foot of Gediminas Tower, or even have a picnic along the Neris River.
There is also a unique attraction of the capital - the bohemian district of Užupis, which has declared itself a free state.
You can’t miss an excursion to the Gothic castle of Trakai, the ancient capital of medieval Lithuania and residence of the Grand Dukes.
The Vilnius Private Tour with a Local gives a good chance to know the city through the eyes of a local host. You will discover the beautiful streets of Vilnius and visit the Gediminas Castle, Vilnius Cathedral, Vilnius Town Hall, and other interesting places.
2. The tranquility of the Baltic coast
The Baltic Sea borders the three countries. Those who love nature, sea and sandy beaches, can find what they are looking for in the Baltic States.
Some of amazing destinations around the Baltic Sea are listed below.
Estonian Seaside
Day Trip from Tallinn to Prangli Island will bring you to explore the beauty of the islands off of Estonia's coast, discover an authentic fishing village dating back over 600 years and enjoy the natural beauty of the Baltic Sea.
The islands of Hiiuma and Saaremaa, Estonia’s 2 largest islands in the Baltic Sea, make it a great trip for those who enjoy great outdoors.
Various ferry companies connect Tallinn with the cities of Stockholm and Helsinki. The most popular route is the boat trip to Helsinki in Finland, a neighboring country, which is located less than 2 hours by ferry. You can book the day trip ferry Ticket from Tallinn to Helsinki to explore the modern Scandinavian capital.
Latvian Seaside
From Riga, the Half-Day Jurmala Tour will bring you to enjoy the sea air and the natural features surrounding Jurmala, including the white sand beach that stretches for nearly 33 kilometers, the pine forest and the Lielupe River. Jurmala is the largest resort town in the Baltic states and it is known for its mild climate, healthy sea air, curative mud and mineral waters.
Lithuanian Seaside
From Vilnius, you can take Day Trip to Curonian Spit National Park. This is the gem of Lithuanian landscape, which is a 98-kilometer-long peninsula between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon formed more than 5000 years ago by the sea surge and streams, sand and wind. You will get an unforgettable impression with its windblown dunes, bright pine forest and authentic homesteads.
3. Benefit-Cost Ratio
The cost of traveling to the Baltic States is lower than to many other countries and it is still very affordable compared to Scandinavian capitals such as Helsinki and Stockholm. This is one of the great advantages of the Baltic countries as you can have a pleasant holiday there without breaking a bank. However, the cost of traveling will depend in particular on the season, as you can expect to find much better prices during winter than in summer. Since 2004, the three countries have been members of the European Union, so payments are made with Euro.
Some of average prices for a few needs to help you compare prices are provided below.
Accommodation
If your budget is not limited, you can have a nice hotel with good level of comfort starting from 70-80 EUR per day. If you are a traveler on a budget, you can expect to spend around 30- 40 EUR per day. However, prices are always variable, depending on the level of comfort and season.
In all countries, the best place to stay is right in the center of the city and in the old town but prices are much more affordable outside. Find the information about the best neighborhoods to stay in each capital as well as the top hotels there:
- Best area to stay in Tallinn, Estonia
- Best area to stay in Riga, Latvia
- Best area to stay in Vilnius, Lithuania
Food
You could say that food is available at fairly affordable prices. In general, you can fill your stomach with 5-10 EUR per meal, 1 and a half liter of water on average costs 60 cents, 1-2 EUR for coffees. Beer is usually available starting from around 1.50-2 EUR, cocktails from 3 to 6 EUR, depending on the bar. You can lower your cost even more by staying at the apartment and buying food from supermarket or staying at the hotel including breakfast.
Transportation
When it comes to the transportation in the Baltic States, there is no need for big money. Most of the main attractions in the capital cities can be reached on foot. If you want to take public transport such as buses and trams, the journey will cost you only 1-2 EUR. You can buy a day(s) pass to use if planning to travel around the cities more intensively.
4. Taste traditional dishes
Last but not least, is the food! Each of the Baltic States has many delicious traditional dishes you must try as they are proud of their local specialties. The cuisine mainly consists of dishes with products from local agriculture, based on the use of fresh and natural products, but surprisingly tasty. The typical ingredients in food are potatoes, mushrooms, hemp seeds, cabbages, rye bread and dairy products. Thanks to the proximity of the sea, you will also have the opportunity to taste both fresh seafood and smoked fish, in particular eel, anchovy and salmon.
The Baltic cuisine is influenced by many other cuisines. Among them, you will certainly have the opportunity to eat Cepelinai, a potato stuffed with minced meat accompanied by fresh cream and bacon, a wide range of marinated or smoked fish, and various soups.
You can discover the true taste of each country by joining their tasting tours. This gives you a chance to experience the smells, flavors and stories of the cuisine.
Tallinn Food Tour: You will be served a soup, various traditional food samples, like black rye bread, traditional Estonian open-faced spiced sprat sandwiches and also samples of modern Estonian cuisine. You will try out some local drinks, like 'Kali' and 'Kama', some local schnapps and sweets and a good cup of locally roasted coffee or a glass of local berry or fruit wine.
Central Market Latvian Food Tour: Learn about Latvian gastronomy in the largest open-air market in Europe. Sample a selection of more than 20 traditional local food samples as you learn about the history of these massive markets.
Tips
If you are interested in the specific country of the Baltic States, discover the following travel guides: