Estonia：The European Country with a Distinct Culture and Colourful History

Estonia is located in Eastern Europe, in a region known as the Baltics. While it's not one of the most popular destinations in the area, it's one of the most underrated countries, with some beautiful medieval old towns and rolling plains. Although it's located in Eastern Europe, the culture of Estonia is somewhat different to its neighboring countries which can be easily seen on a visit to this charming nation. Here are ten of the best places you need to check out if you're planning to go to Estonia.

1. Tallinn Old Town (Tallinn)

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Tallinn Old Town is the city center of the medieval capital of Estonia. The beautiful and clean streets, as well as the enchanting architecture of the old town are a real pride for the people of Estonia. The favorite places for visitors are the restaurants, cafes, galleries and museums of this attraction. This historical city center is also a great place for buying gifts or magnets to your friends and relatives and a pleasant place to just walk and have a great time.

2. Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour (Tallinn)

Located in Tallinn's port area, the Seaplane Harbour is now a popular museum linked to the Estonian Maritime Museum. Once used as a aircraft hangar as part of Peter the Great's Naval Fortress, the building was put out of service in the Soviet era and later turned into a museum. Inside you'll find a number of historic seaplanes, submarines and ship along with various artifacts of maritime history.

3. Toompea Hill (Tallinn)

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Toompea Hill towers over the center of Tallinn and is the perfect place to get a look over the city. The buildings that rise up over the hill are used for parliament and the government of Estonia such as the impressive Toompea Castle, an ancient stronghold thought to date back to the 9th century.

4. Town Hall Square (Tallinn)

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At the heart of the city of Tallinn, this historic town square is of huge important to the country of Estonia. Since its origin as a marketplace in the Middle Ages, the square has always been a lively center of the city, with a number of restaurants and cafes along with regular festivals and events taking place there. For a particularly memorable experience head there during December to check out the magical Christmas market.

5. AHHAA Science Centre (Tartu)

The biggest science center in Estonia, you'll certainly be repeating 'aha' throughout your time wandering around and discovering the fascinating science exhibits found here. AHHAA is a great spot for those traveling with kids, but is thrilling and interesting enough that even those without children are advised to check this place out.

6. Valgeranna Beach (Parnu)

It might not be quite as picturesque as the beautiful beaches found along the Mediterranean coast but Valgeranna Beach has its own unique charm. A long stretch of sand sheltered by winds from the adjacent pine forest, Valgeranna sees pleasant weather most of the year round and best of all it's rarely crowded. The area rarely sees many people and if you want your own private space just walk further down the beach.

7. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (Tallinn)

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This huge impressive Russian-style cathedral towers over the old town of Tallinn. It's easily one of the most beautiful structures in the region, with its lavish outside decoration and beautiful black dome-shaped spires. Head inside and you'll find even more splendor with intricate depictions of saints, mosaics and heavy use of gold decoration.

8. Oleviste Church (Tallinn)

Photo by www.istockphoto.com

Oleviste Church was built in the 12th century in Estonia and is one of the biggest medieval structures in the city. While not quite as grand as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the church's beautiful but somewhat simple appearance makes it easily stand out in the old town. As you go inside you'll also notice a staircase that takes you up to higher levels with stunning scenery of the surrounding city.

9. Estonian Open Air Museum (Tallinn)

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This gorgeous open air museum showcases the art and culture of traditional Estonia with its life-sized construction of a 18th century fishing village. With 72 different traditional buildings along with staff displaying how people lived during these times, it's the perfect spot to get a feel for the traditional rural life there. It's also located a short drive from the capital of Tallinn, great for those who want to see the countryside without traveling too far.

10. Tallinn TV Tower (Tallinn)

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Tallinn TV Tower is the tallest building of the capital and the best place to head to for impressive views out over Tallinn and the surrounding area from its observation deck 170 meters up. You'll also find a number of restaurants and cafes in the tower including some at the higher levels with some stunning views.

Conclusion

Estonia is a country that combines old and new histories, and includes spots that are amazing for those who estimate art and culture, beauty and taste. Estonia is a place where you can just have a simple walk and admire every single detail you will see on your way.

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