The Baltic states—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—may be small in size, but they're giants when it comes to cultural experiences, natural beauty, and historical significance. These three gems along the Baltic Sea offer travellers a perfect blend of medieval charm, modern innovation, and pristine landscapes. Whether you're planning your first Baltic adventure or returning to explore more deeply, here are nine essential experiences you simply can't miss.
1. Wander through Tallinn's medieval Old Town
Step back in time as you explore Estonia's capital city. Tallinn's Old Town is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk along the cobblestone streets, admire the colourful merchant houses, and climb Toompea Hill for spectacular views of the city's red rooftops and the Baltic Sea beyond.
Don't miss the Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats), where you can enjoy a coffee at one of the outdoor cafés, or visit during December when it transforms into a magical Christmas market. The defensive walls and towers surrounding the Old Town offer fascinating glimpses into the city's military past—Tallinn's nickname "The City of Towers" is well-earned!
2. Experience the unique spa culture in Estonia
Estonia has developed a distinctive spa culture that combines traditional sauna rituals with modern wellness treatments. The country's abundant natural resources—from healing mud to pine extracts—are incorporated into rejuvenating experiences across the country.
Visit Pärnu, Estonia's summer capital and spa city, where you can indulge in mud treatments and mineral baths. Or head to the island of Saaremaa to experience authentic smoke saunas—a tradition so valued it's been recognized by UNESCO as cultural heritage.
Pro tip: After the intense heat of an Estonian sauna, follow the locals' lead and cool off with a plunge into the Baltic Sea or a nearby lake—even in winter!
3. Marvel at Riga's Art Nouveau architecture
Latvia's capital city, Riga, boasts the world's largest collection of Art Nouveau buildings. More than 700 structures feature the elaborate façades, sculptural elements, and imaginative details characteristic of this early 20th-century style.
The best examples can be found in the Alberta Street area, where famed architect Mikhail Eisenstein's buildings display mythological creatures, screaming masks, and geometric patterns. For an even deeper appreciation, visit the Riga Art Nouveau Museum, housed in the former apartment of Latvian architect Konstantīns Pēkšēns.
4. Explore the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania
Near the city of Šiauliai stands one of Lithuania's most extraordinary sites: the Hill of Crosses. This pilgrimage site features hundreds of thousands of crosses, crucifixes, statues, and rosaries placed by visitors over nearly two centuries.
What began as a place of remembrance and peaceful resistance during periods of occupation has evolved into a powerful symbol of Lithuanian identity, faith, and perseverance. The hill creates an incredibly moving experience as crosses of all sizes sway in the breeze, many adorned with personal mementos and photographs.
The site gained international attention when Pope John Paul II visited in 1993, declaring it a place of hope, peace, love, and sacrifice.
5. Sample Baltic cuisine and craft beverages
The Baltic food scene is experiencing a renaissance, with chefs celebrating local ingredients while adding contemporary twists to traditional recipes. Each country offers distinctive culinary experiences:
In Estonia, try black bread (must leib), blood sausage (verivorst), and kama (a traditional grain mixture often used in desserts)
Latvia's specialty is grey peas with bacon (pelēkie zirņi ar speķi) and caraway cheese (ķimeņu siers)
Lithuania is famous for cold pink beetroot soup (šaltibarščiai) and potato dumplings (cepelinai)
The craft beverage scene is equally exciting, with:
Estonia's vibrant craft beer movement
Latvia's Riga Balsam herbal liqueur (an acquired taste!)
Lithuania's mead traditions dating back centuries
For a truly immersive experience, visit the Riga Central Market, housed in repurposed zeppelin hangars, or take a food tour in Vilnius' Old Town to sample regional specialties with historical context.
6. Visit the Curonian Spit National Park
(IMAGE SUGGESTION: sand dunes Curonian Spit)
Stretching along the Baltic coast, the Curonian Spit is a narrow peninsula of spectacular beauty. This UNESCO-protected sandbar features Europe's highest drifting sand dunes, dense pine forests, charming fishing villages, and pristine beaches that seem to stretch endlessly.
Walk among the surreal landscape of the Dead Dunes near Nida, where forests were buried by shifting sands. Don't miss the Hill of Witches in Juodkrantė, an outdoor sculpture park featuring wooden carvings of characters from Lithuanian folklore and mythology. Take time to explore the picturesque fishermen's villages of Preila and Pervalka with their distinctive weathervanes and traditional architecture.
7. Discover Baltic Amber - "Gold of the North"
The Baltic region is famous for its amber—fossilized tree resin that's been collected here for thousands of years. Often containing preserved insects and plant material from 44 million years ago, Baltic amber is prized for both its beauty and scientific value.
Visit the Amber Museum in Palanga, Lithuania, to see extraordinary amber specimens, including the "Sun Stone" weighing over 3.5 kg.
For a hands-on experience, try amber "fishing" on beaches after storms or take a workshop to create your own amber jewellery as a meaningful souvenir.
8. Kayak through Lahemaa National Park, Estonia
Lahemaa National Park, Estonia's largest, offers a perfect introduction to the region's diverse natural landscapes. Just an hour from Tallinn, this coastal park features lush forests, picturesque bogs, limestone cliffs, and traditional fishing villages.
The best way to experience Lahemaa's magic is by kayak, paddling along its pristine coastline or meandering rivers. As you glide through the water, keep watch for wildlife—the park is home to lynx, brown bears, wolves, and over 220 bird species.
After your paddling adventure, visit one of the park's elegant Baltic German manor houses, like Sagadi or Palmse, which offer glimpses into the region's complex historical relationships.
9. Experience Lithuania's basketball passion
Basketball isn't just a sport in Lithuania—it's practically a religion. This small Baltic nation is absolutely crazy about basketball, with a passion that has to be experienced to be believed. Lithuania consistently punches above its weight in international competitions, and attending a game here offers insight into the national character and pride.
Catch a Žalgiris Kaunas or Rytas Vilnius home game for an unforgettable experience. The electric atmosphere, complete with drums, chants, and an ocean of fans, makes even non-sports enthusiasts get caught up in the excitement.
Pro tip: Purchase your tickets well in advance for important games, especially against rival teams. Before the game, learn the popular chant "Lietuva, Lietuva!" to join in with the local fans.
The Baltic states offer travellers authentic experiences that combine rich history, stunning nature, and vibrant contemporary culture. From medieval old towns to modern design districts, from dense forests to stunning coastlines, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania reward visitors with unforgettable memories and warm hospitality.
With DFDS, traveling to Estonia or Lithuania is straightforward and convenient, with crossings available up to six days a week. Overnight travel makes the journey even more practical, allowing you to rest as you travel and arrive in the morning ready to start your day.
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