Hi Didier!

The first leaves are changing from green to orange and red—autumn is on its way! Choosing a favorite season in Estonia is like choosing a favorite child, but we are partial to fall. The air is crisp, and the apples are crunchy. Mulled wine is back on the menus, along with mushrooms foraged fresh from the forest and cranberries picked straight from the bogs.

We have ideas for the best way to spend an autumn break in Estonia. From upcoming events, including the popular Black Nights Film Festival, to bear-watching, birdwatching, and bogshoeing, you'll have a hard time deciding what to do this autumn! 

Adventurous travelers can hop on a train to Narva, Estonia's fascinating border town. The VR exhibit at the newly-reopened Town Hall will give you an idea of what the city looked like in the early 1900s, and the alternative scene at September's Station Narva will give you an idea of the culture flourishing there now.

Check out what this season has to offer!

The Visit Estonia Team

Experience an enchanting autumn break in Estonia!

We often get asked when is the best time of year to visit Estonia. We can honestly say there is no bad time to visit — each season has its own charm. Despite the cooler weather and shorter days, autumn is a wonderful season for a high-speed weekend or a week-long adventure.

Hunt for bright autumn foliage in city parks or wild forests. Hike, bike, canoe, and kayak. Pick mushrooms and cook up a hearty fall feast. Relax in a hot sauna or treat yourself to a day at the spa. Read on to learn about enchanting autumn experiences in Estonia.

Narva: the city where East and West collide

As you travel between Tallinn and Narva, there are several places worth visiting along the way. Or use Narva as your base to explore the greater Ida-Viru County — you'll find plenty of adventures to keep you busy for days!

Narva is a vibrant city with a unique blend of cultures and an incredible history. The city offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the past and enjoy modern conveniences at the same time.

Northeast Estonia will surprise you with its diverse natural and cultural landscapes!

Estonia's top nature tour destinations

Head south to Lake Võrtsjärv then west to the coast—any time of the year is a perfect time to explore these wild landscapes. Listen to the whispers of the forest, and wade into fresh, clean waters where bright-eyed seals bob and thousands of seabirds land on their seasonal migration.

Pack along a warm woolen sweater with intricate local patterns and a pair of trusty walking shoes, and take a tour of Estonian nature.

Autumn's abundance: foods to try in Estonia

Estonian cuisine is closely tied to the country's four distinct seasons. Autumn is a great time to visit if you want to try forest-, farm-, or field-to-table dining. Many foods harvested in the fall are smoked, pickled, or preserved so they can be enjoyed year-round.

Estonian cuisine uses a collection of fresh, local ingredients. In autumn, Estonians head to the forest to forage for mushrooms; wild game, such as elk, appears on tables; apples are plucked from orchards, and root vegetables are unearthed. Learn what ingredients to look for at local restaurants and where to go for the most authentic flavors of the season.

Where to go on a rainy day

Here in Estonia, we say there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. If what you packed doesn't quite cut it, then the rain, wind, or snow may keep you from outdoor exploration—but it doesn't have to keep you from having fun! We've got you covered with things to do all over the country in case you're in need of a backup plan.

Best places to eat with children

It's easy to find family-friendly restaurants in Estonia. Many restaurants offer high chairs, play corners, and children's menus. Typical Estonian food focuses on local ingredients, simple flavors, and straightforward preparations—perfect for tiny taste buds!

The Estonian Association of Families with Children issues a badge for family-friendly restaurants that offer a top-notch dining experience for adults, too. You won't have to sacrifice quality with the kids in tow. Some of the restaurants on their list have also been featured in the MICHELIN Guide and the White Guide Nordic, two prestigious restaurant guides. Take a closer look at the 2023 recipients.

National Geographic visits Estonia!

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