50 Tips and Hacks for Travellers from India Visiting Estonia: Before You Travel

Estonia, a beautiful Baltic nation, awaits you! Here are 50 tips and hacks to ensure a smooth and enriching experience before you depart from India:

Visas & Permits (1-5):

1. Schengen Visa: Estonia is part of the Schengen Area. Apply for a Schengen Visa well in advance (3 months) at the nearest Estonian embassy or consulate. Gather required documents meticulously.
2. Validity: Ensure your visa covers your entire stay in Estonia and the Schengen Area.
3. Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
4. Visa Extensions: Plan your itinerary. Extending a visa within Estonia can be challenging.
5. Register with MEA: Register your trip with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for assistance in case of emergencies. https://mea.gov.in/

Currency & Money Matters (6-10):

6. Currency: Estonia uses the Euro (€). Exchange Indian Rupee (INR) to EUR before departure or use ATMs in Estonia.
7. Inform Banks: Inform your bank about your travel dates to avoid card blockage for international transactions.
8. Cash vs. Card: Carry a mix of cash and cards. Smaller towns might prefer cash, while cities are card-friendly.
9. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Estonia, but a small token of appreciation (5-10%) is always welcome for good service.
10. Budgeting: Research average travel costs in Estonia for food, accommodation, and activities to create a realistic budget.

Flights & Transportation (11-15):

11. Flight Options: There are no direct flights from India to Estonia. Look for connecting flights via Middle East or European hubs.
12. Booking: Book flights well in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer) for better deals.
13. Internal Travel: Estonia has a well-connected public transport system: buses, trams, and trains. Consider pre-purchasing travel cards for discounts.
14. Taxis: Taxis are metered and can be expensive. Use ride-sharing apps for better fares.
15. Car Rentals: Consider renting a car if you plan to explore beyond major cities. Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from India.

Accommodation (16-20):

16. Options: Choose from hotels, hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals depending on your budget and preferences.
17. Location: Consider staying in the city center for easy access to sights and public transport.
18. Booking: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season.
19. Hostels: Hostels are a great option for budget travelers and offer opportunities to meet fellow travellers.
20. Homestays: Consider homestays for a local experience and interaction with Estonians.

Documentation & Communication (21-25):

21. Passport: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity from your travel date and has blank pages for visa stamps.
22. Photocopies: Make photocopies of your passport, visa, and travel documents. Keep them separate from originals in case of loss.
23. International Adapter: Pack a universal travel adapter for your electronic devices as Estonia uses a different plug type.
24. Download Apps: Download offline translation apps, essential Estonian phrases, and maps for navigating without internet access.
25. Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival for cheaper data and calls within Estonia.

Culture & Language (26-30):

26. Etiquette: Estonians value personal space. Maintain a polite distance during conversations.
27. Dress Code: Estonians dress modestly. Pack comfortable clothes suitable for the weather.
28. Greetings: Learn basic Estonian greetings like "Tere" (Hello) and "Aitäh" (Thank You). Locals appreciate the effort.
29. Digital Society: Estonia is a digital nation. Carry digital copies of documents whenever possible.
30. Sauna Culture: Saunas are a big part of Estonian culture. Experience a traditional sauna session during your stay.

Health & Safety (31-35):

31. Vaccinations: Research recommended vaccinations for travel to Estonia. Consult a doctor well in advance.
32. Medical Kit: Pack a basic medical kit with essential medicines for common ailments like headaches, upset stomachs, etc.
33. Safety: Estonia is a safe country. However, Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep valuables secure.

34. Safety (Continued): Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep valuables secure.
35. Emergency Numbers: Save emergency numbers for police (112) and ambulance (112).

Food & Drinks (36-40):

36. Local Cuisine: Try traditional Estonian dishes like "Mulgi supp" (oatmeal soup), "Vorstiherne supp" (sausage and pea soup), and "Kama" (doughnut with jam).
37. Vegetarian Options: Vegetarian options might be limited, but most restaurants offer salads and side dishes. Consider supermarkets for self-catering with vegetarian options.
38. Tipping in Restaurants: Tipping is not mandatory, but a small token (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.
39. Alcohol: The legal drinking age in Estonia is 18. Be moderate with alcohol consumption in public places.
40. Tap Water: Tap water is safe to drink in Estonia.

Packing & Essentials (41-45):

41. Weather: Estonia has four distinct seasons. Pack comfortable clothes suitable for the expected weather during your visit. Layers are recommended, especially during spring and autumn.
42. Walking Shoes: Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and towns on foot.
43. Universal Adapter: Don't forget your universal travel adapter for charging your electronic devices.
44. Toiletries: Pack essential toiletries, but consider buying some upon arrival as brands might differ.
45. Entertainment: Pack a book, music player, or download movies/shows for entertainment during long journeys.

Activities & Sightseeing (46-50):

46. Research Activities: Research attractions, museums, and experiences that interest you beforehand. Purchase tickets online for popular attractions to avoid queues.
47. Free Walking Tours: Consider joining free walking tours for a budget-friendly introduction to the city and historical insights.
48. Day Trips: Explore nearby towns and natural attractions on day trips from major cities.
49. Off the Beaten Path: Venture beyond the main tourist spots to discover hidden gems and experience authentic Estonian culture.
50. Respectful Tourism: Be a respectful tourist. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and avoid littering or causing disturbances.

By following these tips and hacks, you'll be well-prepared for a smooth and enriching travel experience in Estonia. Enjoy your adventure!