Top islands to visit in Estonia

Vilsandi

During its peak, Vilsandi was home to over 200 people, including fishermen, sailors, and seal hunters. Today, it is home to only one permanent resident: an island guard. The island itself is believed to be over 2000 years old.

Today, Vilsandi National Park is Estonia's most marine national park and the most island-rich region. It was established in 1910.

What to see: Stop by the Vilsandi National Park RMK Visitor Center before setting out to explore. Discover the Harilaiu Peninsula on the Harilaiu hiking trails, which take you to the scenic Kiipsaare Lighthouse. Take in the view from atop Vilsandi Lighthouse on Vilsandi Island.

How to get to Vilsandi: A visit to Vilsandi National Park should be planned ahead. There is a boat connection organized by the local municipality that runs from Papissaare (Saaremaa) to Vikati (Vilsandi) and back. 

Hiiumaa

Hiiumaa is the second-largest island in Estonia. What sets Hiiumaa apart from other Estonian islands? Its exceptionally clean, unspoiled natural beauty, as well as the close-to-nature and natural lifestyles preferred by its residents.

Unlike Saaremaa, you won't find modern spa centers or health resorts here because the island itself is like a spa, with plenty of summer sunshine, soothing sea waves, and long sandy beaches. The salty sea water is believed to be particularly beneficial for skin problems and easing bone pain. Hiiumaa is also home to Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest operating lighthouses in the world.

How to get to Hiiumaa: By ferry from Rohuküla to Heltermaa or the ferry line from Saaremaa (Triigi Port) to Hiiumaa (Sõru Port). For a quick and comfortable journey from Tallinn to Kärdla, consider flying, which takes around 30 minutes.

Kihnu

Kihnu is a unique treasure, as its lifestyle and culture are part of UNESCO's List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The island's residents still practice these ancient traditions. Women often wear traditional clothing, and music and dancing are part of important celebrations. You can try locally caught fish at one of the island's home cafés or purchase intricate knitwork at one of the many handicraft shops.

Kihnu is the seventh-largest island in Estonia. It offers much to see, yet it is small enough to be perfect for hiking and cycling. 

How to get to Kihnu: By ferry from Munalaiu Harbors, about 30 minutes from Pärnu

Aegna

Located 10 kilometers off the coast of Tallinn, Aegna was first mentioned in writing in 1297. and the island has been permanently settled since the mid-15th century.

Aegna also has a long military history. When World War I began, all the island's inhabitants were evacuated, and it became a military base. The railway was rebuilt for military purposes. Ship traffic to the island was restored in 1961, but only for those with special permits. It wasn't until 1991 that the island was opened to visitors. Like Naissaar, Aegna is now entirely under nature preservation.

What to see: You can explore the island using this digital visitor guide. You can also organize a guided tour of Aegna's main sites. 

How to get to Aegna: The high-speed ferry Vegtind departs from Tallinn's Linnahall Harbor during the summer.

Prangli Island

Prangli Island has an area of 6.4 square kilometers, making it the 13th largest island in Estonia. It is located on the northern coast of Estonia and is the only island in the region that has been permanently inhabited for more than 600 years.

About 171 people live in the island’s three villages: Kelnase, Idaotsa, and Lääneotsa. The island has everything locals need: a primary school, cultural center, library, museum, church, doctor’s office, post office, and shop. 

What to see: Rent a bike or take a guided tour around the island in a truck or go for a hike and sauna.

How to get there: Take the Wrangö Ferry, which runs year-round. The ferry departs from Leppneeme Harbor every day from April to October, most days several times a day. Departures are less frequent during winter.