Winter activities for indoors and out
The off-season is never "off" — there are museums to explore, spas to relax in, and a winter wonderland to discover!
Indoor ideas
Here in Estonia, we say there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. Even with the proper clothing, though, sometimes it's nice to take a break from the elements and get cozy indoors.
Art galleries & museums
Art galleries provide platforms for local artists to exhibit their work or provide a local audience for international artists. Tallinn has the most galleries, but others are in more remote corners of the country, including some housed in community centers, old barns, and private homes.
Estonia's 170 museums connect the past with the future and educate visitors about Estonia's relationship with the greater world. Cities and towns all over the country have museums showcasing local history and collections, and many offer interactive exhibitions to entertain the young and young at heart.
Source: Helen Aasa, PoCo Pop-Art Museum
Cultural events & creative activities
A night out at the opera or ballet is a sure way to warm up during winter. The Estonian National Opera has performances suitable for non-Estonian speakers, as music speaks directly to the heart. Classical music lovers may also find concerts at various venues in Tallinn's Old Town, like during the Tallinn Winter Festival.
In the olden days, winter was the season for handicrafts, as there was not as much work in the fields. Visitors can take advantage of this timeless tradition and learn a new skill or make a souvenir to take home at a creative workshop.
Source: Rasmus Kooskora, Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre
Creative workshops with local craftspeople
Spas and waterparks
Estonian spas can be found along the coast, in the remote countryside, or deep within lush forests. Visitors can relax while indulging in treatments featuring local ingredients, such as mineral-rich mud, juniper leaves and berries, natural spring water, and peat.
Water parks in Estonia welcome swimmers of all ages. They have shallow, heated pools for the littlest visitors and high-velocity slides for bigger kids and their parents. After the kids get wound up, families can wind down with a steam in the sauna and let the jacuzzi jets massage tight muscles.
Source: Ken Oja
Flavorful fun
The four seasons are the foundation of Estonian cuisine. The cool, crisp Nordic climate and rich flora and fauna give us high-quality raw ingredients that Estonian home cooks preserve using various methods, including smoking, pickling, and fermenting, which adds complex tastes to their dishes. Visitors can take home local knowledge by participating in a cooking class or food workshop.
Outdoor picnics are not just for summer! Service providers like Maitsemaa Forest Restaurant and Forest Restaurant Nõmbra give guests delicious culinary experiences outdoors, even in the middle of winter.
Source: Rauno Liivand
Tickle your tastebuds with one of these food workshops.
Learn more about typical Estonian foods and drinks from small, local producers.
Outdoor ideas
Locals know the best way to stay happy in winter is to get outside. Once the snow blankets the ground, Estonia becomes an authentic winter wonderland.
Ice fishing in Estonia — imagine the fish beneath your feet!
Go with a knowledgeable guide for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a day on the ice followed by a warm meal and a hot sauna.
Source: Visit Estonia
Snowshoeing
Snowshoes are a great way to explore Estonian nature and get some exercise at the same time. Did you know you can also go snowshoeing without snow? Snowshoes become bogshoes in summer (same thing, different name!), as you can use them to explore bogs without sinking into the waterlogged ground.
Visit sled dogs
Sled dogs love Estonia's snowy winters. There are several kennels and training centers where visitors can get up close and personal with sled dogs and learn about their personalities, how they are trained, what they eat, and much more. Even if there's not enough snow for a dogsled ride, many providers offer the opportunity to take the dogs on a hike through the forest.
Source: Mariin Kaljula, Hellerkantri Huskypark
Skiing
Cross-country skiing is one of the best ways to appreciate the serenity of Estonian nature. There are tracks for everyone, from beginners to skiing enthusiasts. One of the most magical experiences is skiing at night under lit tracks, looking for wild rabbits, foxes, and deer. Many places offer rental equipment, so visitors don't need to bring their own.
Source: Elen Juurma, Visit Pärnu
Downhill ski and snowboarding centers in Estonia
Take a lesson or hit the terrain park and embrace the winter season.
Sleigh rides for a romantic getaway or a family adventure
Bundle up and let the jingle of sleigh bells whisk you away on a delightful journey through the snow.
Last updated
03.01.2025