Seeking a European holiday with fewer crowds, unique cultures and exciting experiences that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the Baltics! Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are the three Baltic states. Each country and its capital city boast incredible architecture, beautiful nature, fascinating history and a culture like no other. So, which Baltic country should you visit? Read our guide to the Baltic States to find out!
While Expat Explore strongly recommends a visit to all three with our Baltics tours, we’ve put together a guide to travelling the Baltics to help you plan your ultimate Baltic getaway.
Your Guide to the Baltic States:
The Baltic Basics
The Baltics is a geopolitical term which refers to the three Baltic states: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The name refers to the Baltic Sea which all three countries share. Each country has their own language (Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian). However, only Latvian and Lithuanian are considered Baltic languages. Estonian is actually closer to Finnish. Located in Northern Europe, the Baltic countries are all members of the European Union and each country uses the Euro as currency.
After a turbulent past and multiple occupations, the Baltic states gained independence most recently in 1991 after the fall of the Soviet Union. In 1989, the Baltic states organised one of the most impressive peaceful protests of all time. The “Baltic Chain” or “Baltic Way” protested Soviet occupation by creating a 690km human chain of around 2 million people, starting in Vilnius, Lithuania and ending in Tallinn, Estonia. Today, each country values their freedom immensely and celebrates this whenever possible.
Related: Discover the Highlights of Helsinki & the Baltics!
Estonia
Capital City: Tallinn
Population: 1,3 million
National Dish: Verivorst (blood sausage)
Visit for: Medieval architecture, restaurants and charm
Fun Fact: Estonia is one of Europe’s leading innovators in terms of startups and “Unicorns”. Bolt, Skype and Wise are all Estonian companies.
First up on our Baltic adventure is Estonia! This enchanting country is the furthest north out of the three meaning that its climate is the coldest. Unfortunately, this also makes it the most expensive, yet Estonia is still significantly more affordable than its Nordic neighbours.
Estonia is a true winter wonderland from November to March. Its capital city, Tallinn, is always magical thanks to its UNESCO-protected Old Town which is home to well-preserved Medieval architecture, cobblestone streets and stunning viewpoints. However, winter may be even more magical as Tallinn’s spires and rooftops are covered with snow. Tallinn’s Christmas market takes place in the historic town square and oozes festive charm.
However, these winters and their winds can be bracing. Summer months are also special as the streets are alive with festivals and markets and the surrounding nature is in full bloom! Estonia is also home to many sandy beaches. You can soak up the sun on beaches in Tallinn, the resort city of Pärnu, on the island of Saaremaa and in Lahemaa National Park.
Related: These are Europe’s best city beaches.
To truly experience the Medieval atmosphere of Tallinn, be sure to visit one of the city’s Medieval restaurants. Spots like the Peppersack, Olde Hansa and III Drakon offer delicious, historic dishes and an authentic Medieval experience – from the quirky service to the candlelit dining halls! Here, try some traditional Estonian food such as its national dish verivorst (blood sausage), game meat, fresh and smoked fish and potatoes.
Top Tip: One of the best day trips from Tallinn is to Helsinki, Finland! This Nordic capital is just a 2-hour ferry ride from Estonia’s capital city. Join our Nordic & Baltic Escape tour to experience this unforgettable journey!
Latvia
Capital City: Riga
Population: 1,9 million
National Dish: Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi (grey peas, fried onion, bacon)
Visit for: Riga’s impressive Old Town and Art Nouveau architecture
Fun Fact: The world’s first decorated Christmas tree was recorded in Riga in 1510!
Travelling south, Latvia is next on our list! Despite the countries’ close proximity, Latvia differs from Estonia in a number of ways. While the architecture of Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, is distinctly Medieval, Latvia’s capital, Riga, is renowned for its exceptional Art Nouveau architecture. There are also a number of historical and cultural differences between the two countries. Estonia is often considered more Nordic than Baltic and this is clear in its history, culture, language and cuisine.
Latvian cuisine focuses strongly on locally sourced ingredients such as fish, rye, potatoes, barley, pork and a variety of dairy products. Both Slavic and German influences can be seen in Latvian cuisine from Russian pelmeni (dumplings) to German sauerkraut. To experience Latvian food culture, a visit to Riga’s Central Market is highly recommended. This UNESCO-listed bazaar is Europe’s largest market. Housed in former German Zeppelin airships, this unique market sells fresh ingredients as well as very affordable local eats.
Riga is the largest capital in the Baltics and is celebrated for its Old Town which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The pedestrian-friendly streets of the Old Town are lined with a variety of architectural delights. From the dazzling, Art Nouveau House of the Blackheads to the Medieval “Three Brothers” dwelling houses and the quirky Cat House, Riga’s Old Town will delight all art and architecture lovers.
Much like Estonia, Latvia has cold winters but a dazzling festive atmosphere during the Christmas season. Over 50% of Latvia is covered in forest making both the countryside and cities wonderfully green in spring and summer. You can also take a dip in the Baltic Sea when you visit the resort city of Jūrmala or Saulkrasti on the Gulf of Riga.
Related: Visit Latvia and the other Baltic states as well as Germany, Scandinavia and the Netherlands when you join our Northern Explorer tour!
Lithuania
Capital City: Vilnius
Population: 2,8 million
National Dish: Cepelinai (potato dumplings)
Visit for: Spectacular greenery and natural scenery
Fun Fact: In 1992, the iconic band The Grateful Dead sponsored the Lithuanian basketball team to go to the Barcelona Olympics! The team won the bronze medal while dressed in an epic tye-dye uniform.
Last but most certainly not least, we reach lovely Lithuania – the largest Baltic state. It is believed that the country’s name (Lietuva in Lithuanian) means “land of rain”. While you might imagine this means you’re in for a cloudy and stormy Lithuanian holiday, this is not the case. Many other countries in Europe such as the United Kingdom and Norway rain far more than Lithuania. Rather, the name may refer to the appreciation Lithuanians have for rain and the nature which requires this rain to survive. With a third of the country covered in forest and around 2,800 lakes, Lithuania offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers.
As the warmest of the Baltic states, Lithuania enjoys a glorious summer which begins in June and can last well into September. During this time, locals make the most of the sun and the streets of the capital Vilnius, as well as the cities of Kaunas and Klaipeda, are abuzz with festivals, outdoor activities and music. Unlike Riga and Tallinn, Vilnius is not on the sea but it does boast a number of gorgeous lake beaches. The picturesque resort towns of Palanga and Nida are particularly popular for beachgoers in summer months. However, both towns are a few hours away from Vilnius meaning that they are best to visit as a destination all on their own rather than as a day trip from the capital.
Summer fun doesn’t mean that winter isn’t worth a visit. During winter in Vilnius, you can admire the frozen lakes, visit one of the city’s many impressive museums and tuck into hearty Lithuanian food which is ideal during colder months. Vilnius gets plenty of snow which gives the Old Town a real fairytale feel. Vilnius’ UNESCO-protected Old Town is one of the largest in all of Europe and features many masterpieces of Baroque architecture.
Related: Read our blog to learn more about the many delicious Lithuanian dishes you simply have to try!
It’s hard to pick a favourite Baltic state when every country has so much to offer. From exquisite architecture and awe-inspiring nature to comforting cuisines, vibrant cultures and captivating capital cities, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are sure to capture your hearts!
Can’t wait to bask in the Baltics? Join Expat Explore’s Ultimate Scandinavia & the Baltics tour for the best Baltic travel itinerary and an adventure of a lifetime!