Kohtla-Järve

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Kohtla-Järve's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Kohtla-Järve
morning
:

Arrive at Kohtla-Järve and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to refresh and get acquainted with the local area. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café to kickstart your adventure.

afternoon
:

Explore the local heritage at the Kohtla Mining Park, where you’ll learn about the town's rich industrial past. Walk through the park and participate in guided tours to experience the history of oil shale mining firsthand. Engage with interactive exhibits that highlight the geological significance of the region.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in traditional Estonian cuisine. Sample local dishes and share stories with fellow travelers. Wind down the evening with a nice stroll through the town, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.

day 2
Nature Hike at the Ontika Cliffs
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a short trip to the Ontika Cliffs, known for their stunning views of the Baltic Sea. Hike along the cliffs while observing the unique flora and fauna native to the area. Capture photos of the breathtaking landscape as you take in the fresh air.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, listening to the sounds of the forest and the gentle waves below. Continue the hike and explore the nearby trails, possibly encountering local wildlife. Take a moment to reflect on the views that surround you.

evening
:

Return to Kohtla-Järve and dine at a café with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Try a comforting bowl of soup alongside traditional rye bread. Conclude the day with a visit to a local pub, savoring a pint of Estonian beer.

day 3
Cultural Day in Jõhvi
morning
:

Visit the nearby town of Jõhvi to explore its cultural significance. Start the day with a visit to the Jõhvi Concert Hall for a peek at its architectural splendor. Attend an art exhibit showcasing local artists to appreciate the vibrant culture surrounding you.

afternoon
:

Lunchtime presents an opportunity to experience Jõhvi's diverse culinary offerings, from street food to quaint cafés. Afterward, stroll through the town’s parks and gardens, enjoying the meticulously kept landscapes. Check out local boutiques for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Return to Kohtla-Järve and discover an underground dining experience at a restaurant that serves traditional Estonian dishes. Engage with the locals and share your travels over dinner. End the night with an intimate outdoor gathering, perhaps around a fire pit if the weather permits.

day 4
Adventure at the Aidu Mine
morning
:

Gear up for a day of adventure at the Aidu Mine, known for its stunning water-filled quarry. After breakfast, head to the mine for a kayaking experience among the clear blue waters. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings while learning more about the mining history.

afternoon
:

Post kayaking, indulge in a picnic lunch by the water’s edge, taking in the beauty of the quarries. Engage in some relaxation or try rock climbing on the nearby cliffs. Revel in the exhilarating atmosphere that makes this site a must-visit adventure spot.

evening
:

After a day filled with activities, return to Kohtla-Järve for dinner at a family-run restaurant. Relish the homemade meals that reflect local traditions and flavors. Share anecdotes from the day with your travel companions and plan for the next day's excitement.

day 5
Historic Kohtla-Järve
morning
:

Discover the historic side of Kohtla-Järve by visiting the Estonian Mining Museum. Enjoy guided tours that delve into the town's industrial legacy while exploring vintage machinery and exhibits. The scale and history of the operations will leave you in awe.

afternoon
:

For lunch, try a nearby bistro featuring local favorites and a welcoming ambiance. Afterward, visit the Jägala Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Estonia, to witness its natural beauty. Capture stunning photographs of this picturesque landmark.

evening
:

Experience a culinary treat at a local fusion restaurant that blends traditional and modern Estonian cuisine. Engage in conversation with the chefs about their creative process while tasting unique flavors. Wrap up your evening by enjoying a local live music performance.

day 6
Biking Tour through Nature Trails
morning
:

Rent bikes for an exhilarating ride through the scenic nature trails surrounding Kohtla-Järve. Pedal past serene forests, vibrant greenery, and charming countryside vistas. Stop occasionally to identify the diverse wildlife or to take in the views.

afternoon
:

Stop for a leisurely lunch at a vista point or a designated picnic area along the trails. After replenishing your energy, explore more off-the-beaten-path routes that unveil hidden gems of the region. Make brief stops to interact with local farmers or artisans to understand their crafts.

evening
:

Head back to town to enjoy a relaxed dinner at a cozy eatery featuring family recipes passed down through generations. Try the local dessert specialties for a sweet end to your meal. Conclude the day by visiting a local open-air theatre for a performance or movie screening under the stars.

day 7
Relaxing Spa Day
morning
:

Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa day at one of Kohtla-Järve’s wellness centers. Start with a refreshing breakfast followed by a variety of treatments such as massages and saunas that embody relaxation. Let go of stress as you indulge in hydrotherapy and beauty rituals.

afternoon
:

Savor a healthy lunch at the spa's café, focusing on organic and locally sourced ingredients. Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying various spa amenities, perhaps opting for a herbal tea ceremony. Allow yourself to unwind completely as you take in tranquil views.

evening
:

After a day dedicated to self-care, enjoy a light dinner at a vegetarian-friendly restaurant. Reflect on your healing journey while tasting exquisite dishes made from fresh produce. Finish the night with a meditative walk in a nearby park, embracing the calm ambiance.

day 8
Folk Culture and Craft Experience
morning
:

Dive into Estonian folk culture by participating in a workshop focused on traditional crafts. After breakfast, learn about the significance of local handmade goods from an expert artisan. Be prepared to get your hands dirty as you create your own souvenir.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a lunch infused with cozy flavors at a nearby folk-themed restaurant. Engage in storytelling sessions that explore Estonia's rich cultural heritage, fostering a connection with the locals. Research and appreciate the symbolism behind traditional textiles and crafts.

evening
:

Share the culmination of your craft experiences and newly learned tales over dinner at a rustic kitchen. Participate in singing local folk songs or dances if invited – an unforgettable way to bond with the community. End the night by visiting a local art gallery showcasing contemporary works.

day 9
Exploring Tallinn
morning
:

Take a day trip to Estonia's capital, Tallinn, starting with an early breakfast before heading off. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at medieval architecture. Visit the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral for its stunning mosaics.

afternoon
:

Lunch in Tallinn offers a chance to try trendy eateries that integrate traditional flavors. Spend the afternoon at the Tallinn Seaplane Harbour, engaging with maritime exhibits. Don't forget to visit the beautiful coastal views of Pirita Beach.

evening
:

Return to Kohtla-Järve for a final dinner, reflecting on your exciting day in the capital. Try to find a hidden gem in the form of a restaurant where locals dine. Share your discoveries about Tallinn with fellow travelers over dessert, concluding your trip on a sweet note.

day 10
Departure from Kohtla-Järve
morning
:

On your last morning, take a light breakfast while reflecting on the breathtaking experiences that Kohtla-Järve offered. If time permits, stroll around the neighborhood for some last-minute photos or shopping. Say goodbye to the charming town and its people.

afternoon
:

Pack your bags, ensuring you've gathered all souvenirs and memories from your stay. Take a moment to relax before your departure, savoring the final hours in this unique destination. Head to the transport hub for your onward journey.

evening
:

As you leave Kohtla-Järve, think back on the various experiences that shaped your journey. Consider the friendships made and the beauty of the local culture. Carry a piece of Estonia with you, holding onto the memories of this vibrant and picturesque town.

Discover Kohtla-Järve

Read more in our Kohtla-Järve 2025 Travel Guide.

Kohtla-Järve Travel Guide