Travel in city Tartu

“We are your sauna sisters now. Tell us what you’re afraid of.” The three women I have just met eye me expectantly. “Er, I wouldn’t say I’m afraid, exactly, more apprehensive about how hot the sauna will be, and how cold the water is …”

Three small European cities you may never have heard of will soon come under the cultural spotlight as Europe’s latest Capitals of Culture.

Estonia has more unicorns than anywhere else in the world. No, not the mythical creature, but tech start-ups that have reached more than a billion-dollar valuation. Aside from its buzzy businesses, this compact nation of 1.3 million people is a trove of nature, off-grid oases, and UNESCO-recognized cultural sites. Here are top 10 ways to visit.

Medieval marvels in Tallinn’s Old Town. Lively street art in Tartu. Golden-sand beaches in Pärnu. The 160 islands of Vilsandi National Park. 

Central and Eastern Europe are among the culturally diverse parts of the world, preserving a plethora of deep-rooted traditions. What’s more, large tracts of the area remain off the mass-tourism radar, ensuring that there is still a great deal to explore. The following ten suggestions will ensure you get the best out of this huge, compelling and endlessly surprising region.