Things To Do
in Kuressaare
Kuressaare is a coastal town on Estonia's Saaremaa island, crowned by a well-preserved medieval castle and a charming Old Town. It feels like a quieter, more relaxed Baltic destination, where wind-swept seascapes meet lush pine forests. The town serves as a gateway to Saaremaa's nature, folklore, and farms, offering a blend of history and maritime charm.
Visitors can enjoy scenic shores, boutique eateries, and easy access to island adventures year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Kuressaare's historic center, soaking in the quaint architecture and local shops. Stop by the bustling Kuressaare Market to sample fresh pastries and local produce while mingling with friendly vendors. Don’t miss the iconic Kuressaare Castle, where you can explore its intriguing history and impressive towers.
After lunch at a cozy café, head to the beautiful Kuressaare Park, where you can relax among the lush greenery and scenic paths. Take a guided tour of the castle grounds to learn about the fascinating stories of its past inhabitants. As afternoon fades, consider renting a bike to explore the surrounding area or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.
In the evening, indulge in a traditional Estonian dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes made from fresh, regional ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the sunset over the Baltic Sea. Cap off your night with a visit to a local pub for a taste of Estonian craft beer or a soothing glass of glögg.
Kick off your day with breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the beautiful Kaali Beach for a morning of sun and sand. Enjoy swimming in the calm waters or simply relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and listening to the gentle waves. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding, both available for rental nearby.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a beachside café, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean. Spend the afternoon exploring the stunning coastline, taking leisurely walks along the beach or participating in beach volleyball games with locals. As the sun climbs higher, consider joining an organized jet ski tour for an exhilarating ride across the water.
As evening approaches, return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy a meal featuring locally-caught fish while watching the sun set over the horizon. After dinner, relax on the beach with a bonfire, sharing stories under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $18-28 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $4-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and walkable Old Town
- Rich nature and wildlife on Saaremaa
- Rich history including Kuressaare Castle
- Calm, friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services may be seasonal
- Weather can be changeable and unpredictable
- "Tere" - Hello
- "Aitäh" - Thank you
- "Palun" - Please / You're welcome
- "Kus on tualet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kui palju see maksab?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Kuressaare
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval fortress with a surrounding moat; provides dramatic silhouettes at sunrise or sunset and architectural detail shots.
Colorful timber houses and narrow lanes offer charming street photography opportunities.
Distinct crater landscapes set in open farmland; wide panoramas and dramatic skies are common.
Coastal cliff with rugged sea views and expansive horizons—great for landscape and seascape photography.
Food in Kuressaare
Kuressaare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Estonian sprat sandwich on rye bread with egg, commonly found in cafes and market stalls.
Must-Try!
Smoked Baltic fish served with rye bread and onions; a staple seafood option on the island.
A traditional mixture of roasted cereals served as a dessert or breakfast component.
Estonia’s iconic dense rye bread paired with farm cheeses—simple, flavorful, and widely available.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering local produce, cheeses, smoked fish, berries, and seasonal specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple 'Tere' (hello); be punctual; maintain polite personal space; in rural areas, modest conversations are appreciated.
Dress modestly for churches and formal settings; avoid loud behavior in quiet public spaces; shoes-off norms may apply in some homes.
Safety
Tipping in Kuressaare
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants; service charges are often included.
Cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; Euros are the currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with up to 19 hours of daylight; pleasant temperatures around 17-22°C; coastal breezes keep it fresh; expect outdoor events and markets; mosquito presence near water.
Milder days turning cooler; colorful foliage and golden light ideal for photography; showers are common, so bring a light rain jacket.
Cold and often snowy with short daylight hours; activities center on indoor attractions and cozy cafes; prepare for icy surfaces and wind off the sea.
Mild, gradually warming weather with new plant growth; rain showers are possible; wildlife comes alive and trails are accessible.
Kuressaare at Night
Hiking in Kuressaare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short drives from the town; relatively flat terrain with crater formations and scenic farmland.
Historical windmills and easy walking paths with coastal views nearby.
Airports
How to reach Kuressaare by plane.
Small regional airport with connections to Tallinn and limited international routes.
Major international hub with frequent services to Kuressaare via domestic flights or ferry connections; gateway for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group; Estonian is the primary language.
Smaller communities and seasonal workers; English is commonly understood in tourist areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played with local clubs and youth programs; common spectator interest during seasonal leagues.
Proximity to the coast makes water sports highly popular in summer; rental equipment available.
Popular indoor sport with community teams and gym facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuressaare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on seasonal vegetables, cheese, grains, and mushroom dishes; most places can adjust soups and broths or offer vegetarian plates if requested.