Estonia

Saaremaa: A Hidden Gem in the Baltic Sea

This page contains affiliate links. This means that I get a commission if you purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

Kuressaare Castle, Saaremaa, Estonia

Saaremaa is an island in the Baltic Sea off the west coast of Estonia. Although it is Estonia's largest island, it is still a relatively undiscovered gem among travelers. But for those traveling to Saaremaa, the island is a paradise full of breathtaking nature, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals to make every traveler feel at home.

Saaremaa with its varied landscapes is a paradise for nature lovers. From lush green forests to tranquil beaches and rugged coastlines, the island has something for everyone. Saaremaa National Park is a must-see for anyone who enjoys hiking, cycling or just enjoying a leisurely walk outside. This vast wilderness is home to diverse flora and fauna, including some endangered species.

In addition to its natural beauty, Saaremaa is also rich in history and culture. The island's many historical landmarks and ancient ruins provide a fascinating insight into its past. One of the sights is the Kuressaare Castle, a medieval fortress built in the thirteenth century. The castle is a true testament to the island's rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore the castle's underground tunnels, walk the ramparts, and admire its impressive architecture.

The Saaremaa Maritime Museum is another fascinating destination that provides insight into the island's maritime history. The museum's exhibits show the development of Estonian shipbuilding and maritime trade, as well as artifacts from shipwrecks and sea battles. Saaremaa is also known for its authentic rural experience. Visitors can participate in various activities such as horse riding, bird watching, fishing, hunting, and so on. The island has some of the best fishing in Estonia, with ample opportunities to catch some of the most popular fish.

Saaremaa, with its friendly locals, is a great place to experience traditional Estonian hospitality. Visitors can sample local cuisine known for hearty home-cooked meals and fresh local produce. The island has a variety of restaurants specializing in traditional Estonian cuisine, including dishes such as black pudding, stewed mushrooms and roast pork with sauerkraut. For those looking for a more peaceful experience, Saaremaa offers plenty of opportunities to relax. Several spa resorts on the island offer a variety of healing and relaxing treatments. Visitors can enjoy a soothing massage, take a dip in the sauna, or spend a lazy afternoon by the pool.

All in all, Saaremaa is a beautiful and diverse island with something for everyone. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, an insight into Estonia's rich cultural history, or an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Saaremaa is the perfect destination. This island is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers from all over the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Estonia

  • What is the capital of Estonia?
    {'time': 1712826164932, 'blocks': [{'id': '7yJB1vyOqe', 'data': {'text': 'The capital of Estonia is Tallinn. Tallinn is known for being largest city of Estonia and has a population of around 450,000 people. Situated on the coast of the Gulf of Finland Tallinn possesses a rich and fascinating history that can be observed in its stunning architecture.'}, 'type': 'paragraph'}], 'version': '2.29.0'}
  • What currency does Estonia use?
    {'time': 1712826220443, 'blocks': [{'id': 'BQvFzRG3dZ', 'data': {'text': 'Estonia uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.'}, 'type': 'paragraph'}], 'version': '2.29.0'}
  • Are credit cards accepted in Estonia?
    {'time': 1712826278987, 'blocks': [{'id': 'YmFeNPrz9u', 'data': {'text': 'Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Estonia, especially in urban areas and popular tourist destinations. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly used credit cards.'}, 'type': 'paragraph'}], 'version': '2.29.0'}
  • What is the best time to travel to Estonia?
    {'time': 1712826334487, 'blocks': [{'id': 'xn4nwZUKHZ', 'data': {'text': "The best time to travel to Estonia is during the summer months, from late May to early September. This is when the weather is relatively mild and the days are longer, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the country's natural beauty. The winters can be quite cold, but they also offer a unique experience if you're interested in winter sports and festive celebrations."}, 'type': 'paragraph'}], 'version': '2.29.0'}
  • What is the population of Estonia?
    {'time': 1712826391874, 'blocks': [{'id': 'LCLSytbCJY', 'data': {'text': 'The population of Estonia is around 1.3 million people.'}, 'type': 'paragraph'}], 'version': '2.29.0'}
  • What language do they speak in Estonia?
    {'time': 1712826465331, 'blocks': [{'id': 'a4tDBezjma', 'data': {'text': 'The official language of Estonia is Estonian. It is a Finno-Ugric language and is unrelated to most other European languages. English is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among younger generations.'}, 'type': 'paragraph'}], 'version': '2.29.0'}
  • Do I need a visa for Estonia?
    {'time': 1712826582364, 'blocks': [{'id': 'RiCNQsxTeA', 'data': {'text': "Visa requirements can vary based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of many countries within the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days) in Estonia. However, it's essential to check the latest visa requirements and regulations based on your specific situation before you travel."}, 'type': 'paragraph'}], 'version': '2.29.0'}
  • Is Estonia a safe country?
    {'time': 1712826597388, 'blocks': [{'id': '7AdEmGju7Q', 'data': {'text': "Estonia is generally considered a safe country to visit. Crime rates are relatively low, and the country has a stable political and social environment. However, like in any destination, it's recommended to exercise basic precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or tourist areas."}, 'type': 'paragraph'}], 'version': '2.29.0'}

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is an island in the Baltic Sea off the west coast of Estonia. Although it is Estonia's largest island, it is still a relatively undiscovered gem among travelers.
ContinentEurope
CountryEstonia
CapitalKuressaare
CurrencyEuro
LanguageEstonian

About Me

Selfie

Hey there! I'm Rainier and I'm the person behind Roaming with Rainier. I've always been really into traveling and photography. I've been fortunate enough to visit incredible destinations and there are still so many more on my bucket list. My plan is to explore breathtaking places around the world and share my experiences through articles and reviews.

Read the full story

Tags

  • Beaches
  • Castles
  • Estonia
  • Europe
  • History
  • Islands
  • Nature
  • Tourism
Saaremaa

Related Content

My Baltic Adventure: Exploring Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania
Blog

My Baltic Adventure: Exploring Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania

Aug. 24, 2023

To be completely honest, I've never really considered the idea of visiting the Baltic countries before. I'm not entirely sure why that is. In my home country, these destinations aren't particularly popular for vacations. Given that our typical summer days are often cloudy or rainy, people tend to gravitate towards warmer spots down south, I …

Read more

GetYourGuide

Things to do in Saaremaa