Hiiu County, Estonia Travel Guide

Discover Hiiu County: Estonia's hidden gem with pristine nature, charming villages, and rich history, perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and seekers of tranquility.

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Hiiu County

Hiiu County, located on the tranquil island of Hiiumaa, offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As Estonia's second-largest island, it is famed for its untouched natural beauty, charming villages, and rich history. The county's scenic landscapes are dotted with pine forests, sandy beaches, and picturesque lighthouses, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Kärdla, the capital of Hiiu County, is a quaint town where time seems to stand still. Here, visitors can enjoy a stroll through the town's colorful wooden houses and visit the local cafes and shops. The town also hosts the annual Hiiu Folk Music Festival, a delightful event that showcases traditional Estonian music and dance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Hiiu County offers numerous hiking and biking trails. The Kõpu Peninsula is a must-visit, home to the Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world still in operation. Another highlight is the Tahkuna Peninsula, where you can find the Tahkuna Lighthouse and a memorial to the victims of the MS Estonia ferry disaster. History buffs will appreciate the island's many historical sites, including the ruins of the Pühalepa Church and the Kassari Chapel. The Hiiumaa Museum offers insights into the island's past, with exhibits covering everything from maritime history to traditional crafts. Hiiu County is also a paradise for bird watchers, with its diverse birdlife and several conservation areas. The island's calm waters are perfect for kayaking, and the beaches are ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. Whether you're looking for adventure or tranquility, Hiiu County promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hiiu County.

Visit during summer for the best weather and to enjoy local festivals.
Rent a bike to explore the island's scenic trails at your own pace.
Try the local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood and traditional Estonian dishes.
Bring binoculars if you're into bird watching; the island is a hotspot for various bird species.
Check the ferry schedule ahead of time as services to Hiiumaa can vary seasonally.

Top City Travel Guides in Hiiu County

The cities of Hiiu County, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Kärdla

Destinations in Hiiu County

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Hiiumaa Island

Explore Hiiu County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Hiiu County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn - Windtower Experience

Explore the Windtower Experience in Hiiu County, Estonia - a vibrant museum with interactive exhibits and a cozy café for all ages.

4.7

Suuremõisa mansion

Explore Suuremõisa Mansion, an exquisite 19th-century architectural marvel in Hiiu County, Estonia, surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich history.

4.7

Sääre tirp

Discover the enchanting Sääre Tirp in Hiiu County, Estonia, where stunning coastal views and serene nature await every traveler.

4.9

Vaemla villavabrik

Discover the art of wool crafting and local culture at Vaemla Villavabrik in Hiiu County, Estonia, where tradition meets creativity.

4.7

Best landmarks in Hiiu County

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Tahkuna lighthouse

Explore the stunning Tahkuna Lighthouse in Estonia, a historical gem offering breathtaking views and rich maritime heritage on Hiiumaa Island.

4.8

Tuletorni kohvik (Lighthouse Cafe)

Discover the charm of Tuletorni Kohvik, a peaceful café at Kōpu Lighthouse offering delicious coffee and stunning views in Hiiu County, Estonia.

4.7

Wooden copy of the Eiffel Tower

Experience the whimsical charm of the Wooden Eiffel Tower in Hiiu County, a captivating replica surrounded by Estonia's stunning landscapes.

4.4

Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn - Windtower Experience

Explore the cultural treasures and breathtaking views at Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn, a unique museum experience in Hiiu County, Estonia.

4.7

Best restaurants in Hiiu County

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Rannapaargu restaurant

Experience authentic Estonian cuisine at Rannapaargu Restaurant in Kärdla – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.4

Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn - Windtower Experience

Experience the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking views at Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn - Windtower Experience in Hiiu County.

4.7

Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse

Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse in Kärdla - where every bite feels like a slice of Italy.

4.2

Roograhu restaurant

Discover the essence of Estonian cuisine at Roograhu Restaurant in scenic Hiiu County—where local flavors meet exceptional dining.

4.6

Best bars in Hiiu County

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Best Bars

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All Bars

Rannapaargu restaurant

Experience the rich flavors of Hiiu County at Rannapaargu Restaurant, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.

4.4

Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse

Experience authentic Italian cuisine and cozy rooms at Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse in Kärdla, Hiiu County.

4.2

Roograhu restaurant

Discover the delightful flavors of local cuisine at Roograhu Restaurant in the heart of Hiiu County, Estonia.

4.6

Lest & Lammas Resto

Experience the authentic taste of Estonia at Lest & Lammas Resto, a delightful restaurant in Kassari village specializing in local flavors and seasonal ingredients.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Hiiu County

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Šampanjabaar ja restoran Kork

Experience the perfect blend of local cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Šampanjabaar ja restoran Kork in Kärdla.

4.5

Luige baar

Experience the local charm of Käina at Luige Baar, a cozy bar offering a delightful selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.5

Club Studio

Discover the heartbeat of Tallinn's nightlife at Club Studio, where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere create unforgettable memories.

3.5

Nightclub Sunset

Dive into the energetic nightlife at Nightclub Sunset in Pärnu, where music and dance create unforgettable memories.

3.8

Best shops in Hiiu County

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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Hiiumaa Selver

Explore Hiiumaa Selver, a vibrant supermarket offering a taste of local Estonian culture with diverse groceries and unique regional products.

4.6

Käina Coop Konsum | Construction Centre

Discover local flavors and community spirit at Käina Coop Konsum, a charming supermarket in Hiiumaa filled with fresh produce and unique Estonian products.

4.6

Hiiumaa Kaubamaja

Experience the local charm of Hiiumaa at Hiiumaa Kaubamaja, your perfect shopping destination for authentic Estonian products and souvenirs.

4.5

Stonefish

Experience the best of local seafood at Stonefish in Kärdla, where fresh catches meet expert advice in a cozy setting.

4.8

Explore Hiiu County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Hiiu County, mapped for you.

Hiiu County Essentials

Hiiu County is located in the western part of Estonia, predominantly on the island of Hiiumaa. The most common route to Hiiumaa is via ferry from the mainland port of Rohuküla to Heltermaa. Ferries are operated by TS Laevad and run several times a day, with the crossing taking about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a flight from Tallinn to Kärdla Airport, which takes approximately 30 minutes. The airport is located just a few kilometers from Kärdla, the capital of Hiiumaa.
Once you are in Hiiu County, you can get around by rental car, bicycle, or local buses. Car rentals are available in Kärdla and are the most convenient way to explore the island at your own pace. Bicycles can be rented in Kärdla and other larger villages, offering a scenic and eco-friendly way to travel. Local buses connect most of the towns and villages on the island, though they may not run frequently. Taxis are also available but should be booked in advance.
The official currency of Estonia is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Hiiu County. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller villages or local markets where card payments may not be possible. ATMs are available in Kärdla and other larger settlements, so withdrawing cash is relatively easy.
Hiiu County is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas or at popular tourist sites. Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. The main hospital in Hiiu County is located in Kärdla, where you can receive medical attention if needed. Pharmacies are also available in Kärdla and other larger villages. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Layers are recommended as the weather can change quickly. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be punctual for buses and ferries, as they run on a strict schedule. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Tere!' (Hello!). Estonians appreciate friendliness but are generally reserved. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like smoked fish and kama. Don't refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Hiiu County like a local, take part in community events and festivals, such as the Hiiumaa Homecoming Days and the Hiiumaa Folk Music Festival. Explore the island's nature trails and visit the numerous lighthouses, especially Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the world. Engage with locals, who are often willing to share stories and history about the island. Don't miss the chance to try local delicacies at small, family-run eateries. For a unique experience, visit Kassari Island, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and serene atmosphere.

When is the best time to visit Hiiu County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hiiu County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Hiiu County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloTere
  [teh-reh]
- GoodbyeHead aega
  [head aye-gah]
- YesJah
  [yah]
- NoEi
  [ay]
- Please/You're welcomePalun
  [pah-lun]
- Thank youAitäh
  [aye-tah]
- Excuse me/SorryVabandust
  [vah-band-oost]
- How are you?Kuidas sul on?
  [koo-dahs sool on]
- Fine. And you?Hea. Ja sina?
  [hey-ah. yah see-nah?]
- Do you speak English?Kas sa räägid inglise keelt?
  [kahs sah rah-eed ing-lis-eh kelt?]
- I don't understandMa ei saa aru
  [mah ay zah ah-roo]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMa tahaksin menüüd näha, palun
  [mah tah-aks-in meh-noo-d nah-hah, pah-lun]
- I don't eat meatMa ei söö liha
  [mah ay soo lih-hah]
- Cheers!Terviseks!
  [ter-vee-seks]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMa tahaksin maksta, palun
  [mah tah-aks-in mak-stah, pah-lun]
- Help!Aita!
  [eye-tah]
- Go away!Mine ära!
  [mee-neh eh-rah]
- Call the Police!Kutsu politsei!
  [koot-soo poh-lit-sei]
- Call a doctor!Kutsu arst!
  [koot-soo arst]
- I'm lostMa olen kadunud
  [mah oh-len kah-doo-nud]
- I'm illMa olen haige
  [mah oh-len hai-geh]
- I'd like to buy...Ma tahaksin osta...
  [mah tah-aks-in oh-stah]
- I'm just lookingMa lihtsalt vaatan
  [mah leest-lt vah-tahn]
- How much is it?Kui palju see maksab?
  [kwee pal-yoo seh mahk-sahb?]
- That's too expensiveSee on liiga kallis
  [seh on lee-gah kah-lis]
- Can you lower the price?Kas sa saad hinda alandada?
  [kahs sah sahd hin-dah ah-lahn-dah-dah]
- What time is it?Mis kell on?
  [mis kel on?]
- It's one o'clockKell on üks
  [kel on uks]
- Half past (10)Kell on pool (kümme)
  [kel on pool (küm-meh)]
- MorningHommik
  [hom-mik]
- AfternoonPärastlõuna
  [pah-rahst-luh-na]
- EveningÕhtu
  [uh-thu]
- YesterdayEile
  [ay-leh]
- TodayTäna
  [tah-nah]
- TomorrowHomme
  [hom-meh]
- 1Üks
  [uks]
- 2Kaks
  [kahks]
- 3Kolm
  [kolm]
- 4Neli
  [neh-lee]
- 5Viis
  [vees]
- 6Kuus
  [koos]
- 7Seitsme
  [saits-meh]
- 8Kaheksa
  [kah-heks-ah]
- 9Üheksa
  [u-hek-sah]
- 10Kümme
  [küm-meh]
- Where's a/the...?Kus on ...?
  [koos on ...?]
- What's the address?Mis on aadress?
  [mis on ah-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kas sa saad mulle näidata (kaardil)?
  [kahs sah sahd moo-leh nai-da-ta (kaar-dil)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Millal tuleb järgmine (buss)?
  [mil-lahl too-leb yahr-gin-eh (boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Pilet (....-le)
  [pee-let (....-leh)]

History of Hiiu County

Hiiu County, known as Hiiumaa in Estonian, has a history that stretches back to the early Stone Age. Archaeological discoveries reveal that the island was inhabited by early humans who left behind tools and artifacts. These early settlers took advantage of the island's rich natural resources, including its forests and waters teeming with fish.
In the 13th century, Hiiu County came under Danish rule following the Northern Crusades. This period marked the construction of many significant structures, including the Pühalepa Church, one of the oldest churches in Estonia, built in the early 13th century. The island's strategic location made it a valuable asset in the Baltic Sea, influencing its development and history during this era.
In the 16th century, Hiiu County became part of the Swedish Empire. This era brought significant cultural and architectural influences, with the construction of many manors and the establishment of a structured educational system. The Swedes also built the iconic Kõpu Lighthouse in 1531, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world still in operation today.
Following the Great Northern War in the early 18th century, Hiiu County fell under Russian control. During this period, the island saw an influx of Baltic Germans who played a significant role in the local administration and economy. Many of the grand manors and estates that dot the island were built during this time, showcasing the architectural grandeur of the period.
Hiiu County, like much of Estonia, experienced significant turmoil during World War II. The island was occupied first by the Soviets, then by Nazi Germany, and again by the Soviets at the war's end. The Soviet occupation brought significant changes, including the establishment of military bases and collective farms, which drastically altered the island’s traditional way of life.
With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Estonia regained its independence, and Hiiu County began a new chapter. The island has since focused on preserving its unique cultural heritage and natural beauty. The restoration of historical sites and the promotion of cultural festivals have become central to the community's efforts to celebrate and maintain its rich history.
Today, Hiiumaa is known for its tranquil landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and rich historical heritage. The island hosts various festivals that celebrate its history and traditions, such as the Hiiumaa Homecoming Festival and the Kõpu Lighthouse Day. Modern Hiiumaa is a blend of its storied past and its aspirations for a sustainable future, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.