The best time to travel in the Baltic States

As a general rule, the period in and around summer is the best time to visit the Baltic countries. There are advantages to going in winter too, however, due to the fact that these countries present a different aspect at that time of year.

At a glance

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Many travellers prefer to head to the Baltic countries when the weather is fine in order to make the most of the longer days and the fact that there are more hours of sunshine than in winter You do still need to be aware of the possibility of showers, however. It is essential to always have a rainproof coat with you, despite the fact that it can be hot and sultry in summer. That said, a visit in winter can still offer a good experience if you want to see these countries in a different light.

Visiting the Baltic countries in winter

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Adventurous types who don't mind the cold may well specifically choose to visit the Baltic countries in winter. You do need to be aware that the nights will be long at this time of year, and there will be plenty of snow in evidence, with the weather even making it possible to drive across to some of the Estonian islands by car at times. You'll also be able to try your hand at cross-country skiing (a very popular pastime in the Baltic countries) and ice-skating. You'll certainly appreciate the saunas when it comes time to warm yourself up again!

Best time of year to explore the towns, cities and other urban areas

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If you intend to spend all your time in towns and cities, you have nothing to fear: you can visit these areas at any time of year, despite the fact it gets cold and wet in winter. You are never very far from places where you can shelter from the weather in urban areas. The old medieval cities of Tallinn and Riga become especially charming places to visit at Christmas time.

Best time to visit if you want to experience the longest day of the year

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The fairly northern location of these three countries means they are subject to the phenomenon of very long days in summer. At the summer equinox, which is also known as St John's Day, there is almost no night at all in Tallinn. The local people celebrate this time of year and light special St John's Day bonfires. For those of you thinking of visiting these three countries in summer, you can be secure in the knowledge that you won't run out of daylight whilst touring around and exploring! However, don't forget your waterproof coat: the possibility of a shower occurring can never be entirely ruled out.

Emmanuel Maisonneuve

21 contributions

Updated 26 October 2018

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