An inspiring weekend in Viljandi
Viljandi is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. Spend a weekend there travelling slowly and soaking up the city's art and culture.
Need to get out of a creative slump? Troubled by writer's block?
Looking for a place to let your mind wander? Viljandi has inspired artists for centuries. This town of about 17,000 people is only two hours from Tallinn by train, making it ideal for a short weekend getaway. While it may not be known for its nightlife, it is known for its relaxed vibes and a community of creative-minded people.
The city is compact enough to explore on foot. One of the best ways to see Viljandi's most inspiring sites is to follow the Viljandi Maal art walk, a self-guided walking tour featuring artwork depicting views of Viljandi's landscape. Each of the 17 stopping points has a sign with a QR code, which takes you to a webpage where you can see paintings inspired by that specific location and read more about each artist.
Source: Hillary Millán
Viljandi’s medieval heritage
Four cities in Estonia were once part of the influential trading network known as the Hanseatic League: Tallinn, Tartu, Pärnu, and Viljandi.
Not much remains of Viljandi’s medieval past — the city’s imposing castle now lies in ruins. Built in the 13th century, it was destroyed during the Polish-Swedish War in the early 1600s. Even so, the crumbling walls make for a romantic viewpoint as they overlook Viljandi Lake from high on a hillside.
Take your time walking around the ruins, and maybe bring a sketchbook or a picnic. You can even arrange to have breakfast in the park and watch the sun come up over the lake, guaranteed to inspire at least a poem or a song… or both!
Source: Rivo Veber
The castle ruins have been inspiring enough to merit two signposts on the Viljandi Maal art walk, and they still provide a stunning backdrop to numerous cultural events throughout the year, most notably the very popular Viljandi Folk music festival that is held there every July. Summer is also when the city celebrates its medieval history with the Viljandi Hanseatic Days, featuring handicraft stalls, a parade, pop-up cafes, food stands, and concerts.
If you’d rather enjoy coffee indoors, try Café Aida at the Estonian Traditional Music Centre. The café overlooks Castle Hill Park, and in the summer, their terrace has one of the best views in the Viljandi. In early October, the Traditional Music Centre hosts the Folk Music Harvest Festival, but concerts are held here year-round.
Source: Silver Tõnisson, Visit Viljandi
Where to wander
Stop by these must-see sites in Viljandi.
A feast for the eyes (and for the stomach)
Perhaps you’ve noticed large concrete strawberries as you walk around town. They are an homage to Paul Kondas, an outsider artist known for his work “The Strawberry Eaters.” The Kondas Centre displays his paintings and a replica of his studio alongside temporary exhibitions featuring Estonian and international artists.
The Kondas Centre is not to be missed! Besides the fascinating artwork, there’s a well-curated gift shop, and it’s possible to arrange creative workshops for individuals, couples, or small groups.
Another exhibit space that’s worth a stop is Rüki Gallery. The gallery is housed in a restored barn where rye flour was once stored — hence the name Rüki, which is Estonian for rye. The gallery is dedicated to Estonian art. Perhaps you’ll find inspiration for your next creative endeavor, or maybe you’ll find the perfect piece to display in your home. And if you’re looking to take home a smaller souvenir, they have a wonderful selection of art books.
Source: Silver Tõnisson, Visit Viljandi
When looking for inspiration, it’s best to engage all the senses.
Try these three inspiring places to eat in Viljandi.
Kris Süld, Visit Viljandi
Kristjan Kivistik, Visit Viljandi
Kristjan Kivistik, Visit Viljandi
Kristjan Kivistik, Visit Viljandi
Kristjan Kivistik, Visit Viljandi
Kristjan Kivistik, Visit ViljandiGet your hands dirty
Creative types (or even non-creative types who are game to give it go) should take advantage of Viljandi’s reputation as the center for Estonian crafts and try a workshop or two. The Viljandi Culture Academy, a branch of Tartu University, attracts students interested in cultural heritage, the arts, and related careers. Their summertime Craft Camp introduces traditional Estonian handicrafts to participants from all over the world.
Like the guilds of old, the Bonifatius Guild is an organization for local craftspeople. The shop sells handicrafts and provides a space for creative workshops. You can learn to make paper crafts and stained glass or dive into the glittery world of gemstones.
Artist Ave Nahkur’s colorful artwork can be found at the Kondas Centre’s gift shop.
Her home gallery (and café during summer), Meie Küla Eitede, is located on the edge of town.
Craft workshops at the Bonifatius Guild in Viljandi
One more way to get the creative juices flowing
Rent a bike! Grab a Minuvelo bike and let your mind wander while your legs do the work.
Heimtali Museum is about 10 kilometers outside of Viljandi. Estonian textile artist Anu Raud started Heimtali and donated it to the state on the 100th anniversary of the Estonian National Museum.
Here you can admire intricate knit gloves, colorful embroidery, and other traditional textiles. Kids can play with a collection of hand-knit and hand-sewn puppets and stuffed animals in the playroom while adults browse the exhibition. Call ahead to ensure an English-speaking guide can show you around, as there’s very little signage in English. The gift shop is full of handmade treasures if you’re looking for a unique souvenir to bring home.
Just down the road from the museum is Raudnaela Pub, where you stop for lunch, and across from the pub is a little lake — perfect for taking a dip to cool off after a bike ride.
Source: Siim Verner Teder
Discover handmade treasures 10 kilometers from Viljandi.
Get inspired
Last updated
04.12.2024