10 Best Places for Families to Live in Estonia
Summary: In this article, we highlight some of the best places for international families to live in Estonia.
If you're dreaming about moving with your family to Estonia and haven't decided where to live, here are some of the best places for international families to live in Estonia.
Tallinn
Tallinn is a fantastic place for international families to reside. The city is rich in history and culture, offering a variety of activities for children. For instance, the Energy Discovery Centre is a hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits and workshops designed for kids. The Tallinn Zoo, home to over 500 species, is another popular destination for families. For outdoor activities, Kadriorg Park is a beautiful and expansive green space with a playground, a Japanese garden, and the KUMU Art Museum. The city also boasts several athletic facilities such as the Kalev Spa Hotel & Water Park, which has a large swimming pool and a gym that welcomes families. Sports clubs like FC Flora Tallinn and Tallinn Gymnastics School offer various programs for children, promoting physical fitness and teamwork. With its blend of educational and recreational opportunities, Tallinn provides a vibrant and enriching environment for families.
Tartu
Tartu is a wonderful choice for international families seeking a vibrant and enriching living environment. The city is home to numerous child-friendly attractions such as the AHHAA Science Centre, which offers interactive exhibits and workshops that make learning fun for kids. The Tartu Toy Museum, another popular destination, features a playroom and theatre where children can engage in creative play. For outdoor recreation, the city offers several parks and green spaces, including Toome Hill Park, a historic park with playgrounds and beautiful walking paths. The Tartu Adventure Park is another great spot for families, offering various outdoor activities like zip-lining and rope courses. Tartu also boasts several athletic facilities that welcome families. The Aura Centre, for instance, has a large swimming pool and a gym. There are also numerous sports clubs such as Tartu JK Tammeka and Tartu Gymnastics Club that offer various programs for children, fostering physical fitness and teamwork. With its mix of educational, recreational, and athletic opportunities, Tartu provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for international families.
"I lived in Tartu for several years, married my Ex Estonian wife here in the US, where we had two daughters then moved to Tartu. My work schedule on TV 7-8 hours ahead meant being up at 2-3am, and 4 satellite hops, which were expensive. A lot of what has been said is true. Tartu is really nice and quaint, changing rapidly. I remember when the first Mcdonald's went in, and it's been invaded since then with all the junk food you can imagine. I spoke extremely little Estonian, which at times was difficult. My daughters and ex are fluent in English and Estonian, so I often had a translator. I grew up in Mn and Chicago, so Estonia is cold in Winter, but I have been colder. DARK, though, is absolutely pitch black. It can be depressing. There are indoor spas and things, but the darkness can take a toll. The opposite is true in summer when it's constantly light. I mean, at midnight, the sun is up, 2 am. It bothered me more than the dark. The good news and bad news is Tartu is small. With 120k people or so and the second biggest city in Estonia, well, anyone who dislikes small-town life, it's not for you. In fact, the entire country may not be, except for a visit. I remember when Estonia joined the EU and NATO. I remember when they didn't use the Euro, it all happened pretty fast. The Estonian economy changed rapidly. Prices came in line with Western Europe. Wages didn't meet the needs. And still don't for many people. In Tartu, employment can be hard to find. Anyway, I have mixed emotions about Tartu, little too small for me, but nice," commented one member living in Tartu, Estonia.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Parnu
Parnu is an ideal place for international families to settle. The city is filled with a variety of activities for children. For instance, the Parnu Museum offers a children's program that includes interactive exhibits and workshops, making history fun and engaging for kids. The MiniZoo, with its collection of exotic animals, is another popular destination for families. For outdoor activities, the city offers several parks and recreational areas. The Parnu Beach Park, with its playgrounds and beautiful sandy beach, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The city also has several athletic facilities that are family-friendly. The Tervise Paradiis Water Park, for instance, has a large swimming pool and a gym that welcomes families. Sports clubs like Parnu JK Vaprus and Parnu Gymnastics Club offer various programs for children, promoting physical fitness and teamwork. With its blend of educational, recreational, and athletic opportunities, Parnu provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for international families.
Narva
Narva is a good destination for international families looking for a vibrant and enriching living environment. The city offers a plethora of activities for children. For instance, the Narva Museum, located in the historic Narva Castle, offers interactive exhibits and workshops that make learning about history fun for kids. The Narva Art Gallery also hosts various children's programs, encouraging creativity and artistic expression. For outdoor recreation, Narva has several parks and green spaces, including the beautiful Narva River Promenade and Dark Garden, both offering playgrounds and scenic walking paths. The city also boasts several athletic facilities that are family-friendly. The Narva Sports Centre, for instance, has a large swimming pool and a gym that welcomes families. Sports clubs such as Narva Trans and Narva Gymnastics Club offer various programs for children, fostering physical fitness and teamwork. With its mix of educational, recreational, and athletic opportunities, Narva provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for international families.
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Viljandi
Viljandi is a great place for international families to live, offering a variety of activities for children and adults alike. The Viljandi Puppet Theatre, for instance, offers engaging performances and workshops for children, making it a fun and educational destination. The Viljandi Museum also hosts interactive exhibits that make learning about local history enjoyable for kids. For outdoor activities, Viljandi has several parks and recreational areas. The Viljandi Castle Hills Park, with its beautiful walking paths and playgrounds, is a popular spot for families. The Viljandi Lake Beach is another great place for outdoor fun, offering a sandy beach and a playground. The city also has several athletic facilities that are family-friendly. The Viljandi Sports Centre, for instance, has a large swimming pool and a gym that welcomes families. Sports clubs like Viljandi JK Tulevik and Viljandi Gymnastics Club offer various programs for children, promoting physical fitness and teamwork. With its blend of educational, recreational, and athletic opportunities, Viljandi provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for international families.
Rakvere
Rakvere is an excellent choice for international families seeking a vibrant and enriching living environment. The city offers a variety of activities for children. For instance, the Rakvere Castle provides an interactive historical experience with medieval-themed activities that are both fun and educational for kids. The Rakvere Theatre also hosts various children's programs, promoting creativity and artistic expression. For outdoor recreation, Rakvere boasts several parks and green spaces, including the picturesque Vallimägi Hill and the Rakvere Oak Forest, both offering playgrounds and scenic walking paths. The city also has several athletic facilities that are family-friendly. The Rakvere Sports Centre, for instance, has a large swimming pool and a gym that welcomes families. Sports clubs such as Rakvere JK Tarvas and Rakvere Gymnastics Club offer various programs for children, fostering physical fitness and teamwork. With its mix of educational, recreational, and athletic opportunities, Rakvere provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for international families.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Kuressaare
Kuressaare is a great place for international families to settle, offering a range of activities for children and adults alike. The Saaremaa Museum, located in the historic Kuressaare Castle, offers engaging exhibits and workshops that make learning about local history enjoyable for kids. The Kuressaare City Theatre also hosts various children's programs, fostering creativity and artistic expression. For outdoor activities, Kuressaare boasts several parks and recreational areas. The Kuressaare Castle Park, with its beautiful walking paths and playgrounds, is a popular spot for families. The Kuressaare Beach is another great place for outdoor fun, offering a sandy beach and a playground. The city also has several athletic facilities that are family-friendly. The Kuressaare Sports Centre, for instance, has a large swimming pool and a gym that welcomes families. Sports clubs like FC Kuressaare and Kuressaare Gymnastics Club offer various programs for children, promoting physical fitness and teamwork. With its blend of educational, recreational, and athletic opportunities, Kuressaare provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for international families.
Haapsalu
Haapsalu is an excellent place for international families to live, offering a plethora of activities for children and adults alike. The Haapsalu Castle Museum, for instance, provides engaging exhibits and workshops that make learning about local history enjoyable for kids. The Haapsalu City Theatre also hosts various children's programs, promoting creativity and artistic expression. For outdoor activities, Haapsalu boasts several parks and recreational areas. The Haapsalu Castle Park, with its beautiful walking paths and playgrounds, is a popular spot for families. The Paralepa Beach is another great place for outdoor fun, offering a sandy beach and a playground. The city also has several athletic facilities that are family-friendly. The Haapsalu Sports Centre, for instance, has a large swimming pool and a gym that welcomes families. Sports clubs like FC Haapsalu and Haapsalu Gymnastics Club offer various programs for children, fostering physical fitness and teamwork. With its mix of educational, recreational, and athletic opportunities, Haapsalu provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for international families.
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Paide
Paide is a great place for international families to live, offering a variety of activities for children and adults alike. The Paide Museum, for instance, offers engaging exhibits and workshops that make learning about local history enjoyable for kids. The Paide City Theatre also hosts various children's programs, promoting creativity and artistic expression. For outdoor activities, Paide boasts several parks and recreational areas. The Paide Central Park, with its beautiful walking paths and playgrounds, is a popular spot for families. The Paide Artificial Lake is another great place for outdoor fun, offering a sandy beach and a playground. The city also has several athletic facilities that are family-friendly. The Paide Sports Centre, for instance, has a large swimming pool and a gym that welcomes families. Sports clubs like FC Paide and Paide Gymnastics Club offer various programs for children, fostering physical fitness and teamwork. With its blend of educational, recreational, and athletic opportunities, Paide provides a welcoming and stimulating environment for international families.
Vo?ru
Vo?ru, Estonia is a great choice for international families seeking a vibrant and welcoming community. The Vo?ru Town Museum offers interactive exhibits and workshops that make learning about local history fun for children. The Vo?ru County Puppet Theatre also hosts a variety of children's programs, encouraging creativity and artistic expression. For outdoor activities, Vo?ru is home to several parks and recreational areas. The Tamula Beach, with its sandy shores and playground, is a favorite among families. The Roosisaare Park, with its beautiful walking paths and picnic spots, is another great place for family outings. The city also boasts several athletic facilities that are family-friendly. The Vo?ru Sports Centre, for instance, has a large swimming pool and a gym that welcomes families. Sports clubs like FC Vo?ru and Vo?ru Gymnastics Club offer various programs for children, promoting physical fitness and teamwork. With its combination of educational, recreational, and athletic opportunities, Vo?ru provides a stimulating and welcoming environment for international families.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Estonia Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Estonia
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Estonia
- Best Places to Live in Estonia
- Real Estate in Estonia
- Guide to Real Estate in Estonia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Estonia
- Cost of Living in Estonia
- Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Estonia?
- Having a Baby in Estonia
- Health Insurance for Expats in Estonia
- Best Places to Visit in Estonia for Christmas Cheer
- 2024 Guide to Living in Estonia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Estonia 2024