12 Must-Visit Places In The Baltic Countries

The Baltic Sea is a majestic northern region encircled by the Scandinavian nations, Germany, Poland, and, of course, the Baltic states. In descending geographical order, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania make up the Baltics, a unique regional clime dominated by a remarkable culture, history, and atmosphere.

The countries might not be well traveled by those arriving in Europe from beyond its continental borders (with Western Europe welcoming far more American visitors than its eastern neighbors, for instance), but they remain gems of European exploration. The strategic location made them an integral part of wartime history that shrouded the region in conflict during the 20th century. Later, the Baltic states came under Soviet control, adding another dimension to their history. Before any modern footprints were stamped into this northern reach of mainland Europe, however, Viking travelers frequented the coastline and interior. Locals and travelers coming to the region alike tout this blend of varied historical eras and natural wonders as a complex "It" factor that makes the Baltics a standout destination.

There's something infinitely majestic about the northern extents of Europe, and the Baltic countries capture that beauty and welcoming atmosphere perfectly. From the shimmering Christmas markets to unique historical sites that commemorate and highlight past triumphs and tragedies, the Baltics should be high on your list of places to explore.

The Hill of Crosses is exactly what the name suggests. The area is a small hill outside the Lithuanian city of Šiauliai plastered with crosses. There are upwards of 100,000 crosses of all sizes and materials on the hill, with the first written records of its existence dating back to 1850. However, it's thought that Lithuanians in the area began leaving crosses here after the November Insurrection in 1831 to honor their family members and compatriots who died while trying to rebel against Russian rule. Another revolt against foreign political dominion in 1863 may have cemented the legend of this hill in the zeitgeist of Lithuanian nationalistic thought. Later, Lithuania would become an occupied republic in the Soviet state — one of atheist thought that prioritized Soviet identity above religious and other affiliations throughout the country's diverse political geography.

While it's thought to have originated as a memorial shrine to those who lost their lives rebelling against Russian rule, it later came to symbolize Lithuanian heritage despite repeated Soviet efforts to demolish the religious iconography placed on its rise. The crossover between religious symbolism and rebellious history makes it a truly unique sight for anyone traveling through the Baltics.

Narva's Hermann Castle is another fabulous medieval construction in the Baltic states. Established by the Danes in 1256 on the banks of the Narva River (it's also sometimes referred to as Narva Castle or Narva Fortress), the impressive castle overlooks the river separating modern Estonia from its neighbor, Russia. The castle has seen a revolving door of rulers throughout its time, standing resolute in one of Europe's most fascinating landscapes. Danes, Germans, Swedes, and Russians have all laid claim to this iconic riverine castle.

Visitors arriving in Narva will be greeted by both the intricate stonework and the rush of water beneath its foundations. Inside the castle, the grounds now play host to a museum dedicated to the region's history dating back to the arrival of the first Danes to this community. There are permanent exhibitions showcasing Narva's ever-changing history, as well as several excellent temporary installations.

Jūrmala is a pure, unspoiled resort town on the Gulf of Riga. Only 20 minutes by car from Riga International Airport, it's the perfect seaside getaway for any traveler seeking something relaxing and novel at the same time. Because of the frigid temperatures that pervade this region during the colder months, Latvia might not be a common thought for travelers seeking a beachside resort town. The result is a hidden gem loved by locals but almost entirely overlooked by those traveling from farther afield.

The town evolved from a small fishing village over a century ago to a summertime magnet for holidaymakers, complete with plenty of nightlife options and other entertainment features. Because it stretches roughly 12 miles down the Latvian coastline, there are lots of different segments to be explored by visitors. You'll easily find modern amenities and the charm of older, 19th-century resort town splendor on this stretch of European coast.

The Salaspils Memorial is a different kind of destination; nevertheless, it's certainly worth visiting. The memorial can be found just outside Riga, the capital city of Latvia. It's a dedication to the suffering that Baltic-area prisoners and the area's targeted minority groups endured during Nazi occupation. The memorial is made up primarily of several statues scattered across a field, each capturing the emotional traumas of the Nazi prison camp that was once located on the spot.

The labor camp was in operation here between 1941 and 1944, with a total of around 23,000 people thought to have been imprisoned there. Records indicate that the Nazi regime moved Jewish prisoners there from elsewhere to construct the camp, and around 1,000 of them died while engaged in this forced labor. Around 2,000 others are believed to have perished from execution, disease, and other causes. It's a potent memorial site that is as impactful as it is important.

The limestone Türisalu Cliff towers around 100 feet over the shoreline below. Along Estonia's northern reaches and only 50 minutes from Tallinn, it provides some of the country's most spectacular natural vistas. The area is covered in hiking trails, and the cliff is bolstered by a viewing platform that makes the scene all the more spectacular. For those looking to get even closer to the action, hiking down the cliffside to arrive at the Vääna-Jõesuu beach below is a magnificent experience that will help work up a sweat.

Plenty more outdoor sporting opportunities can be found here for the adventurous types. Visitors can get in on rappelling down the cliff face, and the shoreline climate offers a beautiful vantage point to take in the Northern Lights during the Estonian winter. The stunning, treelined face looks particularly striking when covered in snow, a common sight between November and March.

An hour from Kaunas International Airport and just half an hour from Vilnius International Airport, the seemingly endless lakes in Lithuania's eastern countryside hold a stunning treasure. Amid the natural scenery, Trakai Island Castle stands on a small island within Lake Galvė. The fortress was first constructed in the 14th century and rebuilt in 1951, returning it to a state of immense splendor and nobility on one of Lithuania's deepest lakes. The scene becomes even more picturesque in the wintertime, as the lake tends to freeze over and allow for a natural ice skating rink to form around the Gothic-style construction.  

To visit the island, visitors walk across a narrow wooden bridge. When arriving at the castle, you can explore the museum within its walls to gain a better sense of the history of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, a potent political state that existed between the 13th and 18th centuries. Medieval festivals are also held within the castle's grounds, and we can't think of a more magical spot for a celebration.