Estonia among the world's most sustainable destinations

Estonia has secured the fifth spot in the list of the world's most sustainable travel destinations, according to the latest annual study by Euromonitor International. Certified as a Green Destination, Estonia has climbed five places in the Sustainable Travel Index 2023, thanks to its commitment to sustainable living and nature conservation.

Here are some of the key reasons why Estonia has earned this high ranking.

Tallinn - European Green Capital 2023

The beautiful city, with its UNESCO-listed medieval old town and modern urban developments beyond the city walls, is easily explored on foot, by e-scooter, or using eco-friendly trams and buses. It offers a wide range of eco-conscious accommodations, such as the Hektor Container Hotel, and 40 properties with Green Key certification, including Nordic Hotels and Oru. The diverse selection of restaurants serves high-quality cuisine made from local ingredients and seasonal menus. Particularly noteworthy is the Michelin Green Star restaurant Fotografiska, which is dedicated to zero-waste practices. Public drinking water fountains are also available throughout the city.

A day trip from Tallinn takes you to the crystal-clear blue lagoon of the submerged limestone quarry in Rummu. The former prison, now underwater, has been transformed into a nature reserve where water sports can be enjoyed. The area is also perfect for hiking around the mountain, offering stunning panoramic views.

Green Pärnu - coastal haven

The charming coastal town of Pärnu can be explored on foot or by bicycle, boasting a white sandy beach, promenade, and coastal meadow nature reserve. Recognized by Green Destinations as one of the top 100 sustainable destinations globally, Pärnu lives up to its "green" reputation, with one-fifth of its urban area covered in forests, tree-lined avenues, parks, and home gardens. Its proximity to the sea, rivers, beaches, promenades, parks, and forests makes Pärnu a place of exceptional natural diversity.

Sustainable Saaremaa - UNESCO Biosphere Island

Saaremaa, part of the UNESCO "Man and the Biosphere" program along with other western islands, offers the Vilsandi National Park, 20 protected nature and landscape reserves, and numerous nature and hiking trails. With 36 species of flowering orchids, Saaremaa is a springtime paradise for flower enthusiasts. It's also a haven for birdwatchers during the autumn and spring migrations. The islanders' diet relies on the forest and the sea, with many restaurants proudly specifying the farms their ingredients come from. Freshly caught fish is often on the menu just hours after being caught.

Tartu - European Capital of Culture 2024

Tartu, Estonia's cultural and educational hub, will be the European Capital of Culture in 2024. The theme, "Arts of Survival," will spotlight the city's environmentally friendly culture, focusing on strong communities and essential skills for future living. One notable project in the Tartu 2024 program is Curated Biodiversity, which promotes the preservation and restoration of biodiversity in Tartu's parks and green spaces, offering activities for all generations.

Tartu is a compact city ideal for walking and cycling, with an easy-to-use Smart Bike Share system boasting over 750 bicycles. Bio-gas buses are available for public transportation. Each district in the city features diverse architecture, and through the EU Smart City project, apartments from the 1960s have been transformed into energy-efficient, visually appealing buildings, creating a unique art-based urban environment in the heart of Tartu, enhancing the quality of life for its residents.