Relaxed 9-Day Estonia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tallinn to Tartu
Description
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Description
Experience Estonia like never before on this 9-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Tallinn, Rakvere, Tartu, and Järva-Jaani. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in Estonia.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Estonia at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Tallinn, Rakvere, Tartu, and Järva-Jaani. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Tallinn and 3 nights in Tartu. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Estonia.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Estonia. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Tallinn, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Estonia and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Estonia with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Estonia.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Estonia. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Kadriorg Park. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Seaplane Harbour.
Traveling leisurely through Estonia means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Freedom Square. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Estonia's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Estonia.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Estonia. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Estonia's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Estonia.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Estonia. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Estonia. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Estonia and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Estonia today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Tallinn - arrival day
- Tallinn - Arrival day
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- Freedom Square
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Your relaxed road trip through Estonia starts when you reach the incredible city of Tallinn, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Tallinn and begin your adventure in Estonia.
Tallinn is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Freedom Square or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Tallinn. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Tallinn.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at MuSu resto, a top-rated dining spot in Tallinn. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Manna La Roosa, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restoran Mimosa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tallinn.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Tallinn and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Koht, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Noku. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Derevjaška (tram Bar), another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Estonia. Enjoy your first taste of Tallinn as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Tallinn
- Tallinn
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Drive 12 km, 56 min
- Russalka Memorial
- Japanese Garden
- Kadriorg Art Museum
- Kadriorg Park
- Art Museum of Estonia
- Viru Gate
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Estonia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Tallinn. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Tallinn. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Tallinn!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Tallinn today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Russalka Memorial. This noteworthy monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Japanese Garden and learn what makes this eye-catching park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Kadriorg Art Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Kadriorg Park. This notable park is a highlight in Tallinn. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the underrated Kumu. Enjoy exploring this incredible museum at your own pace.
Estonia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Estonia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at 7Ürti Resto, a top-rated dining destination in Tallinn. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Rae, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Munga Kelder. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tallinn this evening.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Tallinn and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Old Irish, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Uba Ja Humal. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Vana Villem Pub, another top-rated place in the area.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Estonia!
Day 3 – Tallinn
- Tallinn
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Drive 39 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Tallinn Botanic Garden
- Seaplane Harbour
- Estonian Open Air Museum
- Tallinn Zoo
- Viru Gate
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Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Tallinn, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Estonia are extraordinary.
Discover a day packed with a romantic, a serene, an enchanting, a visually striking, and a historic in Tallinn. Begin your sightseeing with Tallinn Botanic Garden. This intriguing botanical garden is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Seaplane Harbour, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Tallinn, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Estonian Open Air Museum. This locally appreciated museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Tallinn Zoo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Estonia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Estonia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Estonia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Tallinn, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Make sure to reserve a table at Mix, an iconic dining spot in Tallinn. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Argentina, a popular restaurant in Tallinn. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mack Bar-B-Que, Rocca al Mare, a hidden gem nestled in Tallinn. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Tallinn.
Continue your lively evening at Barbar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Labor Baar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Teras Beach Tallinn Indoor Beach ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Estonia!
Day 4 – Tallinn
- Tallinn
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Drive 1 km, 28 min
- Tallinn Town Hall
- Town Hall Square
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Kohtuotsa viewing platform
- Patkuli viewing platform
- Viru Gate
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On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Estonia, you’ll go deep into Tallinn, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Tallinn, and meet locals along the way!
Today’s itinerary in Tallinn covers several incredible sights, including a city hall, a public square, a church, an observation deck and much more! Start your adventure at Tallinn Town Hall. This intriguing city hall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Town Hall Square, a must-see public square in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This frequently visited church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform, where you can take in its enchanting features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Patkuli Viewing Platform. This romantic observation deck offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Estonia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Tallinn. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Tallinn that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Estonia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Tallinn to find the best options for you!
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Estonia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Tallinn.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Dubliner, a top-rated dining spot in Tallinn. If you're in the mood for something new, try Armudu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Rataskaevu 16. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tallinn.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Tallinn’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Estonia.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Black Mount Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sigmund Freud Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Von Krahli Teater & Baar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Estonia.
Day 5 – Tallinn, Rakvere, Elistvere, Kõrveküla, and Tartu
- Tallinn
- Rakvere
- Tartu
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Drive 232 km, 3 hours 5 min
- Rakvere Castle
- Elistvere Animal Park
- Estonian National Museum
- Viru Gate
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Day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Estonia is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Rakvere and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the hamlet of Elistvere and the region of Kõrveküla. You’ll stay in Tartu for 3 nights.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tallinn, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rakvere. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Spend your afternoon discovering Rakvere Castle, a worthwhile castle known for its instagrammable features.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rakvere, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Elistvere may take around 1 hour 18 min. Upon your arrival in Elistvere, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make your way to Elistvere Animal Park, a locally appreciated wildlife reserve that draws attention for its picturesque features.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kõrveküla, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Elistvere to Kõrveküla may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kõrveküla, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Estonian National Museum. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Estonia at Tartu. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Tartu has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at JOYCE, a top-rated dining spot in Tartu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pahad Poisid, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Reval Café Riia mnt. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tartu.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Tartu.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Barlova, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Irish Embassy Pub Tartu is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Underground provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Estonia!
Day 6 – Tartu
- Tartu
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Drive 2 km, 28 min
- Town Hall Square
- Tartu Art Museum
- AHHAA Science Centre
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Estonia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Tartu. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Tartu. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Tartu!
Today’s route brings a romantic, a photogenic, a remarkable, an enchanting, and a standout. The first attraction of today is Skulptuur "suudlevad Tudengid" / 'the Kissing Students' Sculpture And Fountain. This curiosity-inducing art installation is a picture-perfect place to see in Tartu. Continue your discovery at Town Hall Square, a romantic public square with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Tartu, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Tartu Art Museum. This increasingly popular art gallery offers an eye-catching encounter with Tartu. Ahhaa Science Centre is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Tartu.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Estonia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Tartu offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Tartu has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Vilde Ja Vine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ossu Burger offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hansa Tall & Hansa Hoov. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tartu.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Möku, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Illegaard, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pirogov provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Tartu!
Day 7 – Tartu
- Tartu
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Drive 5 km, 25 min
- Tagurpidi Maja (Peapeal OÜ)
- Botanical Garden of the University of Tartu
- St John Church, Tartu
- Tartu Mänguasjamuuseum
- Town Hall Square
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Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Tartu, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Estonia are extraordinary.
Tartu is home to plenty of attractions that offer a photogenic, a charming, a majestic, a breathtaking, a historic, a monumental, and a culturally significant! Start at Tagurpidi Maja (peapeal Oü), an increasingly popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find University Of Tartu Botanical Gardens, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at St. John Church, Tartu. This church is one of the city’s most beloved spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Tartu at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Tartu Mänguasjamuuseum / Tartu Toy Museum.
Estonia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Estonia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Tartu, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Dolce Vita, a highly-rated dining destination in Tartu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Taverna Pizzeria, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Krempel Kohvik. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Tartu this evening.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Estonia.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pühaste Kelder, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Väike Kuuba Mojito Baar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Willy&rudy. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Estonia.
Day 8 – Tartu, Järva-Jaani, and Tallinn
- Tartu
- Järva-Jaani
- Tallinn
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Tartu Rivik Church
- University of Tartu Museum
- St. Paul’s Church
- Town Hall Square
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Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Estonia is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Tallinn for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Estonia.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Tartu, including an archeological site, a museum, and a church. Start your day at Ruins Of Tartu Cathedral. This picture-perfect archeological site is a beloved place to see in Tartu. Then, wander over to University Of Tartu Museum. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find St. Paul’s Church. This photogenic church is a favorite among visitors.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Järva-Jaani. This car ride takes around 1 hour 17 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Järva-jaani Vanatehnika Varjupaik Ja Muuseumide Keskus, a locally appreciated museum known for its photogenic features.
In the city of Tallinn, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Estonia.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Estonia, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Tallinn.
Don’t miss out on dining at Swissôtel Tallinn, a top-rated dining destination in Tallinn. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rixwell Collection Savoy Boutique Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Sardiinid. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tallinn this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Tallinn and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Hell Hunt, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Depeche Mode Baar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Buldog is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Tallinn as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Estonia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Estonia!
Day 9 – Tallinn - departure day
- Tallinn - Departure day
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- Viru Gate
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Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Estonia is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Tallinn.
As your final day in Estonia unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Tallinn's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Estonia.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Tallinn or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Suliko Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Tallinn and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Estonia is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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