Kuressaare—Estonia’s Tiny Big City of Summer
Text Jaakko Ahti Photos Anna Ovsjankina, Jaakko Ahti
Kuressaare’s most famous attraction is the bishop’s castle and its beautiful park.
The “capital” of Saaremaa, Kuressaare, is a lively city, especially in the summer, despite its small size—it feels much bigger than it is. It’s well-suited for those looking for activities and entertainment, as well as those who want peace and quiet without large crowds. The historic bishop’s castle, a vibrant summer cultural scene, and a surprisingly diverse food culture make this city feel much larger from a traveler’s perspective than its population suggests. Kuressaare attracts culture lovers, nature seekers, and fans of good food and live music alike. And Kuressaare isn’t just a summer destination—its wide range of spas and year-round restaurants offer good reasons to visit even in winter.
Bishop’s Castle and Park
Kuressaare’s most famous landmark is undoubtedly the 14th-century bishop’s castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Baltics. The castle and its surroundings look like something out of a fairy tale: moats, stone bridges, imposing walls, and courtyard exhibitions that tell the multifaceted history of Saaremaa. The museum inside the castle is extensive, so plan to spend plenty of time there. If a rainy day surprises you during your summer trip, you could easily spend several hours exploring the castle.
The park surrounding the castle and the town’s beach just behind it are perfect destinations on a hot day. In the park area, you’ll also find cosy restaurants with terraces, such as the charming Kuursaal’s Ku-Kuu and Pub John Bull, both offering great views of the castle and its greenery. A warm, dusky summer evening on Ku-Kuu’s terrace is especially memorable. The terrace, the castle, and the surrounding park are all beautifully lit.
Gastronomy and Spa Life
On Lossi Street, which leads from the castle to the city centre, and near the town’s central square, you’ll find a rich variety of restaurants that cater to every taste, from breakfast to lunch and dinner. For instance, Vanalinna Kohvik on Kauba Street is a charming breakfast spot with freshly baked treats; Kodulinna Lokaal is a budget-friendly lunch place; and if you’re in the mood for something with Asian flair in the evening, Chameleon Café is a great dinner option. To end the night, try a nightcap at Vinoteek Prelude, a cosy wine bar. All of these are within about 100 metres of each other.
On a sunny day, you can dine at one of the terraces in the central square. Besides Kodulinna Lokaal, Waag Restobaarand Pritsumaja also offers terrace seating. A bit farther from the city centre—but only a few hundred metres away—you’ll find Omnom Söök & Jook in a beautifully restored old stone harbour warehouse. In the nearby marina right by the sea, Resto Hafen offers dishes that are both delicious and beautifully presented.
For lunch in Kuressaare and throughout Estonia, daily specials remain very affordable. You can find these conveniently online at www.paevapraad.ee, where a soup lunch, for example, may cost just a few euros.
Kuressaare’s narrow alleys, pastel wooden houses, and small boutiques create an atmosphere where time seems to slow down. Thanks to this tranquil vibe and the sea, spas have existed here since the 1800s. Today, the city offers several spa options, such as GOSPA, ASA Spa, and Meri Hotel Spa near the beach, and Grand Rose Spa Hotel, and Arensburg Boutique Hotel & Spa in the city centre. These spas also offer day passes, so even if you’re staying in an Airbnb, you can still enjoy the facilities.
Culture and Music
Though Kuressaare isn’t a party town, there’s still evening entertainment. Many restaurants and hotel terraces offer live music during summer. The city’s most well-known summer cultural event is the Saaremaa Opera Days, held this year from 22–27 July. A large covered stage is built in the bishop’s castle courtyard, with performances including Gluck’s “Orpheus and Eurydice”, Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly”, and Korean composer Isang Yun’s “Sim Tjong”. The stage will host performers from South Korea’s Daegu Opera House, with shows taking place in a large tent for up to 2000 spectators in the castle yard. After the operas, afterparties are held within the castle walls, featuring DJ sets and choral music alike under candlelight in the dark summer night.
On 18 July, Saaremaa Suvefest brings popular Estonian artists like Terminaator, Anne Veski, and Shanon to the castle yard. The event is like Kuressaare’s own mini-festival. Fans of electronic music can head to the I Land Sound festival, held from 17–20 July about an hour away in Orissaare, near the causeway to Muhu.
In August, from 5–9 August, the Kuressaare Maritime Days fill the city’s harbour area. The event includes sailing competitions, boat exhibitions, folk music, and street food. There’s also a dedicated programme for children, and visitors can shop for local handmade crafts at the market.
If it’s your first time in Kuressaare, consider joining a free guided city tour. These are organised every Saturday at 11:00 during summer, starting in front of the town hall on the central square. Tours are conducted in Estonian and English.
To learn more about this and similar topicsattractions in Saaremaa Bishop’s Castle Kuressaare Kuressaare Castle Kuressaare Maritime Days Kuressaare spa Museums Saaremaa
