Haapsalu: Castle, Bay and Special Discoveries

Haapsalu combines medieval history, maritime experiences and special insights into nature. Those looking to combine culture, water and discovery in a varied family holiday will find a range of travel ideas in the city.

History between the Castle, Town Hall and Railway Station

Haapsalu Castle is an architectural gem built in the 13th century. Until the end of the 17th century, the castle was the seat of the local authorities. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to medieval history. The castle moat also contains a medieval-inspired children's playground, complementing the historic site with its own area for adventure.

The historic Town Hall also tells the story of Haapsalu's development, giving visitors an insight into the city's almost 190-year history as a spa resort. The museum in the Town Hall focuses on the development of mud therapy and the promenade. The Haapsalu Railway and Communications Museum offers a different historical focus, with indoor and outdoor exhibitions on the history of Estonian rail transport and communications. Outside, visitors can see Estonia's only surviving driver's cab from a diesel train.

The railway station includes a 216-metre-long platform that was once the longest in Europe. This historic feature is suitable as a sightseeing highlight in its own right, while the castle and Town Hall explore other chapters of the city's history.

Family Experiences and Local Specialties

Ilon's Wonderland is a theme park for children and families showcasing the work of Ilon Wikland, the illustrator of Astrid Lindgren's children's books. In an arts and crafts workshop, children can make various items themselves. This adds hands-on creativity to a cultural outing.

The Museum of the Coastal Swedes brings its own local character. Its smokehouse is used for events held several times a year focusing on smoked fish. Those interested in regional traditions and culinary topics can include this focus in their travel plans. Haapsalu's spring and summer events calendar also includes the Haapsalu Horror Film Festival.

Bay, Promenade and Birdlife

Haapsalu's promenade runs from Africa Beach to the Chocolate Promenade. The 15-metre-high birdwatching tower is located along it and offers an overview of the birdlife in the area between Haapsalu and Noarootsi. The promenade has the city's only observation tower, providing a clear focal point for visitors who want to combine their stay with nature observation.

The water also opens up new perspectives. A kayaking tour in Haapsalu Bay starts at Holm Beach, leads through the picturesque bay, visits marinas and circles the bay's islets. Along the way, the views from the water differ from the impressions along the promenade. Haapsalu also serves as a base for birdwatching tours to Matsalu National Park.

Haapsalu as a Starting Point for Further Discoveries

The city is also a base for exploring the cultural heritage of the Coastal Swedes on the Noarootsi Peninsula. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose between city history, family activities, birdwatching, regional traditions and a kayaking tour in the bay.

A holiday apartment in Haapsalu is particularly well suited to your plans if you want to incorporate these different themes into your holiday days from a single location.

To the main travel overview: Haapsalu.