Summer in Estonia offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from coastal escapes and lush forests to picturesque villages and historical landmarks. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in all that Estonia has to offer is by embarking on a road trip. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family or friends, or even solo, having the flexibility and comfort of your own vehicle makes the journey seamless. With Sirrent OÜ’s wide selection of cars, minivans, and motorcycles—available for both long-term and short-term rental—your summer road trip adventure is just a booking away. Dive into our comprehensive guide below to discover the top summer road trip ideas in Estonia and how renting a vehicle from Sirrent can elevate your travel experience.
Where are the best coastal destinations to visit in Estonia by car?
Estonia’s coastline stretches more than 3,700 kilometers, adorned with sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming fishing villages. A road trip along the northern or western coast promises stunning views and peaceful retreats away from crowded tourist hubs. One must-visit location is the Lahemaa National Park, just an hour’s drive from Tallinn. It’s perfect for a day trip if you rent a car from Sirrent. Explore traditional fishing hamlets like Altja and Käsmu, and walk through scenic trails flanked by bogs and forests.
Further west, the town of Haapsalu combines medieval charm with seaside leisure. The historic Haapsalu Castle and its picturesque promenade are perfect for summer picnics. Meanwhile, Pärnu—the unofficial summer capital of Estonia—offers vibrant beach life, spas, and lively cafés. With a rented minivan from Sirrent, you and your group can comfortably enjoy an extended weekend exploring these coastal jewels.
Don’t forget Estonia’s islands, including Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. These are accessible via a short ferry ride, and bringing your rental car ensures you can explore them at your own pace. Discover windmills, lighthouses, and untouched beaches. Whether you’re looking for serene nature or cultural history, Estonia’s coastline delivers. Renting with Sirrent OÜ makes the entire adventure more convenient and relaxing, no matter your destination.
What unique nature experiences can I encounter on an Estonian road trip?
Estonia is a nature lover’s paradise, with over 50% of its land covered in forests and more than 6,000 bogs, lakes, and rivers. Nature reserves and national parks are scattered across the country, and the best way to explore them is with a rented vehicle. Begin your journey at RMK’s bog trails such as Viru Bog and Soomaa National Park, where boardwalks offer serene treks across ancient wetlands. Renting a car or motorcycle from Sirrent allows you to access these lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations with ease.
For a scenic mountain road feel, head south to the Otepää region, often referred to as the “winter capital” but equally stunning in summer. Rolling hills, lakes, and winding roads make it ideal for a relaxing drive. Stop by Lake Pühajärv for a swim or picnic under the pines. The nearby Karula National Park is another excellent location for hikers and bird watchers.
If you’re traveling with a group, Sirrent’s spacious vans offer both comfort and luggage space for camping gear or picnic essentials. For solo adventurers or couples, a motorcycle rental adds an element of fun and connection with the landscape. As Estonia’s terrain varies from sandy dunes to dense forests in just short stretches, your choice of rental vehicle from Sirrent will ensure a comfortable and flexible nature escape this summer.
What cultural and historical locations should be on my Estonian road trip route?
Estonia’s deep-rooted history and rich culture make it an ideal destination for travelers interested in more than just beaches and nature. From medieval castles to centuries-old manors, many landmarks are only a short drive apart, making them perfect for a themed cultural road trip. Renting a car from Sirrent makes visiting multiple locations in a day not only possible but enjoyable.
Start your journey in Tallinn by exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and stunning cathedrals. Then head to Rakvere, home to an impressive 13th-century castle where interactive exhibits tell the story of medieval life. Continue your journey south to Viljandi, a town set around the scenic ruins of a once-mighty fortress and a vibrant arts scene.
If you’re a fan of manorial architecture, Estonia offers hundreds of preserved manors, such as Alatskivi Castle near Lake Peipus. The castle’s fairy-tale aesthetic and museum make it a must-visit. For deeper historical immersion, visit Tartu, Estonia’s second-largest city and academic heart. It’s home to the University of Tartu, museums, and plenty of charming streets perfect for a walking tour before moving on to your next stop.
Sirrent’s flexible rental options—whether long-term for a thorough tour or short-term for weekend getaways—make planning a cultural route extremely convenient. With comfort, space, and reliability, your road trip becomes as smooth as it is educational.
How can families make the most of a summer road trip in Estonia?
Traveling with family requires thoughtful planning, space, and reliable transportation. Thankfully, Estonia is a family-friendly travel destination, with many activities and spots that cater to both children and adults. Renting a comfortable, spacious minivan from Sirrent gives your family the freedom to explore various attractions at your own pace, without the constraints of public transportation or tight schedules.
Start your trip with a visit to Tallinn Zoo and the adjacent Open Air Museum, which recreates a rural Estonian village complete with farm animals and historical buildings. Take the kids to Lottemaa Theme Park near Pärnu—an imaginative space based on popular Estonian children’s stories. It’s ideal for a full day of fun and learning.
Nature-based family adventures can include canoeing in Soomaa or Võrtsjärv, Estonia’s second-largest lake, which offers safe and serene surroundings for young adventurers. Don’t forget Kiviõli Adventure Center, where active families can enjoy zip-lining and hiking in a converted ash hill terrain.
Minivans rented from Sirrent come equipped to meet your family’s needs. Enhanced safety features, generous luggage space, and overall comfort turn the journey itself into a pleasant part of the experience. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or a full week of exploration, Sirrent ensures your family trip will be hassle-free and enriched with flexibility.
Is it worth exploring southern Estonia during summer?
Absolutely. While northern Estonia tends to receive more attention due to Tallinn’s popularity, the southern region is a hidden gem with its unique character, landscapes, and traditions. Southern Estonia is more hilly, with enchanting forests, serene lakes, and a deeply ingrained local culture. With a rental from Sirrent, you can comfortably navigate through these scenic routes and make the most of your trip.
Key highlights in southern Estonia include Tartu, the cultural and intellectual capital. It’s an excellent starting point with museums, art centers, and a lively riverfront. From there, hit the road to Setomaa, an area near the Russian border that boasts a rich cultural heritage and unique customs. Try local dishes and attend a folklore festival if you’re lucky to be visiting during one.
Drive to Piusa Caves and marvel at the delicate sandstone formations, or head to Lake Rõuge for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by unspoiled nature. This area is ideal for picnic lovers, photographers, and those seeking tranquility away from city life.
Choosing a motorcycle from Sirrent adds an adventurous spin to your journey through the winding forest roads. Alternatively, a car or minivan offers the convenience of accommodating travel companions or extra gear. No matter your choice, Sirrent’s southern Estonia road trip options promise both relaxation and discovery in equal measure.
How does Sirrent OÜ enhance your Estonian road trip experience?
Planning a road trip involves a lot of variables—but transportation shouldn’t be one of your stress points. Sirrent OÜ makes vehicle rental easy, affordable, and tailored to your travel needs. Offering a diverse fleet that includes cars, minivans, and motorcycles for both long- and short-term rentals, Sirrent ensures you always have the right vehicle for your journey.
Need a quick weekend road trip ride? Opt for a short-term rental and drive worry-free. Heading out for a month to explore every corner of Estonia? Go with a long-term plan and enjoy discounts along with flexible returns. All Sirrent vehicles are regularly maintained and thoroughly cleaned, prioritizing your safety and comfort.
Booking in advance is simple via our website. We also regularly share helpful travel content and advice in our blog, which can inspire your next destination idea or help with travel tips. Our dedicated customer service team is always on hand to support you throughout your rental period.
With Sirrent, you’re not just renting a vehicle—you’re opening the door to unforgettable Estonian adventures. We are committed to making your journey as smooth and memorable as possible.
