Things To Do
in Võru
Võru is a charming town located in southern Estonia near the Russian border. It is known for its scenic landscapes, including forests, lakes, and rolling hills. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional events and local crafts celebrated throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating in the surrounding natural beauty of Võru.
- "Tere" - Hello
- "Aitäh" - Thank you
- "Palun" - Please
- "Head aega" - Goodbye
- "Kuidas sul läheb?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at Piusa River. Enjoy the stunning views and fresh air as you explore the natural beauty surrounding Võru.
After lunch, visit the Võru County museum to learn about the local culture and history. Take your time to admire the exhibits that showcase the area's heritage.
Wrap up your day with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy traditional Estonian dishes while soaking in the warm atmosphere.
Rent a bike and explore the picturesque trails around Võru. The morning is perfect for enjoying the serene landscapes and fresh morning air.
Stop at a local café for lunch before heading to the Võrtsjärv lake. Engage in some water activities or just relax by the lakeside.
Head back to Võru and treat yourself to a hearty meal at a nearby restaurant. Unwind and reflect on your day’s adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings with lakes, forests, and hills ideal for outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with unique architectural sights.
- Tranquil lifestyle and a close-knit community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Access to various local festivals and events celebrating Estonian culture.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Less access to amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Cold winters may be challenging for some residents.
- Public transportation options may be limited beyond city limits.
- Smaller population may mean fewer social activities and entertainment options.
Best Activities in Võru
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and serene paths in the Verminoja Nature Reserve.
Engage in various water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoy a relaxing day at the beach by Lake Tamula.
Take a scenic bike ride through the picturesque countryside around Võru, with well-marked cycling routes and stunning views.
Set up camp along the banks of the Piusa River, ideal for fishing, hiking, and enjoying nature.
Learn about the local culture and history before heading outdoors to explore the surrounding natural beauty.
Walk the Seto Heritage Trail to immerse yourself in the unique Seto culture while enjoying the stunning landscapes.
Observe the diverse bird species that inhabit the Kala-Järv area, perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
In winter, enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Kütiorg, which offers varied slopes suitable for all skill levels.
Places to Visit in Võru
Visit one of these nice places.
This museum offers a great view of Võru and features exhibitions that highlight the region's history and culture, providing great photo opportunities.
A spacious park with beautiful landscapes, walking paths, and a serene atmosphere, ideal for capturing nature photos and panoramic views of the city.
A picturesque lake surrounded by walking trails and viewing spots, perfect for stunning sunset photos and capturing the reflections on the water.
This cozy cafe not only serves excellent coffee but also has a lovely terrace offering scenic views of the surrounding areas, making it a great spot for photos.
These natural formations provide elevated viewpoints that offer breathtaking panoramas of the Estonian countryside, ideal for landscape photography.
The architectural beauty of the Town Hall, combined with its historical significance, makes it a great subject for photos both during the day and at night when illuminated.
Food in Võru
Võru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made with mashed potatoes and barley, often served with smoked bacon and sour cream. It can be found at many local restaurants and cafes, such as the Vana Võromaa Kohvik in the heart of Võru.
Must-Try!
A tangy sauerkraut soup often prepared with pork. This comforting dish can be enjoyed at the Võru Taluturg, a renowned food market offering a variety of local produce and freshly prepared foods.
A traditional Estonian dessert made from a mixture of flours, usually barley, rye, oat, and pea. Sweetened kama is widely available at local cafes like Kohvik Kubija, perfect for indulging in a sweet treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a treasure trove of local delights, from fresh produce to prepared foods like pickled vegetables, smoked meats, and freshly baked breads. It's also a great place to sample traditional street food like grilled sausages and hearty pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Estonians, including those in Võru, value politeness and formality, especially in initial meetings. It is customary to address people by their titles and surnames until invited to use their first names.
Estonians are often comfortable with silence and may not feel the need to fill every pause with conversation. Respecting moments of silence is important and considered a sign of thoughtfulness.
When communicating, Estonians tend to use moderate gestures and maintain personal space. It’s advisable to avoid overly enthusiastic expressions or excessive physical contact unless you have a close relationship.
Safety
Tipping in Võru
Ensure a smooth experience
In Võru, Estonia, tipping is not a common practice; however, it is appreciated. If service is exceptional, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) is considered courteous, especially in restaurants and cafes.
Payment methods in Võru are modern and widely accepted. Cash and card payments are standard, with most establishments accepting major credit cards. Mobile payment options are also becoming increasingly popular, reflecting the country's overall digital advancement.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Võru (March to May) is a beautiful time as nature comes back to life. Expect mild temperatures, ranging from 0°C to 15°C. This season features blooming flowers and vibrant greenery. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the lakes and forests.
Summer (June to August) is the warmest season in Võru, with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 25°C. This is the peak tourist season, ideal for enjoying local festivals, outdoor sports, and the picturesque landscapes. Visitors can expect plenty of sunlight and opportunities for swimming and boating.
Autumn (September to November) offers stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures, ranging from 0°C to 15°C. This is a great time for photography and hiking, as well as enjoying local harvest festivals. Expect crisp air and a colorful landscape.
Winter (December to February) in Võru can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C. This season is ideal for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The town transforms into a winter wonderland, with beautiful snow-covered landscapes and festive holiday decorations.
Võru at Night
Hiking in Võru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring a variety of hiking trails through forests, lakes, and cultural landscapes. Well-known for its diverse flora and fauna.
A scenic hiking trail that circles Lake Tamula, offering picturesque views of the lake and surrounding nature, along with opportunities for birdwatching.
Known for its stunning sandstone cliffs and the Ahja River, Taevaskoja offers several hiking paths with breathtaking views and natural beauty.
Located in the Rõuge area, these trails provide a chance to explore the region's unique drumlins, lakes, and elevated viewpoints, ideal for nature lovers.
A well-marked trail in Valgemetsa that allows hikers to experience the peaceful environment, diverse ecosystems, and the local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Võru by plane.
The largest airport in Estonia, located in the capital city, Tallinn. It serves as the main international gateway for travelers to Estonia.
Located in Tartu, this is a smaller airport that offers limited international flights but is the second largest airport in Estonia.
The main international airport in Finland, located in Helsinki, it is one of the closest major airports to Võru and serves as a major hub for flights to and from Europe.
The largest airport in Latvia, located in Riga. This airport is a significant hub for connections in the Baltic region and is relatively close to Võru.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Võru, primarily speaking Estonian.
A significant demographic group in Võru, mostly consisting of ethnic Russians and Russian-speaking individuals.
Includes small populations of Ukrainians, Belarusians, and other ethnicities.
A growing demographic group due to educational institutions in the area, including vocational schools.
The aging population in Võru contributes to the demographic mix, often engaging in community activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Võru, with local clubs participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Football enjoys strong popularity in Võru, with many youth teams and local competitions taking place.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and community centers, fostering a love for the sport among locals.
Athletics events, including track and field, are organized regularly, encouraging participation from both youth and adults.
Given its winter climate, cross-country skiing is a favored sport during the snowy months in Võru.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Võru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries in Võru offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with some cafes like Kohvik Kubija and Vana Võromaa Kohvik specifically catering to these dietary preferences.
While gluten-free options may be limited in some traditional dishes, several restaurants and cafes in Võru are accommodating to gluten-free diets. It’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs to the staff, who are often willing to offer suitable alternatives.