Haapsalu

🇪🇪 Estonia
Escape to a charming seaside retreat

Haapsalu - Vacation Briefing

Haapsalu, Estonia is a picturesque town located on the western coast of the country. Known for its stunning coastal landscapes and rich historical heritage, Haapsalu offers a tranquil and relaxing getaway. Explore the enchanting old town with its medieval castle ruins and quaint wooden houses. Indulge in the soothing mineral mud baths at the famous Haapsalu Spa and rejuvenate your mind and body. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, taking in breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea. Immerse yourself in the region's unique cultural traditions and festivals, such as the White Lady's Night. Haapsalu is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and idyllic escape.

Popular Sights in Haapsalu

Things to do during your Haapsalu vacation

Haapsalu is a charming seaside town located on the western coast of Estonia. With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture, Haapsalu offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're interested in exploring historical landmarks, relaxing on the beach, or indulging in local cuisine, Haapsalu has something for everyone.

  • Haapsalu Castle: Visit the medieval fortress, built in the 13th century, and learn about its fascinating history.
  • Promenade: Take a leisurely stroll along the seaside promenade and enjoy the scenic views of Haapsalu Bay.
  • Haapsalu Episcopal Castle: Explore the ruins of the 13th-century bishop's castle, known for its atmospheric architecture.
  • Ilon's Wonderland: Visit a fairytale-themed park with sculptures, play areas, and a museum dedicated to the famous Estonian author, Ilon Wikland.
  • Haapsalu Railway and Communication Museum: Discover the history of railways and communication technology in Estonia through interactive exhibits and vintage train displays.
  • Haapsalu Promenade: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the waterfront promenade, lined with picturesque wooden houses and charming cafes.
  • Haapsalu Shawl Museum: Learn about the traditional Estonian craft of shawl knitting and admire the exquisite collection of Haapsalu lace shawls.
  • Väike Viik Lake: Relax by the serene lake, go for a swim, or rent a boat to explore the scenic surroundings.
  • Haapsalu Kuursaal: Visit the iconic Kuursaal building, originally a seaside resort hall, now hosting various cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions.
  • Ungru Manor: Step back in time and visit the elegant 16th-century manor house, surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens.
  • Haapsalu Promenade to Paralepa: Enjoy a bike ride or a scenic walk along the coastal path from Haapsalu Promenade to the sandy beaches of Paralepa.

Why you should visit Haapsalu

Overall
7.4

Haapsalu, Estonia is a decent destination with several attractions and activities to offer.

Safety
8

Haapsalu, Estonia is generally a safe destination with low crime rate and political stability.

Culture
9

Haapsalu, Estonia is rich in culture and history, with numerous museums, historical sites, and a diverse culinary scene.

Nightlife
5

The nightlife in Haapsalu, Estonia is limited, with only a few bars and clubs available.

Adventure
6

While Haapsalu, Estonia offers some adventure activities like hiking and water sports, it may not be the best destination for extreme adventures.

Relaxation
9

Haapsalu, Estonia is a relaxing destination, surrounded by beautiful nature including beaches, lakes, and charming parks.

Best time to visit Haapsalu

Haapsalu, Estonia is a charming town with diverse weather throughout the year. The best time to visit is from June to August, when the temperatures are pleasant and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, September to October is a great time to explore Haapsalu's historical sites and experience the stunning autumn foliage.

Jan
Cold but festive
-6°C - 0°C
Feb
Quiet and snowy
-6°C - 0°C
Mar
Transition to spring
-3°C - 3°C
Apr
Blooming beauty
1°C - 8°C
May
Mild and picturesque
6°C - 14°C
Jun
Pleasant and lively
11°C - 19°C
Jul
Sunny and bustling
13°C - 21°C
Aug
Summer bliss
12°C - 20°C
Sep
Autumn charm
8°C - 14°C
Oct
Colorful foliage
3°C - 9°C
Nov
Quiet and cozy
-1°C - 4°C
Dec
Festive atmosphere
-4°C - 2°C

A guide To your first day of Haapsalu vacation

morning

  • Visit the Haapsalu Castle
  • Take a walk along the Promenade

afternoon

  • Explore the Haapsalu Episcopal Castle
  • Visit the Haapsalu Railway Station

evening

  • Enjoy a sunset at Paralepa Beach
  • Dine at a local restaurant

night

  • Experience the Haapsalu Horror Film Festival
  • Go stargazing at Haapsalu Star Observatory

How to get to Haapsalu

By Plane

Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL) is the main airport serving Haapsalu, Estonia, with frequent international flights. The airport is conveniently located just 100 km from Haapsalu and offers various ground transportation options for travelers.

By other means

Haapsalu is easily accessible by train or bus from Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. The train journey takes around 2 hours and offers scenic views of the countryside. Buses also provide convenient transportation options with regular schedules.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Best for travelers who are ...

Travelers seeking a peaceful and idyllic seaside retreat with rich history and cultural experiences

How long to stay in Haapsalu?

A recommended stay of 2-3 days would allow you to explore the town's main attractions and soak in the relaxing atmosphere.

Similar destination to Haapsalu, Estonia

Because Haapsalu is known for nature,beach,sightseeing,history,culture and architecture these destinations might be a good fit for you:

Nearby

If you're already in Haapsalu, Estonia you might want to consider visiting these nearby destinations: