Things To Do
in Haapsalu
Haapsalu is a picturesque coastal town in Estonia known for its charming old town and historic wooden architecture. The town is famous for its medieval castle, Haapsalu Episcopal Castle, dating back to the 13th century. Haapsalu is also popular for its therapeutic mud baths and healing mud found in the local mud baths.
Visitors can enjoy strolling along the seaside promenade, exploring the quaint streets, and relaxing in the town's peaceful atmosphere.
- "Tere" - Hello
- "Aitäh" - Thank you
- "Palun" - Please
- "Head aega" - Goodbye
- "Kuidas sul läheb?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the beautiful Haapsalu Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the Baltic Sea. Don't forget to take a morning stroll along the sandy shore and breathe in the fresh sea air.
Head to the Haapsalu Castle and discover its fascinating history, including the legends of the White Lady. Afterward, relax at one of the nearby cafes for lunch while enjoying the views of the castle ruins.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the promenade to watch the colors change over the water. Conclude your day with dinner at a local seafood restaurant, tasting fresh dishes of the region.
Visit the Haapsalu Castle Museum to learn about the city's medieval past through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Climb the castle towers for a panoramic view of Haapsalu.
Explore the charming old town, filled with wooden architecture and quaint shops. Stop by the Haapsalu Promenade for a light lunch and enjoy the views of the bay.
Attend an evening concert at the Haapsalu Culture Center if there's a performance scheduled. Enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro, followed by a stroll to find local art galleries.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and picturesque architecture.
- Rich cultural heritage with historic sites, including the Haapsalu Castle.
- Relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great destination for a quiet getaway.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports.
- Events and festivals throughout the year, enhancing the local culture.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development compared to larger cities.
- Infrequent public transportation options, making travel less convenient.
- Cold winters may deter some visitors and residents.
- Smaller population may result in fewer amenities and entertainment options.
- Potentially high seasonality in tourism, affecting local businesses during off-peak times.
Best Activities in Haapsalu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Stroll along the picturesque promenade by the sea, enjoying views of the bay and the historic architecture of Haapsalu.
Discover the remnants of the medieval Haapsalu Castle, with its beautiful grounds and scenic views of the surrounding areas.
Take a cycling tour along the stunning coastline of the Baltic Sea, with dedicated bike paths and breathtaking views.
Visit the nearby wetlands, an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
Spend a day at the beach, sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying beach activities in a family-friendly environment.
Rent a kayak and explore the calm waters of Haapsalu Bay while enjoying the surrounding nature and tranquility.
Take a short trip to Matsalu National Park for hiking trails that offer stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing.
Try your hand at fishing in the nearby Pärnu River, known for its variety of fish species.
Participate in outdoor festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing local culture, food, and crafts.
Explore the historic Kuursaal, a seaside pavilion, and enjoy outdoor concerts and events held in its vicinity.
Places to Visit in Haapsalu
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic castle with stunning architecture and beautiful surrounding landscapes, providing perfect photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
A picturesque waterfront promenade offering breathtaking views of the bay, ideal for capturing serene sunset and sunrise moments.
The historical Tallinn Gate provides a charming backdrop for photos, showcasing the city’s rich culture and heritage.
The former spa building with elegant architecture and lovely views over the bay, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
An idyllic location known for its quaint streets and beautiful traditional houses, perfect for capturing the local charm.
Located near the Haapsalu Castle, this statue provides a unique cultural context and is a favorite for visitors to photograph.
The ruins provide a historical setting and an enchanting atmosphere that are great for dramatic photography.
A short drive from Haapsalu, this area features stunning landscapes and breathtaking coastal views, perfect for nature photography.
Food in Haapsalu
Haapsalu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup named after an Estonian mythical hero, made with beef, potatoes, carrots, and a variety of local seasonings. Best enjoyed at Kuursaal, a historic seaside restaurant.
Must-Try!
Vibujaht, or 'The Archer's Feast,' is a traditional dish featuring tender marinated venison served with lingonberry sauce and forest mushroom salad. You can savor this delicacy at the atmospheric Retro Cafe.
Sült is a cold savory jelly made from pork shanks and flavored with bay leaves and allspice. For an authentic taste, head to Haapsalu's Old Town Market where local vendors prepare it with authentic recipes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of the town, this bustling market offers an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, smoked fish, and artisanal goods. Don't miss the mouthwatering street food stalls serving up grilled Baltic herring and freshly baked rye bread.
This cultural complex hosts a vibrant street food market where you can relish a variety of Estonian and international street food delights, from smoked meats to decadent pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Haapsalu, a firm handshake is a common way to greet. It is polite to maintain eye contact during the greeting, and addressing people using their titles and last names is appreciated, especially in formal settings.
Estonians have a deep respect for nature and the environment. When in Haapsalu, be mindful of littering and follow local guidelines related to outdoor activities, such as hiking or enjoying the coastal areas.
In public places such as cafes, transport, or parks, it is customary to keep noise levels low. Speaking quietly and avoiding loud conversations is considered respectful, as Estonians value peace and tranquility in shared spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Haapsalu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Haapsalu, Estonia is not mandatory but is appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a tip of around 10% is common for good service. Tipping taxi drivers or in bars may also take the form of rounding up the fare or leaving small change.
Payment methods in Haapsalu include cash and card transactions. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also gaining popularity. It's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Haapsalu is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect temperatures to range from 1°C to 15°C (34°F to 59°F). It’s a great time for outdoor activities as the town begins to come alive after winter, with fewer tourists.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season for Haapsalu. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Expect vibrant festivals, outdoor concerts, and a lively atmosphere around the beach and promenade. It's ideal for swimming and enjoying water activities.
Autumn (September to November) offers cooler temperatures from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) and beautiful fall foliage. The crowds begin to thin, making it a perfect time for serene walks and cultural exploration. Expect some rainy days, especially by November.
Winter (December to February) in Haapsalu can be quite cold with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F). Expect a quiet atmosphere, potential snow cover, and a chance to enjoy winter sports. This is a great time for cozy indoor activities and experiencing local holiday traditions.
Haapsalu at Night
Hiking in Haapsalu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful coastal trail that offers scenic views of the sea and surrounding nature. Ideal for hiking and bird watching.
A stunning national park featuring diverse landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and a picturesque coastline. Multiple trails available for all levels of hikers.
A historical trail that takes you around the Haapsalu castle and nearby areas, combining culture and nature in a unique hiking experience.
A serene trail through the forests near Uuemõisa, perfect for a peaceful hike surrounded by nature.
Follows the Purtse River, offering beautiful views and a variety of wildlife. A great spot for a leisurely hike.
Aiports
How to reach Haapsalu by plane.
The main international airport in Estonia, located about 100 km from Haapsalu.
The largest airport in Latvia, located approximately 250 km from Haapsalu.
The main airport serving the Finnish capital, located about 380 km from Haapsalu, accessible by ferry.
A regional airport in Estonia, situated about 180 km from Haapsalu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Haapsalu, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A notable minority in Haapsalu, representing a sizable community with cultural ties to Russia.
A smaller demographic group present in Haapsalu, often involved in various local industries.
A small number of Finnish residents can be found in Haapsalu, often linked by historical and cultural connections.
Includes small populations of other ethnic groups from around the world.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Haapsalu, with several clubs and teams participating in local leagues and competitions.
Football has a strong following in Haapsalu, with local clubs and youth teams actively competing in regional tournaments.
Volleyball is widely played in Haapsalu, both indoors and on the beach, attracting diverse groups of enthusiasts.
With its coastal location, swimming is a favored activity, and local swimming pools and beaches offer services for both leisure and competitive swimming.
Cycling is popular in Haapsalu, with scenic routes suitable for both recreational riders and competitive cyclists.
Track and field events are organized in Haapsalu, and there are several facilities for training in various athletic disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haapsalu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Haapsalu's dining scene embraces vegetarian and vegan diets with many establishments offering plant-based dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. La Dolce Vita Pizzeria and Cafe, for example, crafts delectable vegetarian pizzas and vegan pasta dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can savor gluten-free treats and meals at many eateries across Haapsalu. The Mad Café, known for its warm ambiance, serves an assortment of gluten-free cakes and bakes.