The three states although neighbors, carry a very different historic baggage, which is evident in the versatile and unique architecture. Besides the historic heritage, countries are also proud of its unspoiled nature. Check out ten sites that will take your breath away in the Baltic States.
10. AHHAA Science Centre, Tartu, Estonia
The biggest science center in the Baltic States invited anyone and everyone to learn and entertain. The visitors will be introduced to science as well as technology in an amusing way, therefore families with children are welcome.
Why to go there?
The center offers various exhibitions, workshops, planetarium and theater shows.
Photo by FT
Photo by Jurijs Svecovs
Photo by FT
9. The Hill of Crosses, Lithuania
The sacred pilgrimage site has a mysterious history. It is believed that a custom to leave the crosses on the hill started since the 1831 Uprising. Today it features hundreds of thousands of crosses and rosaries, left by the pilgrims and visitors.
Why to go there?
Even if you are not a Christian, this is a spiritual and a staggering place to visit. Very unusual and unique, the Hill of Crosses is a popular attraction.
Photo by Kevin Donegan
Photo by Zenonas Rotautas
Photo from Mususalis
8. Jurmala, Latvia
The ice blue water of the Baltic Sea might be the prettiest of all the three states. The resort town offers various entertainment and accommodation that can be found in town. However, the unpoiled nature is the main attraction.
Why to go there?
The vacationers are drawn here for the sea, white sandy beaches and pine forests that offer an exhilarating shade on a hot day.
Photo by the Unknown
Photo from Latvia Inside
Photo from Latvia Travel
7. Basilica of the Assumption, Aglona, Latvia
The Baroque church is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the country. The construction of this exceptional basilica was completed in the 18th century. It is a popular pilgrimage site, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.
Why to go there?
Witness this architectural wonder, which is the testament of purity and Christian faith.
Photo from Aglona Travel
Photo from Latvia Travel
Photo from Latvia Travel
6. Narva Castle, Estonia
Founded in 1256 by the Danes, later purchased by the German Livonian Teutonic knights order, the castle is a witness to the tumultuous historic events. It is the most impressive and best preserved defense castle in the country.
Why to go there?
The most popular attraction to Narva, the castle also hosts a museum, which will allow to learn about the country and its historic past.
Photo from FT
Photo by Николай Куприянов
Photo by Vadim Menuhin
5. Cesis, Latvia
The Medieval town is famous for the castle, that has been built in the early 13th century by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword. Today the ruins of it is the main attraction besides the handful of other architectural landmarks.
Why to go there?
Cesis also is home to the oldest brewery in Latvia and welcomes visitors to try the delicious fresh beer.
Photo from Latvia For Travel
Photo from Ria Tours
Photo from Hance
4. The Curonian Spit, Lithuania
Named a World Heritage Site and protected by UNESCO, the Curonian Spit is a natural wonder. It is a 98 km spit, that is made of the sand dunes, posited between the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon.
Why to go there?
It is one of the most impressive and most popular natural wonders in the country.
Photo by Gražina Sventickienė
Photo by Lukas Jonaitis
Photo by Lukas Jonaitis
3. Tallinn, Estonia
Historic churches, cobblestone streets, palaces, museums and galleries – dive into the cultural world of Tallinn. It is a small capital, however it is packed with gorgeous sightseeing. It is also easy to navigate it.
Why to go there?
One or two days will be enough to explore Tallinn – a great place to go for a romantic weekend. In summer the weather is mild, while in winter one could enjoy the Nordic snowy landscape.
Photo from Pissup
Photo by Andrey Omelyanchuk
Photo from Forbes
2. Riga, Latvia
The capital of Latvia has been influenced a lot by the German culture, therefore it is very different from Vilnius or Tallinn. The beautiful Old Town of Riga boasts a web of narrow streets and tall historic buildings. It is nice to get lost there and just to have refreshing stroll.
Why to go there?
The visitors will find an abundance of great cafes and restaurants, that will make the trip nice and smooth.
Photo from Smart Riga
Photo by Gelio Photo
Photo from FT
1. Vilnius, Lithuania
The beautiful capital boasts the Old Town protected by UNESCO. There are various hills, from where amazing views to the city open. The town is crowned with Gediminas Tower – the precious jewel from the Medieval times.
Why to go there?
An abundance of architectural landmarks, cultural venues, restaurants, bars and cafes will provide the sites and entertainment you are looking for.
Photo by Laimonas Ciūnys
Photo by Laimonas Ciūnys
Photo by the Unknown