What do you usually look for in a city break, or your travel plans? Nature, parks, architecture? Me? I really enjoy a big old town lined with cobbled streets and quirky shops. I love a laid back atmosphere and plenty of good food! Whatever you're looking for, The Baltics will not disappoint!
So I've been to all 3 Baltic capitals, and was quite surprised at the similarities and differences, so I thought i'd share my experiences and help you choose the best Baltic capital for you! Let's start with the lesser explored of the 3, Vilnius, Lithuania.
Vilnius, Lithuania
For some reason, Vilnius seems to be much less visited than it's counterparts of Riga and Tallinn, and I really have no idea why! Out of the 3, Vilnius is the cheapest, cost of living wise. So if you are on a tight budget, Vilnius may be the perfect compromise. Although Lithuania uses the Euro, don't expect to paying anywhere near France, Italy or Germany prices! Just for a quick guide, you can expect to pay around 2.50 to 3 euros for beer, around 3 euros for a glass of wine, around 5-6 euros for a cocktail, around 8 euros for a budget meal, and around 4 euros for 20 cigarettes.
So, what does Vilnius have to offer? Well the answer is, quite a lot! The most popular tourist attraction in Vilnius is The Gediminas Hill and Castle complex, and it's easy to see why. If you love to find "views" Instagram opportunities, then this is the place to do it! Unfortunately, the complex was closed for refurbishment when I was in Vilnius, but I will definitely be back to take that ultimate views photo!
The old town part of Vilnius is also very picturesque. Some people think that if you have seen one Eastern European old town, then you've seen them all. But I really think Vilnius breaks this rule. The main Cathedral Square is completely different to any other, and it completely transforms in to an amazing market a Christmas time! The old town is made up of fascinating, pretty gates, and also The Vilnius University complex sits inside the old town, with its grand buildings.
So, what about nature and greenery? Just outside of Vilnius, you'll find Trakai. The main focus of Trakai is the castle, which is a beauty in itself. But the main beauty lies in the journey to get there. You can take a train from Vilnius to Trakai station. From there, you can take a taxi directly to the castle complex, but if like me, you would prefer to take in your surroundings, why not take the 2.5km walk down by the lake? In summer it's a lush green park, but in winter it transforms in to a snowy winter wonderland. I cannot recommend this enough, it really is stunning scenery, and a perfect photographer's paradise. Also the views on the train journey are just incredible! If you travel to Vilnius in the winter, I would strongly recommend going Husky sledding! We chose to go with a company called Nuotykiu Akademija, they run a lovely family business and really do take care of their dogs, they treat them like family. They are based in a national park around 40km outside of Vilnius, but they are so easy to get to. Take a train from Vilnius to Lazdenai and contact the company to arrange a pick up from the station. From there, you will be driven through the snowy alpine forest, to the complex. You will have the chance to meet the huskies, take a husky ride and also try some local Lithuanian snacks. For more information, visit their website directly here http://www.nuotykiuakademija.lt/index.php?item_id=55
Fancy a day trip? Vilnius has got you covered. You can take a trip to Lithuania's second biggest city, Kaunas, marvel at the amazing hill of crosses, and visa permitting, Minsk, Belarus is only a 2.5 train ride away.
Riga, Latvia
Considering that Latvia and Lithuania are neighbouring countries, they couldn't be further apart, looks and atmosphere wise. It is important to remember that The Baltic countries are all Ex Soviet countries, but more so than Lithuania and Estonia, remnants of the Soviet past still remain today in Latvia. If you like to learn about culture and history, (particularly Soviet history), then Riga may be perfect for you. The KGB building in Riga, seems to offer a more in depth insight in to the Soviet past, than most other KGB exhibitions. You can learn about the history in the museum and also take a tour around the cell block of the Latvian former KGB headquarters.
Riga also offers so much more than just Soviet history. It has one of the biggest old towns I have personally visited. The old town boasts a main square with a grand City Hall, a cathedral and some stunning Baroque buildings, including St Peter's Church and The House of The Blackheads. There are buildings in Riga, which are like no other in the world. I spent hours wandering the old town streets and taking some amazing photos. Head up the City Hall Tower for the ultimate "views" snap.
I think Riga is slightly more edgy than it's neighbours. Beer is widely drank in Riga, and they have really capitalised on this. If you want to taste many different beers, head to Aussie Pub, or Easy Beer. At Easy beer, you can pour your own drinks and taste as many different beers as you like! If like me, you are more of a wine drinker, head to Easy Wine just down the road.
Just outside of the old town is the central market, the TV tower and the national library. All of which are fascinating buildings, just from the outside. Also just outside of the old town, are many parks which are separated by the canal. I would highly recommend checking out the canal and taking a trip, which will also take you out on to The Baltic Sea.
Fancy a beach day? No problem. Just half an hour out of Riga, is the beach city of Jurmala. You should also check out Sigulda which is home to a lovely castle, and a Bobsleigh, Luge and Skeleton track.
In all honesty, I didn't really leave Riga Old Town very much. Riga is much more commercial than Tallinn and Vilnius, which I found almost intimidating. I prefer a chilled out and laid back atmosphere, whereas with Riga, things are a little more hectic. That being said, Riga is still and absolute beauty, and should still take pride of place on any Baltic travel itinerary.
Tallinn, Estonia
Where do I even start with Tallinn? This city has the perfect blend of history, architecture, sightseeing, and chilled out vibes. For me Tallinn has it all. The old town is lined with medieval walls and cylinder gates. It is the complete opposite of Riga's baroque style, but equally as beautiful. I spent hours just walking the old town streets, and taking the opportunity to stop at every. I would bare in mind that Tallinn is more expensive than Riga and Vilnius, however, as there are so many bars, restaurants and pubs in the old town, prices are very competitive. Every hour is happy hour in Tallinn!
Tallinn is home to one of the most unique cathedrals you will ever see; Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. You can check this out on your way up to Toompea Hill, or en route to either Kohtuotsa or Patkuli viewing platforms, both of which offer the most amazing views. On a clear day, you will have the perfect views of the nearby cruise ships.
Whilst in Tallinn, you should definitely check out the medieval history. Take a stroll through the walls, down through St Catherine's Passage and finish up in Epping Tower.
If you fancy a fix of Scandinavia, take a ferry to Helsinki. The ferry takes just 2 hours, and Helsinki offers a whole new world, compared to Tallinn. If you're looking for somewhere a bit more modern, then Helsinki is definitely for you. Just bare in mind, that with a Scandinavian location, comes with Scandinavian prices. Helsinki is much more expensive than Tallinn, but is perfect for a day trip.
For the nature lovers, why not take a trip to Lahemaa National Park, just 50km outside of Tallinn. For perfect beach vibes, head to Parnu, and for a quieter city, head to Tartu. This is the second biggest city in Estonia, but rivals its beauty! If you like all things unusual, check out the upside down house in Tartu.
Which is best for me?
So, from the above, which would suit you the best? This all depends on what you wish to get out of your break. So here's a quick run down on what each city has to offer.
Vilnius - Chilled out vibes in the unique old town, views for days from the Gediminas Hill, and tonnes of natural beauty just outside of the city.
Riga - Huge, commercial city, fascinating baroque style old town and plenty of Soviet history.
Tallinn - Medieval beauty in the old town, perfect location for so many day trips and a chilled out atmosphere.
Out of the 3, if I had to choose, Tallinn would be my favourite, but all 3 cities have so much to offer, and are all in easy reach of each other. I would seriously consider a Baltic road trip, and taking in all 3 cities together, along with other hidden beauties along the way.
For anyone who has already visited these cities, please share your experiences, I'm intrigued to hear your opinions on each city, and to know which is your favourite.
