How to get to Pärnu

Pärnu is the charming "summer capital" of Estonia, renowned for its wide sandy beaches, spa centres, and the cosy atmosphere of a historic resort. If you have decided to visit Pärnu, a multitude of travel options are available to you: from quick flights to picturesque journeys by bus or car. We have compiled up-to-date information on how to get to Pärnu so that your journey to the shores of the Baltic Sea begins as comfortably as possible.

Although Pärnu has its own airport (EPU), it receives scheduled flights quite rarely and primarily during the summer season. Therefore, relying on a direct flight straight to the resort is only advisable after checking the current seasonal schedule.

For most travellers, the main option remains flying into Tallinn (TLL). The Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport is located approximately 117 kilometres from the city. This is the main aviation hub of Estonia, receiving flights from many European cities, from where it is easy to reach the coast by bus or rental car.

A popular and convenient alternative is the international airport in Riga (RIX) in neighbouring Latvia. It is located approximately 190 kilometres south of Pärnu. Since the resort is situated on the Via Baltica route connecting the two capitals, getting there is quick and comfortable. Riga Airport often offers a wide selection of connections, making this route highly sought-after among tourists.

At present, there is no direct railway connection to Pärnu, so getting here exclusively by train is not possible. The nearest major railway hub is in Tallinn, where modern and comfortable trains regularly arrive from other cities in the region.

This is an excellent opportunity to plan a combined route: after arriving at the capital's station, you can easily transfer to a bus or rent a car. The drive to the summer capital of Estonia along the highway will take less than two hours, allowing you to enjoy the serene scenery of Baltic nature.

Bus services in this region are excellently developed, making a trip to Pärnu an easy and pleasant part of your journey. The most popular and fastest route leads from Tallinn: comfortable coaches depart from the bus station almost every hour, covering the 130 kilometres in less than two hours. Modern buses are often equipped with multimedia screens and Wi-Fi, allowing you to spend time on the road in comfort while enjoying views of Estonian forests and fields.

For those travelling from the islands, there are convenient routes that include ferry crossings, adding a special touch of charm to the trip. The journey from Kuressaare will take about three hours, while the route from Kärdla will require a bit more time — about four hours — but will offer the opportunity to see the picturesque landscapes of the archipelago. It is better to purchase tickets for these directions in advance, especially during the high summer season when the flow of tourists to the sea increases significantly.

Travelling by car is a great way to enjoy the calm landscapes on the way to the sea. The most sought-after route runs from Tallinn along the modern Via Baltica highway: the distance of 130 kilometres can be comfortably covered in less than two hours. If you prefer a taxi or private transfer from the capital, the trip will cost approximately 100–130 euros, ensuring maximum door-to-door convenience.

A trip from the islands turns into a small adventure thanks to the ferry crossings included in the route. The road from Kuressaare will take about three hours, during which you will drive approximately 160 kilometres, admiring the sea views. The path from Kärdla is slightly longer — about 175 kilometres and four hours on the road, but the scenic roads and fresh Baltic air fully compensate for the time behind the wheel.

To ensure your trip to Pärnu is as comfortable and carefree as possible, it is worth familiarising yourself with local features in advance. We have prepared a list of useful recommendations that will help you feel confident in the summer capital of Estonia.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather in the Baltic is changeable even at the height of summer. A sunny day can quickly turn into a windy evening, so be sure to bring a windbreaker, a light scarf, and an umbrella. For walks on the cobblestones of the Old Town, choose comfortable flat shoes, and do not forget sunscreen for beach relaxation — the northern sun can be surprisingly strong.
2. Transport: The city centre and beach area are compact; they are most pleasant to explore on foot. For trips to further distances, a bicycle is an ideal choice: Pärnu has an excellently developed network of cycle paths and rental points. City buses run strictly according to schedule, and it is convenient to use contactless cards to pay for the fare or buy a ticket at a kiosk.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro. Estonia is one of the most digitalised countries in the world, so bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from major hotels to street cafes. A small reserve of cash might only be needed for tips or purchases at markets from private vendors.
4. Health and Safety: Pärnu is a very calm and safe city where you can walk without fear in the evening. Tap water here is of high quality and is safe to drink. Pharmacies (marked with the sign "Apteek") are frequently found, and pharmacists usually speak English.
5. Communication: The state language is Estonian. In the tourism sector (hotels, restaurants, museums), staff are fluent in English. English is widely understood and spoken, particularly by the younger generation, so you should not experience a serious language barrier.
6. Local Etiquette: Estonians value restraint, silence, and personal space. Greetings are usually limited to a handshake or a nod. It is not customary to speak loudly or gesture actively in public places. Politeness and punctuality are held in high esteem here.
7. What to Avoid: Be attentive and do not walk on bicycle paths — locals actively use two-wheeled transport, and a pedestrian in their lane can create a hazardous situation. Also, avoid violating parking rules: fines are issued quickly and are quite high.
8. Additional Tip: If you plan to visit during the high season (July-August), book visits to popular spa centres and tables at well-known restaurants in advance. In summer, the city fills with tourists, and getting into the best places without a prior reservation can be difficult.

By following these simple practical tips, you can avoid minor organisational difficulties and focus on what matters most — relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere of this cosy seaside resort. Have a pleasant journey!