The best tourist attractions and places of the Baltic States
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![The best tourist attractions and places of the Baltic States](https://visitworld.today/media/blog/previews/YMERa0eOXbVFBK6GJda0nfcSw0bDJZcpGLIFycsW.webp)
The beauty of the Baltic countries is manifested in their multifaceted and unique architecture. In addition to their historical heritage, the countries are also proud of their unspoiled nature. Check out the best places in the Baltic States that will take your breath away
Every year, the Baltic region is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. Most travelers come here from the nearest European countries - Finland, Germany, Poland and Great Britain. Tourists are attracted by the numerous sights of the states and their small size, which make the Baltic States an ideal place for a short vacation.
Although Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia are united into one region, the three countries have very different histories, making each a fascinating gem to explore. In addition to the historical heritage, the countries can be proud of their bright nature and rich architecture, each of the capitals is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
What are the best tourist attractions in the Baltic States? Places that must be seen by tourists in the future.
Latvia
Latvia is a small country that surprises with its cities and natural wealth. This is a state with a developed economy and a modern transport system, so the trip here will be interesting and comfortable.
Riga is the capital of Latvia, which has been heavily influenced by German culture, so it is very different from Vilnius or Tallinn. The city has wonderful nature - parks, forests, lakes, city canals, hills, islands and beaches. It is located at the mouth of the Duava River, which flows into the Baltic Sea. The center of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to do?
A large number of excellent cafes and restaurants await visitors, which will make the trip pleasant and comfortable. Also, relax in one of Riga's spa centers or enjoy the cool nightlife.
Cesis is a city in the north-eastern part of Latvia, the history of which dates back more than 800 years. It is most famous for the castle built at the beginning of the 13th century by the Livonian sword-bearing brothers. Today, the ruins of the castle in Cesis are one of the main attractions of the Baltic States.
What to do?
Walk through the narrow streets, look at the well-preserved old layouts, visit beautiful shops and cafes. Cēsis is also home to the oldest brewery in Latvia and welcomes visitors who want to try delicious fresh beer.
The Basilica of the Assumption is a baroque church located in the city of Aglona and is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. The construction of this exceptional basilica was completed in the 18th century. It is a popular pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of visitors every year.
What to do?
Enjoy the beauty of this architectural wonder, which is a testament to purity and Christian faith.
Jurmala is a Latvian resort town whose main gem is the ice-blue water of the Baltic Sea and pristine nature. Jurmala also offers tourists a lot of entertainment.
What to do?
Tourists are attracted here by the sea, white sandy beaches and pine forests that provide refreshing shade on a hot day.
Gauja National Park is the largest and oldest national park in Latvia, located along the river of the same name. The main attraction of the park is the Zvaret rock.
What to do?
Take a walk along the paths of the park and explore its landmarks.
What else to watch?
Also, be sure to visit the largest wind power plant in Latvia, which is located in the city of Liepaja.
If your vacation falls in the summer, check out the annual Summer Sound music festival.
One of the most outstanding monuments of Baroque and Rococo art in Latvia - the Rwanda Palace - the luxurious summer residence of the Dukes of Courland, is worthy of attention.
Sigulda, Jelgava, Ventspils, Kemeri National Park, Kuldiga, Cape Kolka, Latgalia, Aluksne, Bauska are tourist attractions worth visiting when traveling in Latvia.
Estonia
The history of the Estonian land dates back thousands of years, it was under the rule of several empires until Estonia gained independence in 1991. Today it is an economically developed country and one of the main attractions of the Baltic Sea region. It is the smallest country among the Baltic states.
Estonia impresses visitors with beautiful beaches along its extensive coastline, charming old towns and a rich cultural heritage.
Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, the largest city and the most popular tourist destination. Historic churches, cobblestone streets, palaces, museums and galleries make this a small capital full of wonderful sights. The old town is divided into the lower town and the upper town, which is also called Toompea Hill.
What to do?
Tallinn is a great place for a romantic weekend. In the summer, the weather is mild here, and in the winter you can enjoy the Scandinavian snow landscape.
Narva Castle - founded in 1256 by the Danes, later bought by the German Livonian-Teutonic Order, the castle is a witness of stormy historical events. This is the most bizarre and best preserved defensive castle in the country.
What to do?
The Estonian History Museum is located in the Narva Castle.
The AHHAA Science Center is the largest science center in the Baltic States located in Tartu, the second largest city in Estonia. Here, visitors will be able to get acquainted with both science and technology in an interesting way.
What to do?
The AHHAA Science Center offers a variety of exhibitions, workshops and theater shows.
Tartu also deserves the attention of tourists, because it is known as the University City - young, with a cool atmosphere and an interesting nightlife. Tartu is a city of museums, one of the most popular is the Estonian National Museum.
What to do?
Go for a bike ride and explore the local history.
Haapsalu is a famous resort town in Estonia, the main attraction of which is the Baltic Sea. You can drive from Tallinn to Haapsalu in 2 hours. After seeing the narrow streets, miniature town hall and romantic wooden houses of the city, you will feel like you are in a movie. The town is also home to the medieval castle of the same name, which dates back to the 13th century.
What to do?
Stroll along the shores of the Baltic Sea and enjoy the architectural treasures of Estonia.
What else to watch?
Also, while traveling in Estonia, be sure to visit Parna, Otepaa, Rakvere, Viljandi, Kuressaare, Toompea, Lahemaa National Park and Rakvere Castle.
Lithuania
Lithuania is a small Baltic country with a developed economy and a high human development rating. The tourist potential of Lithuania is historical places, untouched nature and numerous spa resorts.
Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania, which boasts a magnificent Old Town, which is protected by UNESCO as one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Tourists are especially attracted by the combination of Gothic architecture, cultural heritage and numerous city cafes.
What to do?
Explore the sights of the city - Vilnius Cathedral, St. Anne's Church, the Presidential Palace and the Jewish quarters.
The Curonian Spit is a 98-kilometer spit consisting of sand dunes. Located between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon, it is a natural wonder and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to do?
Explore this one of the country's most amazing and popular natural wonders.
The Hill of Crosses is a sacred place for pilgrims with a mysterious history. It is believed that the custom of leaving crosses on the mountain originated from the time of the 1831 uprising. Today, hundreds of thousands of crosses and rosaries left by pilgrims and visitors are stored here.
What to do?
Visit this mysterious place and try to find out its history.
Kaunas is the second largest city in Lithuania and its cultural capital. Many museums are located here, the most famous of which is the Devil's Museum - a landmark of this city. The architecture of Kaunas is a combination of Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic.
What to do?
Visit the sights of the city - Kaunas Cathedral Basilica, Kaunas Castle, as well as Vutas Church and Pazaislis Monastery.
Klaipėda is a seaport and the third largest city in Lithuania, which is divided into the Old and New Towns. It combines old houses, as well as Art Nouveau buildings and pre-war wooden frame buildings.
What to do?
Visit a museum of the sea, a dolphinarium and several local beaches.
What else to watch?
Tourist places in Lithuania include Panevezys, Kedainiai, Trakai, Birštonas, Druskininkai, Zori Gate, Siluva, Palansk Amber Museum and Church Heritage Museum.
Located around the Baltic Sea, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia have created the stunning Baltic region of Europe - one of the most beautiful places in the world, which is a must-see for every tourist.
An important component of a successful trip is a travel insurance policy, because it guarantees the provision of high-quality medical care in any corner of the world and is able to protect you from unnecessary expenses during the trip.
Do you doubt whether you need travel insurance for your next trip? Read in detail about the benefits of the policy in this article.
Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World
To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.
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