Viljandi Travel Guide

A complete travel guide to Viljandi, including its best attractions, hiking routes, food, accommodations, local customs, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Viljandi

Located in South Estonia, Viljandi is a quaint yet vibrant town known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, beautiful lakes, and rich history dating back to the 12th century. Viljandi has a lot to offer, including an extensive cultural scene, picturesque scenery, and plenty of outdoor activities. In this Viljandi travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do, see, and eat in Viljandi, as well as provide tips for getting around and staying safe while you’re here.

List of Places to Visit in Viljandi

From culturally important museums and historical places to natural attractions and outdoor adventures, Viljandi has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Viljandi Castle Hills: This is the site where the medieval castle of Viljandi once stood. You can climb up the hill and explore the ruins while enjoying the panoramic views of the town and surrounding forests.

  • Viljandi Museum: This museum features art exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events that celebrate the town’s local history.

  • Ugala Theatre: This theatre has been the cultural heart of Viljandi for over a century and offers a diverse lineup of shows, including opera, ballet, and drama.

Natural Attractions of Viljandi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Viljandi Ermistu Lake: Surrounded by verdant forests, this lake is a popular swimming spot in the summer and offers striking views of the town’s skyline.

  • Viljandi Pärimusmuusika Ait: This is a music venue dedicated to Estonian traditional folk music and instrument-making. Here, you can enjoy concerts and learn more about the country’s musical heritage.

  • Viljandi Observation Tower: This wooden tower provides a bird’s eye view of the town and surrounding countryside, making it the perfect place for hikers and photographers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Viljandi

Viljandi is a hiker’s paradise, and there are plenty of routes to choose from, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekkie. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in Viljandi:

  • Viljandi-Mustla-Viljandi: This is a 42km circular route that takes you through the town and surrounding countryside, passing by lakes, forests, and picturesque villages.

  • Viljandi-Loodi-Viljandi: This is an easy 12km route that takes you through a nature reserve and includes stunning views of the local flora and fauna.

  • Viljandi-Soomaa-Viljandi: This is a challenging 85km route that takes you through the Soomaa National Park, which is famous for its flooded meadows and bogs.

Best Things to Do in Viljandi: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, Viljandi has a lot to offer. Here are some of the best things to do and see in the town:

  • Visit the medieval castle ruins and learn more about the town’s rich history.

  • Attend a concert or drama performance at the Ugala Theatre.

  • Explore the natural beauty of the town’s lakes and parks by hiking, biking, or picnicking.

  • Experience Estonian culture by attending a traditional folk music concert or learning more about the country’s musical heritage at Viljandi Pärimusmuusika Ait.

Week-Long Itinerary for Viljandi

If you have a week to spare in Viljandi, this travel itinerary will help you make the most of your time:

Day 1 Arrive in Viljandi, explore the Old Town and visit the castle ruins
Day 2 Take a biking tour of the Viljandi-Mustla-Viljandi route, and enjoy some local cuisine
Day 3 Visit the Viljandi Museum and learn more about the town’s history and cultural heritage
Day 4 Take a trip to Soomaa National Park and experience the unique flooded landscapes
Day 5 Attend a traditional folk music concert at Pärimusmuusika Ait
Day 6 Explore the natural beauty of the town’s lakes and parks by hiking or picnicking
Day 7 Bid farewell to Viljandi, and venture on to other exciting destinations in Estonia

Food and Drink Scene of Viljandi

Estonian cuisine is a unique blend of Scandinavian, Russian, and German influences, and Viljandi offers some of the best food and drink in the country. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mulgipuder: This traditional Estonian dish is made with potatoes, barley, and bacon and is considered comfort food in Viljandi.

  • Kama: This healthy and delicious Estonian porridge is made from roasted barley, rye, and peas, and can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.

  • Verivorst: This blood sausage is a staple of Estonian cuisine and is made with barley, pork blood, and onion.

Local Beverages

  • Saku beer: Saku beer is one of Estonia’s most popular beverages and can be enjoyed in pubs and bars throughout Viljandi.

  • Vana Tallinn: This is a rum-based liqueur that’s famous for its rich and sweet flavors. It can be enjoyed as an aperitif or dessert drink.

Where to Stay in Viljandi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Viljandi has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the town:

  • Grand Hotel Viljandi: This is a luxurious hotel that offers stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside, as well as a spa and fitness center.

  • At the Watchtower Hostel: This is a charming hostel located in the heart of Viljandi’s Old Town and offers affordable and comfortable accommodations.

  • Guesthouse Linna: This is a cozy guesthouse that’s perfect for solo travelers or small groups, and is located in a quiet residential area of Viljandi.

What to Buy in Viljandi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Viljandi, here are some of the best options:

  • Handmade woolen products, such as mittens, blankets, and scarves, are popular items that you can find in Viljandi’s markets and shops.

  • Viljandi’s local beer and spirits, such as Saku beer and Vana Tallinn, are perfect gifts for friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Viljandi

Estonian culture is influenced by its history and location, and Viljandi offers plenty of opportunities to learn more about the local culture and customs. Here are some customs that you might encounter:

  • Estonians generally value their privacy and personal space, and may come across as reserved or shy.

  • Estonians also place a high value on punctuality and expect others to be on time for meetings and appointments.

Best Time to Visit Viljandi

The best time to visit Viljandi is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, Viljandi also offers a lot of winter activities, such as ice fishing and skiing, so if you’re a winter sports enthusiast, you may want to plan your visit for December or January.

Do’s and Don’ts of Viljandi

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while you’re visiting Viljandi:

Do:

  • Try Estonian cuisine and local beverages, such as Saku beer and Vana Tallinn.

  • Explore the natural beauty of the town’s lakes and parks by hiking, biking, or picnicking.

  • Learn more about Estonian culture and history by visiting museums and cultural venues.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect local customs, such as punctuality and privacy.

  • Don’t leave trash or litter in public areas.

  • Don’t talk loudly or disrupt the peace and quiet of the town.

Safety and Health

While Viljandi is generally a safe and healthy place to visit, there are some precautions you should take:

Safety in Viljandi

  • Be aware of pickpockets and keep your valuables in a secure place.

  • Take care while hiking or biking, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in remote or isolated areas.

Health in Viljandi

  • Estonia has a good healthcare system, but medical costs can be high for visitors without insurance.

  • Make sure you have adequate travel insurance before you visit Viljandi.

Getting to Viljandi: Transportation Options and Logistics

While Viljandi is a relatively small town, it’s easily accessible by several modes of transportation. Here are some transportation options to help you get to Viljandi:

Airports Near Viljandi

  • Tallinn Airport: This is the largest airport in Estonia and is located about 150km from Viljandi.

Bus Stations Near Viljandi

  • Viljandi Bus Station: Viljandi has a modern bus station that’s conveniently located in the heart of the town.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Viljandi is easily accessible by car, and several car rental companies operate in the town and surrounding areas.

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Viljandi and provide a convenient way to get around the town.

How to Get Around in Viljandi

Viljandi is a small town, and most of the attractions can be reached on foot or by bike. However, if you need to travel further, here are some transportation options:

  • Bike rental: Viljandi has several bike rental companies that offer affordable rates for daily or weekly rentals.

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Viljandi and provide a convenient way to get around the town.

  • Car rental: Several car rental companies operate in Viljandi and can provide both short-term and long-term rentals.

Where to Go Next from Viljandi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Estonia, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that are worth considering:

  • Tartu: Known as the intellectual capital of Estonia, Tartu is a vibrant university town that features numerous museums, galleries, and cultural events.

  • Lahemaa National Park: This is Estonia’s largest and most picturesque national park, and is home to numerous lakes, forests, and hiking trails.

  • Tallinn: Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, is famous for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, and offers a range of cultural, entertainment, and dining experiences.

Conclusion

Viljandi is a hidden gem in South Estonia that offers stunning natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and plenty of outdoor adventures. From the town’s medieval castle ruins to its scenic hikes, there’s something for everyone in Viljandi. So take some time to explore this charming town and experience everything that it has to offer!

A cobblestone path and old wooden houses in Viljandi A cobblestone path and old wooden houses in Viljandi Viljandi Town Hall Viljandi Town Hall