Things To Do
in Kuressaare

Kuressaare is the charming capital of Saaremaa Island in Estonia, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque landscapes. The city is home to the stunning Kuressaare Castle, a 14th-century fortress that now houses a museum. Nestled by the Baltic Sea, it offers beautiful beaches and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty, Kuressaare is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kuressaare
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit Kuressaare Castle to explore its history and museum.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the charming old town, visiting the Kuressaare Park and the beautiful seaside promenade.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring Estonian cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk along the beach.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Saaremaa Museum to learn about the island's culture and heritage, followed by a coffee break at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Take a bike ride to the nearby Kaali meteorite crater, exploring the scenic countryside.

evening
:

Attend a local event or concert if available, and finish the day with drinks at a lively bar in the city center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel per night$80
🥖Loaf of bread$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and beaches.
  • Rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Estonian speakers.
  • "Tere" - Hello
  • "Aitäh" - Thank you
  • "Palun" - Please
  • "Jah" - Yes
  • "Ei" - No

Places to Visit in Kuressaare

Visit one of these nice places.

Kuressaare Castle

A stunning medieval castle with picturesque surroundings, perfect for capturing history.

Saaremaa Beach

Beautiful sandy beaches ideal for sunset photography.

Kuressaare Park

A serene park with blooming flowers and tranquil ponds, great for nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kuressaare

Kuressaare offers a delightful culinary experience, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Estonian dishes.

Kuressaare Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kohuke

A sweet curd snack, often flavored with chocolate or fruit.

Must-Try!

Sült

A traditional jellied meat dish, typically made from pork.

Leib

Rye bread, a staple in Estonian diets, often served with butter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kuressaare Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Street Food Stalls

During summer, various food trucks and stalls offer quick bites like grilled meats and pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kuressaare has a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average around 20°C (68°F), while winters can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August. Spring and autumn offer transitional weather, with mild temperatures and occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and eye contact are common when greeting someone.

Personal Space

Estonians value personal space; maintain a respectful distance in conversations.

Quietness

Estonians tend to be quiet in public; loud conversations may draw attention.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kuressaare is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and secure personal belongings. Emergency services are reachable by dialing 112. Always keep an eye on local weather reports, especially during winter storms.

Tipping in Kuressaare

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash for smaller vendors is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, perfect for enjoying beaches and outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Autumn features colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, great for hiking.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snow, offering opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Kuressaare at Night

Kuressaare's nightlife is relaxed yet lively, featuring a mix of bars, pubs, and occasional live music venues. The city's bars often serve Estonian craft beers and local spirits, creating a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Seasonal events and festivals also contribute to a vibrant nightlife, attracting both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Kuressaare

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kaali Meteorite Crater Trail

A scenic trail leading to the famous Kaali meteorite crater, offering beautiful views and historical insights.

Panga Cliff Trail

A stunning coastal hiking trail along the cliffs, showcasing breathtaking sea views and unique geological formations.

Airports

How to reach Kuressaare by plane.

Kuressaare Airport (URE)

Located just a few kilometers from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights to Tallinn and seasonal flights to other destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kuressaare is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a compact area. Well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian zones make it easy to explore on foot. Biking is also popular, with designated paths available for cyclists.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Estonian Locals

The majority of residents are Estonian, with a strong connection to their cultural heritage.

Tourists

During the summer months, Kuressaare attracts many tourists from various countries, adding to the cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Estonia, with local teams playing in regional leagues.

Beach Volleyball

With beautiful beaches, beach volleyball is a favored activity during the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kuressaare is relatively light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transport options include buses, but schedules may vary, especially in off-peak seasons. Walking and cycling are common and encouraged.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuressaare.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, but may require prior notice to the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kuressaare is accessible, with a local hospital and clinics providing various services. Emergency services are available, and most healthcare professionals speak English. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical care.

Discover Estonia

Read more in our Estonia 2025 Travel Guide.

Estonia Travel Guide