Planning a trip to Estonia doesn't have to be difficult. Known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities, this country is a stunning destination. Our travel cost guide will help you plan a perfect trip on your ideal budget. We've collected tons of travel cost data from previous travelers, and we're revealing average hotel prices and dining costs along with sightseeing and transportation tips. Now you'll be able to craft a memorable adventure without blowing your budget. Whether you're admiring the small town charm of Saaremaa or taking in the beauty of Tallinn, we'll help you plan the ideal trip that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Estonia?
You should plan to spend around $134 (€123) per day on your vacation in Estonia. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $59 (€54) on meals
- $25 (€23) on local transportation
- $92 (€85) on hotels
A one week trip to Estonia for two people costs, on average, $1,877 (€1,722). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Estonia expensive to visit?
Estonia is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Estonia is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to the Czech Republic or Montenegro.
In Estonia, you'll find accommodation and activities that cater to both budget travelers and those seeking a more lavish experience. Budget accommodation options are available, such as hostels in Tallinn and Tartu, but there are also luxury hotels that cater to the more affluent customer, along with mid-range hotels for families or couples.
Estonia doesn't have to break the bank if you follow simple tips like eating at less expensive restaurants, taking public transit, and enjoying free activities.
On average, budget travelers spend $54 (€49) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $135 (€123) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $333 (€305) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Estonia.
For more details, see Is Estonia Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Estonia?
The average Estonia trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Estonia travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Estonia cost?
Estonia on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$19
(€17)
|
$46
(€42)
|
$107
(€98)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$9.97
(€9.15)
|
$25
(€23)
|
$60
(€55)
|
|
Food 2
|
$23
(€21)
|
$59
(€54)
|
$149
(€137)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$6.05
(€5.55)
|
$15
(€14)
|
$38
(€35)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-9
(€3-8)
|
$7-21
(€7-20)
|
$15-46
(€14-42)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations about your travel budget. While many people consider themselves "budget" travelers, the truth is that most people don't find this shoestring travel style to be enjoyable. Consider what you genuinely appreciate on a trip and think about your previous travel experiences. Do you lean more towards staying in nice resorts, or mid-range hotels, or maybe even hostels? Is dining out in nice restaurants something you prioritize? Your answers will have a big impact on your overall travel budget.
The Truth on Budget Travel
People often say you can visit Estonia for just $54 daily, but unless you're okay with sacrificing many comforts, be ready to shell out a lot more.
Backpackers can typically make that budget work, but it usually requires sleeping in dorm-style hostels, eating at the most affordable restaurants or fast food spots, taking public transit or walking, and sticking to free sights.
Thankfully, Estonia offers a wide variety of hostels, with the largest selection found in Tallinn and Tartu. A variety of cities offer excellent public transportation that helps budget travelers avoid the steep costs associated with taxis or Ubers.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
If you're on vacation as a couple or with family, you'll likely choose a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the must-see attractions, which often come with entry fees. Most travelers will want to visit the major sights, and landmarks. As most things cost money, it's best to expect a daily budget of about $135 per person.
Estonia has a wide selection of hotels and vacation rentals to fit any travel style. You'll likely be cutting your individual costs by sharing your hotel room with a partner, friends, or your kids. In family-friendly spots like Tallinn and Saaremaa, you'll come across plenty of hotels and restaurants designed with kids in mind. In Tallinn, check out Radisson Blu Sky Hotel, or consider Hotel London by Tartuhotels in Tartu. For couples visiting Otepaa, check out Cantervilla Castle for a romantic place to stay. For more family and couples options, see our hotel guide for Estonia here.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
To experience a truly luxurious getaway, where everything from the service to the accommodation is elevated, plan for a daily price near $333. This means booking luxury hotels, dining in five-star restaurants, enjoying exclusive excursions, and hiring private drivers. You'll be vacationing among the wealthy in destinations like Saaremaa and Tartu. Or you could plan an multi-day adventure by booking a higher end tour such as Premium Baltics - offered by Intrepid Premium.
Accommodation Budget in Estonia
Estonia offers hotels with a wide range of prices. You might be surprised at the difference between budget and high-end options, especially during peak season when prices increase significantly. To save, visit in the off-season, and book early for better deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Estonia for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $92 (€85). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $46 (€42) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Estonia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Tallinn
In Tallinn, which is a city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $40 in the low season to $183 during the peak season. Radisson Blu Sky Hotel ($111) is one of the best hotel options here, and Hilton Tallinn Park is also good, and starts at $112. You can expect to pay around $14 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. As many travelers typically stay for up to four days, ensure you find a cozy place in a good spot if you intend to explore for a while.
Tartu
Tartu is a university town that is a hidden gem in Estonia. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Tartu, the average hotel price is $82 in the low season and $153 in the busy season. On average, four star hotels will cost $99 to $185. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $31 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Hotel London by Tartuhotels for $79 and Lydia Hotel Tartu starting at $117.
Local Transportation Budget in Estonia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $25 (€23) per person, per day, on local transportation in Estonia. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Estonia is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$25
€23
With an outstanding train system, Estonia connects you to almost anywhere in the country. The prices are quite reasonable, and the rides are both fast and comfortable. When rail lines don't reach your destination, long-distance and regional buses can step in.
For those looking to save money, utilizing public transit is an excellent option. Many areas offer dependable public transportation systems, with some of the best found in Tallinn and Tartu. Additionally, many travelers prefer to explore on foot, allowing for a more personal experience wandering through the neighborhoods and seeing the local culture. If walking is your preference, you'll love your time in Tallinn.
In larger urban areas like Tallinn and Tartu, it's a good idea to invest in a multi-day pass if you expect to rely on public transit frequently. Depending on your travel patterns, this could save you a lot compared to individual ticket purchases.
If your plans include a trip to the countryside, you'll probably want to rent a car. Remember that the usual vehicle in Europe is equipped with a manual transmission, and choosing an automatic will likely increase the cost. Be sure to book in advance, as the more economical choices can disappear quickly.
If you have a car while staying in a larger city, it's wise to confirm the parking arrangements with your hotel before arrival. You may incur parking fees at the hotel or in a nearby garage. Sometimes, parking further from the city center can be a more cost-effective option.
Some typical prices for transportation in Estonia are shown below. These are actual costs from previous travelers, and are representative of the amount you'll likely spend on transportation in Estonia. Don't forget that your individual costs will vary based on how you get around, because hired cars such as taxis are often much more expensive than local public transportation.
Food Budget in Estonia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Estonia can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Estonia is $59 (€54) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$59
€54
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Estonia is about $59 (€54) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $23 to $149 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Estonia are as follows:
- Breakfast: $11 to $18
- Lunch: $9 to $29
- Dinner: $21 to $47
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $9
Estonian food is heavily influenced by its nearby neighbors. In particularly, you'll notice German and Scandinavian trends in your Baltic dishes. The cuisine is also comparable to Russian food as it is bothy heavy and rich in meats and sauces.
Rosolje: This is a traditional Estonian dish that is made from beetroot, meat, and herring. Rosolje is essentially a beet salad. It is served cold and is a nice accompaniment to most meals.
Pirukad: This is a dumpling like dish that is filled with meat, cabbage, carrots, or rice and is usually served with bouillon. It's the Estonian answer to the Polish pierogi and you'll find it available at most casual restaurants.
Raim: This traditional Estonian dish is quite popular throughout the country. It's made from Baltic dwarf herring and is usually marinated in a sour cream based sauce, giving it a very rich flavor.
Estonia is an excellent place to savor local cuisine, offering a wide selection of tasty dishes. Some of the top cities for food lovers include Saaremaa and Tallinn.
Saaremaa
Saaremaa is one of the best culinary destinations in Estonia. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.
Tallinn
One of the best culinary spots in Estonia is Tallinn. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.
If you're traveling with kids, be sure to seek out restaurants that offer a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit of money, as these meals are usually priced much lower. Some places may not display the kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask the waiter before placing your order.
A lot of hotels feature breakfast in their room rates, although some charge separately for it. Breakfast quality and prices can vary widely from one hotel to another. Understanding this beforehand can help you figure out if the hotel buffet is worth the splurge or if a local bakery or café would be a more economical choice.
Choose to take a water bottle with you instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also beneficial for the planet.
Before taking off on a tour, check which meals are part of the package. If you have to pay for some meals on your own, that could lead to higher costs.
If you want to experience the culture in Estonia, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour for $125 details
- Tallinn Beer House Dinner for $94 details
- Tallinn Russian Dinner for $83 details
Below are some standard food costs in Estonia, gathered from real travelers. These prices should give you a general idea of what you can expect to spend on dining and meals. Keep in mind, though, that your own costs may differ depending on your taste in restaurants, travel habits, and menu choices.
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Cookies
€0.51
-
Ice Cream
€1.27
-
Coffee & Cake
€3.47
-
Danishes
€0.76
-
Dessert
€1.15
-
Salmon
€1.28
-
Lunch for Two
€4.93
-
Lunch for Two
€7.68
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Estonia
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Estonia typically cost an average of $15 (€14) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$15
€14
With a variety of destinations that are not as heavily trafficked by tourists, Estonia offers opportunities to find unique hidden gems. Some of the more visited areas include Tallinn.
Tallinn
Tallinn is one of the most popular destinations in the Baltic region. It's a beautiful city with a rich culture and impressive architecture. The city is famous for its old town which is filled with cafes, shops, and pubs. Visitors enjoy the active nightlife scene as well as the beautiful architecture.
A nice way to explore destinations in Estonia is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Tallinn: Old Town and Kalamaja private walking tour for $133 details
- Old Tallinn Highlights & Medieval Past Private tour for $26 details
- Tallinn Old Town Walking Tour for $156 details
- 1-Hour Good Morning Tallinn Running Tour for $17 details
Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Estonia. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.
-
Art Museum ticket
€0.95
-
Movie Ticket
€3.47
Nightlife Budget in Estonia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $14 (€13) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Estonia per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$14
€13
Estonia is an exciting destination for nightlife, offering a diverse range of bars, clubs, and parties. Some of the top cities for nightlife enjoyment include Tallinn and Tartu.
Tallinn
Tallinn is one of the best nightlife destinations in Estonia. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.
Tartu
Visitors love the nightlife in Tartu. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.
Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but drinking less can leave you with more money for other parts of your trip.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Estonia. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Tallinn Brewery Fiesta for $71 details
- Tallinn Guided Bar Crawl for $121 details
- Tallinn Pub Crawl (Ex The Epic Bar Crawl) for $26 details
- Talinn: Bar Crawl with Shots, Beer, and Nightclub Entry for $21 details
Traveling in Estonia
Tallinn
Estonia is a quaint and charming country that has evolved dramatically from the days when it was occupied by the Soviet Union. It's a wonderful example of the economic, cultural, and political development that can evolve after such a dramatic history. Today this country is a peaceful and proud member of the European Union.
Estonia is also becoming a new hotspot for travelers in Europe. Picturesque Tallinn is the most commonly visited city, but don't miss a visit to the island of Saaremaa. The island takes up about one third of the country's land mass and a visit is like stepping back in time. The island is dotted with old churches and windmills and the towns feel untouched by the last decade's development. You'll have to rent a car to truly explore the area as public transportation is sorely lacking, but it is well worth the expense to wander the island freely.
Many people head to Estonia for the cheap drinks, loud parties, and late night activities, but there's so much more to this country. The cities come to life with a youthful vibe, but the rural countryside holds tight to the traditional way of life. Estonia is still a budget travel destination in Europe, but things are slowly changing. The best time to find good deals is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. The weather is cool and crisp, but the hotels and restaurants are open and eager for business. If you're visiting during the cold and bleak winter months, you'll find many places have shut down for the season.
Transportation in the country is generally cheap, particularly if you use the local buses almost exclusively. Some more rural areas require a car, but rental cars are surprisingly affordable as well. They are almost always manual, so do not expect to be able to rent an automatic. The most affordable food option in Estonia, particularly in Tallinn, is the cafeteria style dumpling restaurants. You can fill your bowl with any number of dumplings and sauce and then pay for your food by the weight. These are particularly popular with the student populations. Less common, but also good, are the pancake options. Similar in style, you load your pancakes high with any number of sweet or savory toppings and enjoy a filling and satisfying meal at a low cost.
At A Glance
- Estonia is a small country and it is, therefore, very easy to get around. For the most part it is easily accessible by public bus. There are several exceptions however, particularly on the island of Saaremaa which requires a car to fully explore.
- Although the city of Tallinn is most people's destination of choice, there are a surprisingly high number of places to go hiking throughout the country. Estonians love to be outdoors and you can see this in the large number of places set up to take advantage of the few warm months. Spend a few days in the city and then head to the countryside where you'll see impressive landscape and fun outdoor activities. Rural areas are also much cheaper to visit than the more popular cities.
- Extreme swinging, or kiiking, is a popular activity throughout the country. You'll find swings set up in the countryside that are of all shapes and sizes. There are tall swings, large swings, and more. It's fun to try your hand at it while you're in the area. It adds to the light and playful nature that is common throughout this young country.
- Internet access is widely available throughout the country. It's available in many public places including petrol stations, the public library and in some parks. It's also available in most hotels you'll stay in so if you have your own laptop, you won't have trouble staying connected.
- Estonia hosts some wonderful festivals. Music is popular and you'll find many great places to hear a good band. Many festivals also embrace the folk heritage of the area and are a fun way to explore some of the culture.
Related:
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Looking for a party in Copenhagen or Tallinn?
Looking for budget hostels in Scandinavia?
Find a Contiki tour to Europe.
Top Tourist Attractions
Old Town Tallinn: Old Town Tallinn is an absolutely beautiful glimpse into the history in Eastern Europe. It has preserved cobblestone streets and wonderful examples of regional architecture. You can easily spend a couple of days exploring the area. It's also known for its late night parties and bar atmosphere, which is part of the appeal for many of the younger travelers. If you're visiting Tallinn, you'll find your experience much more rewarding if you find accommodation that is located inside of the old town.
Estonian Open Air Museum: Just eight kilometers outside of Tallin, this is one of the best open air museums in Europe. It is the recreation of an old Estonian village and has a working farm, shops, a fire station and examples of over sixty eight different homes. It's a great place to explore if you're interested in the regions history and daily lifestyle.
Kadriorg Palace: Located in Tallinn, the Kadriorg Palace is a beautiful palace on lovely grounds. Its construction began in 1718 under the rein of Peter and Catherine. You can take an English tour of the building and see the impressive art collection inside.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.