I recently spent some time exploring an often-overlooked travel destination in Europe. The Baltic States—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to medieval towns, pristine beaches, or Soviet-era relics, this compact region is perfect for a one-week vacation. Here's a suggested itinerary (based on mine) to help you make the most of your trip.

First of all, winter can be pretty bleak in the Baltics. It’s quite cold, and places near the shore can be cold, wet, and windy – a deadly combination. However, spring and summer are delightful. Plan accordingly! Our trip begins in the north, and then we travel south.

Day 1-2: Tallinn, Estonia

Highlights:

• Old Town: Start your journey in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is a well-preserved medieval treasure, featuring cobblestone streets, colorful merchant houses, and iconic landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and St. Olaf’s Church.
• Toompea Hill: Climb Toompea Hill for stunning views of the city and visit Toompea Castle.
• Kalamaja District: For a modern twist, explore the trendy Kalamaja district, known for its wooden houses and innovative eateries.
• Kadriorg Palace: Take a stroll through the Kadriorg Park and visit the Kadriorg Palace, a beautiful baroque structure housing an art museum.

What to Expect:

• Tallinn is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.
• The city has a vibrant food scene, offering everything from traditional Estonian dishes to international cuisine.
• Estonia is an up-and-coming destination for digital nomads due to recent changes in their immigration and visa laws. For this reason, you will see many younger people from various countries in cities like Tallinn and Tartu.

Day 3-4: Riga, Latvia

Highlights:

• Art Nouveau District: Riga, the capital of Latvia, boasts one of the finest collections of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe. Stroll along Alberta Street for prime examples.
• Old Town: Wander through the picturesque Old Town to see landmarks like the House of the Blackheads, Riga Cathedral, and St. Peter's Church.
• Central Market: Immerse yourself in local life at Riga Central Market, housed in old Zeppelin hangars. Sample Latvian delicacies like smoked fish and rye bread.
• Bastejkalna Park: Relax in this green oasis, which offers canalside paths and charming bridges.

What to Expect:

• Riga is more cosmopolitan than Tallinn, with a bustling nightlife and plenty of shopping options.
• English is widely spoken, and the city has a laid-back yet sophisticated vibe.

Day 5-6: Vilnius, Lithuania

Highlights:

• Old Town: Vilnius’ Old Town is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the Gediminas Tower, the Gates of Dawn, and the Vilnius Cathedral.
• Uzupis: Visit the quirky Uzupis district, a self-proclaimed republic of artists with its own constitution.
• Trakai Castle: Take a half-day trip to Trakai, where a fairytale castle sits on an island in Lake Galvė.
• Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights: Learn about Lithuania’s struggle for independence during the Soviet era.

What to Expect:

• Vilnius has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with a mix of Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture.
• The city is an excellent spot to shop for amber jewelry and traditional crafts.

Day 7: Departure or Explore More

• If you have an extra day, consider visiting Kaunas in Lithuania for its street art and interwar architecture, or take a detour to the Curonian Spit for its stunning sand dunes and coastal views.
• Alternatively, relax in one of the Baltic’s spa towns like Jurmala in Latvia or Pärnu in Estonia.

Travel Tips:

• Transportation: The Baltic States are well-connected by buses and trains, with Lux Express offering comfortable options between major cities.
• Currency: All three countries use the euro, making transactions straightforward.
• Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic phrases in Estonian, Latvian, or Lithuanian is appreciated.
• Weather: As mentioned before, summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit due to mild weather, but the Baltics’ autumn foliage and Christmas markets are equally enchanting if you can endure the chilly weather.

The Baltic States offer a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. With this itinerary, you can experience the best of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in just a week. Enjoy your journey!