Welcome to Virumaa!
Our “History and Treasures of Virumaa” tour brings together the most significant historical gems across both Western and Eastern Virumaa — from princely adventures at Rakvere Castle to the secrets of Narva Town Hall and the Victoria Bastions. This journey introduces you to Estonia’s path to regained independence, its cultural richness, and its diverse heritage, including visits to rare and fascinating museums filled with stories and treasures.
Did you know that on Estonia’s eastern coast, echoes of Finland’s footsteps can still be heard? Our shared past, similar nature, and close ties have formed a historical bridge across the sea. During this tour, you’ll visit places once walked by Finnish merchants, writers, and travelers. Each stop reveals pages from a shared history book.
Whether you feel a deep connection to Finland or are simply curious about Estonia — this tour is for you. Travel back in time and rediscover what feels familiar in a foreign land.
Tour Overview:
- Starts and ends in Tallinn
- Available all year round
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Approx. 480 km
- Travel tips for exploring Estonia
- Meet our guides in Lahemaa and Ida-Virumaa
Tour Itinerary:
1. Palmse Manor
Stroll through the grand park, explore forest trails, visit the historic orangery, and meet the manor’s animals. Enjoy a meal at the on-site tavern or pre-book a table at the manor restaurant. In summer, a charming café awaits. Adults can pre-register for a blacksmithing workshop to forge their own lucky horseshoe, while children enjoy the manor grounds.
Good to know: Tavern, restaurant, and overnight stays available. E-guides offered in multiple languages.
2. Toolse Order Castle
Set by the sea, these romantic ruins are known as Virumaa’s maritime gate. The northernmost and youngest medieval order castle in Estonia, now in ruins, offers breathtaking coastal views.
Good to know: Open 24/7 year-round.
3. Estonian Mining Museum
Explore the mining heritage of the region, go on a quarry safari, or join a guided hike (dates available on the website). Climb into real mining equipment and dive into interactive exhibits for all ages — from escape rooms and romantic experiences to miner crash courses.
Good to know: Open Tu–Sun, 11:00–17:00. Underground visits require advance booking.
4. Oil Shale Museum, Kohtla-Järve
Discover the only museum in the world dedicated to oil shale industry. Dive into the story of how this natural resource shaped Kohtla-Järve, enhanced by a unique art collection integrated into the exhibits.
Good to know: Guided tours available on request (extra €15). Open Tue–Fri 12:00–18:00, Sat 10:00–16:00.
5. VR Toila
This virtual experience takes you through Oru Park, sharing the story of Oru Palace and President Konstantin Päts. In the final chapter, walk virtually through the restored basement with its garden hall, bar, and more.
Good to know: By appointment only. Outdoor setting. Starts every full hour. Closed on public holidays.
6. Sillamäe Museum
Once a closed Soviet city, Sillamäe is revealed through interactive exhibits and VR. Explore its mysterious past, experience VR time travel, and enjoy family-friendly outdoor areas, including food carts, a playground, and thematic programs for kids and adults.
Good to know: Parking available with permission. Indoor and outdoor exhibits, seasonal activities.
7. Sinimäed (Blue Hills) Museum, Vaivara
See wartime relics, propaganda posters, and historical footage. Join immersive history programs such as the “Time Travel to 1944,” where expert guides recreate dramatic wartime events for families and groups.
Good to know: Open Tue–Sat 10:00–17:00; June 15–Aug 15: 10:00–18:00, Sun 10:00–16:00.
8. Victoria Bastion, Narva
Explore the 17th-century casemates beneath the bastion, featuring interactive tours, escape games, and VR experiences. Admission includes access to the Town Hall and Old Narva in VR for groups (min. 10 participants).
Good to know: Guided tours every Saturday at 11:00, 14:00, and 16:00. Pre-booking required.
9. Narva Town Hall
One of the few remaining Baroque buildings in Narva, the Town Hall offers guided tours with insights into the mayor’s office, council chamber, ceremonial halls, and upcoming exhibitions — including a marzipan workshop and café.
Good to know: Tours Fri-Mon at 13:00 and 17:00.
10. Narva Museum
Engaging family programs, multilingual guided tours, and hands-on workshops await. Craft marzipan figures, ceramic trivets, and painted accessories. In summer, relax at the cozy Maitsepaik café.
Good to know: Workshops and programs require advance registration.
11. Kreenholm Industrial Area
Once one of the world’s largest textile factories, founded by German industrialist Ludwig Knoop in 1857. Take a guided walk (2.5 km) through the restricted factory grounds and learn about its 160+ years of history.
Good to know: Tours every Sunday at 12:00 (April–October) and every Tuesday at 18:00 (July 26–August end).
12. Iisaku Museum
A cultural gem offering outdoor activities, games, and programs for all ages. Adults can even attend a retro-themed Soviet-style party! After the visit, the tour continues toward Rakvere.
Good to know: Open Tue–Fri (Sep–May): 09:00–16:00; Jun–Aug: Tue–Fri 10:00–17:00, Sat 10:00–16:00. Other times by arrangement.
13. Rakvere Castle
Step into the 16th century at this lively theme park-castle. Try medieval crafts, explore the torture chamber and dungeons, enjoy a hearty lunch at the Schenkenberg Tavern, and witness live cannon fire at noon!
Good to know: Cannon firing daily at 12:00. Castle includes tavern and engaging activities.
14. Rehbinder House, Rakvere
This elegant mansion, once home to Count Gustav Rehbinder, now hosts Estonia’s only furniture history exhibition. Journey through centuries of furniture design — from 16th-century artifacts to early 20th-century industrial pieces.
Good to know: Open Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00.
Thank you for joining the “History and Treasures of Virumaa” tour!
We hope this journey through castles, bastions, and hidden heritage sites sparked your curiosity and brought history to life. Whether you came from afar or found familiarity in the unknown — each step uncovered the precious gems of Virumaa’s east and west.
Enjoyed the tour?
Discover even more — try our “Clint road” or indulge in the Flavours of Virumaa culinary journey!