The Baltic States—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—are nestled along the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea. Known for medieval old towns, pristine nature, affordable prices, and complex histories, they offer incredible diversity in a compact space. Each country is easily traversed by bus, train, or car, making multi-country trips a breeze.
Best time to visit
Late Spring (May-June): Blooming nature, mild temperatures.
Summer (July-August): Warmest, many festivals, long daylight (“white nights”).
Early Fall (September): Fewer crowds, beautiful foliage.
Getting around
Within Countries: Buses are frequent and reliable, trains available (especially in Lithuania and Estonia), car rentals are popular for exploration.
Between Capitals: Regular and inexpensive bus routes (Lux Express, Ecolines).
Currency: Euro (€) in all three countries.
Estonia
Top Places to Visit
Tallinn
UNESCO Old Town: Winding cobblestone streets, medieval city walls, fairy-tale towers (Toompea Hill, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Town Hall Square).
Telliskivi Creative City: Trendy cafes, boutiques, and street art.
Kadriorg Palace & Park
Day trips: Lahemaa National Park, Tallinn TV Tower, Seaplane Harbour Museum.
Tartu
Estonia’s university town; vibrant, youthful vibe.
National Museum, Emajõgi riverside.
Saaremaa
Largest island with windmills, Kuressaare Castle, and untouched beaches.
Food Highlights
Black bread, smoked fish, elk stew, kama dessert, craft beer.
Latvia
Top Places to Visit
Riga
UNESCO Old Town: Stunning Art Nouveau architecture, House of the Blackheads, St. Peter’s Church, Central Market.
Kuldīga: Picturesque small town with Europe’s widest waterfall.
Jūrmala: Seaside spa town, sandy beaches, pine forests.
Gauja National Park: Medieval castles (Cēsis, Sigulda), hiking, adventure parks.
Unique Experiences
Explore woodsy, romantic parks in the countryside.
Baltic sauna experience.
Food Highlights
Grey peas and bacon, rye bread, smoked fish, cold beet soup, honey beer.
Lithuania
Top Places to Visit
Vilnius
UNESCO Old Town: Baroque churches, Gate of Dawn, Užupis (bohemian district/“republic”).
Gediminas Tower—best views of the city.
Trakai Castle: Fairytale castle on an island, popular day trip.
Kaunas
Street art, interwar modernist architecture, lively riverside.
Klaipėda & Curonian Spit (Nida)
Stunning sand dunes, charming fishing villages, bird watching, pine forests.
Food Highlights
Cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), smoked meats, honey cake, local beers.
Sample Itinerary (10 Days)
Tallinn, Estonia (2–3 days): Explore the old town and nearby attractions.
Tartu or Saaremaa, Estonia (1 day).
Riga, Latvia (2 days): City and surroundings (Jūrmala or Gauja NP).
Kuldīga, Latvia (1 day): Charming small town.
Vilnius, Lithuania (2 days): Sights, Užupis, Trakai day trip.
Curonian Spit (Nida), Lithuania (1–2 days): Unique landscapes.
The Baltic States offer a seamless blend of old and ultra-modern, wild nature and lively capitals, quirky attractions, and hearty fare. Safe, affordable, and captivating—don’t miss this magical corner of Europe!