Things To Do
in Keila
Keila is a small town in Harju County, just a short hop from Tallinn. It sits along the scenic Keila River and is known for the Keila-Joa waterfall and park nearby. The historic center features traditional Estonian wooden houses and a centuries-old church, giving Keila a charming, village-like atmosphere.
Visitors use Keila as a tranquil base for nature trips with easy access to the capital and the countryside alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Keila and check in to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Estonian pastries. Take a short stroll around the town to soak in the fresh air and local scenery.
Visit the Keila Waterfall, one of Estonia’s most picturesque natural attractions. Spend time exploring the surrounding nature trails, and take in the beauty of the flowing water and lush greenery. Capture photos of this stunning locale as the sunlight glistens on the falls.
Dine at a cozy local restaurant that offers a taste of authentic Estonian cuisine. Try the smoked fish or deer stew while enjoying the rustic ambiance. End the evening with a relaxing walk through the town, admiring the quiet charm of Keila at night.
Start your day with a visit to Keila Castle, a fascinating medieval structure enveloped in history. Take a guided tour to learn about the castle's storied past and architectural significance. Enjoy a breakfast picnic on the grounds, surrounded by lush, peaceful gardens.
Head to the nearby Keila-Joa Park, a beautifully landscaped area ideal for leisurely strolls and exploration. Discover the charming romanticism of the park’s history and the captivating architecture of the palace. Relax by the river and enjoy the wildlife before heading back to the town.
Return to Keila for dinner at a restaurant that specializes in local fish dishes. Savor the quiet surroundings and perhaps chat with locals about their favorite spots. Conclude your day with a walk along the woodland paths, listening to the soothing sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥖Bread (loaf, 500g) | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🥛Milk (1 liter) | $1.10-1.50 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (1 ride) | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, scenic town with easy access to Tallinn
- Beautiful natural spots like Keila Waterfall and river trails
- Friendly locals and manageable crowds
- Genuine rural- Estonian experience close to the capital
- Good mix of cultural sites and outdoor activities
- Limited nightlife and dining options within Keila itself
- Some sights require short drives or train rides to Tallinn for more variety
- Seasonal services (markets, openings) can be weather-dependent
- Public transport to farther villages is less frequent than in Tallinn
- Language barrier may exist for non-Estonian speakers in smaller venues
- "Tere" - Hello
- "Aitäh" - Thank you
- "Palun" - Please / You're welcome
- "Jah" - Yes
- "Ei" - No
- "Kus on [kohandatud]?" - Where is [this place]?
- "Kui palju see maksab?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ma räägin veidi eesti keelt" - I speak a little Estonian
Places to Visit in Keila
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic waterfall just outside town, offering powerful mist and striking river contrasts—especially photogenic in spring melt and autumn light.
Historic grounds with manicured lawns, old mill structures, and vantage points over the river; great for wide-angle river shots.
A picturesque church setting surrounded by traditional Estonian wooden houses and a quiet square.
Serene riverbank scenes, footbridges, and sunset silhouettes along the meandering Keila River.
Food in Keila
Keila Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Estonian sprat sandwich on rye bread, typically topped with onions and served as a quick, flavorful snack.
Must-Try!
A traditional porridge-style dish of potatoes and groats, often served with bacon, fried onions, or mushrooms.
A beet, potato, and herring salad with eggs and mayonnaise, common at festive tables and cafes alike.
Freshly caught herring grilled and served with potatoes and dill, a simple coastal specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market (often Saturdays) offering rye bread, dairy, berries, honey, and crafts from local vendors.
Seasonal stalls around the town center offering warm pastries, pancakes, smoked fish, and local sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings like 'Tere' or 'Tere päevast' are standard; a firm handshake is common in formal interactions.
Being on time for appointments and meetings is valued.
Keep voices moderate in public spaces and respect others' personal space; avoid loud conversations in narrow streets.
In many homes and some traditional spaces, it’s polite to remove shoes before entering.
Safety
Tipping in Keila
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not required; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafés.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets (e.g., Apple Pay) are common in shops and cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days return with budding trees; carry a light layer and be prepared for rain and muddy trails.
Long daylight hours (often late sunsets); pleasant temperatures around 15–22°C with periodic showers—perfect for outdoor activities.
Golden forests and cooler air; bring layers and waterproofs as rains are common.
Cold and often snowy, with short days; landscapes transform into serene snow scenes but check road conditions and dress warmly.
Keila at Night
Hiking in Keila
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of forested trails around the waterfall and river—great for easy day hikes and photography.
A broader loop through pine and mixed forests with scenic overlooks and serene lake edges.
Airports
How to reach Keila by plane.
Main international airport near Tallinn; reachable by train or car from Keila in roughly 40-60 minutes depending on transit and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group, Estonian-speaking, with strong national identity and cultural traditions.
A visible minority with a long history in the region; Russian language is commonly understood here.
Small communities including descendants of residents from neighboring areas and international visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime with local clubs and casual pickup games around towns and parks.
Rural roads and forest trails are frequented by recreational cyclists.
Winter sport played in nearby towns with local leagues and informal skating on frozen lakes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Keila.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian dishes are available at most cafés and bistros; look for soups, salads, mushroom dishes, and dairy-based plates, and ask to omit meat broths or ask for vegetable-forward options.