Narva

Narva, Estonia's third-largest city, sits on the eastern edge of the European Union, with the Narva River marking the border between Estonia and Russia. The city's skyline features two medieval fortresses: Hermann Castle on the Estonian side and Ivangorod Fortress on the Russian side. As you walk through Narva's streets, you'll hear both Estonian and Russian languages. The city's architecture reflects its complex history, from medieval times to the industrial era and recent cultural developments. Visitors can explore the Kreenholm Manufacture, a former textile mill, attend exhibitions at the Narva Art Residency, or relax on the sandy beaches of nearby Narva-Jõesuu.

Narva's Fortresses

The most prominent landmarks in Narva are the two medieval fortresses facing each other across the Narva River. On the Estonian side, Hermann Castle, built by the Danes in the 13th century, houses the Narva Museum. Inside, you'll learn about the city's history and can climb the 51-meter-tall Pikk Hermann tower for views of the surrounding area. Across the river in Russia stands Ivangorod Fortress, constructed in 1492 by Ivan III of Muscovy. While you can't cross over to visit Ivangorod, you can see both fortresses from the river promenade. Consider visiting at sunset for a particularly good view.

Kreenholm Manufacture

A short walk from the city center takes you to the Kreenholm Manufacture, a former textile mill that was among the largest in 19th-century Northern Europe. Today, you can walk around the old factory buildings and attend cultural events held on the premises. The nearby waterfalls on the Narva River add to the area's appeal, creating a contrast between the natural environment and the industrial structures.

Narva Art Residency

The Narva Art Residency, located in an 18th-century former ammunition depot, serves as the art center for Ida-Viru County. The gallery regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events. Artists from around the world come to Narva through the residency program, contributing to the city's cultural scene. Check their schedule to see what's on during your visit.

Narva-Jõesuu

For a change of scenery, visit Narva-Jõesuu, 14 kilometers north of Narva. This town is known for its long sandy beach on the Gulf of Finland and attracts many visitors in summer. You can get spa treatments at wellness hotels like Meresuu Spa & Hotel or Noorus Spa Hotel. To reach Narva-Jõesuu, take a local bus or consider a boat trip along the Narva River for a more scenic route. The town's pine forests and sea air provide a different atmosphere from Narva's urban environment.

Border Information

Narva's location on the Estonia-Russia border means some special considerations for visitors. The pedestrian border crossing on the Narva bridge operates from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. If you plan to cross into Russia, check current travel advisories and visa requirements. From the Estonian side, you can see Russian dachas across the river. Remember that taking photos near the border checkpoints is restricted, so be careful when using your camera in this area.

Transportation

Trains from Tallinn reach Narva in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Buses also connect Narva to other Estonian cities like Tallinn and Tartu. In Narva, the city center is easy to walk around. For longer distances, use the Bolt app to rent electric scooters or call a taxi. The city's public buses can take you to various neighborhoods and nearby attractions.

Local Food

Try some Russian-influenced cuisine while in Narva. M.Chagall Restaurant in the Narva Hotel serves Estonian-Russian fusion dishes. For casual meals, visit the German Pub near Narva Castle, which offers pub food and local beers. China House restaurant provides Chinese cuisine in a themed setting. Look for local specialties like smoked fish from Lake Peipsi or seasonal wild mushroom dishes.

Nature Near Narva

Visit Alutaguse National Park, established in 2018 to protect Estonia's forest and bog habitats. The park is home to bears, lynx, and flying squirrels. You can walk through forests, look for wildlife, or explore bog landscapes on wooden boardwalks. The Kurtna lake system, the largest in Estonia, has 42 lakes spread over 30 square kilometers. For a shorter nature walk, take the 1.7-kilometer trail on Joaoru island in the Narva River, which passes Estonia's easternmost point and provides views of both Narva and Ivangorod fortresses.