Things To Do
in Kuressaare
Kuressaare is a charming historic town located on Saaremaa Island in Estonia. It is known for its well-preserved medieval castle, Kuressaare Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature, including forests, beaches, and the Baltic Sea.
Kuressaare also offers visitors a variety of cultural activities, restaurants, and spas, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
- "Tere" - Hello
- "Aitäh" - Thank you
- "Palun" - Please
- "Head aega" - Goodbye
- "Kuidas sul läheb?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kuressaare Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress. Explore the museum inside to learn about the area's rich history.
After lunch, stroll through the beautiful castle gardens and enjoy the scenic views of the moat. Take some time to relax on the nearby beach or catch the local art exhibits.
As the sun sets, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant with traditional Estonian cuisine. Spend the evening walking through the charming streets, soaking in the local culture.
Begin your day at one of Kuressaare's famous spa resorts for a rejuvenating experience. Enjoy a soothing massage or hot tub session to refresh for the day ahead.
Have lunch at the spa's café and then take advantage of the wellness facilities like saunas and relaxation rooms. Engage in some light fitness activities offered by the resort.
After a day of relaxation, choose a cozy spot for dinner nearby. Consider ending your evening with a cocktail while enjoying live music at a local venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal town with stunning architecture and historical sites.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Rich cultural events, including festivals and music concerts.
- Access to nature, including beaches and nearby national parks.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Harsh winter weather conditions.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options than larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Estonian speakers.
Best Activities in Kuressaare
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches of Saaremaa, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games.
Explore the historic Kuressaare Castle, situated in a scenic park, and enjoy the surrounding gardens and walking paths.
Take advantage of the many biking trails that wind through Kuressaare and the surrounding countryside, offering a mix of scenic views and nature.
Visit the nearby Vilsandi National Park for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring diverse ecosystems.
Play a round of golf at the Saaremaa Golf Club, which offers excellent facilities and stunning views of the island.
Engage in fishing or try various water sports such as kayaking and sailing along the coast of Kuressaare.
Stroll through local markets to sample regional foods and crafts, while enjoying the vibrant outdoor atmosphere.
Head to Lohusalu for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons, where you can spot various species in their natural habitat.
Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the seaside promenade, enjoying the views of the sea and coastal landscapes.
Places to Visit in Kuressaare
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic medieval castle offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the moat, perfect for photography.
A picturesque beach area with sandy shores and scenic sunset views, ideal for capturing nature and leisure shots.
A beautiful park with well-maintained paths, flowers, and trees, providing excellent spots for nature photography and serene landscapes.
A vibrant promenade lined with shops and cafes, offering great street photography opportunities amidst lively local activity.
A remote coastal area with stunning cliffs and coastline, perfect for capturing rugged natural beauty and seascapes.
A charming marina offering views of yachts and boats, ideal for both sunset shots and capturing waterfront life.
Food in Kuressaare
Kuressaare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish consisting of pork, sauerkraut, and potatoes, with a wonderfully tangy and savory flavor. It can be savored at Cafe Retro, a charming eatery known for its dedication to local flavors and traditions.
Must-Try!
Also known as blood sausage, this Estonian delicacy is often served during festive occasions. For an authentic taste, visit the Kuressaare Episcopal Castle during seasonal events or local markets.
A traditional Estonian dessert made from a mixture of roasted barley, rye, oat, and pea flour, often served as a pudding or mixed into creamy dairy products. Try this unique sweet treat at Ku-Kuu Cafe, a cozy establishment celebrated for its creative take on local desserts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a hub of local gastronomic delights, offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, smoked fish, and various traditional Saaremaa specialties. Visitors can also relish the aroma of fresh-baked pastries and bread while exploring the market stalls.
During the summer months, Kuressaare hosts Street Food Thursdays in the town center, where a variety of food trucks and vendors showcase an array of delectable street food options. It's the perfect opportunity to sample local and international flavors while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Kuressaare, a firm handshake and direct eye contact are common practices. It's important to greet everyone in the group and address people using their titles and surnames unless invited to use their first names.
Being on time is highly valued in Estonian culture, including Kuressaare. Whether it's for social events or business meetings, ensure that you arrive at the agreed time to show respect for others' time.
When dining in Kuressaare, wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. Practicing polite table manners, such as keeping your hands on the table but not your elbows, and saying 'Head isu' (Enjoy your meal) before eating, is considered respectful.
Safety
Tipping in Kuressaare
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kuressaare, Estonia, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if the service was satisfactory. Tipping in cafes and bars is less frequent, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is customary. In hotels, it is customary to tip bellhops or housekeeping staff, albeit in small amounts.
Payment practices in Kuressaare are quite modern, with a variety of options available. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including shops, restaurants, and hotels. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also popular. Cash is still used, especially in smaller shops and markets, so having some euros on hand is advisable. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Kuressaare is marked by mild temperatures and blooming flora. Expect temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. This season is ideal for outdoor activities as the landscape becomes vibrant and parks are full of flowers. It's a great time for bird watching and enjoying the early sunshine.
Summer (June to August) is the peak season to visit Kuressaare, characterized by warm temperatures averaging between 15°C and 25°C. This is the best time for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the Saaremaa island with its numerous festivals, open-air concerts, and outdoor events. The long daylight hours also provide ample time for sightseeing.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 5°C to 15°C, and stunning fall foliage. It's quieter than summer, making it perfect for those seeking a more peaceful visit. Expect seasonal harvest events and opportunities for hiking or biking through picturesque landscapes.
Winter (December to February) in Kuressaare can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C. Visitors can expect snowy landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere. While some attractions may close, winter activities such as ice skating, and wellness treatments at local spas, are popular during this time. The holiday season also brings festive decorations and events.
Kuressaare at Night
Hiking in Kuressaare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A natural park located on Saaremaa Island offering a variety of hiking trails that showcase the local flora and fauna.
A unique geological site with walking paths around the crater and scenic views, making it a popular hiking destination.
An island that features diverse landscapes, including forests and coastal areas, suitable for adventurous hikers.
A picturesque area with marked hiking trails that lead through beautiful coastal scenery and forests.
A national park that offers hiking opportunities across various islands with rich wildlife and coastal ecosystems.
Aiports
How to reach Kuressaare by plane.
The main international airport in Estonia, located in the capital city of Tallinn.
The largest international airport in Latvia, located in the capital city of Riga, which is relatively close to Estonia.
The primary international airport in Finland, located near the capital city of Helsinki, and connected to Estonia by ferry and flights.
A regional airport in Estonia serving domestic and limited international flights, located in Tartu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kuressaare, making up a significant portion of the population.
A notable minority group in Kuressaare, primarily consisting of Russian-speaking residents.
A smaller demographic group that has become more visible in recent years.
Includes various other ethnic groups and immigrant communities living in Kuressaare.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Kuressaare, with local clubs and a vibrant community of players and fans.
Basketball has a strong following in Kuressaare, with amateur teams and youth leagues participating regularly.
Volleyball is played at both indoor and beach levels, attracting many enthusiasts in Kuressaare.
Handball is a popular team sport in Kuressaare, with local competitions and training programs.
Cycling is popular in Kuressaare, facilitated by the scenic routes and routes around Saaremaa island.
Running events and marathons are common, with a community that actively organizes races and fun runs.
Due to its seaside location, swimming is a favored activity, with various facilities available for residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuressaare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Estonian cuisine leans towards meat and dairy, many restaurants in Kuressaare offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially those that draw inspiration from international culinary influences. Look out for establishments like Arensburg Boutique Hotel & Spa, which feature creative plant-based options on their menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a range of gluten-free dishes at dining venues throughout Kuressaare. Whether it's gluten-free pastries at Cafe Retro or specially prepared gluten-free meals at Kuursaal, the town provides options to cater to this dietary need.