The best places to visit in the Baltic States offer a captivating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. This region, consisting of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, is often overlooked in European travel itineraries but holds many hidden gems. From medieval cities with cobblestone streets to stunning coastlines and dense forests, the Baltic States are a traveler’s dream. Each country has its unique charm, influenced by its history and geography. Whether exploring the vibrant capital cities of Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius or venturing into the serene countryside, visitors will find rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, is one of the best places to visit in the Baltic States due to its well-preserved medieval old town. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Tallinn’s old town offers a glimpse into the region’s past with its cobblestone streets, historic churches, and medieval architecture. The city’s skyline is dominated by the spires of St. Olaf’s Church and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, both of which offer stunning views of the city and the Baltic Sea. Kadriorg Palace and its surrounding park, a gift from Peter the Great to his wife Catherine, is another must-see attraction, showcasing Estonia’s Russian imperial history.
Riga, Latvia
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a vibrant city known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and rich cultural scene. As one of the best places to visit in the Baltic States, Riga offers a mix of historic and modern attractions. The city’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features landmarks such as the Riga Cathedral and the House of the Blackheads, a Gothic-style building dating back to the 14th century. The Central Market, housed in former Zeppelin hangars, is one of Europe’s largest markets and a great place to experience local life. Additionally, the city’s museums, such as the Latvian National Museum of Art, offer insights into the country’s history and culture.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, is often considered one of the best places to visit in the Baltic States for its blend of historical and cultural significance. The city’s old town, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its Baroque architecture, particularly the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul and the Gates of Dawn, which houses a revered painting of the Virgin Mary. The city’s bohemian Uzupis district, often compared to Montmartre in Paris, is an artistic enclave with galleries, cafes, and a quirky, self-declared independence. Vilnius also offers a somber reminder of the region’s history with the KGB Museum, located in the former Soviet headquarters.
Curonian Spit, Lithuania
The Curonian Spit, a narrow sand dune peninsula stretching between Lithuania and Russia, is one of the most unique places to visit in the Baltic States. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a natural wonder, offering stunning landscapes of sand dunes, pine forests, and pristine beaches. The area is popular for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and exploring the quaint fishing villages that dot the coastline. Nida, one of the most famous villages on the spit, is known for its traditional wooden houses and the nearby Parnidis Dune, which offers panoramic views of the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon.
Lahemaa National Park, Estonia
Lahemaa National Park, located on Estonia’s northern coast, is one of the best places to visit in the Baltic States for nature lovers. Covering over 700 square kilometers, it is one of Europe’s largest national parks and offers diverse landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and coastal areas. The park is home to several historic manor houses, such as Palmse and Sagadi, which provide a glimpse into Estonia’s aristocratic past. Visitors can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, which lead through picturesque villages, ancient bogs, and along the rocky coastline of the Baltic Sea. Lahemaa is also an excellent spot for wildlife observation, with chances to see elk, lynx, and a variety of bird species.
Gauja National Park, Latvia
Gauja National Park in Latvia is another prime destination for those seeking the best places to visit in the Baltic States. Located in the Vidzeme region, it is the largest national park in Latvia, known for its dramatic landscapes, including river valleys, sandstone cliffs, and dense forests. The park is rich in cultural heritage, with over 500 historical and cultural monuments, including castles, churches, and ancient hill forts. Sigulda, a town within the park, is often called the “Switzerland of Latvia” for its beautiful natural surroundings and offers various activities, such as bobsledding, hiking, and exploring the medieval Turaida Castle.
Saaremaa Island, Estonia
Saaremaa, the largest island in Estonia, is one of the best places to visit in the Baltic States for those looking to experience rural life and natural beauty. The island is famous for its windmills, traditional villages, and well-preserved medieval churches. Kuressaare, the island’s main town, is home to the impressive Kuressaare Castle, a 14th-century fortress that now houses a museum. Saaremaa’s unique landscapes, including the Kaali Meteorite Crater and the island’s many coastal areas, offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and bird watching. The island’s unspoiled nature and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Hill of Crosses, Lithuania
The Hill of Crosses, located near the town of Šiauliai in Lithuania, is one of the most spiritual and unique places to visit in the Baltic States. This pilgrimage site, where thousands of crosses have been placed over the years, symbolizes the Lithuanian people’s faith and resistance against oppression. The hill’s origins are unclear, but it became a significant site of peaceful resistance during the Soviet era when the crosses were repeatedly removed by authorities, only to be replaced by locals. Today, the site is a powerful symbol of national identity and a place of reflection, attracting visitors from around the world.
Cesis, Latvia
Cesis, a small town in Latvia’s Vidzeme region, is one of the best places to visit in the Baltic States for history enthusiasts. Known for its medieval Cesis Castle, the town has a rich history dating back over 800 years. The castle, built by the Livonian Order, is a well-preserved example of medieval architecture and offers visitors a chance to explore its towers and dungeons. The town itself is charming, with cobblestone streets, wooden houses, and a lively cultural scene. Cesis is also a gateway to the nearby Gauja National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Trakai, Lithuania
Trakai, located just outside Vilnius, is one of the best places to visit in the Baltic States for a day trip. This historic town is famous for its stunning Trakai Island Castle, situated on an island in Lake Galvė. The castle, originally built in the 14th century, has been beautifully restored and now houses a museum dedicated to Lithuanian history. Trakai is also known for its unique Karaim community, a Turkic-speaking ethnic group that has lived in the area for centuries. Visitors can explore the town’s wooden houses, visit the Karaim museum, and sample traditional Karaim dishes, such as kibinai, a type of pastry filled with meat or vegetables.