Tallinn Old Town
The medieval heart of Tallinn is remarkably intact — a UNESCO World Heritage site with towers, city walls, a Gothic town hall, and cobbled lanes that haven't changed much since the 15th century. It's compact enough to cover on foot in a day, but rewarding to linger in for two or three.
Lahemaa National Park
An hour east of Tallinn, Lahemaa is Estonia's largest national park and probably the most accessible introduction to the country's forests and coastline. Manors, fishing villages, bog trails, and beaches are all within easy reach. The bog walk at Viru is one of the most popular short hikes in Estonia.
Tartu
Tartu is the country's second city and its intellectual capital — home to Estonia's oldest university, a lively student population, and a distinct identity separate from Tallinn. Smaller and slower-paced, it rewards a day or two.
Saaremaa and the western islands
The island of Saaremaa — reached by ferry from Virtsu — is Estonia's largest island and the most visited. Kuressaare, the island's main town, has a well-preserved Teutonic castle. The landscape is flat, forested, and peaceful, with windmills, juniper meadows, and a crater lake from a meteorite impact.
Pärnu
The summer capital of Estonia, Pärnu draws Estonians to its long sandy beach every summer. It's relaxed and unpretentious, with good spa hotels and a decent old town. Best visited June through August.
Soomaa National Park
In spring, Soomaa floods spectacularly — locals call it the fifth season. The park has excellent canoeing in summer and bog walks year-round. It's in western Estonia, easily combined with a visit to Pärnu.
Haapsalu
A compact spa town on the west coast, Haapsalu has wooden architecture, a ruined bishop's castle, and a laid-back atmosphere. Tchaikovsky visited here; there's still a bench in his honour.