I've been to 15 European countries. Skip the crowds in Italy and Spain — go to this less-visited gem instead.

23.12.2024 - 16:45 / insider.com

I've traveled around the world and to 15 countries in Europe, but I've yet to come across a place as special as Estonia.

The European country has retained a lot of its old-world charms, with architecture and history that rivals that of popular European destinations such as Italy and Spain.

Yet, it feels like a hidden gem because it doesn't attract the same level of tourists. In 2023, the country reportedly welcomed around 4 million tourists, compared to Italy's estimated 60 million and Spain's 85 million.

Estonia's relatively low tourism rates surprise me since it has what many popular European destinations offer: a rich history, delectable food, a unique blend of old and new worlds, and lots of culturally significant sites.

When I first told friends I was visiting Estonia, many revealed that they had never heard of it. Yet, as I walked through the cobblestone streets of its capital, I realized that it's actually Europe's best-kept secret.

Tallinn's Old Town is Estonia's capital and cultural epicenter. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This quaint and colorful town has historic defensive walls, which helped preserve a lot of the city's incredible structures.

Some of Tallinn's Gothic architecture dates back to medieval times — and the colorful designs create an enchanting setting.

Estonia is also home to many art museums and galleries. Tallinn alone houses dozens— so pack some good walking shoes and wander around town for a museum-hopping day.

My favorite stop was the Niguliste Museum, which displays in its collection a large fragment of the fascinating Danse Macabre (The Dance of Death). The late-15th-century painting is considered to be Tallinn's most famous artwork.

Niguliste Museum also has an observation deck that offers stunning views of the city that rival those from Giotto's Bell Tower in Florence, Italy.

Unlike the bell tower in Florence, the Niguliste Museum has an elevator that can take you straight to the sky deck if you want to give your feet a break.

Other must-visit museums include the Estonian National Museum and Kadriorg Art Museum.

For contemporary art, head to PoCo Pop and Contemporary Art Museum. I also highly recommend the Estonian Museum of Applied Art and Design, which has thousands of product designs, ceramics, and other art pieces from Estonia and beyond.

Estonia should be a top destination for foodies, especially with so many chefs experimenting with and reinventing local specialties right now.

Travelers looking for a gastronomical adventure should make a reservation at Olde Hansa, a popular restaurant that offers a feast with candles, waitstaff decked in costumes, and generous portions of delicious food cooked following centuries-old recipes.

For a more cozy dining