Baltic states Travel Guide (Europe)

Introduction to Baltic states
List of Places to Visit in Baltic states
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Baltic states: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Baltic states
Best Things to Do in Baltic states: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Baltic states
Food and Drink Scene of Baltic states
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Baltic states: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Baltic states: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Baltic states
Best Time to Visit Baltic states
Do’s and Don’ts of Baltic states
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Baltic states
- Health in Baltic states
Getting to Baltic states: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Baltic states
Where to Go Next from Baltic states: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Baltic states

The Baltic states, comprising of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, are located in northern Europe and have a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a diverse range of experiences to offer visitors. From gorgeous fairytale-like cities to golden beaches, lush green forests to serene lakes, the Baltic states have it all. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, food and drink scenes, accommodations, and everything else you need to know to plan your perfect trip to the Baltic states.

List of Places to Visit in Baltic states

The Baltic states offer a wide range of attractions that cater to travelers of all kinds. Here is a list of must-visit places in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Riga Old Town, Latvia
Tallinn Old Town, Estonia
Hill of Crosses, Lithuania
Trakai Island Castle, Lithuania
KGB Museum, Latvia
Toompea Palace, Estonia

Natural Attractions of Baltic states: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lahemaa National Park, Estonia
Gauja National Park, Latvia
Curonian Spit, Lithuania
Riga Central Market, Latvia
Vilnius Old Town, Lithuania
Saaremaa Island, Estonia

Hiking/Biking Routes of Baltic states

The Baltic states boast some of the most breathtaking hiking and biking routes in Europe, with stunning landscapes and fresh air that will rejuvenate your senses. Here are some popular routes:

The Latvian countryside cycling tour
The Vilnius city bike tour
The Estonian Islands hiking trail
The Ergli highland hiking route
The Lithuanian Lakes cycling tour

Best Things to Do in Baltic states: Activities and Tours

Stroll through the cities’ iconic old towns
Explore unique natural parks
Enjoy the sandy Baltic Sea beaches
Participate in the vibrant nightlife
Try local cuisine
Discover the local music scene
Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside

Week-Long Itinerary for Baltic states

Here is an itinerary recommendation for a week-long trip to the Baltic states:

Day	Activity
1	Arrive in Vilnius, explore the city center
2	Visit Trakai Castle, then travel to Riga
3	Explore Riga’s old town, including the KGB Museum
4	Take a day trip to Sigulda, visit the Gauja National Park
5	Arrive in Tallinn, explore the city center
6	Take a day trip to Lahemaa National Park
7	Depart Tallinn

Food and Drink Scene of Baltic states

The Baltic states offer unique and diverse cuisines that reflect the region’s varying cultural influences over time. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Cepelinai, potato dumplings stuffed with meat or curd cheese, Lithuania
Rupjmaize, Latvian dark rye bread, Latvia
Smoked fish, Estonia
Kulfi, a sweet cheese pie, Lithuania
Kama, a mix of grains and flours, Estonia/Latvia

Local Beverages

Kvass, a fermented rye bread drink, Lithuania/Latvia
Black Balsam, a herbal liqueur, Latvia
Vana Tallinn, a rum-based liqueur, Estonia
Beer, various local brands

Where to Stay in Baltic states: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Baltic states provide a range of accommodation options for all types of travelers. From luxury hotels to hostels and guesthouses, here are some of the best places to stay:

Vilnius Grand Resort, Lithuania
Good Stay Hotell, Estonia
Radisson Blu Elizabete, Latvia
Rixwell Old Riga Palace, Latvia
Colonna Hotel Kurrort, Latvia
Tallinn Backpackers, Estonia

What to Buy in Baltic states: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The Baltic states have an array of unique and locally produced items that make perfect souvenirs. Here are some must-buy items:

Amber jewelry
Handwoven linen and wool products
Unique pottery from the region
Honey and bee products
Ethnographic dolls and toys

Local Culture and Customs of Baltic states

The Baltic states have a rich cultural heritage, with many unique customs and traditions still being practiced today. For example, Sauna rituals in Estonia, the Kupolines (traditional Lithuanian wooden houses with thatched roofs), and traditional weaving techniques used to make handicrafts that reflect the region’s cultural longevity.

Best Time to Visit Baltic states

The best time to visit the Baltic states usually falls between May and September when the weather is mild and the days are long. During that time, the cities and countryside blossom with flora and fauna, allowing visitors to relish in the seasonal beauty of the region. The winter months of December to March, which offer fewer crowds and are ideal for winter sports activities, can also be a great time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Baltic states

Do:

Respect the culture and traditions of the locals
Try traditional cuisine and beverages
Enjoy local handicrafts and products
Embrace the natural beauty of the region

Don’t:

Ignore public transport etiquette
Disrespect historic and cultural sites
Ignore environmental regulations
Inappropriate dress on specific sacred sites and professions (like military)

Safety and Health

Safety in Baltic states

The Baltic states have a relatively low crime rate, and the region is mostly safe for travelers. Visitors are advised to be aware of pickpocketing and to avoid walking alone in an unfamiliar city at night. It is better to avoid political rallies or large gatherings.

Health in Baltic states

Public health standards are generally good in the region. Visitors are advised to take the standard precautions against diseases such as tetanus and tick-borne illnesses. Tap water is drinkable in Estonia and Latvia, but bottled water is recommended for consumption in Lithuania.

Getting to Baltic states: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Baltic states

Riga International Airport, Latvia
Tallinn International Airport, Estonia
Vilnius International Airport, Lithuania

Bus Stations Near Baltic states

Riga International Coach Terminal, Latvia
Tallinn Coach Station, Estonia
Vilnius Bus Terminal, Lithuania

Other Options

Train travel is possible between cities in the region
Ferry services are available for travel between Tallinn-Helsinki and Stockholm-Riga

How to Get Around in Baltic states

Public transport options including buses, trains, and trams are readily available for getting around cities. Visitors are also advised to ride bicycles, kayaks, and boats in natural areas and intercity connections.

Where to Go Next from Baltic states: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The Baltic states are surrounded by other popular European travel destinations, making them a great starting or ending point for a more extensive journey. Destinations nearby include:

Helsinki, Finland
Saint Petersburg, Russia
Warsaw, Poland
Gothenburg, Sweden

Conclusion

The Baltic states offer a unique and unforgettable experience for all travelers. From gorgeous cities and impressive historical landmarks to breathtaking natural landscapes, the region’s rich culture and heritage leave an indelible mark on visitors. With our detailed travel guide, prepare to immerse yourself in a delightful spectrum of cultural, culinary, and outdoor experiences. Explore Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia like never before, and make your next trip to the Baltic states unforgettable.