Top-rated places to visit in Laane County, Estonia

4.5 Haapsalu Castle (187 reviews)
- Place for the whole family
Saturday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM Castles

The Episcopal castle in Haapsalu is a park for the ruins of a former stronghold. It is an architectural pearl dating from the 13th century that used to be the residence of local authorities until the end of the 17th century. This is the place where Estonia's most famous ghost - the eternal lover the White Lady - lives. At present the main building of the castle hosts a museum that gives an overview of the history of the stronghold and Oesel-Wiek Bishopric, the weaponry used in the medieval and early modern period and the ashlar found in the castle. The most important sights of the museum include the cathedral of the former Oesel-Wiek Bishopric located in the south wing of the castle, which was first mentioned in written records in 1279, and the watchtower now used as a belfry. While in the main fortress, one can enjoy a nice view overlooking Haapsalu and the surrounding sea. Historic fortresses have, over the course of time, been turned into parks. This is a unique symbiosis of architecture and nature that provides the joy of discovery for both adults and as children. Small visitors to the fortress can enjoy the playground inspired by the Middle Ages in the vicinity of the main fortress. See more..
4.5 Haapsalu Old Town (150 reviews)
- It totally deserve a visit!
Historic Walking Areas

Haapsalu, which is bordered by the sea on three sides, fits on a piece of land with a size of just 10.59 km2. The Old Town is located on a peninsula with two eskers, which continue to the north-west as a chain of islets (holms) connected to the mainland. There are low meanders between the holms – Suur and Vaike Viik.The culturally and environmentally valuable Old Town of Haapsalu can be divided into its medieval section and the 20th century health resort area. The medieval part is around the Episcopal castle, with the medieval network of Kooli, Jaani, Vee, Linda, Ruutli and Vaike-Mere Streets and buildings. It is surrounded by a belt of wooden houses and the Promenade, Aafrika beach and parks. See more..
4.0 Railway and Communication Museum (115 reviews)
- A grand train station
Speciality Museums

The railway terminus with its intriguingly grand station building, constructed in the early 20th century to service the bustling resort town of Haapsalu, invites you to take a virtual journey back in time, accompanied by steam engine noises, to learn about the evolution of railways in Estonia spanning almost a century and a half. Here you can also see different methods of communicating information, from early telegraph and telephone devices to the wireless communications and television. Old locomotives and carriages made their final stop here and you can also come across a polite stationmaster and a skeleton telephone, or visit the old post office. This is all the Station, a place of arrivals and departures through the prism of the past. See more..
4.5 Africa Beach and Promenade (73 reviews)
- Nice beach and Promenade
Historic Walking Areas

The splendour of Haapsalu, the famous Czarist era resort, is recalled by the seafront Promenade and its jewel -- the Assembly Hall with its wooden “gingerbread”. Walk on the sloping promenade and glance dreamily at the sea; check the time at the sundial and have a rest on the bench named for the world-famous composer Tchaikovsky. Interesting facts: The Promenade starts at the exotically named Africa Beach, and ends at the Chocolate Promenade, which is named after a former café. There is a children’s playground on the Promenade and the town’s only observation tower. There is also a monument to Carl Hunnius, the discoverer of Haapsalu’s therapeutic mud behind the band shell. See more..
4.5 Haapsalu Bishop’s Castle Museum (60 reviews)
- Amazing castle
Castles

Come and acquaint yourself with the history of medieval Haapsalu, watch a video about the castle and visit the Cathedral. From the upper platform of the bell tower, you have a wonderful 360-degree view that extends for 20 km.Interesting facts: In medieval times, the ship traffic on the Bay of Haapsalu is said to have been controlled from the bell tower. The five-story bell tower is 38 metres high, and every day at noon, you can listen to a carillon. From the small castle you can purchase souvenirs and you may also happen upon a pleasant concert. See more..
4.5 Ilon's World of Wonders (33 reviews)
- Amazing little house with huge world hidden in it
Spent 2-3 hours Art Galleries

The Ilon Wikland Gallery, showcasing the work of the illustrator of Astrid Lindgren's children's books, opened in Haapsalu in 2006. Ilon's World of Wonders opened in 2009.Did you know...? *At Ilon's World of Wonders you can draw, watch films, admire Ilon's illustrations, write a letter to Karlsson, test your skills in the handicraft workshop and Mattias' house, discover the secrets of the Magic Well, try stilt-walking, watch children's performances, work in the Bullerby kitchen, enjoy a picnic and have a great time generally!Check out the summer and winter schedule of events on the Ilon's World of Wonders website. See more..
4.5 Museum of the Coastal Swedes (20 reviews)
- A little gem
Speciality Museums

This museum in Haapsalu introduces the thousand-year-old settlements of the coastal Swedes in Estonia. In the house inaugurated by the King of Sweden, you can acquaint yourself with their unique cultural heritage and see a 20-metre embroidered rug that depicts the life of the Estonian-Swedes. There is a scene where Swedish peasant bought Large-Pakri Island from the Padise Monastery for 34 gold marks in 1345. Swedish King Carl Gustaf had great words of praise for the pictorial rug! In addition, other interesting undertakings take place and traditional wedding feasts are held. Good to know: A wooden sailboat – Jaala – was built in the net shed next to the museum, which was modelled on boats from Ruhnu Island. See more..
4.0 Tchaikovsky's Bench (18 reviews)
- Sit and listen to the music
Spent < 1 hour Monuments & Statues

The musician's bench is a great place to relax for a few minutes after walking along the promenade. You can press a button and you will hear some of his music/ See more..
4.5 Haapsalu Shawl Museum (14 reviews)
- Just very fine museum of handicraft !
Speciality Museums

The Haapsalu Shawl, an extremely fine knitted shawl that can be pulled through a woman’ ring, has been the symbol of Haapsalu since the last century. At that time, as well as today, they are highly regarded by women. The knitters of traditional shawls knitter are professionals; the skill is passed down from generation to generation. In the Shawl Museum, which is located in a jewellery workshop, you can see a permanent exhibition on the past and present of the Haapsalu shawl, examine the extremely fine patterns, and buy one of the masterpieces for yourself.Interesting fact: Haapsalu shawls have been presented as gifts to the women of the Swedish Royal Family as well as the Estonian President’s honoured guests. See more..
4.0 Haapsalu Sundial (13 reviews)
- Promenade attraction
Points of Interest & Landmarks

There is sundial designed by artist Roman Haavamae on the Haapsalu seaside Promenade. The face of the dial depicts the life of man – starting with a child and ending with an old man supported by a cane. On the Promenade also admire the decorative dolomite stairways and decorative columns by the same artist, as well as the ornamented stairs on both sides of the Assembly Hall. Interesting fact: The sundial shows the local sun time, which is about 90 slower than daylight savings time. Go and check to see if your watch is correct. See more..
4.5 Ungru Manor (11 reviews)
- amazing building
Historic Sites

The ruins of the Ungru manor used to represent one of the most impressive Neo-Baroque buildings in Estonia, although it never was really finished. Its sophisticated footprint and the numerous baroque volute ornaments on its gables are characteristic for the castle.Interesting to know:The Ungru Manor was an almost exact copy of the Merseburg castle in Germany. After World War II the manor fell into the hands of Soviet troops, in 1968 the chief of the airport decided to use the ruins of the manor to fill in the holes in the runway. About one third of the manor was torn down, fortunately the rest was preserved until today.Compare the neat ruins of the manor to the contrasting Soviet airfield remains next to them See more..
4.5 Haapsalu Maria-Magdaleena Church (9 reviews)
- Wonderful to see
Churches & Cathedrals

The Estonian Orthodox Maria Magdaleena Church is located in an idyllic area of Haapsalu – on the Promenade. Russian Tsar Alexander II attended the opening of the church in 1852. The church was restored to its present state only a few years ago. The church is open on Sundays from 9 am to noon. To visit at other times, please contact us in advance.Interesting fact: The church and the surrounding buildings are depicted in Ilon Wikland’s book Long, Long Journey. Ilon Wikland, who was the illustrator of Astrid Lindgren’s books, describes her Haapsalu childhood in the book. See more..
3.5 St John’s Lutheran Church (8 reviews)
- Important piece of Haapsalu's history
Churches & Cathedrals

St. John’s Church in Haapsalu which is rebuilt from a 15th century warehouse differs from other churches for its location of north-south orientation. When entering the church you should certainly pay attention to the 5-metre stone altar and the wooden pulpit.Interesting facts:St John’s Church has been a church for an Estonian congregation and many of the simpler citizens have been buried under the floor and in the churchyard.The clock in the tower of the church is one of the oldest in Estonia and the oldest in the west of Estonia.The church is accessible on the outside all year round; the interior of the church can be admired during the events in the church calendar. See more..
4.5 Matsalu National Park (7 reviews)
- Great time here
National Parks

Kasari meadow in Matsalu National Park in Laanemaa is the biggest preserved open meadow in Europe – 4000 hectares in size. The meadow needs cutting and hay needs to be taken away on an annual basis; otherwise, it will turn into scrubland. In springs the meadow is usually flooded for a couple of weeks. The view opening from Kloostri birdwatching tower is magnificent – the tower is also good for birdwatching. In summer, after flooding, you can come and watch wild animals.Good to know:In springs it might not be possible to get to the tower without your feet getting wet. See more..
3.5 Laanemaa Museum (6 reviews)
- A very good overview of the town's spa history
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums

The museum is located in the former Town Hall in Lossiplatsi Square. Wander through the historic interior and learn about the old times of Haapsalu. Exhibitions change regularly, so depending when you come you might get to know the old farmhouse, the once-famous resorts of Haapsalu, or the ancient history of the area. If you would like some more information about the history of Haapsalu, you are welcome to study it more in depth with the help of the staff of the museum. See more..
4.0 Koluvere Castle (5 reviews)
- A quiet Castle
Castles

This water fortress was established in the 13th century by the bishop’s vassal Lode. The tower fortress, convention hall and cannon tower were built later. This place has been a battlefield both during St. George’s Night uprising as well as during the Livonian war. In 1439 it became one of residences of Saare-Laane bishop. In the 17th century the fortress was turned into a manor ensemble. In 1771 the empress of Russia – Catherine II – bought it and gave it to her lover – Prince Grigori Orlov. From that time and until 1917 the castle was used by the Russian czar’s family. Later on the building has been used as a boys’ educational establishment and as a nursing home.At present the castle is in private ownership and being renovated..Take a look at the aerial panorama (picture by Joel Tammet). See more..
4.0 St Olav’s Church (4 reviews)
- Great views from tower
Churches & Cathedrals

Vormsi church which dates back to the 14th century and is the main memento of its history and culture – is located in the centre of the island, in Hullo. The church was unused for a long time after the Swedish escaped from the island in the end of World War II. The church was dedicated again on Olav's Day in 1990.Be sure to take a look at the characteristic square-shaped nave and have look at the old ceiling paintings in the altar room.Interesting facts:The first church in Vormsi was a wooden church.* St. Olav’s church in Vormsi is unique for the fact that it has no belfry, the bell hangs above the door under the high ridge.* There are two gnarled pine trees at the gate of the church – this is the place where the pillory stood. See more..
3.5 Puhtulaid (4 reviews)
- Морские пейзажи
Nature & Wildlife Areas

Puhtulaid is a narrow peninsula - it measures just 500 m across. The southern part of the peninsula is mainly covered in pebbly coastal ridges whose broadleaf forests are home to many different species. The northern end is more sparse, with less forest cover and more reedy marsh and meadows. You will find around 60 separate species of trees and bushes here.Puhtulaid is a place unique in the world because of the migratory Arctic birds who stop here - experienced birdwatchers have counted almost a million birds in one single day here!Did you know...?*Puhtulaid's forests boat pine trees that are up to 360 years old See more..
5.0 Communication Museum (4 reviews)
- Отличный музей! Советую!
Speciality Museums

Communication Museum offers a reviewof the development of telecommunications in Western Estonia and other. Do You still remember old telephone terminals- and equipment from different time periods, starting from an old crank wall phone up to modern mobile phones? There's something interesting for everyone.Good to know:One museum room has been set up as a postal history room, they also use a special stamp. See more..
4.0 Memorial to Cyrillus Kreek (4 reviews)
- A great place for self-guided Cyrillus Kreek fans.
Monuments & Statues

Come and see this memorial to one of Estonia’s most famous composers, who grew up in Laane County - Cyrillus Kreek (1889-1962). The memorial, which was created by Aime Kuulbusch, is located in front of the composer’s former home, on the shores of Vaikese Bay. Did you know...?*The majority of Kreek's works were created in Haapsalu.*Kreek's most important 'secret service' was composing sacred music and arranging sacred folk songs and choral canons, whilst publicly maintaining a standoffish attitude towards the church. See more..
4.0 Vormsi Island (4 reviews)
- Vormsi
Islands • Nature & Wildlife Areas

Well worth the visit , I spent a couple of days here and really didn't want to leave , wild game and birds are abundant.. Good accommodation can be found at the guesthouse, this is a wonderful building with a thacthed droof and Seaview.. The historic cemetery is amazing, and still in use to this very day , if you have the time and want to do something different to escape at all I recommend visit this island.. See more..
3.5 Lihula Village (4 reviews)
- Belle petite ville
Historic Sites • Castles

Petite marche agréable le long des berges, bien aménagées, des couleurs et des paysages magnifiques. See more..
4.0 Noarootsi Church (3 reviews)
- Surprisingly nice view
Churches & Cathedrals

Noarootsi Church in late-Gothic style was built around 1500. You will first notice the Falu red plank roof – the church is one of the three plank-roof churches in Estonia. In the medieval times the lime and rubble stone building also had the function of being a fortified church.Inside the church one should pay attention to the baptising stone, baroque pulpit, limestone baroque epitaph to Minister Martin Winter.Interesting facts:By the entrance there is a stone slab with royal autographs from the present King of Sweden – Carl XVI Gustav who visited Noarootsi in 1992. Across the road from the church you will see the oldest wooden building in Lannemaa – the parsonage originating from the 17th century. See more..
4.5 Lihula Museum (3 reviews)
- Nice place with lots of "to-do" things
Speciality Museums

A 13th century bishop and guild manor is nowaday’s known as Lihula museum. The museum gives overview of the history of South Laanemaa, Lihula and its fortress. The museum displays many interesting findings of archaeological studies. Visitors often admire the exhibition of local ethnographical materials like traditional clothing, carpets and tools. Special expositions are held during the summer months. Good to know: Lihula Tourism Information office is situated in the same building. See more..
4.0 Vormsi Farm Museum (3 reviews)
- Fantastic Opportunity
Speciality Museums

Vormsi Farm Museum comprises a restored farm complex originally constructed by coastal Swedes. It is one of very few remaining since World War II days. It showcases life on the island in the first half of the 20th century through photos and writing, and of course the memories of those who were born on Vormsi but fled to Sweden during the war. You will find tastefully renovated thatched roof buildings, photographic exhibitions and a wide range of everyday items from the period. There is also a traditional smoke sauna. Did you know...? *If you wish to you can buy Vormsi handicrafts and souvenirs at the farm or stop and enjoy refreshments here See more..
3.5 Penijoe Manor (3 reviews)
- There are no signs and the doors were closed, but it was open for visitors
Historic Sites

Penijoe Manor was established in 1835 as a drove center of Lihula Manor. Here you can view slideshows or videos, get additional information about the hiking trails, catering and accommodation in the area. The exhibition gives an overview of nature and the cultural heritage of the Matsalu National Park.The facilities are also an excellent place for education: there is a conference room and classroom for holding seminars and workshops. Useful information: There is an electronic information terminal in the centre where you can find tourist information on Laanemaa and the entire Estonia. See more..
3.5 Vormsi Cemetery (3 reviews)
- Неординарное лесное кладбище на Вормси
Cemeteries

Vormsi Cemetery right next to St Olav’s Church on the island of Vormsi is one of the most unique cemeteries in Estonia. In the older part of the cemetery you will find many limestone and sandstone wheel crosses. More than 330 wheel crosses have survived and there are many crosses of ordinary shapes.Interesting facts:There are two memorial stones in the churchyard – one for the Estonian-Swedish cultural figure Hans Pohl, and the other for the Swedish missionary Osterblom who brought about fundamental changes in the local religious life.Try to find the oldest grave stone in the cemetery originating from 1743. Outside the churchyard you can see one of the few freedom monuments in Estonia which stood in its place through the whole of the Soviet era. See more..
4.5 Evald Okas Museum (3 reviews)
- Amazing museum
Speciality Museums

The works of Evald Okas, a great figure in the Estonian art world and an honorary member of the Florence Art Academy, can be found in museum collections in Estonia and abroad. This museum has been enriching the art life of Haapsalu since 2003. The primary attraction is the constantly changing permanent exposition, exhibitions of works by Okas’ family and those of various other artists.Did you know...?*The building, constructed in the mid-19th century as a tavern, enjoys a unique aura*You can take part in art courses and attend interesting exhibitions*Since 1939, Okas’ works have been displayed in 50 solo exhibitions See more..
4.5 Ants Laikmaa Museum (3 reviews)
- Very interesting museum about Estonian artist Ants Laikmaa
History Museums

Ants Laikmaa was one of the most colourful personalities of Estonian art, having gained prominence both as a portrait painter and a landscape artist. His favourite technique was pastel. In 1917 here, on the Tammiku Farm land in the village of Kadarpiku, Ants Laikmaa began the building of a new home. In 1932 the artist closed down his studio-school in Tallinn and moved to this parish of Taebla. His house was completed, built in a folk-romantic style, unique for Estonia at that time. In 1960 it was opened to the public as a museum, showcasing Ants Laikmaa's studio, living and working quarters. Take a walk in the picturesque park and visit the artist's final resting place at his home farm. See more..
4.5 Carl Abraham Hunniuse Monument (3 reviews)
- He discovered the magic of the Haapsalu mud
Monuments & Statues

On the Promenade make a stop at the monument to Carl Abraham Hunniuse (1797-1851), who established the resort of Haapsalu. Dr, Hunnius was the first to notice that the local residents used the sea mud to find relief for their ailments and was inspired to start investigating the properties of the mud. At his initiative, the first therapeutic mud baths were established in Haapsalu in 1825. Interesting fact: Haapsalu was named an Imperial resort, and Russian Tsars Nicholas I, Alexander II, Alexander III and Nicholas II and their families all vacationed here and took the mud baths.Come and try a Haapsalu therapeutic mud bath in the Laine and Fra Mare Spa hotels! See more..
3.5 Ernst Enno Monument (3 reviews)
- Ordinary
Monuments & Statues

Poet Ernst Enno came to Haapsalu in 1919, when he became a school adviser in Laane County. His Haapsalu period was not the peak of his career, but it was here that he wrote his best children’s songs. If you are walking on the Haapsalu embankment stop by the park named for him and monument dedicated to him.Interesting facts: Ernst Enno’s grave is in Haapsalu’s Old Cemetery, where many famous cultural figures rest under the indigenous trees. The author of the monument is Roman Haavamagi, whose is famous for his sculptures, including monuments that are located primarily in Haapsalu. See more..
4.0 Risti Monument for the Deported (2 reviews)
- Worth a visit
Monuments & Statues

Risti railway station was the place where most people from Laanemaa – almost 3000 people – were deported to Siberia. The monument designed by Viljar Ansko “The railway rails remember…” has been placed on a small abandoned platform with stone stairs on both sides. Four rails reach for the sky in the four corners of the platform. The rails are joined into a cross with two horizontal bars just before the top. At night the monument is illuminated diagonally by two spotlights installed inside the railway platform. The height of the monument is almost 13 metres. Besides commemorating the mass deportations in the recent history, the cross also symbolises the history of the small railway town – Risti. See more..
4.5 Salumagi in Salevere (2 reviews)
- Really nice place with small cliff and waterfall
Hiking Trails

Salumagi is one of the most beautiful places in Laanemaa. It is a type of relief designed by a mass of glacier ice and by the Baltic Sea. This limestone relief almost 400 million years old managed to withstand the wearing effect of the ice sheet. The steep limestone wall on the side of the sea of the elevation is probably almost 6000 years old. A spring called Silmaallikas flows from the wall of the shore – this is the place which was in the old times used as a place for sacrificing. Salevere hiking trail passes the spring.Interesting facts:The remains of an ancient fort have been discovered in Salumagi and at the base of the hill you can see a very rare forest abundant in species. See more..
5.0 Kullamaa Church (2 reviews)
- Beautiful old church
Churches & Cathedrals

Of the interior of the church which dates back to the 13th century one should pay attention to the pulpit, chandeliers, organ, altar painting, H. Goseken’s epitaph and triumphal arch group.Interesting facts:In the churchyard you will see Estonia’s oldest wheel cross which reads Sitta Kodt Matz. According to a legend Matz had been gathering horse droppings, then fertilised the field with those and then he grew mighty rye there. He became so rich that he could get himself buried in the churchyard.Estonia’s first professional composer Rudolf Tobias (1873-1918) is buried in the churchyard.Nearby you will find Kullamaa Rohumagi – Estonians’ for of nearly 2000 m2 dating back to the 11th-12th centuries.Kullamaa is also the place where the oldest Estonian language signs were found. See more..
4.0 Virtsu Farm Museum of Vintage Vehicles (2 reviews)
- why not
Speciality Museums
You can see vintage vehicles in the former house of field hands in the Virtsu Manor, the exhibits are from the private collection of Valeri Kirss. Among the displayed exhibits there are unique horse-drawn vehicles, bicycles, and automobiles. Good to know: there are also more than 200-year-old vehicles exhibited! See more..
4.0 Epp Maria Gallery (2 reviews)
- можно зяглянуть
Art Galleries

The creative work of Epp Maria Kokamagi, one of Estonia’s most famous artists, includes oil paintings, watercolours, book design and theatre and film design. The building, which was built as a café during Estonia's first period of independence, now houses a gallery over two floors, where exhibitions change according to the seasons. In addition to Epp Maria's wonderful paintings, you can also enjoy the paintings and furniture created by her husband Jaak Arro, the ceramics of Liisu Arro and the paintings of Imbi Lind.Did you know...? *During summer, you can enjoy some fine wine, tea or coffee and Anni Arro’s treats at the Anni café on the second floor. Desserts are provided by Nadja Kaarma. See more..
4.0 Ridala Church (2 reviews)
- Kaunis kirkko 1300 luvu puolivälistä
Churches & Cathedrals

Erittäin kaunis kirkko, jossa ehdottomasti kannattaa vierailla. Itsellämme oli mahdollisuus osallistua metsäveljien juhlatilaisuuteen, jossa piispan johdolla kunnioitettiin kuunniamitalein saavutuksia. Lisäksi lapsikuoro lauloi kauniita lauluja, jossa tämän paksuseinäisen kirkon akustiikka antoi kauniin soinnun. Ehkä olimme onnekkaita, kun pääsimme kuulemaan ja näkemään tämän kaiken, kauniin alttarikoristelun ja seinien ripustettujen vaakunoiden keskelle. Penkit ovat varmasti hyvin vanhaa tekoa, ymmärtääkseni 1700 luvulta, tosin tämän päivän ihmisille jo hieman epämukavat istua, mutta siinäkin menneisyyden havinaa. Seinämaalaukset ovat upeita jotkut ikivanhoja. See more..
4.0 Haapsalu City Gallery (2 reviews)
- Estonian contemporary art
Art Galleries

Haapsalu City Gallery showcases and promotes the artistic life not only of Haapsalu itself, but of Estonia as a whole. Located in newly refurbished premises in the Haapsalu Cultural Centre, the gallery is spacious and full of light, making it the perfect place to exhibit paintings and graphic art or even photography or ceramics. See more..
5.0 Osmussaar (1 review)
- Osmussaare reisid
Islands

Osmussaar is unique for its interesting nature and history – the island was first inhabited by the Estonian Swedes, and later on it was conquered by an army base of the Soviet army. The island is 5 kilometres long, 1.6 kilometres wide. Its highest spot is 8 metres high. Osmussaare might have risen from the sea 3000 years ago. The landscape is characteristic for its limestone bluff, breccia boulders, vast shingle mould areas and juniper shrubland. Also take a look at the ruins of the stone chapel, the cemetrey and the lighthouse.Interesting facts:When Estonia entered into the so-called military bases agreement with Soviet Russia, the inhabitants were forced to leave the island and the Red Army built fortifications there. You can see the remains of those fortifications there even now. In order to go to Osmussaare, you have to order transport from Port Dirhami. See more..
3.0 Rooslepa Chapel and Cemetery (1 review)
- Small chapel with a very large churchyard
Churches & Cathedrals

The ruins of Rooslepa chapel originate from the 17th century. It was originally built as a wooden chapel. The present stone chapel was built in 1834. The chapel fell apart after World War II, but the sanctuary which has by now been completely restored was recommemorated in August 2007. The chapel has a brand new belfry with the ball and weathervane. The weathervane depicts a whale with its toothed mouth open.Interesting facts:The stone inside the chapel near the entrance waited for 10 years to return to its original place. The stone is unique for the autograph by the father of the present King of Sweden dating back to the year 1932. See more..
5.0 Laelatu Wooded Meadow (1 review)
- One of the best preserved habitats of its kind
Nature & Wildlife Areas

Laelatu wooded meadow, not far from Virtsu, is one of the biggest and best-preserved meadows of its kind in northern Europe. It is rich in plant life, with more than 400 species of vascular plants and 30 species of moss. The most common trees here are oak, ash, white birch and maple. Two-thirds of the orchids that grow in Estonia can also be found here.Did you know...?- Laelatu wooded meadow holds a record for number of species per square metre: in 2001 a sample square metre of ground was counted to have 76 different species of vascular plants. This could well be not only the Estonian but also the European record! See more..
5.0 Karuse Church (1 review)
- Karuse kirik
Churches & Cathedrals

Karuse church is one of the oldest sacral buildings in Laanemaa – it was built in the 1260s as a fortress-church for the Livonian Order.Inside the church you should pay attention to the Baroque-style pulpit and altar. When walking around the churchyard you will see the trapezoid headstones originating from the 13th century and wheel crosses dating back to the 17th century.Interesting facts:It is likely that the master of the Livonian Order who was killed near Karuse in the sea ice battle with the Lithuanians is buried in the church. See more..
5.0 Kirbla Church (1 review)
- Kirbla Püha Nikolause kirik
Churches & Cathedrals

Kirbla church built in the beginning of 6th century is one of the smallest stone churches in Estonia. Its length is 30 metres and its width 11 metres. According to the legend people could not agree on the location for the church. Finally heaven itself gave a sign and a sudden bolt of lightning struck Kirbla hill. Lightning had shattered a sacrifice stone as big as a sauna – this was the place where the church was built.Interesting facts:The church is unique for its varying size of windows and the position thereof. One window is in the north wall, the one in the west wall is round and the middle window in the south wall is narrower and higher compared to the others.The grave of the last Prime Minister of the Republic of Estonia (1918-1940) – Juri Uluots – who died in Sweden in 1945 is in the churchyard. See more..
5.0 St Elizabeth's Church (1 review)
Churches & Cathedrals

The original church of St Elizabeth in Lihula was destroyed in a battle between the German order and a bishop in 1297. A new church was then erected which remained standing until 1874, when its poor status saw it condemned. The current church was completed two years later, in 1876. Its altar, pews and chancellery were the work of a local master, Laurberg, while its baroque sculptures date from an even older church - as do its altar painting and one of its bells. The organ was made by a master builder by the name of Tanton. See more..
3.0 Hanila Church (1 review)
- A beautiful church
Churches & Cathedrals

Hanila church is one of the most stylish early-Gothic-style sacral buildings in the Saare-Laane region and was built in the 13th century. In the west wall of the church you should pay attention to the stairs leading to the vaults and the baroque-style pulpit and carved altar. Also of interest are the gravestones of interesting shapes, probably dating back to the early medieval times, in the cemetery near the church.Interesting facts:18 trapezoid gravestones were found in the church depicting paganism symbols. A legend says that the builders had bricked in a goose in the wall of he church, hence the name Hanila (The English word for the Estonian hani is goose). See more..
4.0 Tapamaja Galerii (1 review)
Art Galleries

See more..
5.0 Paralepa Forest Park (1 review)
- Take a walk in the park
Spent 2-3 hours Parks • Forests

I had finished exploring the town and had a couple of hours to spare before the bus journey back to Tallinn so i noticed this trail leading to the forest. Walked about 2 kms through the forest and reached the beach where there were a few people playing with their kids. The trail leads further along but i had to return to the bus stop, wish i had more time to hike in that area. See more..
5.0 Lasteraamatukogu (1 review)
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites
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4.0 Vasikaholmi Rand (1 review)
- Small, lovely beach
Beaches

It's a magical hidden gem in Haapsalu. We visited it at the end of August and it was quiet. Don't have high expectations for lots of sand, but it is a beautiful place to contemplate. You can even walk a bit into the sea, but be careful as it has lots of little rocks. But it's still walkable. No shops around so bring your own water and snacks. See more..
3.0 Haapsalu Art School Gallery (1 review)
- Pienimuotoinen näyttely
Art Galleries
Come and acquaint yourself with works by the children of Haapsalu and Laane County and other local artists. Other interesting exhibitions are also organized. See more..