The snow has started to fall in Estonia, and as the festive season approaches, the magical Christmas markets are preparing to welcome visitors. Legend has it that Estonia is home to the first Christmas tree, when in 1441, the merchant’s guild, the Brotherhood of the Blackheads, brought a tree to Tallinn to be displayed in the Town Square. A tree has been the centre of the Christmas celebration in the square every year since.
The country’s two favorite markets can be found in the capital, Tallinn’s medieval old town, and in the lively university town of Tartu, in the south. This year’s markets promise an enchanting experience, blending traditional holiday cheer with Estonian charm, celebrating local culture, craftsmanship, tasty treats, and family fun. A wide choice of late deals are available for travellers seeking a festive, long weekend away.
Tallinn’s Christmas Market: Open from the 1st of December until the 7th of January 2024, daily 10am-10pm. Step into the heart of the UNESCO medieval Old Town, where cobblestone streets are lined with twinkling lights and the air is filled with the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread. Located in the Town Hall Square, it boasts over 100 stalls offering a unique selection of traditional wares, from intricate hand-knit woolens to beautiful woodwork handmade crafts and festive decorations. Visitors can indulge in traditional Estonian delicacies, such as black pudding and sauerkraut, while enjoying live performances and carol singing.
Tartu’s Christmas Market: Open from 3rd December until 7th of January 2024, daily 9am – 9pm. The vibrant, historic centre of learning and culture holds its market in the pretty Town Hall Square, which is transformed into a winter wonderland with stalls offering local handicrafts, warm winter garments, and delectable treats set to a backdrop of live performances by local musicians.
Estonia’s Christmas Market Late Deals:
Charitable Travel offers a 2 night 5-star break in Tallinn, Estonia from £499pp! Price includes return flights from London Heathrow, two two-night stay at the 5* Savoy Hotel Tallinn in a suite with a spa bath and view of the Old Town and a free £50 donation to the charity of your choice. Price is per person, based on two adults sharing, subject to availability, and valid for travel 08/12/2023-10/12/2023. Other airport departures may be available. Book at www.charitable.travel or call 020 3092 1288; offer ends 02/12/2023.
Regent Holidays offers a 4 night Christmas Market & Forest Escape from £995pp. Combine a Christmasy city break with a nature immersion stay to experience a taste of Estonian life. Stay for two nights at the centrally located 4* Von Stackelberg Hotel Tallinn before heading out along the coast, either east to Lahemaa National Park or west to the coastal village of Rooslepa, to stay for two nights in an iconic Estonia-designed OOD mirror house. Located amid the forest, the cabins allow guests to feel at one with nature, looking out through the mirrored walls while cosy inside or talking wintery walks.
Regent Holidays is offering a 5-night twin-centre Tallinn & Tartu Christmas Markets tour £865pp. For the ultimate Christmas market lover, combine the medieval old town of Tallinn, staying at the 4* Nordic Hotel Forum, with the youthful town of Tartu, staying at the 4* Lydia Hotel. Price is based on two persons sharing, including return flights from London to Tallinn, Estonia, a 2-hour train journey between the cities, and transfers.
Visit Estonia website: www.visitestonia.com
Travel News on the Unravel Travel TV website: www.unraveltraveltv.com/news
