Things To Do
in Sillamäe

Sillamäe is a picturesque coastal town in northeastern Estonia, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. Originally a hub for the Soviet uranium industry, Sillamäe has transformed into a charming destination with stunning seaside views and vibrant local culture. The town boasts a blend of Estonian and Russian influences, reflected in its culinary offerings and community events.

Visitors can enjoy the serene beaches, historical sites, and the unique atmosphere of this hidden gem on the Estonian coast.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Sillamäe Museum, where you can learn about the town's history and its significance during the Soviet era.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café, then take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Sillamäe beach, enjoying the scenic views of the Baltic Sea.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant, followed by a walk through the picturesque town center to admire the unique architecture.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the stunning Sillamäe Promenade, perfect for morning walks and photography.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets and shops, trying some street food, then visit the nearby Narva-Jõesuu for more beach time.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Estonian dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby bar for drinks and socializing with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$15
Coffee$2-$4
🍺Local beer$3-$5
🏨Hotel per night$50-$100
🚍Public transport ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Transport services may be less frequent.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn.
  • "Tere" - Hello
  • "Aitäh" - Thank you
  • "Palun" - Please
  • "Kus on tualett?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Head aega" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Sillamäe

Visit one of these nice places.

Sillamäe Beach

A beautiful sandy beach perfect for capturing sunrise and sunset moments.

Sillamäe Promenade

The promenade offers picturesque views of the sea and town, ideal for scenic photography.

Historical Buildings

The unique architecture of Soviet-era buildings provides a striking contrast for urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sillamäe

Sillamäe offers a delightful array of culinary experiences that reflect its unique cultural blend, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Sillamäe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kohupiimapannkoogid

Delicious cheese pancakes that are a popular local breakfast dish.

Must-Try!

Sült

A traditional cold meat jelly dish, often served with horseradish.

Piruka

Estonian pastries filled with various ingredients like mushrooms or meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sillamäe Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sillamäe experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with average temperatures around -5°C (23°F) and occasional snowfall. Summers (June to August) are mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with fluctuating weather conditions, often characterized by rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

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

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Estonian culture.

Respect for Nature

Always dispose of litter properly and respect the natural environment.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sillamäe is generally a safe destination for travelers. Standard safety precautions apply, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Sillamäe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash, especially for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a picturesque time to visit.

Summer

Warm weather and long days are perfect for beach activities and outdoor events.

Autumn

The fall foliage offers stunning landscapes, ideal for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snow, providing a serene winter wonderland experience.

Nightlife Guide

Sillamäe at Night

Sillamäe's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with a variety of bars and clubs that cater to different tastes. Most venues offer live music, dance floors, and cozy atmospheres. Local bars often feature Estonian beers and spirits, making it a great place to socialize with both locals and fellow travelers.

Hiking in Sillamäe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Narva-Jõesuu Trail

A scenic trail along the coast, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Sillamäe Nature Reserve

Offers various walking paths through diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Sillamäe by plane.

Tallinn Airport

Located approximately 200 km away, Tallinn Airport is the nearest major international airport, offering flights to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sillamäe is quite walkable, with many attractions and amenities located within walking distance of each other. The flat terrain and well-maintained sidewalks make it easy to explore the town on foot. However, some outlying areas may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Estonians

The native population, primarily speaking Estonian and maintaining local traditions.

Russians

A significant minority, contributing to the cultural diversity and bilingual atmosphere of the town.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport in Estonia, with local clubs and events frequently held.

Football

Football has a strong following, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sillamäe is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include local buses that connect Sillamäe with nearby towns and cities, though services may be less frequent on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sillamäe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free

Some cafes cater to gluten-free diets, but options may be limited in smaller establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sillamäe is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are prompt, and most healthcare providers speak English. It is advisable to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Estonia

Read more in our Estonia 2025 Travel Guide.

Estonia Travel Guide