Things to Do in Narva

You can see Russia from your hotel window in Narva. The narrow Narva River is all that separates Estonia's third-largest city from its Russian neighbor Ivangorod, creating one of Europe's most dramatic border scenes. Estonia's eastern edge feels quiet. Medieval castle walls rise next to Soviet apartment blocks while Estonian and Russian cultures blend in ways that feel natural and slightly surreal. Most visitors come for the imposing 13th-century Hermann Castle, which faces off against the Russian fortress across the water—but there's something genuinely compelling about wandering through a city where road signs appear in three languages.

The dining scene reflects cultural mixing. Estonian, Russian, and broader European influences all appear here with hearty local dishes like elk stew and fresh fish from Lake Peipus, alongside Russian classics like borscht and blini. Restaurants tend to be family-run and reasonably priced. A good dinner rarely costs more than €15-20 per person, with Café Reval near the castle serving decent Estonian fare while several spots around Town Hall square offer outdoor seating in warmer months. Don't miss the local brewery's offerings. Some restaurants serve dishes that blend Estonian and Russian traditions in ways you won't find elsewhere—if you're adventurous.

May through September offers pleasant walking weather. Summer months bring the warmest temperatures and longest days, which is particularly nice given Narva's northern latitude. Late fall or winter has its own appeal though. The castle looks particularly atmospheric against snowy skies while you'll get a more authentic sense of local life without tourist crowds—spring can be unpredictable weather-wise, but if you catch a good day, the contrast between medieval architecture and budding trees along the river is genuinely beautiful.