Estonia is an undiscovered treasure of Northern Europe, which becomes a winter wonderland in December thru March. Snow-topped woods, story-book cities, and rare Arctic encounters, it is an ideal location of UAE travellers who are in the mood of a magical and cold experience. Apply for Estonia visa in Dubai before you pack your winter clothing will make things easy and smooth-sailing.
1. Explore Tallinn’s Medieval Old Town in the Snow
In winter, the Old Town of Tallinn seems a fairy tale as it is listed as the UNESCO heritage. It is impossible not to feel like a cobblestone streets, snow-laden rooftops and warm cafes are irresistible. Do not forget the Town Hall Square where magical Christmas Market will be organized in the Christmas period with local crafts, hot drinks and Christmas cheer.
2. Ice Skating in the City Center
Take your skatable skills into the open air ice rinks in Tallinn and Tartu. Among the most popular ones is the Harju Street Ice Rink in Tallinn in the very centre of the Old Town. It is an enjoyable event regardless of the age, and a very good means to experience local traditions in winter.
3. Dog Sledding Adventures in South Estonia
To experience the Nordic fully, you can go south to such regions as Vohnurma or Otepaa, where you can take a dog sled. Experience the rush in getting drawn by huskies across snowed mountain terrains. They are ultimate gurus when one is in search of an unforgettable adventure as a family or couple.
4. Soak in a Traditional Estonian Sauna
A visit to Estonia during winter time cannot miss out a chance of trying out a traditional smoke sauna. These saunas are culturally based and second nature to the citizens of Estonia during the winters, as they are recognized by UNESCO. There are many rural houses/stays and spa resorts which have traditional saunas and are then refreshed with a bath in a frozen lake!
5. Cross-Country Skiing in Otepää
Otep has been dubbed as the Winter Capital of Estonia and is the destination of choice to all skiing enthusiasts. It is perfectly suited both to amateurs and to experienced skiers since the ski trails are in good order and it is possible to rent the related gear. It is a photographic location with beautiful sceneries of the snowy woods.
6. Discover Frozen Waterfalls and National Parks
The cold months are also beautiful in the Lahemaa National Park in Estonia and Jagala Waterfall. Jagala turns into a dramatic drifting curtain of frozen waterfall, which is ideal to be photographed and be enjoyed by nature lovers. Put on the best cloths to hike in and have a nice walk in the silent snow.
7. Enjoy Estonian Winter Cuisine
Fill your soul with tasty Estonian foods such as mulgi kapsad (braised sauerkraut with pork), blood sausages and creamy potato salads. Visit cafes and family restaurants where folklore food is mixed with the age of modernization. Gingerbread cookies and hot berry juice are the treats to explore during colder times.
8. Visit Christmas Markets & Winter Festivals
Estonia has colourful winter festivals, with the Tallinn Christmas Market the largest, but also festivals in smaller cities and towns, e.g. Parnu and Tartu. Handcrafted goods, live music and party food are the main highlights of these markets. It is the ideal shopping souvenir and local culture element.
Final Thoughts
Sliding across an ice rink in Estonia's capital city Tallinn, tug tugging through wooded winter landscapes on a dog sled or unwinds in a steamy smoke sauna - Estonia promises a magical winter break. With adventure, culture and landscapes so stunning, this is quite an un forgetable trip.
To enjoy all these experiences, ensure you apply for your Estonia visa from UAE with Go Kite Travel, Dubai’s trusted travel partner offering reliable visa services and tour packages. Let your winter adventure begin with us.