Hiiumaa Island, Estonia Travel Guide

Discover Hiiumaa Island: Estonia's serene escape with lush forests, sandy beaches, historic sites, and fresh seafood, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

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Hiiumaa Island

Hiiumaa Island, located in the Baltic Sea, is a hidden gem of Estonia. This serene island is the second-largest island in the country and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Known for its unspoiled nature, Hiiumaa is a perfect destination for nature lovers, hiking enthusiasts, and anyone looking to reconnect with the great outdoors. The island's landscape is a mix of lush forests, sandy beaches, and picturesque coastal lines. One of the island's most famous landmarks is the Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and forests. Hiiumaa also boasts quaint villages and historical sites, including the medieval Pühalepa Church and the Kassari Chapel. For those who enjoy water activities, Hiiumaa offers excellent opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and fishing. The island's clear waters and diverse marine life make it a great spot for snorkeling and diving as well. Bird watchers will be delighted with the variety of bird species that can be spotted here, especially during the migration seasons. Hiiumaa's local cuisine is a must-try, with fresh seafood being a highlight. The island's small, cozy restaurants serve delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, providing a taste of authentic Estonian flavors. Visitors can also explore local crafts and buy unique souvenirs made by artisans on the island. Whether you're looking to relax on a quiet beach, explore scenic trails, or immerse yourself in local culture, Hiiumaa Island has something for everyone. Its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it a perfect getaway for a rejuvenating holiday.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the summer months to enjoy the best weather and outdoor activities.
Rent a bike to explore the island's scenic trails and charming villages.
Check the local ferry schedules in advance, as they can vary by season.
Bring cash, as some small local shops and restaurants may not accept cards.
Try the local smoked fish dishes, a delicacy unique to the island.

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

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

Best attractions in Hiiumaa Island

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Best Attractions

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Tahkuna lighthouse

Explore the historic Tahkuna Lighthouse on Hiiumaa Island, a stunning blend of maritime heritage and breathtaking Baltic Sea views.

4.8

Wooden copy of the Eiffel Tower

Explore the whimsical Wooden Eiffel Tower in Reigi, Hiiu County – a unique tourist attraction blending charm, creativity, and stunning scenery.

4.4

Elamuskeskus Tuuletorn - Windtower Experience

Discover the Windtower Experience in Hiiu County: A unique blend of museum exhibits, café delights, and event planning services for an unforgettable visit.

4.7

Suuremõisa mansion

Explore the stunning Suuremõisa Mansion, a historical gem in Hiiu County showcasing exquisite architecture and rich cultural heritage.

4.7

Best landmarks in Hiiumaa Island

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Haapsalu Castle

Explore the medieval charm and rich history of Haapsalu Castle, a captivating museum and tourist attraction in Estonia's scenic coastal town.

4.7

Alpakafarm OÜ

Discover the enchanting world of alpacas at Alpakafarm Ú in Pärnu County, where family fun meets sustainable farming and local craftsmanship.

4.7

Tahkuna lighthouse

Discover the historic Tahkuna Lighthouse on Hiiumaa Island, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Estonia's maritime heritage.

4.8

Tuletorni kohvik (Lighthouse Cafe)

Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and stunning coastal views at Tuletorni Kohvik near Kõpu Lighthouse in Hiiu County.

4.7

Best restaurants in Hiiumaa Island

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Rannapaargu restaurant

Experience authentic Estonian cuisine in Kärdla's charming Rannapaargu Restaurant—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.4

Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse in Kärdla - where flavor meets comfort.

4.3

Roograhu restaurant

Experience exquisite local cuisine at Roograhu Restaurant in Hiiu County – where flavors meet tradition amidst stunning natural beauty.

4.6

Lest & Lammas Resto

Experience authentic Estonian cuisine at Lest & Lammas Resto in Kassari Village - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.2

Best bars in Hiiumaa Island

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Rannapaargu restaurant

Discover the flavors of Hiiu County at Rannapaargu Restaurant, where local ingredients meet international culinary flair in a cozy setting.

4.4

Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse

Experience the taste of Italy at Mamma Mia Pizzeria Italiana & Guesthouse in Kärdla, where delicious cuisine meets warm hospitality.

4.3

Rannu pubi

Discover the flavors of Hiiu County at Rannu Pubi, a cozy restaurant serving authentic Estonian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.8

Šampanjabaar ja restoran Kork

Discover the perfect blend of fine dining and vibrant bar culture at Šampanjabaar ja restoran Kork in Kärdla, Hiiu County, Estonia.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Hiiumaa Island

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Rannapaargu restaurant

Discover Rannapaargu: A delightful restaurant and bar in Kärdla, offering a rich taste of Estonian cuisine and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.

4.4

Rannu pubi

Experience authentic Estonian cuisine at Rannu Pubi, a cozy restaurant in Hiiu County known for its home-like atmosphere and delicious local dishes.

4.8

Meite Möte

Discover the culinary delights of Meite Möte in Hiiu County, where local flavors meet a warm atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.7

Šampanjabaar ja restoran Kork

Experience the perfect blend of fine dining and lively atmosphere at Šampanjabaar ja restoran Kork in Kärdla, Estonia, where champagne and gourmet cuisine await.

4.5

Best shops in Hiiumaa Island

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Hiiumaa Selver

Explore Hiiumaa Selver, a premier supermarket in Estonia offering a wide selection of local groceries and fresh produce for an authentic shopping experience.

4.6

Käina Coop Konsum | Construction Centre

Käina Coop Konsum in Hiiumaa: Your go-to supermarket for local goodies and essentials, offering a warm shopping experience.

4.7

Tormi Konsum

Discover the best of local and international shopping at Tormi Konsum, your go-to supermarket in Kärdla, Hiiu County.

4.6

Hiiumaa Kaubamaja

Discover Hiiumaa Kaubamaja: Your one-stop destination for local goods, groceries, and unique souvenirs in the heart of Kärdla.

4.4

Explore Hiiumaa Island on the Map

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

Hiiumaa Island Essentials

Hiiumaa Island is accessible primarily by ferry from the Estonian mainland. The most common route is from the port of Rohuküla to Heltermaa, with regular ferry services provided by TS Laevad. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, during the summer months, there are also ferry connections from Saaremaa Island. Hiiumaa can be reached by air as well, with flights from Tallinn to Kärdla Airport taking approximately 30 minutes.
Once on Hiiumaa Island, there are several transportation options available. Car rentals are a convenient way to explore the island at your own pace. Bicycles are also a popular choice, with several rental shops available. Public buses operate between major towns and villages on the island, and taxis are readily available in Kärdla and other larger settlements. For a more scenic experience, consider walking or cycling along the island's numerous trails.
The official currency in Estonia is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments on Hiiumaa Island, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in more remote areas. ATMs are available in Kärdla and other larger towns.
Hiiumaa Island is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists on the island.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Hiiumaa has a hospital located in Kärdla, which provides essential medical services. Pharmacies are available in larger towns for over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid overly casual clothing when dining in nicer restaurants. Religion: Do respect local religious customs, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do use polite behavior and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a simple 'Tere' (Hello). Handshakes are common, especially in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as smoked fish and black bread. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Hiiumaa Island like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and happy to share stories about their island. Don't miss visiting the Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world, and the Ristna Surfing Beach, popular among surfers for its excellent conditions. For a unique experience, explore the Hiiumaa Military Museum, which offers insights into the island's history during the Soviet era.

When is the best time to visit Hiiumaa Island?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hiiumaa Island

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

- HelloTere
  [teh-reh]
- GoodbyeHead aega
  [hed ah-gah]
- YesJah
  [yah]
- NoEi
  [ay]
- Please/You're welcomePalun
  [pah-loon]
- Thank youAitäh
  [eye-tah]
- Excuse me/SorryVabandust
  [vah-bahn-doost]
- How are you?Kuidas sul läheb?
  [kwee-dahs sool leh-heb]
- Fine. And you?Hästi. Ja sina?
  [hah-shtee yah see-nah]
- Do you speak English?Kas sa räägid inglise keelt?
  [kahs sah rah-ee-geed een-glee-seh kehlt]
- I don't understandMa ei saa aru
  [mah ay sah ah-roo]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMa sooviksin menüüd näha, palun
  [mah soh-veeks-een meh-noo-ood nah-hah pah-loon]
- I don't eat meatMa ei söö liha
  [mah ay suh luh-hah]
- Cheers!Terviseks!
  [tehr-vee-seks]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMa sooviksin maksta, palun
  [mah soh-veeks-een mahk-stah pah-loon]
- Help!Appi!
  [ah-pee]
- Go away!Mine minema!
  [mee-neh mee-neh-mah]
- Call the Police!Kutsu politsei!
  [koot-soo poh-lee-tseh]
- Call a doctor!Kutsu arst!
  [koot-soo ah-rst]
- I'm lostMa olen eksinud
  [mah oh-lehn ehk-see-nood]
- I'm illMa olen haige
  [mah oh-lehn hah-ee-geh]
- I'd like to buy...Ma sooviksin osta...
  [mah soh-veeks-een oh-stah]
- I'm just lookingMa vaatan lihtsalt
  [mah vah-tahn leekh-tsalt]
- How much is it?Kui palju see maksab?
  [kwee pahl-yoo seh mahk-sahb]
- That's too expensiveSee on liiga kallis
  [seh ohn lee-gah kahl-lees]
- Can you lower the price?Kas sa saaksid hinda alandada?
  [kahs sah sah-kseet heen-dah ah-lahn-dah-dah]
- What time is it?Mis kell on?
  [mees kehl ohn]
- It's one o'clockOn üks tund
  [ohn uks toond]
- Half past (10)Pool (10)
  [pool (dix)]
- MorningHommik
  [hohm-meek]
- AfternoonPärastlõuna
  [pah-rahst-loh-nah]
- EveningÕhtu
  [ohkh-too]
- YesterdayEile
  [ay-leh]
- TodayTäna
  [tah-nah]
- TomorrowHomme
  [hohm-meh]
- 1Üks
  [ooks]
- 2Kaks
  [kahks]
- 3Kolm
  [kohlm]
- 4Neli
  [neh-lee]
- 5Viis
  [vees]
- 6Kuus
  [koos]
- 7Seitse
  [sayt-seh]
- 8Kaheksa
  [kah-hehk-sah]
- 9Üheksa
  [oo-hehk-sah]
- 10Kümme
  [koom-meh]
- Where's a/the...?Kus on...?
  [koos ohn]
- What's the address?Mis on aadress?
  [mees ohn ah-ah-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kas sa saaksid mulle näidata (kaardil)?
  [kahs sah sah-kseet mool-leh nah-ee-tah tah-ree-dil]
- When's the next (bus)?Millal on järgmine (buss)?
  [meel-lahl ohn yairg-mee-neh boos]
- A ticket (to ....)Pilet (....le)
  [pee-leht (leh)]

History of Hiiumaa Island

Hiiumaa Island, known as Dagö in Swedish, has a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age. Archaeological findings suggest that the island was inhabited as early as 4,000 years ago. The ancient settlements were primarily agrarian, utilizing the island’s fertile soil and abundant natural resources.
During the 13th century, Hiiumaa came under the control of the Livonian Order, a branch of the Teutonic Knights. The island was fortified with several castles and manors. The most notable of these is the Suuremõisa Manor, which still stands today as a testament to the medieval architecture and the island's strategic importance during the period.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Hiiumaa was under Swedish dominion. This era saw significant cultural and architectural development. The Swedish influence is still evident in many of the island’s churches and buildings. One of the most famous structures from this period is the Kõpu Lighthouse, built in 1531, which is one of the oldest lighthouses in the world still in operation.
After the Great Northern War in the early 18th century, Hiiumaa was ceded to the Russian Empire. The island became a part of the Governorate of Estonia. This period brought about more infrastructural development, including the construction of military fortifications and the expansion of Hiiumaa's ports to bolster trade and defense.
Hiiumaa, like the rest of Estonia, experienced significant changes during the Soviet era, from 1944 to 1991. The island was heavily militarized, with restricted access to many areas. Soviet influence is still visible in some of the island's architecture and abandoned military installations, which have become points of interest for visitors.
Since Estonia regained independence in 1991, Hiiumaa has transformed into a peaceful and picturesque destination. The island has focused on preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Festivals celebrating Estonian traditions and history are common, and the island is known for its vibrant arts scene and hospitable locals.