Holidays in Estonia: tips

Estonians are much easier to get along with than Germans or, say, Japanese. Learn expert tips on tripmydream and make yourself at home!

• For those who like to relax in nature, it is more convenient to stay not in hotels, but on farms and farmsteads participating in state programs for the development of green tourism. Due to the limited number of places, booking rooms should be done at least a month before the trip, and at the height of the vacation season - two to three months in advance.

• In restaurants and cafes, unobtrusive service is considered good etiquette. Waiters are knowledgeable but typically do not take the initiative to avoid appearing intrusive. The first step is usually taken by the customer, so it's a good practice to express your preferences promptly. Service personnel in the HoReCa sector usually do not insist on tips, but if you wish to show appreciation to an excellent worker, consider leaving a tip of 5-10% of the order's cost.

• Estonian beaches use a traffic light warning system: a green flag indicates safe swimming conditions for everyone; a yellow flag advises caution, especially for children, elderly individuals, and those with health concerns; and a red flag is displayed when the sea temperature falls below 16°C.

• If you plan to spend time outdoors, it's advisable to get vaccinated against tick-borne encephalitis before your trip.

• Between April 15 and July 15, due to the nesting season of protected bird species, you'll need to obtain a special permit from the county nature protection office to travel to Kihnu, Sorgu, and Mania islands.

• During darkness, pedestrians and cyclists must wear reflective shields on their clothing or equipment.

• When traveling around Estonia by bicycle, do not leave your bike unattended. We advise you to secure your bicycle with a chain and padlock in the parking lot, and lock it indoors for overnight stays.

• Fishing in rivers and lakes is allowed only with special permits, which can be purchased at information kiosks and tourist centers. Fishing is allowed in one body of water during one daylight period, from dawn to dusk. When using nets, seines, hooks, and other longline fishing devices, an additional permit must be obtained.

• The sale of alcoholic beverages in Estonian grocery stores stops at 22:00 and resumes no earlier than 10:00. It is forbidden to consume alcohol on the street, so you must enjoy alcoholic drinks either in a hotel room or in a drinking establishment.

• The sale of alcoholic beverages in Estonian grocery stores stops at 22:00 and resumes no earlier than 10:00. It is forbidden to consume alcohol on the street, so you must enjoy alcoholic drinks either in a hotel room or in a drinking establishment.