The Baltic Republics, three small countries in northern Europe that used to be part of the Soviet Union, hold plenty to explore and enjoy. After gaining independence, they showed off their stunning nature, rich history, and colorful folk tales. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania hide many special spots that attract more visitors every year. Despite more tourists, their true culture still shines bright, with locals welcoming visitors warmly and openly. Step into a world where ancient stories come alive and friendly smiles make every visit unforgettable. Discover why these countries belong on a travel bucket list today.
What to See and Do in the Baltic Republics
There are many dream places to see in the Baltic Republics, but it is worth detailing them separately.
Estonia
Estonia has embraced change with great enthusiasm and pride. It is a country full of undiscovered attractions that mixes the simplicity of the Baltic countries with a certain Nordic influence.
Old town of Tallinn
It is called Vanalinn and is the historic center of Tallinn, which was a city in medieval times. The old houses, the labyrinthine cobbled streets and the town hall square are still preserved. You can travel by ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki. In the capital, you can also admire the Alexander Cathedral and the various churches that are located in different parts of the city.
Saaremaa Island
If among all the things to see and do in the Baltic Republics, you are looking for peace, tranquility and relaxation, Saaremaa Island is a must-see. It is a large island with an area of 2,600 km2 and 16,000 inhabitants. You can enjoy nature in all its splendor, a perfectly preserved medieval village and castle, beautiful old mills and even several craters caused by meteorites.
Lahemaa
This national park is located 70 kilometers from Tallinn and is the largest in Estonia. This wooded natural environment rich in diversity is home to species such as wolves, bears and lynxes.
Tartu
The second most important city in Estonia, where one of the most historic universities in Europe is located. It is very interesting to visit the old town, the Town Hall Square or the church of St. John in Gothic style. You can also take a barge ride on the river Emanjogi.
Latvia
Latvia is another little-known European city, noted for its art nouveau architecture and sublime choirs.
Old City of Riga
If you go in December to Riga, you can enjoy some typical Christmas markets. It has a beautiful old town and numerous historic buildings of sublime architecture. The Bastejkalns Park is a perfect place for a walk and a picnic. The spectacular Art Nouveau quarter is not to be missed either.
Turaida
Fifty kilometers from Riga is the impressive medieval Turaida Castle. Latvian castles began to be built by the Baltic tribes over a thousand years ago. They were made of wood until the Crusaders began to use stone for their construction. This one, moreover, is located in a region that is a Nature Reserve.
Cesis
Another of the cities to see in the Baltic Republics. In Cesis stands a castle dating from the eighteenth century, which has opened an interesting Museum of History. The building is surrounded by parks and gardens that are worth visiting. Also in this city is the oldest brewery in Latvia.
Lithuania
Of all the things to see and do in the Baltic Republics, one of them is to visit Lithuania. A country with numerous natural charms and a history where the Catholic religion and the original paganism intermingle.
The old city of Vilnius
Vilnius is a capital recognized as a World Heritage Site and is the second most important of the Baltic cities. Thus, an essential visit to make in the Baltic Republics is this city. It has buildings of different architectural styles: Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance … And all of them perfectly maintained.
The Curland Isthmus
Another of the things to see and do in the Baltic Republics is to visit this curious natural landscape. This isthmus of sand extends for 98km separating the Curland Lake from the Baltic Sea. It is a protected park and is known as “the Sahara of Lithuania”. In the village of Nida there is a museum house dedicated to Thomas Mann.
Kaunas
This city is situated between two rivers, the Neris and the Diemen. Kaunas is a place full of history, with an old castle full of charm, lively streets, wide squares and a castle presiding over the city. It can be toured by funicular. There are also traces of the passage of the Soviets and Nazis through the city, where a concentration camp, crematoria and prisons were built. It is undoubtedly one of the favorite places for tourists.
Hill of Crosses
When deciding what to see and do in the Baltic Republics, it is essential to include the Hill of Crosses, one of the most emblematic places in the world. It is located near Siauliai, on the route linking Riga and Kaliningrad. It is a hill where almost 400 thousand crosses have been built. It is said that it was in the fourteenth century that began to build crosses to make disappear the pagan symbolism that had the area. A spectacle worth seeing.
