Things to Do in Estonia in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Estonia
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Easter celebrations showcase Estonia's cultural revival - Orthodox and Lutheran traditions blend uniquely, with traditional egg painting workshops and church concerts throughout the month
- Nature awakens dramatically - snowdrops and crocuses bloom in Kadriorg Park by early April, while Soomaa National Park's spring floods create temporary canoe routes impossible other times of year
- Shoulder season pricing saves 30-40% on accommodations compared to summer, with many boutique hotels in Tallinn's Old Town offering April packages around €70-90 per night
- Daylight extends rapidly from 13 to 16 hours during April, giving you extra time for outdoor exploration without summer's tourist crowds at major sites like Toompea Castle
Considerations
- Unpredictable weather requires layered clothing - morning frost at 1°C (33°F) can shift to afternoon warmth at 12°C (53°F) within hours, making packing challenging
- Many outdoor cafés and seaside attractions remain closed until May 1st, limiting dining options in coastal areas like Pärnu and Haapsalu
- Mud season affects hiking trails - forest paths become soggy and some bog walks close temporarily due to spring melt and frequent rain showers
Best Activities in April
Tallinn Old Town Medieval Walking Tours
April's cool temperatures (8-12°C/46-53°F) are perfect for exploring cobblestone streets without summer heat or winter ice. Easter preparations add special atmosphere with traditional craft demonstrations in Town Hall Square. Fewer cruise ships mean authentic interactions with locals and clearer photos at viewpoints.
Soomaa National Park Spring Flood Canoeing
April's unique 'fifth season' creates temporary waterways through forests - an experience impossible in other months. Spring melt and rain create 2-3 week window when you can canoe over meadows and between trees. Water temperatures around 8°C (46°F) require proper gear but offer otherworldly scenery.
Estonian Islands Ferry and Hiking Combinations
Saaremaa and Hiiumaa ferries resume full spring schedules in April. Cool hiking weather (10°C/50°F average) is ideal for exploring Kaali meteorite craters and Sõrve Peninsula without summer heat. Windmills and coastal cliffs dramatic against spring storms rolling in from Baltic Sea.
Lahemaa National Park Spring Wildlife Watching
April migration brings thousands of cranes and geese to coastal meadows. Early morning temperatures around 4°C (39°F) create misty conditions perfect for photography. Brown bears emerge from hibernation, increasing wildlife viewing opportunities on guided walks through Viru bog and coastal forests.
Traditional Estonian Sauna and Wellness Experiences
April's cool, damp weather makes authentic smoke saunas particularly appealing. Traditional Easter sauna rituals still practiced in rural areas. Perfect contrast to outdoor activities - warm up after hiking or island exploration. Many authentic saunas operate year-round unlike summer tourist versions.
April Events & Festivals
Orthodox Easter Celebrations
Estonian Orthodox Easter often falls in April (dates vary yearly), featuring midnight services at Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and traditional egg painting workshops. More intimate than Western Easter celebrations, showcasing Estonia's Russian cultural heritage alongside Lutheran traditions.
Estonian Film Festival Spring Screenings
Tallinn's cinema scene comes alive with documentary and art film screenings throughout April. Local filmmakers present new works while retrospectives showcase Estonian cinema history. Venues include historic Kino Sõprus and modern Apollo Cinema.