Estonia, the digital wonder of the Baltic region, offers Indian travelers a unique blend of medieval charm and cutting-edge technology. From the fairy-tale streets of Tallinn's Old Town to the wild nature of its national parks and the tech-savvy lifestyle, Estonia presents an offbeat European destination with rich history and innovative spirit.
This comprehensive guide covers everything Indian travelers need to know—from Schengen visa requirements to the best places to stay, eat, and explore in this northern gem.
Why Estonia is a Unique Destination for Indian Tourists
- Medieval Magic: UNESCO-listed Tallinn Old Town
- Digital Society: World's most advanced digital nation
- Affordable Europe: Lower costs than Western Europe
- Nature's Beauty: 50% forest cover and 2,000+ islands
- Easy Visa: Part of Schengen zone
- English Friendly: Widely spoken, especially by youth
How to Travel from India to Estonia
Flight Options
There are no direct flights from India to Estonia. Connecting options include:
- Via Middle East: Emirates (via Dubai), Qatar Airways (via Doha)
- Via Europe: Finnair (via Helsinki), Lufthansa (via Frankfurt)
- Via Scandinavia: SAS (via Stockholm)
- Main Airport: Tallinn Airport (TLL)
- Alternate Route: Fly to Helsinki and take 2-hour ferry
Travel Tip: Consider combining Estonia with Finland (Helsinki is just 2 hours by ferry).
Approximate Flight Duration & Cost
| Route |
Duration |
Cost (Round-trip) |
| Delhi/Mumbai to Tallinn |
12-16 hours (including layover) |
₹40,000–₹70,000 (varies by season) |
Best Time to Visit Estonia
| Season |
Months |
Pros & Cons |
| Summer (Peak) |
Jun-Aug |
Warm weather, white nights, festivals |
| Spring (Shoulder) |
Apr-May |
Mild weather, fewer tourists |
| Fall (Shoulder) |
Sep-Oct |
Beautiful autumn colors |
| Winter |
Nov-Mar |
Christmas markets, snow activities, very cold |
Festivals to Experience:
- Tallinn Old Town Days (May): Medieval festivals and concerts
- Song Festival (Jul): Massive choral event (every 5 years, next 2024)
- Christmas Market (Dec): Magical atmosphere in Tallinn
Estonia Travel Budget for Indian Tourists
Estonia is moderately priced compared to Western Europe. Here's a rough estimate per person:
| Expense |
Budget (₹) |
Mid-Range (₹) |
Luxury (₹) |
| Accommodation (per night) |
₹3,000–₹6,000 (Hostels/guesthouses) |
₹7,000–₹15,000 (3-4 star hotels) |
₹20,000+ (5-star hotels) |
| Food (per day) |
₹1,500–₹3,000 (Local eateries) |
₹3,500–₹7,000 (Restaurants) |
₹10,000+ (Fine dining) |
| Transport (local) |
₹500–₹1,500 (Public transport) |
₹2,000–₹5,000 (Taxis/rental cars) |
₹7,000+ (Private transfers) |
| Attractions (per day) |
₹1,000–₹3,000 (Sites/museums) |
₹4,000–₹8,000 (Guided tours) |
₹10,000+ (Private experiences) |
Total Estimated Cost for 7 Days:
- Budget Traveler: ₹70,000–₹1,00,000
- Mid-Range Traveler: ₹1,20,000–₹2,00,000
- Luxury Traveler: ₹2,50,000+
Where to Stay in Estonia
1. Tallinn (Capital City)
- Budget: The Knight House (₹4,000/night)
- Mid-Range: Hotel Telegraaf (₹12,000/night)
- Luxury: Schlössle Hotel (₹20,000/night)
2. Tartu (University Town)
- Budget: Hektor Container Hotel (₹3,500/night)
- Mid-Range: Hotel Lydia (₹8,000/night)
3. Pärnu (Beach Resort)
- Budget: Tervise Paradiis Spa Hotel (₹6,000/night)
- Mid-Range: Strand Spa Hotel (₹10,000/night)
Top Attractions & Must-Do Activities
- Tallinn Old Town: Medieval streets and town square
- Toompea Hill: Panoramic views and parliament
- Kadriorg Palace: Baroque palace and art museum
- Lahemaa National Park: Forests, bogs, and coastline
- Saaremaa Island: Windmills, castles, and nature
- Telliskivi Creative City: Hipster area with street art
- Estonian Open Air Museum: Traditional village life
Estonian Food Guide for Indians
Estonian cuisine has many vegetarian options available:
- Black Bread: Dark rye bread (national staple)
- Kama: Traditional flour mixture eaten with yogurt
- Mushroom Dishes: Various preparations (vegetarian)
- Berry Desserts: Wild berries in season
- Indian Food: Several Indian restaurants in Tallinn
- Craft Beer: Excellent local breweries
Tip: Look for "Taimne" (vegetarian) options. Many restaurants mark vegetarian dishes clearly.
Visa Requirements for Indian Travelers
Do Indians Need a Visa for Estonia?
✅ Yes, Schengen visa required
Types of Visas
- Short Stay (C): Up to 90 days within 180-day period
- Tourist Visa: For leisure travel
How to Apply
- Apply at Estonian embassy or VFS center
- Processing time: 15-30 days
- Biometrics required for first-time applicants
Required Documents
- ✔ Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay
- ✔ 2 passport photos
- ✔ Travel insurance (€30,000 coverage)
- ✔ Hotel reservations
- ✔ Flight itinerary
- ✔ Bank statements (last 3 months)
Visa Fees
Short Stay Visa: ₹5,500–₹7,000 (approximately)
Important: Estonia is part of Schengen zone. Visa allows travel to other Schengen countries.
Important: If you need help with your Estonia Visa application, please visit our website and fill out the assistance form. (👉
www.executivevisaservices.in)
FAQs for Indian Travelers
1. Is Estonia safe for Indian tourists?
Extremely safe with very low crime rates. Standard precautions in tourist areas.
2. What's the currency in Estonia?
Euro (€) since 2011. 1 EUR ≈ ₹90 (check current rates).
3. Can I use English in Estonia?
Yes, widely spoken especially in cities and by younger people.
4. How to get a SIM card in Estonia?
Purchase from Telia or Elisa at airport (₹800-1500 for basic plan). Need passport.
5. What's the best way to travel within Estonia?
Buses between cities, excellent public transport in Tallinn. Renting a car gives flexibility.
6. How many days are enough for Estonia?
4-5 days for Tallinn and nearby. 7-10 days for comprehensive country tour.
7. Any cultural tips for Indian travelers?
Estonians are reserved but friendly. Remove shoes when entering homes. Tipping 10% is appreciated.
Final Thoughts: Why Estonia Should Be on Your Travel List
Estonia offers Indian travelers a unique European experience combining medieval charm with digital innovation. While less known than Western European destinations, those who visit are rewarded with beautiful landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality without the crowds.
With its compact size, excellent infrastructure, and growing tourism services, Estonia presents a fantastic opportunity for Indian travelers looking to explore Europe beyond the usual destinations.