Things To Do
in Rapla

Rapla is a charming town located in central Estonia, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history. It serves as a hub for the surrounding rural areas and features a vibrant community atmosphere. The town is renowned for its impressive churches and the picturesque Rapla Church, which showcases stunning architecture.

Visitors to Rapla can enjoy a blend of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Rapla
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Rapla Church, a beautiful neo-Gothic structure. Afterward, stroll through the town center to explore local shops and cafes.

afternoon
:

Visit the Rapla County Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Grab lunch at a local cafe and then enjoy a walk in the nearby park.

evening
:

Dine at a recommended restaurant in town, then take a leisurely evening stroll around the town square.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head to the nearby Keava Forest for a morning hike, enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of the Estonian landscape.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have a picnic lunch in the forest or visit a local eatery for traditional Estonian food. In the afternoon, consider visiting a local farm for a taste of rural life.

evening
:

Return to Rapla for dinner, followed by a visit to a local pub to experience the nightlife and meet locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel night stay$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may not reach remote areas.
  • Fewer dining options for international cuisine.
  • "Tere" - Hello
  • "Aitäh" - Thank you
  • "Palun" - Please
  • "Kus on...?" - Where is...?
  • "Jah" - Yes

Places to Visit in Rapla

Visit one of these nice places.

Rapla Church

The stunning neo-Gothic architecture of Rapla Church provides an excellent backdrop for photography, especially during sunset.

Keava Forest

A beautiful forest area with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Rapla County Museum

The historic museum showcases local artifacts and architecture, offering unique photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rapla

Rapla offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring traditional Estonian dishes and local delicacies that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.

Rapla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kohupiimakook

A traditional curd cake that is light and sweet, often served with berries.

Must-Try!

Kiluvõileib

A beloved open-faced sandwich made with sprats, butter, and rye bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rapla Farmers' Market

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rapla experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). Spring and autumn are transitional, with mild temperatures and varying rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting; maintain eye contact to show respect.

Personal Space

Estonians value personal space, so it's best to keep a respectful distance during conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is considered important in both social and professional settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rapla is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. In case of emergencies, contact local authorities or hospitals.

Tipping in Rapla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not obligatory in Estonia, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to have some cash for small purchases, especially at markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blossoming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring nature.

Summer

Warm temperatures and long days provide perfect conditions for hiking and outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall colors, especially in forests, making it a great time for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow cover offer opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.

Nightlife Guide

Rapla at Night

Rapla's nightlife is relatively low-key, focusing on cozy pubs and cafes rather than clubs. Locals enjoy gathering in small groups to socialize over drinks, often featuring live music on weekends. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to join in and experience local culture.

Hiking in Rapla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Keava Forest Trail

A picturesque hiking trail through Keava Forest, featuring scenic views and diverse wildlife.

Vihterpalu Hiking Trail

Located a bit farther out, this trail offers a more challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Airports

How to reach Rapla by plane.

Tallinn Airport (TLL)

Located approximately 60 km from Rapla, Tallinn Airport is the main international gateway to Estonia, offering flights to various destinations in Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rapla is quite walkable, with most attractions, shops, and cafes located within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, making it easy to explore the town on foot. The compact size of Rapla allows for leisurely strolls while enjoying the local sights.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Estonians

The majority of Rapla's population consists of ethnic Estonians, who maintain traditional customs and language.

Russian-speaking Community

A significant portion of the population speaks Russian, contributing to the cultural diversity of the town.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport in Estonia, with local teams and community leagues actively participating in the sport.

Cross-Country Skiing

During winter, cross-country skiing becomes a favorite outdoor activity, with many trails available for enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Rapla is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect Rapla with nearby towns and cities, though schedules may be limited. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport in the area, with designated bike paths available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rapla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though options may be limited compared to meat-based meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Some cafes provide gluten-free bread and pastries, but it is advisable to inform the staff of any dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Rapla is accessible, with a local hospital offering general services and clinics for outpatient care. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and pharmacies are available for minor health needs. For more specialized care, residents typically travel to larger cities like Tallinn.

Discover Estonia

Read more in our Estonia 2025 Travel Guide.

Estonia Travel Guide