Estonia is a country of what. The capital of Estonia as a business and tourist center. To Estonia by car

The capital of Estonia - the city of Tallinn - is the largest settlement in the republic. Before the declaration of independence and the establishment of statehood, it was called Revel and was considered the county center of the Estonian province of the Russian Empire. The current name was given to the city in 1919, at the same time, by decree of the Estonian government, it became official capital republics. As of the beginning of 2016, the number of officially registered residents of Tallinn exceeded 439,000, which is almost a third of the country's population.

The capital of Estonia as a business and tourist center

Tallinn is the main business and tourist center of the Republic of Estonia. Here, as well as in the vicinity, the largest enterprises of the country are concentrated. Yes, and acquaintance with Estonia for many tourists begins with a visit to its capital. The most famous are the Kadriorg park, divided into two parts, founded by the Russian Tsar Peter I, as well as interactive museums– Lennusadam (seaplane harbor) and KUMU.

The capital of Estonia is also a center of culture and recreation. It is here that concerts of Russian and Western stars regularly take place, an eventful nightlife rages, mass sporting events and festivals take place. Once every five years, a large-scale song and dance festival is held on the Song and Dance Field, which attracts singers and dancers from all over Estonia.

Unlike other European capitals, Tallinn cannot boast large sizes. However, perhaps this is precisely its advantage. The distances here are short, and thanks to the well-developed public transport system from the city center to any area can be reached without a change in no more than half an hour. By the way, buses, trolleybuses and trams are free for citizens.

Capital of Estonia – challenge title

A tradition has been established in the Republic of Estonia, according to which, several times a year, Tallinn symbolically transfers the powers of the main city to other settlements. This allows not only to diversify the local life, but also to attract the attention of tourists to other cities in Estonia. The transfer of the title occurs with the onset of the next season according to the astronomical calendar.

The title of the spring capital is annually assigned to the city of Türi. He is awarded this honor for the abundance of flowering gardens, the aroma of which creates an indescribable atmosphere. In the second half of July, the proud title of the capital passes to the main Estonian resort - the city. Until autumn, it is officially considered the summer capital of Estonia.

At the end of September, the border town takes over. Since the late 90s, it has been called the autumn capital of the republic. The last title of the main city is trying on ski resort Otepää, which until mid-March is considered the winter capital of Estonia.

Unofficial capitals of Estonia

In addition to the listed "seasonal capitals" in Estonia, there are two more cities that have been given the symbolic title of the main cities of the republic. So, for example, the city, which is the center of Estonian students, is often called the university or student capital of the country. As you know, the most prestigious university in the republic is located here.

The title of the island's capital is borne by the city. It is located on the island of Saaremaa and is the largest located in the non-mainland part of the country. All of these cities deserve the attention of tourists, and their residents are always glad to see guests and are ready to give them a warm welcome.

Most residents of Western Europe, and even more so Asia and the United States, are unlikely to be able to find Estonia on the world map. But so much the worse for them, because Estonia is not just a small country in the Baltics. Estonia is an amazing Baltic nature, medieval fortresses, numerous museums, amber, the Baltic Sea, as well as balneological and beach resorts.

Estonia is located in the Baltic Northern Europe. In the south, Estonia borders on Latvia, in the east - on Russia. In the north and west, Estonia is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea. The total area of ​​this country is 45,227 sq. km., including the islands, and the total length of the border is 1,450 km.

55% of the territory of Estonia is occupied by forests. The highest point in the country is Mount Suur-Munamägi on the Haanja Upland, whose height is only 318 meters.

There are a lot of lakes in Estonia, the largest of them are Lake Peipus in the east and Võrtsjärv in the south of the country.

The capital of Estonia is Tallinn, which is now home to more than 420 thousand people. Archaeologists believe that the first human settlements on the territory of modern Tallinn appeared about 2 thousand years ago.

The official language in Estonia is Estonian, which belongs to the Finnish branch of the Uralic language family.

About 14% of the Estonian population belongs to the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church, and about 10% of Estonians are Orthodox Christians. The rest of Estonians do not believe in God.

According to the 1992 constitution, Estonia is a parliamentary republic, headed by the President, who is elected by the country's Parliament.

The Estonian Parliament consists of 101 deputies who are elected for a 4-year term. Executive power belongs to the President, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers.

The climate in Estonia is temperate, transitional from maritime to continental. Average annual temperature air is +5.2C. In general, the Atlantic Ocean and the Baltic Sea have a decisive influence on the Estonian climate. The average amount of precipitation per year is 568 mm.

Average air temperature in Tallinn:

January – -5C
- February - -6C
- March - -3C
- April - +3C
- May - +8C
- June - +13C
- July - +16C
- August - +15C
- September - +11С
- October - +6C
- November - +1C
- December - -3C

In the north and west, Estonia is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea (Gulf of Finland). The length of the Estonian coast of the Baltic Sea is 768.6 km. There are more than 1,500 islands in Estonia, the largest of which are Saaremaa, Hiiumaa and Muhumaa (Muhu).

The temperature of the Baltic Sea near the Estonian coast reaches +17C in summer. In the bays, the water warms up better in summer, and exceeds +20C.

There are 200 rivers and about 1,500 lakes in Estonia. Rivers in northern Estonia form picturesque rapids and waterfalls. The highest Estonian waterfall is Valaste (30.5 m).

Several beautiful rivers flow through the territory of southern Estonia - Piusa, Ahja and Vyhandu. By the way, Võhandu is the longest river in Estonia (162 km).

There are a lot of lakes in Estonia, the largest of them are Lake Peipus in the east and Võrtsjärv in the ege of the country. In general, lakes occupy 6% of the territory of Estonia. On the shore of Lake Peipsi there is the longest Estonian sandy beach - 30 km.

People appeared on the territory of modern Estonia about 11 thousand years ago. The first state formations in Estonia began to appear in the 1st century AD. In the 9th-11th centuries, Scandinavian Vikings (mainly Swedes) often attacked the territory of modern Estonia.

Before the adoption of Christianity, Estonians were pagans who believed in a higher being - Tharapita.

From 1228 to the 1560s, Estonia was part of the Holy Roman Empire (it was conquered by the Livonian Order).

In 1629 most of Estonia came under Swedish rule. The first university in Estonia was founded in 1632 in Dorpat (Tartu).

In 1721, according to the Treaty of Nystadt, Estonia was incorporated into the Russian Empire. Only after the First World War in 1918 was the independence of Estonia declared.

According to the 1939 agreement between Germany and the USSR, Estonia is included in the zone of interests of Joseph Stalin. On August 6, 1940, Estonia was incorporated into the USSR as the Estonian SSR.

Estonia's independence was restored on August 20, 1991. Estonia has been a member of the European Union since 2004.

Estonians, like other nations, are very proud of their culture. The government of the country is making efforts to preserve not only archaeological, historical and architectural monuments, but also intangible monuments. Thus, in Estonia there are currently 7 government programs for the preservation of intangible traditional culture (we are talking about songs, music, dances, etc.).

Back in 1869, the first Estonian folk music and dance festival was held in Tartu. Now the tradition of this festival continues. The Estonian Music and Dance Festival in Tartu is now included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.

The most popular holidays among Estonians are New Year, Independence Day, Easter, Midsummer Day, Restoration of Independence Day and Christmas.

Estonian cuisine is quite simple, there are no gourmet dishes in it. But now Estonian cuisine already includes the most popular dishes of international cuisine. However, in Estonia the most typical products are still black bread, pork, potatoes, fish and dairy products.

We advise tourists in Estonia to definitely try the following traditional Estonian dishes: beer soup, bean soup, soup with dumplings and meat, brawn, black pudding, Baltic herring in vinegar, pike in oil, stewed pike with horseradish, herring casserole, mulgi porridge » with sauerkraut, honey cake, cabbage pie, baked apples.

In Estonia, the traditional non-alcoholic drink is kali made with yeast, to which juniper berries are added.

As for alcoholic beverages in Estonia, this is, of course, beer and vodka. Estonians have been making vodka since about the 15th century, but it still cannot compete with beer in popularity.

Estonians have always been sensitive to their history. Therefore, we advise tourists in Estonia to definitely see:

1. Toompea Castle in Tallinn
2. Kiek-in-de-Kök tower in Tallinn
3. Hermann Castle in Narva
4. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn
5. Rakvere fortress in northern Estonia
6. Kadriorg Palace in Tallinn
7. Lahemaa National Park
8. Oleviste Church in Tallinn
9. Dome Cathedral in Tartu
10. Open Air Museum in Tallinn

The largest Estonian cities are Tartu, Pärnu, Kohtla-Järve, Narva, and of course. Tallinn.

In Estonia, on the Baltic Sea, there are several good beach resorts. By the way, beach season in Estonia it usually starts in mid-May and lasts until mid-September. The most popular Estonian beach resorts are Pärnu, Narva-Jõesuu, Haapsalu, Toile and Kuressaare. There are also beaches on the shores of Lake Peipsi.

But tourists come to Estonia not only to swim in the Baltic Sea and see local attractions. There are several excellent balneological resorts in Estonia. The most famous of them are Pärnu, Värska, Kuressaare, Pühajärve and Vimsi.

Tourists from Estonia usually bring handicrafts, iron ashtrays, wooden beer mugs, black Estonian chocolate, marzipan, dolls in traditional Estonian clothes, amber, and Vana Tallinn liqueur.

Useful information for tourists about Estonia, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, the currency of Estonia, the cuisine, the features of visa and customs restrictions in Estonia.

Geography of Estonia

Estonia is a state in the north-east of Europe, on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea. It borders with Russia, Latvia. In the north it is washed by the Gulf of Finland, in the west by the Baltic Sea. Estonia owns more than 1500 islands, the largest of which are Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. The relief is predominantly flat with an extensive network of lakes.

State

State structure

The form of government is a republic. The head of state is the president, the legislative body is the State Assembly.

Language

Official language: Estonian

Widely spoken - English, Russian, Finnish and German.

Religion

The majority of believers are Lutherans (70%) and Orthodox (20%).

Currency

International name: EUR

From 1992 to 2010, the Estonian kroon was used in the country. The transition to the euro took place on January 1, 2011.

History of Estonia

The territory of modern Estonia was inhabited approximately two and a half thousand years before the birth of Christ. Favorable geographical position at the crossroads of trade routes from East to West and from North to South big interest from this piece of land, inspired many kings to military campaigns and gave rise to many strife.

Since the 13th century, Estonia has been under the influence of the Teutonic Order. Knight's castles, to a greater or lesser extent preserved to this day, are one of the most important objects of tourism.

In 1285 Tallinn became part of the Hanseatic League. German merchants were mainly trading. Subsequent generations of Germans, who finally settled in Estonia, built family estates throughout the country. The Germans were the first wave in a long line of conquerors. Danes, Swedes, Poles and Russians - all passed through Estonia, enforcing their will, erecting cities and castles, exporting goods through Estonian ports.

At the end of the 19th century, a wave of national liberation movement arose in Estonia. On February 24, 1918, Estonia declared its independence. True, Estonia did not remain free for long. In 1940, Estonia was annexed to Soviet Union, and only in 1991 (August 20) was able to regain independence, leaving the USSR peacefully. Today the country is a member of the UN and the IMF.

The territory of modern Estonia was inhabited approximately two and a half thousand years before the birth of Christ. A favorable geographical position at the crossroads of trade routes from East to West and from North to South caused great interest in this piece of land, prompted many kings to military campaigns and gave rise to many strife....

Popular Attractions

Tourism in Estonia

Where to stay

The whole of Estonia is one huge resort. Hotels and sanatoriums are located here wherever there are suitable conditions for this. After the country gained independence, the number of hotels increased from a few dozen to several hundred. Estonia has a fairly developed tourism industry, which is reflected in the breadth and quality of the hotel stock, as well as a really high level of service in hotels.

Hotels in the country have a standard five-star classification plus a separate classification of motels from one to three stars - everything is strictly controlled at the state level.

In one-star hotels in Estonia, the reception is open from 7.00 to 23.00. Rooms from 9 sq. m and above there is a bath, toilet and towels. Breakfast is included in the price. Unlike one-star rooms, two-star rooms have a telephone and at least 10% of these rooms are non-smoking.

In three-star hotels, the reception is open around the clock. Guests have access to computers with the Internet, each room has a TV. Breakfast, at the request of the guest, is served in the room. Daytime and evening meals are organized at the hotel restaurant.

Four star hotels in most cases have an elevator. The rooms are equipped with comfortable furniture, TV with international channels, mini-bar and a computer with Internet access. Hot meals can be served in the room for a minimum of 16 hours per day. In addition to this set of services, five-star hotels are distinguished by round-the-clock service, the presence of their own restaurant, swimming pool and fitness center.

For more budget-conscious tourists, there is always a choice in Estonia between small private hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, hostels and campsites (both campgrounds and caravan sites).

Many old sanatoriums and boarding houses have been completely refurbished into modern health-improving complexes, where tourists are offered a variety of health programs and spa services.

Holidays in Estonia at the best price

Search and compare prices for all the world's leading booking systems. Find the best price for yourself and save up to 80% on the cost of travel services!

Popular hotels

Tours and attractions in Estonia

Estonia is a small charming country on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Her centuries-old history, rich cultural heritage and magnificent natural landscapes will fill your holiday with an unforgettable experience. Here you will find the picturesque shores of the Gulf of Finland and Riga, many beautiful islands, dense forests, lakes, nature reserves and national parks. It will be a great pleasure to get acquainted with ancient cities and picturesque fishing villages, as well as visiting magnificent medieval castles, interesting museums, ancient churches and monasteries.

The capital of Estonia, Tallinn, is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Of course, the historical center of Tallinn, the Old Town, deserves special attention. Its narrow winding streets, the remains of fortress walls, medieval towers, old houses with red tiled roofs and numerous weather vanes create a magical atmosphere and unique flavor. You should definitely visit Toompea Castle, Tallinn City Hall, St. Olaf and St. Nicholas Churches, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Glen Castle, Kadriorg Palace, Holy Spirit Church, Niguliste Church, Maarjamägi Castle, Estonian Maritime Museum, Art Museum, Botanical Garden and Zoo. In the vicinity of Tallinn, the Estonian Open Air Museum Rocca al Mare and the ruins of St. Brigid's Monastery are of interest.

Tartu is the second largest city in Estonia and its Cultural Center. Among the many sights of the city of Tartu, the most interesting are Toomemägi (Domberg) hill with the ruins of the Peter and Paul Cathedral (Dome Cathedral), the Tartu Observatory and the Old Anatomikum, the Town Hall and the Town Hall Square, St. John's Church, the Estonian National Museum, National Gallery, Toy Museum, Oskar Luts House-Museum, Angel and Devil's Bridges, Botanical Garden and St. Anthony's Compound.

Very popular with tourists ancient city Narva and its main attraction is Herman's Narva Castle. Also in Narva, it is worth visiting the Alexander Church, the Town Hall, the Resurrection Cathedral, the Narva Museum, the Art Gallery and the oldest park in Narva - the Dark Garden. Of particular interest is the complex of buildings of the Krenholm manufactory, located on the island of the same name.

Estonia includes more than one and a half thousand islands and Saaremaa is not only the largest of them, but, perhaps, the most interesting. Its main attraction is the Episcopal Castle in Kuressaare (the largest locality Islands) is considered the only medieval castle that has been completely preserved to this day in the Baltic countries. Today the castle houses the Saaremaa Museum and the Art Gallery. Among the natural attractions of the island, Kaali lakes (meteorite crater) and Karujärv should be noted. Lovers of nature and silence will have a lot of fun walking around the Viidumäe Nature Reserve. Saaremaa is also known for its excellent mud baths. The picturesque islands of Hiiumaa and Vormsi are definitely worth a visit.

Estonia is a country located in the northwest of Eastern Europe on northeast coast the Baltic Sea. The official name of the state sounds like the Republic of Estonia. The territory of Estonia is washed by the Gulf of Riga and the Gulf of Finland. The capital of the republic is the city of Tallinn.

Republic of Estonia – just the facts

The Republic of Estonia was proclaimed on February 24, 1918. Before that, from the XIII century until 1583, its territory belonged to the Livonian Order, from 1583 it passed to Sweden, and from 1710 to 1918 it was part of Russian Empire. The first Republic of Estonia existed from 1918 to 1940. In 1940, it became part of the USSR, of which it was a full-fledged socialist republic until August 20, 1991. This date is considered the Day of the Restoration of Independence.

During the Second World War from 1941 to 1944 Estonia was occupied by Nazi Germany. The liberation of the republic took place in several stages, the troops of the invaders were completely expelled from here in the fall of 1944. After that, Estonia was again included in the USSR. According to today's official interpretation, it is customary to refer to subsequent years in the press and state speeches as occupation.

In 1921 Estonia became a member of the League of Nations. After the restoration of independence in 1991, the state became a member of the UN. Since 2004, according to the results of a nationwide referendum (in which only citizens were allowed to participate among the indigenous people), the Republic of Estonia became part of European Union. Then she joined the North Atlantic military alliance NATO. Since January 2007, Estonia has been part of the Schengen area.

Phone code of the country Estonia: +372.

State symbols of Estonia

The main symbols of the country Estonia are state flag, coat of arms and anthem. Their use is regulated by law. The symbols of the Republic of Estonia appeared long before the establishment of statehood.

Country Estonia - administrative unit

The Republic of Estonia is considered one of the smallest states in the world. The territory of Estonia is 45,227 square kilometers. According to the Department of Statistics at the beginning of 2015, the population of the republic was 1,312,252 people. The territory of Estonia is divided into counties, which in turn consist of townships.

The largest cities in Estonia are Tallinn, Tartu, Pärnu and Narva. Important tourist centers also include small resorts where medical tourism is developed. A good tradition has developed in the republic of conferring the symbolic title of the capital different cities: the spring capital is the city of Türi, the summer capital is Pärnu, the autumn capital is Narva and the winter capital is Otepaa.

Countries bordering Estonia

Estonia shares a land border with Russian Federation in the east and with the Republic of Latvia in the south. To cross the Estonian-Russian border, you need to obtain a visa (holders of the so-called "gray" passports, that is, stateless persons, can cross the border of states freely). Visas are not required to cross the Latvian-Estonian border, border and passport control is not carried out here, since both states belong to the Schengen zone.

Estonia's closest neighbors also include Finland and Sweden. The countries are separated by the Baltic Sea, and there is constant shipping between their capitals. The distance from Tallinn to Helsinki is about 80 kilometers. Estonia is connected with its neighbors by bus, sea and air links. Until May 2015, it was also possible to get to the capital of the republic from Russia by train.