the baltics
The Baltics refers to Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. These countries are on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea in Northern Europe. They have a fascinating history and have been under Soviet occupation most recently in the past. They became independent most recently in the early 1990s. There is also a lot of Finnish influence in Estonia. Though these countries are slightly off the beaten path of most European travelers they should totally be on your list of places to visit. Given the proximity and ease of travel between these countries you can easily combine them into one trip.
my trip around the Baltics
When I traveled to these countries, I was with one other friend and we joined a tour group called Busabout. This is a European budget tour agency that caters to slightly younger crowd and on a budget. Our trip included Latvia, Lithuania, Finland, Estonia and Sweden. It included transportation via buses and ferries. My friend and I traveled from St. Petersburg to Tallinn via bus and we joined the tour there. The benefit to using a tour is that you get to meet several different travelers and so much of travel journey and activities is mapped out to decrease on your time spent planning yourself. We also were able to get a lot of history with walking tours included on our tour.
best time to visit
In general, the spring and summer are the best times to visit the Baltic countries. May and June are the sunniest months. Winter boasts cross country skiing, ice skating and enjoying saunas with minimal crowds and lower prices.
getting there and around
By air
The major airport in Tallinn, Estonia is Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL) which is located 8 km from the main part of town. This drive takes about 16-20 minutes.
The major airport in Riga, Latvia is the Riga International Airport (RIX/ which is located 11 km from the main part of town and about a 20-minute drive.
The major airports in Vilnius Lithuania include Kaunas International Airport (KUN) and the Vilnius Airport (VNO) which are located 96 km (1-hour drive) and 6 km (15-minute drive) from the main part of town respectively.
By bus
Bus is very easy and affordable way to get between these cities.
By boat
There are many ferries and cruise boats that travel between Sweden, Finland, Poland, Germany and Denmark to the Baltic countries.
By train
There are train options especially between Russia and the Baltics. Multiple trips are available from Riga to Saint Petersburg and Moscow and Tallinn.
not to miss places to visit
Tallin, Estonia
Tallin is the capital and largest city of Estonia and known for its incredible nightlife. It has become a great travel spot for many hen and hen do (bachelor and bachelorette parties). More than that its medieval vibe will win you over. While here you should check out some of these amazing attractions: St. Catherine’s Monastery, Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform, St. Olaf’s Church, Kadriorg Park, Teletorn/the Television Tower, Town Hall, Aleksander Nevski Katedraali, Kumu Art Museum and more.
riga, latvia
Riga is the capital of Latvia and boasts an amazing old town and wonderful nightlife. While here you should stroll the cobblestone lanes and take in the historic buildings and amazing little restaurants and bars. Definitely make time to check out these sites: House of the Black Heads, Town Hall Square, Alberta Iela, Riga Cathedral, Freedom Monument, Musee Art Nouveau, St. Peter’s Church and more.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania and has so much to offer. It has a wonderful old and new town. While in Vilnius make sure to check out some of these amazing attractions: Gate of Dawn, Repubic of Uzupis, Gediminas’ Tower, Three Crosses Hill, KGB Museum, Stebuklas, Vilnius Cathedral and more.
Klaipeda, Lithuania
Klaipeda is the third largest city in Lithuania and located on the Baltic Sea. Our group enjoyed a picnic on the beach and despite being somewhat chilly I couldn’t resist taking a dip in the Baltic Sea. If you visit you can also check out the Lithuanian Sea Museum, Dane Park, the Black Ghost Statue, Sculpture Park, Museum of Clocks and more.
Hill of Crosses, Lithuania
Hills of Crosses, Kryžių Kalnas, is located about 12 km north of Šiauliai. There is no fee or hours of operation as it is always open. Located between Vilnius and Riga it is a part of many tours operating between these two cities or you can take a day tour from Vilnius. While the exact origin is uncertain but suspect it was started to commemorate fallen Lithuanians in their uprisings against Russia. The Russians are told to have destroyed this area multiple times to only have more crosses erected again through the night. It signifies a resistance to oppression. After Lithuania regained independence it has become more significant. It will certainly leave a mark on your memory of unique places you’ve been.
