Things To Do
in Pärnu
Pärnu is a picturesque coastal city in Estonia known for its sandy beaches and lively resort atmosphere. The city is famous for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous art galleries, museums, and historic landmarks to explore. Pärnu is also a popular destination for spa and wellness retreats, offering a range of luxurious treatments and facilities.
With its charming old town, vibrant summer events, and relaxing seaside environment, Pärnu attracts visitors seeking a mix of relaxation and cultural experiences.
- "Tere" - Hello
- "Aitäh" - Thank you
- "Palun" - Please
- "Head aega" - Goodbye
- "Kuidas sul läheb?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll along Pärnu Beach. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the sound of waves before finding a cozy spot for breakfast.
Spend the afternoon sunbathing or swimming in the warm waters. Consider renting a paddleboard or joining a beach volleyball game for some fun.
Wrap up your day with a beachfront dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the sunset as you savor delicious seafood and refreshing cocktails.
Visit the Pärnu Museum to learn about the city’s rich history and culture. Engage with interactive exhibits that cater to all ages.
Head to the nearby Rüütli Street for charming shops and cafes. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local bistros that offer traditional Estonian dishes.
Attend a live performance at the Endla Theatre to experience Estonian arts. After the show, unwind at a nearby pub with some local craft beers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal city with stunning beaches
- Rich cultural history and local events
- Relaxed atmosphere and friendly community
- Growing tourism sector with various activities
- Access to nature with nearby parks and landscapes
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors
- Harsh winters and variable climate
- Smaller town means fewer amenities compared to larger cities
- Language barrier for non-Estonian speakers
- Seasonal fluctuations in tourism can affect local economy
Best Activities in Pärnu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or beach volleyball at Pärnu's beautiful sandy beaches.
Explore the city and its surroundings by renting a bike and pedaling along the scenic coastal paths or through the lush parks.
Take advantage of Pärnu's golf courses, such as Pärnu Bay Golf Links, for a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience.
Try out various watersports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, or jet skiing in the waters off Pärnu's coast.
Discover nature and enjoy the fresh air by hiking in the nearby Soomaa National Park or along the coastal trails.
Places to Visit in Pärnu
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a picturesque view of the Baltic Sea and is perfect for photography, especially during sunsets.
A historical fortification with a scenic walking path, offering stunning views of the surrounding park and river.
A beautiful park with well-maintained gardens and lovely views of the Pärnu River, perfect for capturing natural beauty.
Food in Pärnu
Pärnu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish made from crushed potatoes and groats, usually served with crispy bacon and pickles. Try it at Supelsaksad restaurant for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
A traditional pork dish that is jellied after cooking. It can be savored at Ammende Villa restaurant, known for its classic Estonian cuisine.
A delicious sweet Estonian dessert made from a mixture of roasted barley, rye, oat, and pea flour. Visit Kaffekann café to indulge in this local treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of the town, Pärnu Market offers a wide range of local produce, fresh fish, and authentic street food. Don't miss trying grilled kalakukkel (fish bun) or käsitööõlu (craft beer) from the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pärnu, Estonia, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal and business settings. It is also respectful to address others using their formal titles and surnames unless they give you permission to use their first names.
Estonians have a strong connection to nature, and it is important to show respect for the environment. Littering is highly frowned upon, and visitors should be mindful of their impact on the natural surroundings, such as beaches and parks.
Estonians can be reserved in their communication style, so it is important to maintain a level of formality when first meeting someone. It is polite to wait for others to finish speaking before expressing your own thoughts and to use a moderate tone of voice.
Safety
Tipping in Pärnu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Pärnu, Estonia is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. A 10% tip at restaurants is common, but it is not expected in other service areas such as taxis or hotels.
In Pärnu, Estonia, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payments are gaining popularity, and many establishments, including restaurants and shops, accept card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Pärnu is in the summer, particularly from June to August. During this time, you can expect warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This is the peak tourist season, so you can enjoy the beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural events.
Spring, from April to May, is also a good time to visit Pärnu. The weather begins to warm up, and you can experience the blooming of flowers and the awakening of nature. It's a quieter time to visit before the summer crowds arrive.
Autumn, from September to October, offers milder temperatures and the changing colors of the foliage. It's a great time for enjoying peaceful walks in parks and along the coastline.
Winter, from November to March, brings cold temperatures and the possibility of snow. While the city is quieter during this time, you can still enjoy cozy indoor activities, traditional sauna experiences, and festive holiday markets.
Pärnu at Night
Hiking in Pärnu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast area with a network of hiking trails, showcasing diverse landscapes, including bogs, forests, and lakes.
Famous for its unique swamp landscapes, Soomaa offers several hiking routes along with opportunities for canoeing and exploring natural beauty.
Features scenic trails through a variety of ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and meadows, ideal for tranquil walks.
Accessible via a short ferry ride, Kihnu offers picturesque hiking paths with coastal views and charming local culture.
Provides several hiking options with a mix of cultural landscapes, forests, and lakes, perfect for a day out in nature.
Aiports
How to reach Pärnu by plane.
The main international airport in Estonia, located in the capital city of Tallinn, approximately 130 km from Pärnu.
A smaller international airport located in Tartu, about 190 km from Pärnu.
The largest airport in Latvia, located in Riga, approximately 210 km from Pärnu.
The main international airport in Finland, located in Helsinki, about 340 km from Pärnu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Pärnu, making up around 85% of the population.
The largest minority group in Pärnu, accounting for approximately 8% of the population.
A smaller demographic group in Pärnu, comprising about 2% of the population.
Includes various other ethnic groups such as Belarusians, Finns, and Poles, collectively making up about 5% of the population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Pärnu, with a strong local league and numerous youth teams.
Basketball has a significant following in Pärnu, featuring local clubs and a competitive atmosphere.
Pärnu has a vibrant volleyball community, known for both beach volleyball and indoor competitions.
Given its coastal location, water sports like sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are popular activities among locals.
Athletics events, including running and track and field, attract many participants and spectators in Pärnu.
Ice hockey enjoys a dedicated following, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pärnu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Estonian cuisine traditionally includes meat and dairy, many restaurants in Pärnu offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Raimond and Mahedik are great choices for diverse and creative plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at most restaurants and cafes in Pärnu. It's recommended to specify dietary requirements when ordering, and many places will gladly accommodate gluten-free needs.