Should You Visit Saaremaa?

Is Saaremaa worth visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting this island for two to four days because of the many great activities. During our first trip to Saaremaa in the spring of 2011, we fell in love with the undiscovered and frozen-in-time atmosphere. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. Saaremaa is a rural Estonian island that feels like its frozen in time. The peaceful countryside is best explored with a car, which will let you see the unique rural culture and interesting sights throughout the island. There are local museums, small beaches, and a natural landscape that feels untouched and authentic.

Saaremaa, Estonia

Reasons to Visit Saaremaa

Food
Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

Beaches
The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Authenticity
Saaremaa has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Saaremaa worth visiting in the Summer?

Summer is the high season for travel in Saaremaa, so expect more visitors and higher prices. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 17°C (62°F).

Don't miss the small town charm during summer. Just take some time to wander through the local shops and see the historic landmarks around town when the weather is nice. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to lounge on the beach and explore the small town.

Is Saaremaa worth visiting in the Autumn?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Saaremaa. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Saaremaa can be quite cold during autumn, and averages around 8°C (47°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

During this season it's fun to experience the gorgeous scenery and the small town charm.

Is Saaremaa worth visiting in the Winter?

The weather in Saaremaa can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -3°C (27°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

The low season for travel in Saaremaa is during the winter. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.

This is a great time of year to taste delicious cuisine.

Is Saaremaa worth visiting in the Spring?

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Saaremaa. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Saaremaa can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 4°C (38°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

A visit this time of year should definitely be on your list, as the natural scenery is just breathtaking. Explore the island scenery to take in the views, admire nature up close, and enjoy the fresh air. You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to take in the beautiful scenery and take in the local charm.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Saaremaa

Nightlife
Most people don't associate Saaremaa with a lively nightlife scene. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Saaremaa might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Saaremaa here or see if Saaremaa is expensive here.

Related

What is Saaremaa most famous for?

Saaremaa is most famous for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting. People visit this impressive island for its great food. Also, it's known for beaches. It is often described as peaceful, relaxed, traditional, quiet, and calm.

What is the most famous sight in Saaremaa?

The most popular sight in Saaremaa is Kuressaare Castle. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Saaremaa on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Kuressaare Castle and other attractions here.

How touristy is Saaremaa? Is it a popular island to visit?

Saaremaa is an off-the-beaten-path island that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

How long should I spend in Saaremaa?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Saaremaa is two to four days. Since Saaremaa has activities such as dining, many visit for up to four days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Saaremaa? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Saaremaa?.