From twinkling lights and traditional festive treats to charming medieval streets, Estonia is inviting increasing numbers of UK travellers to experience the magic of Christmas this winter, with new Jet2 flights from across the UK making a festive getaway more accessible than ever.
At the heart of the celebrations is Tallinn Christmas Market, returning to the city’s historic Town Hall Square from 20 November 2026, and this season will run into the new year, until 6 January 2027. Surrounded by medieval architecture, visitors can browse wooden chalets selling handcrafted gifts, sample traditional Estonian Christmas delicacies and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere beneath the city’s famous Christmas tree, a tradition dating back to 1441.
Getting there is easier this winter, with Jet2 expanding their Tallinn connections to five UK departure airports: Birmingham, Edinburgh, Manchester, Leeds Bradford and London Gatwick with return fares from £52. Existing twice-weekly connections from Manchester gives travellers more choice when planning their festive break from 27th November.
Whether planning a romantic winter escape, a family adventure or a weekend with friends, Tallinn combines the magic of a traditional Christmas market with cosy cafés, independent boutiques and a fascinating cultural heritage. Visitors can warm up with gingerbread and seasonal drinks, discover locally made crafts and enjoy traditional Estonian festive dishes.
Beyond the capital, travellers can explore a festive atmosphere across the country, with traditional markets, seasonal celebrations and family-friendly attractions, including:
Tartu
The Christmas City runs from 29 November 2026 to 10 January 2027, offering an opportunity to soak up the seasonal spirit, while the city’s Winter Folk Dance Day takes place on 12 December. If travelling between Tallinn and Tartu, stop at the village of Väätsa, which is known for its Christmasy window displays, from 1 December to 6 January.
Pärnu
Further west, Pärnu’s Independence Square Christmas Market runs from 18–20 December, making it a great option for visitors keen to explore one of Estonia’s coastal towns. Just outside of the town is Lottemaa Christmas Land, a family-focused festive attraction open from 12 December to 3 January 2027.
Hiiumaa
The island’s Glögi Café Day takes place on 5 December, inviting visitors to explore cosy pop-up cafés across the island, where locals serve warming mulled wine, hot chocolate, gingerbread, cinnamon pastries, Christmas cake and savoury winter dishes. A festive celebration of local hospitality and seasonal flavours, it offers a chance to discover Hiiumaa’s communities while soaking up the Christmas atmosphere.
Lahemaa National Park
Snowshoeing and winter hiking through Estonia’s peaceful boglands and forests offer a refreshing contrast to browsing Christmas markets. Take a day trip from Tallinn to Lahemaa National Park to stroll along the boardwalks along the Viru Bog, explore snow-dusted forests and head to Jägala Waterfall to see the dramatic frozen waterfall, weather permitting.
Whether seeking traditional celebrations, activities for children or a winter escape into nature, travellers can easily add experiences beyond the capital to create a varied Estonian Christmas holiday.
