About Saare
Saare County, encompassing Estonia's largest island Saaremaa, offers a magical escape where medieval history, unique nature, and coastal charm converge. The island's crown jewel is Kuressaare, home to the remarkably well-preserved 14th-century Kuressaare Episcopal Castle—the only intact medieval fortress in the Baltic states. Beyond history, Saaremaa boasts otherworldly landscapes like the Kaali meteorite crater field, where celestial impacts created a cluster of lakes, and the surreal, wind-sculpted juniper fields of the Sõrve Peninsula. The island's coastline features picturesque lighthouses, such as Sõrve and Kiipsaare (famously tilting into the sea), while the Angla Windmill Hill showcases traditional architecture. Saaremaa is also renowned for its spa culture, local culinary specialties like juniper-marinated smoked fish and homemade bread, and the annual Saaremaa Opera Days held within the castle walls. The island's relaxed pace, clean air, and unique blend of Viking heritage, Soviet history, and Estonian traditions create an unforgettable destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and wellness seekers alike.
Things to do in Saare
Private Electric Fat Bike Tour in Saariselkä
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 1,636
5.0 (19)
A Day with Reindeer Herders
Lapland, Finland
From GHS 2,604
5.0 (9)
Winter afternoon group Ride in Saariselkä
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 1,296
5.0 (6)
Ice Skating on Frozen Inari Lake
Lapland, Finland
From GHS 1,165
5.0 (4)
From Kakslauttanen:Northern Lights tour to Lake Inari, inc dinner
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 2,735
5.0 (3)
Snowshoe Adventure in Saariselkä
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 1,073
5.0 (2)
Aurora Hunting Tour from Saariselkä/Inari
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 2,080
5.0 (2)
Private Aurora Tour (1-4) by Aurora Experts - Inari-Saariselkä
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 8,785
5.0 (2)
Get Known with Cross Country Skiing Experience in Saariselkä
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 1,178
5.0 (1)
Rent Winter Clothing in Saariselkä and Ivalo All Sizes and Ages
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 537
5.0 (1)
Evening Snowmobile Safari with Campfire in Saariselkä
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 2,094
5.0 (1)
Ice Fishing Tour from Saariselkä/Inari to Lake Inari
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 3,258
5.0 (1)
Scenic Snowmobile Safari in Saariselkä
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 1,731
4.9 (21)
Full Day Adventure with Snowmobiles in Saariselkä
Saariselka, Lapland
From GHS 3,301
4.9 (7)
Lapland Reindeer Safari From Saariselkä
Saariselka, Lapland
Travel Tips for Saare
Getting Around
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Saaremaa, providing flexibility to reach remote beaches, lighthouses, and nature reserves. The island is connected to the mainland via frequent ferry services from Virtsu to Kuivastu (operated by TS Laevad) and a bridge to Muhu Island. Public buses connect major towns but have limited schedules, especially on weekends. Taxis are available in Kuressaare; ride-hailing apps like Bolt operate in Estonia. Bicycles can be rented for exploring local areas, and the island has some designated cycling routes. For ferry and bus schedules, check the websites of TS Laevad and Tpilet.ee.
Best Time To Visit
Late May to September offers the best weather, with warm temperatures (15-25°C), long daylight hours, and blooming nature. July and August are peak tourist months with festivals like the Saaremaa Opera Days (July) and vibrant summer activities. September provides milder weather and beautiful autumn colors with fewer crowds. Winter (December-February) can be cold and snowy but offers a peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for ice fishing and winter sports, plus Christmas markets in Kuressaare.
Local Customs
Estonians are generally reserved but polite. Greet with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Remove shoes when entering homes. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is customary for good service. Sauna culture is important—invitations to a local sauna are a sign of friendship. Follow the host's lead regarding etiquette (e.g., wearing a towel, whisking with birch branches). Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural areas. In restaurants, it's polite to wait to be seated. Respect nature: do not litter, and stick to marked trails in protected areas.
Safety Information
Saaremaa is very safe with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare. Exercise normal precautions: secure valuables, lock accommodation, and be cautious in isolated areas at night. No specific areas need to be avoided. Common scams are uncommon, but be wary of overcharging in some tourist-oriented establishments—check prices beforehand. Road safety is important; drive carefully as wildlife (especially deer and moose) may cross roads, particularly at dawn and dusk. In winter, roads can be icy. When hiking near coastal cliffs or in boggy areas, stay on marked trails.
Health Information
Saaremaa has good medical facilities, including the Kuressaare Hospital with emergency services. For serious emergencies, patients may be transferred to mainland Estonia. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel health insurance valid in the EU. No specific vaccinations are required, but tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease are present in forested areas—use insect repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities. Pharmacies (apteek) are available in towns. Tap water is safe to drink. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its replacement, the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for UK citizens.
Languages Spoken
EstonianRussianEnglish
Quick Facts
Currency
Euro (EUR)
€
€
Timezone
Europe/Tallinn +02:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+372
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
31,000
Area
2922 km²
Government
County (Maakond) with a county governor appointed by the national government and local municipalities with elected councils.
ISO Code
74