etraveladmin The Baltics are a melting pot of old and new, Gothic and Baroque, culture and innovation. Discover the Baltics’ pristine beauty and rich heritage by visiting the five cities listed below.
Latvia, Riga
Look no further than Riga for an enriching cultural experience. Riga, the largest Baltic capital city, is a cultural and historical crossroads in Northeastern Europe.
Riga has withstood the test of time and geopolitical turmoil for over 800 years, transforming it into the dynamic, UNESCO World Heritage Site that it is today. Riga is a cosmopolitan city where mediaeval cobblestone meets Art Nouveau. Riga’s coastal charm, in addition to its history and culture, provides a satisfying culinary experience!
Visby, Sweden
Visby, located on the Swedish island of Gotland, is a mediaeval Nordic town and popular tourist destination, particularly among Scandinavians. Visby, surrounded by a 700-year-old city wall, has played an important strategic and commercial role in the Baltic Sea from the Viking Era to the present day.
Visby is a popular tourist destination from June to August because of its Medeltidsveckan (“Medieval Week”), a large mediaeval festival that includes jousting, street performances, and concerts. Everyone dresses up in traditional Swedish attire for these fun festivities, just like in mediaeval times! Visit Visby while Medieval Week is in full swing!
Finland, Helsinki
Helsinki, Finland’s capital and most populous city, is widely regarded as one of the world’s most livable cities. Helsinki is known for its beautiful cityscape and landscape, as well as its many beautiful islands and parks. The Helsinki archipelago is made up of over 300 islands, making it ideal for a nature excursion.
Russia’s Saint Petersburg
Saint Petersburg, Russia’s second largest city, is the country’s modern and cultural capital. Despite Russian-Western tensions, Saint Petersburg tourism has remained above the fray. Saint Petersburg’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Hermitage, one of the world’s largest art museums.
The imperial city of Saint Petersburg is a cultural treasure that you must not miss, from its charming streets and extravagant architecture to its world-class opera and nightlife.
Estonian capital Tallinn
Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, is one of Europe’s best preserved mediaeval cities. Tallinn was occupied by foreign forces for many centuries, shaping its identity as an eclectic trading hub. Tallinn’s distinct heritage and flair are on full display today.
Tallinn, dubbed the “Silicon Valley of Europe,” has a thriving start-up scene that is home to thriving international companies such as Skype. Tallinn, despite its small size, is rich in culture and history, making it one of Europe’s most underrated destinations!
