Things To Do
in Jõhvi

Jõhvi is a charming town located in northeastern Estonia, known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. It serves as an administrative center for the Ida-Viru County and is a hub for local commerce and education. The town features a blend of modern and historical architecture, with notable landmarks reflecting its vibrant history.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere combined with various recreational activities and local traditions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Jõhvi
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Jõhvi Church, a beautiful neo-Gothic structure, followed by a stroll through the nearby park.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café and then head to the Jõhvi Cultural Centre to learn about the town's artistic scene.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Estonian restaurant followed by a leisurely walk to see the town's illuminated architecture.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast, then venture to the scenic Alutaguse National Park for a morning of hiking.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park, followed by a visit to the nearby historical town of Kohtla-Järve.

evening
:

Return to Jõhvi for dinner and unwind at a local bar or pub for a taste of the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍕Pizza slice$5
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Night in a budget hotel$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Beautiful natural surroundings
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Estonian speakers
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors
  • "Tere" - Hello
  • "Aitäh" - Thank you
  • "Palun" - Please
  • "Kus on tualett?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Head aega" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Jõhvi

Visit one of these nice places.

Jõhvi Church

A stunning neo-Gothic church that stands out with its impressive architecture and beautiful surroundings.

Alutaguse National Park

A natural paradise featuring lush forests, lakes, and diverse wildlife, perfect for landscape photography.

Jõhvi Cultural Centre

An architectural gem where you can capture contemporary art and design elements.

Culinary Guide

Food in Jõhvi

Jõhvi offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Estonian dishes and modern cuisine. Local ingredients, particularly fish and game, are often featured in the menus.

Jõhvi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kohuke

A sweet curd snack often enjoyed as a dessert, available in various flavors.

Must-Try!

Verivorst

Blood sausages traditionally served with sauerkraut and lingonberry jam.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jõhvi Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food. A great place to sample local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jõhvi experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. Average temperatures range from -10°C (14°F) in winter to 20°C (68°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August. Snow is common in winter, making it a beautiful snowy landscape.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is the common form of greeting, along with eye contact.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in Estonian culture; lateness can be seen as disrespectful.

Respect for Nature

Estonians have a strong connection to nature; always dispose of waste properly and respect wildlife.

Safety Guide

Safety

Jõhvi is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Jõhvi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% for good service is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and cash can be withdrawn from ATMs scattered around the town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Experience blooming flowers and mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Enjoy long daylight hours with warm temperatures, perfect for hiking and exploring nature.

Autumn

Witness beautiful fall foliage and harvest festivals, great for photography enthusiasts.

Winter

Expect cold temperatures and snow, creating opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Jõhvi at Night

Jõhvi's nightlife is laid-back yet vibrant, with a selection of bars and pubs offering a cozy atmosphere. You can find live music events, especially during weekends, and a few nightclubs catering to a younger crowd. The local scene often features traditional Estonian music and dance, providing an authentic cultural experience.

Hiking in Jõhvi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Soodla Hiking Trail

A scenic trail that winds through forests and along the Soodla River, suitable for various skill levels.

Käsmu Nature Trail

A picturesque trail located a short drive from Jõhvi, offering views of the coastline and opportunities to see local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Jõhvi by plane.

Tallinn Airport (TLL)

Located approximately 150 km from Jõhvi, Tallinn Airport is the main international gateway to Estonia, offering flights to various European cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Jõhvi is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town has pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and parks, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require transportation if you venture further out into nature or surrounding towns.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Estonians

The majority ethnic group in Jõhvi, contributing to the town's rich cultural traditions and language.

Russian-speaking community

A significant demographic group in Jõhvi, reflecting Estonia's historical ties with Russia and adding diversity to the cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely played and followed in Jõhvi, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is also popular, with local clubs and community events fostering a strong interest in the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Jõhvi is generally light, with most residents using cars for commuting. Public transportation is available, including buses connecting Jõhvi to nearby towns and cities, making it easy to travel without a car. The town's compact size allows for easy navigation on foot or by bicycle.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Jõhvi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it’s advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available in some establishments; inquire ahead to ensure availability.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Jõhvi is accessible, with a local hospital providing emergency services and several clinics available for regular check-ups. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical services, while travelers from other countries should have travel insurance to cover medical costs.

Discover Estonia

Read more in our Estonia 2025 Travel Guide.

Estonia Travel Guide