Things To Do
in Kärdla
Kärdla is the capital of Hiiumaa, a quiet coastal town known for its wooden houses and harbor views. It serves as a relaxed gateway to Hiiumaa’s windswept coast, lighthouses, and nature trails. The town blends maritime heritage with a friendly, small-town vibe and easy access to beaches and forests.
In this guide you will find ideas for an island-focused visit.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Kärdla's picturesque airport and take in the beautiful surroundings. Check into your cozy accommodation, and enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café. Spend some time acclimating to the serene atmosphere, taking leisurely strolls around the quaint town.
Explore Kärdla's vibrant local market, where you can sample traditional Estonian delicacies and pick up unique handcrafted souvenirs. Visit the beautiful Kärdla Church, with its striking architecture and peaceful ambience. Engage with local artisans to learn about traditional crafts.
Dine at a rustic local restaurant renowned for its fresh seafood and seasonal dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the coastline to see the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors. Gather around a bonfire with locals, sharing stories under the stars.
Set out on a guided tour of Hiiumaa Island, one of Estonia's picturesque islands. Visit the famous Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the world, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a packed lunch filled with local flavors as you take in the stunning countryside.
Stop by the unique Suuremõisa Castle and learn about its historical significance. Wander through charming villages and along tranquil beaches, soaking in the island's unspoiled nature. Capture the beauty of the island with your camera at various scenic lookout points.
Return to Kärdla and unwind at a local pub, sampling Hiiumaa's traditional drinks. Engage in friendly conversations with the locals while enjoying live music performances. Reflect on your day's adventures and plan for tomorrow's explorations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🚆Local transit ticket | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Groceries (basic items) | $10-25 |
| 🎟Museum/attraction entry | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm island vibe and scenic coastlines
- Close access to lighthouses and nature
- Limited nightlife and public transit outside peak season
- Ferry schedules can affect travel plans
- "Tere" - Hello
- "Aitäh" - Thank you
- "Palun" - Please / You're welcome
- "Kus on lähim pood?" - Where is the nearest shop?
- "Kui palju see maksab?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Kärdla
Visit one of these nice places.
One of Europe’s oldest lighthouses with dramatic sea views and sunset opportunities.
Active harbor scene with boats and reflections ideal for blue hour photography.
Mature trees and green spaces perfect for portraits and quiet landscapes.
Coastal shoreline offering long-exposure sea shots and dramatic skies.
Western coast cliffs and panoramic ocean views framed by dramatic skies.
Food in Kärdla
Kärdla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Estonian dish of mashed potatoes and hulled barley served with pork or bacon.
Must-Try!
Local catch such as sprat or herring served with dark rye bread and sour cream.
A popular dairy snack; a sweet curd bar often enjoyed with berries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend market offering fresh fish, berries, dairy and local crafts; sample smoked fish and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Estonians are reserved; greet with a handshake and maintain polite distance; punctuality is valued.
Casual, practical clothing; modest dress in churches; remove hats indoors; be mindful of quiet public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Kärdla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common if service is not included.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with pleasant temperatures around 17–22°C; mild sea breeze and frequent showers are possible.
Cooling days with colorful foliage; good for coastal walks and bird migrations.
Cold, windy, with short daylight; snow possible and indoor events frequent.
Mild days with budding trees; showers and occasional late snow; great for cycling and birding.
Kärdla at Night
Hiking in Kärdla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal hike to viewpoints and the Kõpu Lighthouse with sea views.
Trail along the rugged western coast with cliffs and seabird colonies.
Gentle forest trails around the historic Suuremõisa manor.
Airports
How to reach Kärdla by plane.
Small regional airport serving Hiiumaa with seasonal connections to Tallinn and occasional charter flights.
Main international gateway to Estonia; frequent connections to domestic and international destinations.
Major Baltic hub with connections to Europe and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of ethnic Estonians and a small Russian-speaking minority; many retirees and families, with seasonal tourism in summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on Hiiumaa due to scenic routes and flat terrain.
Coastal waters ideal for water sports and exploration.
Recreational fishing in bays and harbors.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kärdla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many places; look for mushroom, potato, egg, dairy dishes, or request roasted vegetables and salads.