What to Do in Saaremaa With Kids

Saaremaa Island, located in Estonia, is a great family destination with its stunning nature, child-friendly beaches, numerous historical sites, and activities such as horse riding and cycling, making it an ideal place for families to unwind and bond. It might be under the radar if you’re planning to visit Estonia with kids. But if you’ve been to Tallinn already or have more time to explore Estonia, consider visiting the country’s largest island, as there are plenty of things to do in Saaremaa with kids.

Tallinn to Saaremaa: How to Get There

There are several ways to go from Tallinn to Saaremaa:

1. By car: The most convenient way to reach Saaremaa is by car. The journey takes around 4 hours, including a 30-minute ferry ride from the mainland to the island. You can rent a car in Tallinn and drive to the port of Virtsu, where the ferry departs from.
2. By bus: There are daily buses that run from Tallinn to Kuressaare, the main town of Saaremaa. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, including the ferry ride. You can buy bus tickets online or at the bus station in Tallinn.
3. By plane: There are flights available from Tallinn Airport to Kuressaare Airport in Saaremaa. The flight time is around 40 minutes, and there are several flights available every day. You can book tickets online or through a travel agency.
4. By organized tour: There are organized tours available that take you from Tallinn to Saaremaa, including transportation, accommodation, and activities. This can be a convenient option if you prefer a guided tour and do not want to worry about logistics.

Overall, the most recommended options are to either rent a car or take a bus, as they are the most budget-friendly options and allow you to explore the island at your own pace.

Things to Do in Saaremaa With Kids

Here are some fun things to do in Saaremaa with kids:

1. Visit the Kuressaare Castle: Kids will love exploring the medieval castle and learning about its history.
2. Go to the Saaremaa Zoo: The zoo is home to various animals, including bears, lynxes, and eagles, and offers an opportunity for children to see them up close.
3. Spend a day at Mändjala Beach: This child-friendly beach is perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, and playing beach games.
4. Visit the Angla Windmill Park: Kids will enjoy seeing the traditional windmills and learning about their history and importance in Saaremaa’s culture.
5. Go hiking in the Vilsandi National Park: The park offers a variety of hiking trails and a chance to see wildlife, such as seals and birds.
6. Take a horseback riding tour: Kids can experience Saaremaa’s natural beauty while riding a horse, with tours available for beginners and experienced riders.
7. Visit the Saaremaa Maritime Museum: Kids can learn about Saaremaa’s maritime history and see a variety of boats and ships on display.
8. Explore the Panga Cliff: The cliffs offer stunning views of the sea, and kids can enjoy searching for fossils and exploring the unique rock formations.
9. Visit the Sõrve Lighthouse: The lighthouse offers a chance to climb to the top and see the panoramic views of the island.
10. Go fishing: Saaremaa’s lakes and rivers offer excellent fishing opportunities, with guided tours available for families.

Things to Do in Saaremaa in Winter

Here are some family-friendly things to do in Saaremaa in winter:

1. Visit the Kuressaare Castle: The castle is open all year round, and winter provides a unique opportunity to explore its medieval atmosphere without the crowds.
2. Go ice skating: The island has several natural ice rinks that offer a fun and unique skating experience for families.
3. Cross-country skiing: Saaremaa’s winter landscape is perfect for cross-country skiing, with plenty of trails available for all levels.
4. Attend a winter festival: The island hosts several winter festivals, such as the Saaremaa Food Festival and the Kuressaare Winter Music Festival.
5. Go snowshoeing: Snowshoeing is a great way to explore Saaremaa’s winter wonderland and enjoy the snowy landscapes.
6. Visit a traditional Estonian sauna: Saunas are an important part of Estonian culture, and winter is the perfect time to enjoy a warm and relaxing sauna experience.
7. Try traditional Estonian cuisine: Winter is the season for hearty and warming Estonian dishes such as black pudding, sauerkraut, and blood sausage.
8. Explore the winter countryside: Saaremaa’s winter landscapes are stunning, with frozen lakes, snow-covered forests, and white sandy beaches.
9. Go birdwatching: Winter is a great time for birdwatching in Saaremaa, with several species of birds, such as the white-tailed eagle, visiting the island during this season.
10. Take a winter hike: Saaremaa has several hiking trails that offer beautiful winter views and a chance to explore the island’s winter scenery.

Where to Stay in Saaremaa With Kids

Here are some great places to stay in Saaremaa with kids:

1. Grand Rose SPA Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Kuressaare and offers a variety of family-friendly rooms and suites, as well as an indoor pool and spa facilities.
2. Arensburg Boutique Hotel & Spa: This charming hotel is located in the heart of Kuressaare’s Old Town and offers family-friendly rooms, suites, and a spa and sauna.
3. Georg Ots Spa Hotel: This modern hotel is located on the seafront and offers a variety of family rooms and suites, as well as a spa and wellness center.
4. Pädaste Manor: This historic manor house offers a variety of rooms and suites, as well as family-friendly activities such as horse riding and nature walks.
5. Hotel Saaremaa Thalasso Spa: This hotel is located on the seafront and offers family-friendly rooms, suites, and spa and thalassotherapy treatments.
6. Meri Spa Hotel: This hotel is located in Kuressaare and offers family rooms and suites, as well as a spa, indoor pool, and children’s play area.
7. Vanalinna Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Kuressaare’s Old Town and offers family rooms, suites, a restaurant, and a bar.
8. Tõnise Majatalo: This guesthouse is located in the countryside and offers family rooms, apartments, a garden, and an outdoor play area.
9. Läätsa Holiday Homes: These holiday homes are located in the countryside and offer family-friendly accommodation with a garden and outdoor play area.
10. Västriku Tourist Farm: This family-run tourist farm offers accommodation in traditional Estonian farmhouses and horse riding and other outdoor activities for families.

Where to Eat in Saaremaa With Kids

Here are some great places to eat in Saaremaa with kids:

1. Ku-Kuu Restaurant: This family-friendly restaurant is located in the heart of Kuressaare and offers a menu with various dishes to suit all tastes.
2. Saaremaa Veski: This restaurant is located on a historic windmill and offers traditional Estonian cuisine, including many family-friendly options.
3. Ehte Tavern: This restaurant is located in the heart of Kuressaare’s Old Town and offers traditional Estonian cuisine in a cozy and family-friendly atmosphere.
4. Kohvik Retro: This cafe is located in the heart of Kuressaare and offers a variety of snacks, sandwiches, and cakes that are perfect for families.
5. Arensburg Lounge & Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the heart of Kuressaare’s Old Town and offers a variety of European and Estonian dishes that are sure to please both parents and kids.
6. Kassari Puhkekeskus: This restaurant is located in the countryside and offers a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, as well as a children’s play area.
7. Väike Jalajälg: This family-run restaurant is located in the countryside and offers traditional Estonian cuisine, including many dishes that are popular with kids.
8. Kalasadam: This seafood restaurant is located in the seaside village of Nasva and offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood dishes that are perfect for families.
9. Leib Resto & Aed: This restaurant is located in Kuressaare and offers a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including many vegetarian and vegan options.
10. Piidivabrik Cafe: This cafe is located in the village of Piidivabrik and offers a variety of snacks, sandwiches, and cakes that are perfect for families on the go.

When to Go to Saaremaa

The best time to visit Saaremaa depends on your preferences and what you want to do while you’re there. Here are some things to consider:

1. Summer (June-August): This is the peak tourist season in Saaremaa when the weather is warm and sunny, and many outdoor activities and events take place.
2. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October): These shoulder seasons offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them a great time to explore Saaremaa’s natural beauty and cultural attractions.
3. Winter (November-March): Although Saaremaa can be cold and snowy in the winter, it is a great time to experience the island’s winter wonderland landscapes and enjoy winter sports.

Overall, the best time to go to Saaremaa is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild, and most outdoor activities and events are available. However, each season has its own charm and unique experiences to offer.

How Long to Stay in Saaremaa

The ideal length of stay in Saaremaa depends on your interests, budget, and available time. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Activities: Saaremaa offers a variety of activities, from exploring nature and culture to enjoying spa treatments and outdoor sports. If you want to experience all that the island has to offer, you may want to stay for at least a week.
2. Budget: The cost of accommodations and activities in Saaremaa can vary, so you may need to consider how long you can afford to stay.
3. Time: If you have limited time, you may want to focus on specific areas of interest or attractions and stay for a few days.

Overall, a minimum of 3-4 days is recommended to fully explore the island and enjoy its attractions. This would give you enough time to visit the main sights, enjoy some outdoor activities, and experience the local culture and cuisine. However, if you have more time, you can explore Saaremaa in more depth and enjoy a more leisurely pace.

3-Day Saaremaa Itinerary With Family

Here is a suggested 3-day itinerary for a family trip to Saaremaa:

Day 1:

• Morning: Visit the Kaali Meteorite Crater Field and explore the unique landscape and history of the area.
• Afternoon: Drive to the Kuressaare Castle and take a guided tour of the medieval fortress, including the tower and the museum.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Ku-Kuu Restaurant in the heart of Kuressaare.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the Saaremaa Wildlife Park and see various animals such as bears, lynxes, wolves, and birds of prey.
• Afternoon: Head to the beach and enjoy some family time at Mändjala beach, one of the most popular and family-friendly beaches on the island.
• Evening: Have dinner at Arensburg Lounge & Restaurant, a cozy and welcoming restaurant located in the heart of Kuressaare’s Old Town.

Day 3:

• Morning: Visit the Angla Windmills and Museum and learn about the traditional Saaremaa way of life.
• Afternoon: Take a hike in the Vilsandi National Park and explore the untouched natural beauty of Saaremaa.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Saaremaa Veski, a restaurant located in a historic windmill and serving traditional Estonian cuisine.

How to Get Around Saaremaa

Here are some ways to get around Saaremaa:

1. Car: Renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to get around Saaremaa. Several car rental companies are available in Kuressaare and at the airport, and the island has well-maintained roads.
2. Bike: Saaremaa is a great destination for cycling enthusiasts, and many bike rental shops are available. The island has numerous bike paths and routes that take you through scenic landscapes.
3. Public transportation: There is a bus service that operates between Kuressaare and other towns on the island, but the service may be limited outside of peak tourist season. It is advisable to check the schedules in advance.
4. Taxi: Taxis are available in Kuressaare and other towns on the island, but they can be expensive compared to other transportation options.
5. Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the charming villages, forests, and beaches of Saaremaa. Many of the island’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, and there are also many hiking trails available.

Overall, renting a car or a bike is the most recommended way to get around Saaremaa, as it gives you the flexibility and freedom to explore the island at your own pace.

How Much to Travel to Saaremaa

The cost of traveling to Saaremaa can vary depending on several factors such as:

1. Mode of transportation: The cost of flights, ferry, or bus tickets to get to the island can vary depending on the season and the location of departure.
2. Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Saaremaa can vary depending on the type of accommodation, location, and season. Hotels, guesthouses, and private rentals are available at various prices.
3. Food and drinks: The cost of food and drinks in Saaremaa can vary depending on the type of restaurant or café you visit.
4. Activities: The cost of activities in Saaremaa can vary depending on the type of activity, and some activities, like hiking and visiting the beaches, are free.

Generally, Saaremaa is considered an affordable travel destination in Europe, especially compared to major cities. A budget-conscious traveler can expect to spend around €50-€80 per day for food, accommodation, and transportation. However, if you choose to stay in more luxurious accommodations or participate in more costly activities, your daily budget will increase.