Hiiumaa, Estonia Travel Guide

Discover Hiiumaa: Estonia's serene island paradise with rich history, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. Perfect for a tranquil retreat in the Baltic Sea.

Hiiumaa is the second-largest island in Estonia, renowned for its tranquil landscapes and rich history. This island is a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its pristine beaches, lush forests, and charming villages, Hiiumaa offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The island's coastline is dotted with lighthouses, each telling its own tale of maritime history. The island is also famous for its diverse wildlife and bird-watching opportunities. The local flora and fauna are a testament to Hiiumaa's well-preserved natural environment. Visitors can explore the numerous hiking and cycling trails that weave through the island, offering breathtaking views and serene spots for relaxation. Don't miss the chance to visit Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world, which has been guiding sailors since the 16th century. Hiiumaa's villages are a delightful mix of traditional Estonian architecture and modern amenities. Kassari village, for instance, is known for its open-air museum and beautiful churches. The island's culinary scene is also worth exploring, with local restaurants serving up fresh seafood and traditional Estonian dishes. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply looking to unwind, Hiiumaa offers something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit Kõpu Lighthouse early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Rent a bicycle to explore the island at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way.
Try the local seafood dishes at Kassari village for an authentic taste of Estonian cuisine.
Bring binoculars for bird-watching, as Hiiumaa is a hotspot for various bird species.
Check local ferry schedules in advance to plan your arrival and departure from the island.

Top City Travel Guides in Hiiumaa

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

Kärdla

Destinations in Hiiumaa

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

Hiiumaa Island

Explore Hiiumaa: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Hiiumaa

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Panga Cliff

Experience the breathtaking views of Panga Cliff in Saare County, Estonia—nature's masterpiece overlooking the Baltic Sea.

4.7

Tahkuna lighthouse

Experience the stunning views and rich history at Tahkuna Lighthouse, a must-visit landmark on Hiiumaa Island in Estonia.

4.8

Wooden copy of the Eiffel Tower

Explore the enchanting Wooden Eiffel Tower in Reigi, Hiiu County - a unique blend of artistry, nature, and stunning views.

4.4

Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn - Windtower Experience

Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation in Hiiu County, Estonia.

4.7

Best landmarks in Hiiumaa

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Tahkuna lighthouse

Explore the historical Tahkuna Lighthouse in Estonia, a stunning maritime landmark offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.

4.8

Tuletorni kohvik (Lighthouse Cafe)

Discover the charm of Tuletorni Kohvik, a cozy café near Kõpu Lighthouse, offering delicious coffee and stunning coastal views.

4.7

Wooden copy of the Eiffel Tower

Explore the whimsical wooden replica of the Eiffel Tower in Reigi, Hiiu County, a must-visit tourist attraction in Estonia.

4.4

Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn - Windtower Experience

Explore the captivating Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn, where culture, history, and delightful cuisine come together in stunning Hiiu County, Estonia.

4.7

Best restaurants in Hiiumaa

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

Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse in Kärdla - where every meal is a celebration of taste.

4.2

Roograhu restaurant

Experience authentic Estonian cuisine at Roograhu Restaurant in scenic Hiiu County – where tradition meets taste.

4.6

Lest & Lammas Resto

Discover authentic Estonian cuisine at Lest & Lammas Resto in Kassari village – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.2

Best bars in Hiiumaa

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Best Bars

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Tuletorni kohvik (Lighthouse Cafe)

Experience the perfect blend of stunning coastal views and delicious coffee at Tuletorni Kohvik near Kõpu Lighthouse.

4.7

Rannapaargu restaurant

Discover Rannapaargu Restaurant, where delicious cuisine meets stunning seaside views in the heart of Hiiu County.

4.4

Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse in Kärdla, where every dish is a celebration of flavors.

4.2

Roograhu restaurant

Discover the authentic taste of Estonia at Roograhu Restaurant, where local ingredients meet unforgettable flavors in Hiiu County.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Hiiumaa

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Best Nightclubs

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Rannapaargu restaurant

Discover the flavors of Estonia at Rannapaargu Restaurant in Kärdla, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.

4.4

Meite Möte

Experience the heart of Estonian cuisine at Meite Möte, a cozy restaurant and pub in the beautiful Hiiu County, perfect for every food lover.

4.7

Šampanjabaar ja restoran Kork

Discover fine dining and exceptional champagne at Šampanjabaar ja restoran Kork in Kärdla, where culinary delights meet a welcoming atmosphere.

4.5

Luige baar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Käina at Luige Baar, a welcoming bar offering affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Hiiumaa

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Best Shops

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Tuletorni kohvik (Lighthouse Cafe)

Discover the delightful Tuletorni Kohvik - Lighthouse Cafe, where stunning views meet delicious local flavors in the heart of Hiiu County.

4.7

Hiiumaa Selver

Discover the essence of Hiiumaa with a visit to Hiiumaa Selver, your gateway to local flavors and community spirit on this enchanting island.

4.6

Käina Coop Konsum | Construction Centre

Discover Käina Coop Konsum: Your essential stop for construction supplies and local products in the heart of Hiiumaa.

4.6

Hiiumaa Kaubamaja

Experience the best of Hiiumaa at Kaubamaja, your go-to department store for local goods, everyday essentials, and unique souvenirs.

4.5

Explore Hiiumaa on the Map

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

Hiiumaa Essentials

Hiiumaa is an island in Estonia, accessible primarily by ferry. The most common route is from Rohuküla on the mainland to Heltermaa on Hiiumaa. Ferries operate several times a day, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly from Tallinn to Kärdla, the main town on Hiiumaa, with flights taking around 30 minutes. During the winter, an ice road may be open for driving directly from the mainland, depending on weather conditions.
Hiiumaa has a limited public transportation system. Buses connect the main towns and some of the more populated areas, but schedules can be infrequent. Renting a car or bicycle is highly recommended for exploring the island. Taxis are available but may need to be booked in advance. Walking is also a great way to explore smaller towns and scenic spots.
The official currency in Estonia is the Euro (EUR). Most establishments on Hiiumaa accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in rural areas. ATMs are available in Kärdla and other larger towns on the island.
Hiiumaa is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it's still wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Medical facilities are available in Kärdla, including a hospital and pharmacies. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies on the island can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Layers are recommended due to changing weather conditions. Avoid overly flashy clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Dress modestly and be quiet inside religious buildings. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Tere' (Hello) and a smile. A handshake is common for more formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and specialties, such as smoked fish and Hiiumaa bread. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Hiiumaa like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don't miss exploring the Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the world, and the scenic Ristna and Tahkuna peninsulas. For a unique experience, consider renting a boat or joining a fishing trip to enjoy the island from the sea.

When is the best time to visit Hiiumaa?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hiiumaa

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 Hiiumaa. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloTere
  [te-re]
- GoodbyeHead aega
  [head a-e-ga]
- YesJah
  [yah]
- NoEi
  [ay]
- Please/You're welcomePalun
  [pa-lun]
- Thank youAitäh
  [ai-tah]
- Excuse me/SorryVabandust
  [va-ban-dust]
- How are you?Kuidas sul läheb?
  [kui-das sul le-heb]
- Fine. And you?Hästi. Ja sina?
  [hes-ti. ya si-na]
- Do you speak English?Kas sa räägid inglise keelt?
  [kas sa rai-gid in-gli-se keelt]
- I don't understandMa ei saa aru
  [ma ey za-a ru]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTahaksin näha menüüd, palun
  [ta-hak-sin na-ha me-nuud, pa-lun]
- I don't eat meatMa ei söö liha
  [ma ey söö li-ha]
- Cheers!Terviseks!
  [ter-vi-seks]
- I would like to pay, pleaseTahaksin maksta, palun
  [ta-hak-sin mak-sta, pa-lun]
- Help!Abi!
  [a-bi]
- Go away!Mine ära!
  [mi-ne a-ra]
- Call the Police!Kutsu politsei!
  [kut-su po-li-tsei]
- Call a doctor!Kutsu arsti!
  [kut-su ar-sti]
- I'm lostMa olen eksinud
  [ma o-len ek-si-nud]
- I'm illMa olen haige
  [ma o-len hai-ge]
- I'd like to buy...Tahaksin osta...
  [ta-hak-sin os-ta]
- I'm just lookingMa lihtsalt vaatan
  [ma li-salt va-a-tan]
- How much is it?Kui palju see maksab?
  [kui pal-yu se mak-sab]
- That's too expensiveSee on liiga kallis
  [se on lii-ga kal-lis]
- Can you lower the price?Kas sa saad hinda alandada?
  [kas sa saad hin-da a-lan-da-da]
- What time is it?Mis kell on?
  [mis kell on]
- It's one o'clockKell on üks
  [kell on yuks]
- Half past (10)Kell on pool (10)
  [kell on pool (10)]
- MorningHommik
  [hom-mik]
- AfternoonPäev
  [päev]
- EveningÕhtu
  [õh-tu]
- YesterdayEile
  [ei-le]
- TodayTäna
  [tä-na]
- TomorrowHomme
  [hom-me]
- 1Üks
  [ü-kes]
- 2Kaks
  [kaks]
- 3Kolm
  [kolm]
- 4Neli
  [ne-li]
- 5Viis
  [viis]
- 6Kuus
  [kuus]
- 7Seitsme
  [sei-tsme]
- 8Kaheksa
  [ka-heksa]
- 9Üheksa
  [ü-heksa]
- 10Kümme
  [küm-me]
- Where's a/the...?Kus on ...?
  [kus on ...?]
- What's the address?Mis on aadress?
  [mis on aa-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kas sa saad mulle näidata (kaardil)?
  [kas sa saad mul-le nai-da-ta (kaar-dil)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Millal on järgmine (buss)?
  [mil-lal on jär-gmi-ne (buss)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Pilet (....)
  [pi-let (....)]

History of Hiiumaa

Hiiumaa, Estonia's second-largest island, has a rich history that dates back to the Stone Age. Archaeological evidence suggests that the first settlers arrived around 4,000 BC, drawn by the island's fertile land and abundant resources. These early inhabitants were part of the Kunda culture, known for their distinctive pottery and stone tools.
In the 13th century, Hiiumaa came under the control of the Danish crown and later the Teutonic Order. The island's strategic location in the Baltic Sea made it a valuable asset. During this period, several fortifications were built, including the ruins of Pühalepa Church, which still stand today as a testament to the island's medieval past.
Hiiumaa experienced significant development during Swedish rule in the 16th and 17th centuries. The island became an important center for shipbuilding and trade. The construction of the Kõpu Lighthouse in 1531, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world still in use, symbolizes this era of prosperity and maritime significance.
With the Great Northern War in the early 18th century, Hiiumaa fell under Russian control. This period brought about significant changes, including the introduction of serfdom, which greatly affected the local population. Despite these hardships, the island continued to develop, with new manor houses and estates being built.
Hiiumaa, like the rest of Estonia, experienced the turmoil of World War II. The island was occupied first by Soviet forces and then by Nazi Germany. The local population endured hardships and many joined the resistance movements. The remnants of wartime fortifications and bunkers can still be found scattered across the island.
During the Soviet era, Hiiumaa was heavily militarized and largely isolated from the outside world. The island's strategic location made it a key military outpost, and several Soviet military installations were established. Despite the restrictions, the local culture and traditions persisted, and the islanders maintained a strong sense of identity.
Since Estonia regained its independence in 1991, Hiiumaa has undergone a remarkable transformation. The island has embraced tourism, celebrating its unique history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, enjoy the pristine beaches, and experience the vibrant local culture that has been preserved through centuries.