Woman on summer holiday in EstoniaPhoto author: Rivo Veber

Summer in Estonia

Estonian summers are enchanting. It is a time to enjoy the endless evenings and unwind in nature.

Northern European summers are a thing of glory. 

Escape the holiday hordes and the sweltering heat of Europe's lower latitudes.

Though the season may be short, the days are blissfully long. Linger over drinks on a terrace. Relax on the sand of an endless, empty beach. Hike through cool, dark woods, or spend a lazy weekend under the spell of a new town. 

Fast facts

Approximate dates:

June to August

Average temperature:

18°C to 20°C

Estonia's top summer city:

Pärnu

Classic beach vacation

If you want to celebrate summer on the beach — sunbathing, swimming, and maybe a sundowner or two — you will find it in Pärnu, Estonia's "summer capital." The event calendar is packed, the evenings are long, and the nightlife is lively. The beach has everything from seaside cafes to SUP rentals to volleyball nets and, most importantly, plenty of space to stretch out on the sand.

Pärnu's riverfront promenade has seen new development, and in recent years, trendy bars and cafes have sprung up here. Rent a bike and explore this up-and-coming area.

Island escapes

Prefer a quieter getaway? If you don't need much more than water, sun, and sand for a perfect summer day, try the islands of Saaremaa, Muhu, and Hiiumaa, though any of Estonia's islands will fit the bill. Even during the high season, you'll find island life is a lot more leisurely than the already relaxed life on the Estonian mainland.

Top islands to visit in Estonia

Estonia's islands have played a crucial role in the country's history and culture. Here are the ones with regular ferry connections.

Top islands to visit in Estonia

Photo author: Simo Sepp, Visit Tallinn

The top 20 beaches in Estonia

Ready for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports? These are the best beaches in Estonia, from lakeside villages to the summer capital of Pärnu.

Top 10 beaches in Estonia

Photo author: Priidu Saart, Visit Saaremaa

Explore Estonian nature

Warmer weather makes it easier to spend time outdoors.

Eating outdoors in Estonia

Whether you pack a few utensils in your backpack and enjoy a delicious picnic on a hike or bike ride, take part in tastings and food workshops, or dine al fresco at an excellent restaurant, eating in Estonia is always pleasurable.

Mindful interaction with nature and the conscious selection of local, seasonal foods is becoming a trend in the rest of Europe, but it has long been a given here. And now, in summer, the ambience naturally adds to the mix: What could be more enjoyable for foodies than sitting by the sea at a lovely outdoor restaurant and enjoying a freshly prepared dinner? 

Picnic eating outdoors on Muhu Island in Estonia

Photo author: Priidu Saart

Exciting culinary experiences in the Great Outdoors

Midsummer's Eve – when Dusk meets Dawn

Midsummer is an important Estonian holiday and the best time to enjoy nature. Here's a list of local festivities so you can join in, too.

Midsummers Eve – when Dusk meets Dawn

Photo author: Silver Tõnisson, Visit Viljandi

Tallinn's summertime white nights

Wondering what to do in Tallinn during the long white nights of summer? Here's how to spend your extra hours during this magical time of year.

Tallinns summertime white nights

Photo author: Kaupo Kalda, Visit Tallinn

Outdoor events and festivals fill nearly every weekend during the summer. 

Whether it's the various city festivals, such as the legendary Old Town Days in Tallinn, or street food festivals, there's fun to be had mixing with locals. 

This summer's biggest event is the Song and Dance Celebration in Tallinn, taking place from July 3 to 6. If you're in town on that weekend, be prepared for crowds. Tens of thousands of people from all over the country and abroad come together to participate in this historic event.

Song Celebration summer event in Estonia

Photo author: Aivar Pihelgas

Every season has something special.