Things to Know Before You Visit the Baltic States

I recently had the chance to explore the Baltic region in June and witness the beauty of each country. Combining my pre-trip research with insights from my journey, I’ve put together essential tips to help you navigate Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia—three charming countries that make up the Baltic States.

Overview of the Baltic States

Situated in Northern Europe, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia collectively form the Baltic States. These countries are part of the Schengen Area, allowing seamless travel across borders once inside. Known for their flat landscapes and windy coastlines, the Baltics also boast one of Europe’s highest densities of start-ups per capita, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere of innovation.

Historically, during the 14th century, Lithuania was the largest country in Europe. The Grand Duchy of Lithuania encompassed present-day Belarus, Ukraine, and parts of Poland and Russia, reflecting its significant historical influence in the region.

Language and Communication

English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourism sectors, making it relatively easy for travellers to communicate. Each country has its own language: Latvian in Latvia, Lithuanian in Lithuania, and Estonian in Estonia, which is a Finno-Ugric language. While Latvian and Lithuanian share some similarities, they are distinct languages.

Currency

All three Baltic countries use the euro, simplifying financial transactions across borders. While most places accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to always have some cash on hand in case your card doesn’t work or their machine is down.

Mobile Connectivity

If your mobile roaming plan is costly or won’t work, consider getting a local SIM card for better connectivity.

Transportation

Ride-Sharing: Bolt, a popular ride-sharing service, is affordable and available throughout the Baltic countries

Inter Country Travel

Traveling between the Baltic states is convenient with several options:

Bus: Lux Express offers comfortable buses with onboard toilets and charging outlets. It takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes to travel from Riga to Tallinn, and 4 hours from Riga to Vilnius.

Train:

• Riga to Tallinn: Direct trains take around 10-15 hours, while trains with transfers take about 5-6 hours, depending on the schedule.

• Riga to Vilnius: Direct trains take around 4-5 hours and depart only twice per day.

Flight: Flights between the capitals are quick and efficient:

• Riga to Tallinn: Approximately 1 hour.

• Riga to Vilnius: Approximately 1 hour.

• Tallinn to Vilnius: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Day Tours: Guided day trips are an excellent way to explore each country if you prefer a structured experience.

Flights and Travel

For visitors from Spain, direct flights to Tallinn or Vilnius are limited. It's often best to fly into Riga and use it as your base to explore the other two countries.

Costs

In terms of accommodation and food, Lithuania tends to be the cheapest, followed by Latvia and then Estonia.

Traditional Cuisine

Don't miss out on the traditional cuisine of each country:

Latvia: Try Rye Bread, a staple that’s both hearty and delicious.

Lithuania: Savor Cepelinai, potato dumplings stuffed with meat or curd.

Estonia: Enjoy Kohuke, a chocolate-covered curd snack.

Tourist Information

For any additional information, visit the local tourist centers, which are equipped to help you make the most of your visit.

Weather and Clothing

The weather can change rapidly, so it’s important to pack appropriately for the season:

Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, perfect for sightseeing.

Summer (June-August): Warm and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities.

Autumn (September-November): Cool and crisp, with beautiful fall foliage.

Winter (December-February): Cold with short days, but a magical time to visit holiday markets and winter festivals.

Make sure to check the weather forecast regularly and dress in layers.

Safety

The Baltic states are generally safe for solo travelers. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions as you would anywhere else.

Daylight Hours

In the Baltic region, winter days are short, with limited daylight. Conversely, during the summer months, the days are long, with the sun rising around 4 am and setting around 9:45-10 pm, providing ample time to explore.

Innovation and Culture

The Baltic region is renowned for its innovative spirit, with Estonia being the birthplace of Skype, Wise (formerly TransferWise), and Bolt. Lithuania boasts MailerLite, a prominent email marketing provider, while Latvia is home to Printful (print-on-demand and drop shipping) and Twino (peer-to-peer lending platform).

Final Thoughts

The Baltic States offer a wealth of experiences for any traveler. Whether you're wandering through the medieval streets of Tallinn, soaking in the history of Riga, or exploring the charming towns of Lithuania, each country has something unique to offer. With these tips in mind, you’re well-prepared to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Baltics. Safe travels!