Graham McKenzie

After spending centuries under Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian rule, Estonia finally achieved full independence on August 20, 1991. A country of about 1.5 million people, tiny Estonia is progressively growing into a modern market economy, spurred by strong telecom and electronics industries, and growing ties to the West.

Tallinn, one of the most industrialized cities in the Baltic Region, is the capital of Estonia. Tourists flock to see Tallinn’s Old Town, which dates from the 11th century. Quaint cobbled streets wind through both sections of the town, so tourists can see the Lower Town, as well as Toompea Hill, which housed the aristocracy. By the advent of the 16th century, Old Town’s walls and fortresses had become some of the strongest defense structures in Europe. In 1894, another dominating landmark was added, with the building of the Alexander Nevsky Russian Orthodox Cathedral.

Some other tourist favorites include Tallinn’s Zoo, which includes almost 6,000 animals, and Rocca al Mare Tivoli, which is Estonia’s largest amusement park. The Botanical Garden is a must-see, as well. Covering 110 hectares, this magnificent park has more than 8,000 plant species from all over the world, and specialized exhibits change every month.

You will find Kadriorg Palace in Tallinn, as well. This lovely pink baroque palace provided Russian Tsar, Peter I, with a summer home, and today stands in the center of a seaside resort. Housing the Estonia Art Museum, it is also the setting for numerous concerts, theatrical performances, lectures, and receptions.

Though abounding with excellent attractions, there is more to see in Estonia than the capital city. Check out the Estonian Open Air Museum, which is situated on Kopli Bay. This attractive parkland houses a preserved collection of historic, Estonian buildings, which have been relocated from around the country. Haapsalu, located on the western coast of Estonia, offers visitors a chance to see guest lodges, deserted beaches, and 13th century ruins. In addition, there is a Gothic cathedral, and a castle that has its own female ghost, but she only comes out during the month of August, when there is a full moon.

Located on the southern coast, Parnu is another favorite stop. This town has been a human settlement since 7500 B.C., and visitors can walk through both the Old Town and Town Center.

Parnu is another attraction. Found on the southern coast, this city has been a human settlement since 7500 B.C. Tourists can walk through the Old Town and Town Center, and see the Red Tower, Swedish ramparts, and a 17th century house. Moreover, do not forget the Neoclassical baths, where visitors restore their skin and enhance beauty with traditional mud baths.

Most tourists opt for summer time to visit Estonia, but the spring and fall seasons are exceptional, as well.. However, if winter appeals to you, then you need to come to the Christmas Market, which is held in Tallin’s Old Town every December, drawing a number of bundled visitors.

Graham McKenzie is a webmaster for the leading UK Flight Comparison website, which offers detailed information on Booking a Flight in the UK.