Are you looking for things to do in Pärnu? If so, then you have come to the right place!
From historic town centers and relaxing beach days to boat tours and exploring nearby islands, there is something for everyone here.
Pärnu is a beautiful coastal city located on the Baltic Sea in Estonia. It has long been a popular destination for tourists seeking an authentic Estonian experience. The city center has old-world charm, with cobblestone streets winding their way through quaint shops and cafes. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as kayaking and canoeing on the bay or taking a stroll along the riverside parks.
If you’re seeking some relaxation, head down to Pärnu Beach, which offers stunning views of the sunset over the sea – perfect for anyone wanting to take things slow.
For those feeling adventurous, why not explore one of the many nearby islands like Ruhnu, Hiiumaa, or Vormsi?
Or, if you’re into wildlife spotting, Endla Nature Reserve is worth checking out.
And remember to try out the local cuisine at restaurants around town!
With so much going on, it’s no wonder that Pärnu remains one of the top things to do in Estonia. So why not plan your trip today and explore all that this wonderful city has to offer? You won’t regret it!
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Do you need help planning your trips? Start here!
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Top 10 BEST Things to do in Pärnu (Estonia)
Visit the Historic Town Centre
Pärnu’s Old Town is a must-see for any tourist in the area. There is something magical about this historic district, right in the middle of the city, with its winding streets of cobblestone and its colorful, historic homes. The area exudes a timeless elegance that transports you to another era.
A walking tour is a fantastic way to get to know the neighborhood. There are free guided walks every Monday to Saturday between 3 AM and 4 PM from May 15th to September 15th. You can catch one of these tours that leave from the Pärnu Visitor Center.
All around the downtown area, you can see structures that date back hundreds of years, including churches, monuments, and sculptures. You will also have the opportunity to visit local artisan shops selling goods like jewelry and pottery.
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Relax at Pärnu Beach
This pristine beach is perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy the sun on the beautiful shores of the Baltic Sea.
Everyone can find an activity or pastime that suits their mood and energy level. You can relax by the water’s edge or go island hopping; either way, you’ll have a fantastic time.
When temperatures are mild and the days are long, summer is the ideal time to visit. Swimming, boating, fishing, and even just taking a stroll along the boardwalk that hugs the coast are all possible at this time.
In addition to all the attractions, there are also many eating establishments and nightclubs to choose from. Indulge in some tasty regional fare if you’re hungry after a day at the beach.
Pärnu Beach is a haven where visitors can choose between relaxing on the sand or engaging in adrenaline-pumping activities.
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Hike Sooma National Park
Within easy driving distance of Pärnu, this protected area boasts breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.
The park is home to many ecosystems, from wetlands to coniferous forests to open fields. You can expect to see moose, deer, foxes, and maybe even wolves as you travel across the landscape. Great grey owls and white-tailed eagles are just two rare birds you can see.
When temperatures are mild and the days are long, Sooma National Park is at their best. Guests can take advantage of the park’s beautiful scenery by walking, biking, or even riding horses along the park’s many trails.
Taking a boat out on one of the many lakes in the area is an excellent option if you’d instead relax. You can also go canoeing if you’re interested in getting some fresh air and getting in touch with nature.
This park is one of Estonia’s best-kept secrets; if you’re planning a trip to Pärnu, you owe it to yourself to see the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife that call this place home.
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!
I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!
- Booking.com – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
- Airbnb – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
- Skyscanner – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
- SafetyWing – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
- GetYourGuide – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
- My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon) – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
- Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon) – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.
Visit Pärnu Museum
If you’re in Pärnu, don’t leave without seeing the Pärnu Museum. This museum in the downtown area houses artifacts that document the history of the coastal community. There are exhibits describing its evolution from a fishing port to an industrial city to a tourist mecca.
Local art, archaeological artifacts, and cultural practices are showcased in the museum’s displays. There are many different ethnic groups in Estonia, and you can study their history and customs to understand your own better. Famous Estonian artists like Konrad Mägi and Nikolai Triik also have works on display.
The museum is open from 10 AM to 6 PM from Wednesday to Sunday and charges €10 for adults, €20 for a family ticket, and FREE for preschoolers.
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Take a Boat Tour of Pärnu Bay
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience in Pärnu, why not take a boat tour of the beautiful Pärnu Bay? On this fantastic two-hour excursion, you’ll be able to witness the stunning beauty of the Estonian coastline from a unique perspective.
As you cruise around the bay, your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the history and culture of this charming port city. You’ll learn about its past as an essential fishing hub, its later development into an industrial center, and its modern-day transformation into one of Estonia’s most popular destinations.
You’ll admire breathtaking views of the city skyline along your journey, passing by iconic landmarks such as St. John’s Church and Kursi Beach. As you soak up the sun and take in all the sights around you, keep an eye out for some of the local wildlife that calls this area home. From seabirds like cranes and cormorants to seals basking in the sea – it’s an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come!
The cost of these tours is just €12 for adults and €7 for children, and they are available from 2 PM – 8:30 PM on Weekdays and 12 PM- 8:30 PM. So if you want to treat yourself to something special during your visit to Pärnu, book yourself onto one of these beautiful tours.
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Go Kayaking and Canoeing in Pärnu Bay
Kayaking in Pärnu Bay is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Estonia’s coastline up close! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, you’ll be sure to enjoy this invigorating activity set against the backdrop of stunning scenery.
The best time to kayak in Pärnu Bay is summertime when the water is warm and calm. With crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches, it’s easy to forget you’re out on the open sea! However, don’t let the tranquil appearance fool you; kayaking here can still be quite challenging due to strong winds and currents throughout the bay.
If you’re looking for an adventure, why not join one available guided kayaking tour? During your two-hour tour, your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into local history and tips on tackling any tricky spots.
You can also rent single or double kayaks for a more independent experience. The cost for this service is only €16 per person but make sure you book ahead as spots fill up quickly!
Whatever option you choose, kayaking in Pärnu Bay promises an unforgettable experience that will bring out your inner explorer! So what are you waiting for? Grab your paddles and hit the waves – it’s time to explore Estonia’s beautiful coastline!
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?
Remember this: anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!
The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with SafetyWing was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.
I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.
Read my post about why you should get travel insurance for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from SafetyWing – they’re the best, in my opinion.
Visit the Church of Jekaterina (St. Catherine’s Church)
Saint Catherine’s Church, finished in 1768, is the largest and purest example of Estonian baroque architecture.
The building’s six broaches have thin needle-shaped tips, a design element typical of baroque architecture, and together they make the structure feel airy and celebratory.
Being built a century before most orthodox churches, this one is noticeably different in design, but it also influenced the evolution of orthodox church design across the Baltic region. Fascinating information!
St. Catherine’s Church was commissioned by Russian Empress Catherine II and funded by her personal treasury. Pärnu’s Russian Church continues to serve the community today.
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Visit nearby Islands like Ruhnu, Hiiumaa, Prangli & Vormsi
If you’re looking for things to do near Pärnu, why not take a day trip to explore the nearby islands? Located just off the coast of Estonia’s mainland, these stunning islands offer a range of activities that will make your visit memorable.
Ruhnu is an island full of adventure. From picturesque beaches to beautiful trails for biking and hiking, there’s something for everyone here. As well as outdoor activities, Ruhnu has plenty of historical sites and monuments, such as the ruins of an old church from the 14th century.
For a more laid-back experience, Hiiumaa is the perfect destination. This enchanting island has everything from serene forests and mesmerizing waterfalls to tranquil beaches that are ideal for swimming or sunbathing. You can also participate in fascinating cultural experiences, such as traditional music performances or craft classes where you can learn how to make things like pottery or jewelry.
Travelers looking for an even more remote experience could venture further out to Prangli or Vormsi – two small but utterly charming islands with plenty of things to see and do! On Prangli, visitors can participate in local activities like berry picking and bird watching. At the same time, Vormsi boasts some stunning white sand beaches perfect for sunbathing or simply taking in the views!
Whichever island you choose, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience! So why not pack your bags today and embark on an adventure – discover all the fantastic things that Estonia’s islands offer.
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Visit Eliisabet’s Church
Inaugurated in 1750, Eliisabet’s Church is Estonia’s most impressive Baroque-era sacred structure.
The stunning Church in the heart of Parnu welcomes visitors to look at the Neo-Gothic style pulpit, altar, and altarpiece “Resurrection,” all of which date to the middle of the nineteenth century.
Eliisabet’s Church is well-known as a concert venue, and its organ is regarded as the best in Estonia. Fascinating information!
The congregation’s Lutheran Church was named after the Russian empress who helped bring one to the area.
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
What are my favorite travel must-haves?
As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!
- Warm packable jacket – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
- Transparent toiletry bag – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
- Kindle Paperwhite – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
- Powerbank – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
- Travel Adapter – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.
Try Local Cuisine at Restaurants
If you’re looking for things to do in Pärnu, the local cuisine is one of the most enjoyable things to experience. From cozy cafes and traditional restaurants to vibrant food markets, Pärnu has something for everyone’s taste buds.
Regarding savory food, Pärnu is known for its hearty soups and stews such as seljanka – a salmon and potato soup made with fresh dill and sour cream – or kama – a traditional Estonian grain dish that is full of flavor. Another classic dish is pirukas – small pastries filled with sauerkraut, minced pork, rice, or vegetables. These tasty treats can be found at most of the city’s eateries.
For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on kohuke – a cheese pie made with curd cheese custard served with jam or sour cream. For something even sweeter, try berliners – doughnuts filled with jam and topped with icing sugar that are sure to satisfy any craving!
You can sample some delicious local dishes at the city’s many food markets, such as mulgikapsad – an Estonian stew made from smoked bacon, sauerkraut, and pearl barley. Or why not give herring salad a go? This traditional dish is made with pickled herring mixed with fresh cucumbers and carrots for an unforgettable taste sensation!
No matter your tastes, there’s something for everyone in Pärnu’s culinary landscape – so make sure you take some time to explore the city’s delicious offerings during your visit!
Where to stay in Pärnu? Find an awesome deal and book your hotel here!
Planning to visit Estonia? Check out these posts!
- Best time to visit Estonia
- Estonia Points of Interests: Places to visit, Visit Helsinki on a day trip, Castles to visit, and Islands to visit
- Places to visit in Estonia: Tallinn, Rakvere, Pärnu, Tartu, Haapsalu, Harjumaa, and Viljandi
- What to do in Tallinn: Day trips from Tallinn