Walks of the Baltics and Finland

For a walking adventure in Europe, the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) and Finland take some beating. Somehow, they’re still relatively undiscovered by mainstream tourism, but it won’t stay that way for long. All offer easy trails through diverse national parks – ideal if you’re new to walking trips – plus historic cities and towns to explore. With so much to see, we make the most of our time, walking through varied landscapes (including beautiful Saaremaa island in Estonia), exploring historic capitals, and marveling at magnificent monuments.

On this Baltics and Finland adventure, we mostly stay in three- and four-star hotels, ideally located for access to the key sites. Below are the properties we typically use.



Vilnius: Panorama Hotel (nights 1-2)







In the Old Town of Vilnius, the Panorama Hotel is ideally located for our adventures and just 3.5mi (5.5km) from Vilnius International Airport. It's just over a five-minute walk from the Gate of Dawn and around a 10 to 15-minute walk from the Town Hall Square and the Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society. Shops and restaurants are close, too.



Liepaja: Liva Hotel (night 3)







In the heart of Liepaja, Liva Hotel has 115 comfortable rooms and half a century of history. There's also a bar and restaurant, which offers an international menu, and a fitness room.



Riga: Islande Hotel (nights 4-5)







Near the Daugava River, the Islande has a magnificent panoramic view of Riga Old Town. It's located in a green area of Kipsala island, a 12-minute walk from the Old City, and offers a wide range of amenities, including a bowling alley, sauna, gym, two restaurants and a summer terrace.



Kuressaare, Saaremaa: Staadioni Hotel (nights 6-7)







The well-located Staadioni Hotel is close to the highlights of Kuressaare, including the 14th-century castle-fortress. Though basic, it's only a 10-minute walk to town and has 27 spacious rooms with views to the castle and seaside. There is also a sauna in the house.



Tallinn: Go Schnelli (nights 8-9)







Go Schnelli is near the medieval old town of Tallinn and Balti Jaam Market. When you’re not out exploring, the first-floor hotel restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows with views over both and serves breakfast plus an à la carte dinner menu.



Helsinki: Original Sokos Hotel Albert (nights 10-11)







Our nights in Helsinki are spent in the Original Sokos Hotel Albert. It is a relaxed, small property in the heart of the Punavuori district, at the corner of Uudenmaankatu and Albertinkatu. If you have time, there’s a sauna to enjoy.