Estonia

Travel tips for Estonia: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards work almost everywhere. Reddit reports confirm Estonia is nearly cashless, with tap-to-pay universally accepted by taxis, transit, and small market vendors. Some shops no longer accept cash at all, so visitors can easily rely on cards or mobile wallets for their entire trip.

Try the food

  • Blood sausage (Verivorst): A traditional winter sausage made from barley, pig's blood, and pork, usually served roasted with lingonberry jam.
  • Sprat sandwich (Kiluvõileib): An iconic open-faced sandwich featuring marinated sprat fillets on dark rye bread, often topped with a slice of boiled egg.
  • Mulgi porridge (Mulgipuder): A hearty, rustic porridge made from mashed potatoes and barley groats, typically topped with crispy bacon and sautéed onions.

Say it in Estonian

  • Hello: Tere
  • Thank you: Aitäh
  • Please: Palun
  • Excuse me: Vabandust
  • How much is this?: Kui palju see maksab?
  • The bill, please: Arve, palun
  • Yes / No: Jah / Ei
  • Goodbye: Head aega

Essentials

Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Prepaid SIM cards from providers like Telia, Elisa, or Tele2 can be easily purchased at R-Kiosk convenience stores, supermarkets, or the airport upon arrival.

Etiquette

Tipping is not strictly mandatory, but leaving about 10% for good service in restaurants is customary and appreciated.

Airports in Estonia