Põlva - Discovering Estonia

Travelling to Põlva

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Põlva, a pretty good destination in Estonia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Põlva and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Põlva, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Estonia, here's everything to know about Põlva for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Põlva

Põlva is a small town located in southeastern Estonia, near the Russian border. It has a population of around 5,000 people and is the administrative center of Põlva County. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and rivers. Põlva is known for its cultural events and festivals, including the Folk Music Festival and the Potato Festival. Visitors can also explore the local museums, such as the Põlva Museum of Local History and the Estonian Road Museum, which offers exhibits on the history of transportation in Estonia.

What to visit in Põlva

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Põlva, Estonia: 1. Taevaskoja Nature and Study Trail: This is a 5 km long hiking trail in the scenic forest and river landscape of Southern Estonia. It takes you through rugged sandstone cliffs and overhanging trees, with gorgeous views and fresh air. 2. Pühajärv Lake: This beautiful and serene lake is located in the heart of Põlva and is the perfect place to relax and unwind. It has many cycling and walking trails around it. 3. Mooste Manor: This is a historic manor complex located in Mooste village, about 10 km away from Põlva. It has a hotel and restaurant, as well as regular cultural events. The estate has an interesting history that dates back to the 17th century. 4. Aheru River: This river is a popular spot for fishing and swimming. It has crystal-clear water and is surrounded by lush forests and meadows. Flowing through Põlva, the Aheru River is a great place to appreciate the natural beauty of Estonia. 5. Taevaskoja Salamaa: This is a family-friendly adventure park with ziplines, ropes courses, and other challenging activities for visitors of all ages. It's located near the Taevaskoja Nature and Study Trail, so combining a visit to both attractions makes for an exciting day out. 6. Põlva Museum: This small museum has exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Põlva and its surrounding areas. From archaeology to folk art, the museum covers a wide range of topics that give visitors a glimpse into the region's past and present. 7. Väiksel Munamäel Observation Tower: This observation tower offers stunning views of the countryside and surrounding forests. It's located at a height of 110 meters and takes only a short climb to reach the top. From there, visitors can see the entire province of Põlva.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Estonia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Põlva.

When to go on holiday to Põlva

The best time to visit Põlva, Estonia is during the summer months from June to August when the temperature averages around 20-25°C (68-77°F). This is also the peak tourist season where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and swimming. However, keep in mind that summer is the busiest time of the year, so prices may be higher and tourist attractions may be crowded. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or September when the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. Winter can also be a beautiful time to visit if you enjoy winter sports like skiing and ice skating.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Põlva

Põlva is located in southeastern Estonia. Here are some ways you can get there: 1. By car - You can rent a car and drive to Põlva. The drive from Tallinn takes around 3 hours. From Tartu, the drive takes around 45 minutes.
2. By bus - There are buses that go to Põlva from Tallinn and Tartu. The bus ride from Tallinn takes around 3 hours, while the ride from Tartu takes around 1 hour.
3. By train - There is a train station in Põlva and trains that go to Põlva from Tartu. The train ride takes around 1 hour.
4. By taxi - You can also take a taxi to Põlva from Tallinn or Tartu. The cost depends on the distance and the taxi company.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Põlva!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Põlva, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Põlva

Here are some typical foods from Põlva, Estonia with a short description for each of them: 1. Mulgi Kapsad - This dish is made up of sauerkraut, onions and smoked meat or sausage. It is a hearty and filling meal that is best eaten in cold weather.
2. Rukkileib - Black rye bread is a staple in Estonian cuisine, and rukkileib is no exception. It is made using a sourdough starter and has a dense and chewy texture. It is often served with butter and cheese.
3. Verivorst - Blood sausage is a traditional Estonian dish made from pork blood, barley or oats and seasonings. It is typically eaten during the Christmas season with cranberry sauce.
4. Leivasupp - This is a sweet bread soup made from rye bread, cream, sugar, and cinnamon. It is traditionally eaten as a dessert or for breakfast.
5. Kohuke - Kohuke is a popular snack in Estonia. It is a bar made from quark cheese and covered in chocolate or other sweet coatings.
6. Kali - Kali is a traditional fermented drink made from rye or black bread and sugar. It has a slightly sweet and sour taste and is often enjoyed with meals.
7. Sõir - Sõir is a type of Estonian curd cheese made from quark and baked with eggs, butter, and seasonings. It can be served hot or cold and is often eaten with bread or potatoes.
You can find general info about typical foods in Estonia here.

Is Põlva an expensive destination for tourists?

Põlva is a relatively small town located in Southern Estonia, and compared to larger cities in Europe, it is generally affordable for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities is considered to be moderate in comparison with other destinations, and there are plenty of budget-friendly options available. However, it's important to note that prices can vary depending on the time of year you plan to visit and the specific activities you want to do. Overall, Põlva is an affordable and enjoyable destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Estonia.

Where to find accomodation in Põlva

The best areas to find accommodation in Põlva, Estonia, are typically the city center or near popular tourist attractions such as Taevaskoda Nature Trail, Põlva Lake, Mooste Manor, and the Põlva Church. Additionally, there are several hotels and resorts located in the surrounding countryside areas that offer a more peaceful setting and proximity to nature.
You can check hotel prices at Põlva here:
Booking.com

Is Põlva a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Põlva is generally a safe place for tourists. Estonia is known for its low crime rate and friendly people. However, as with any destination, tourists should take normal precautions to ensure their safety. It is recommended to keep valuable items in a secure place, be aware of your surroundings, and follow local customs and laws. It's always a good idea to research the latest travel advisories from your home government and to stay informed about any potential risks or hazards.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Estonia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Põlva.

What type of travelers will enjoy Põlva the most?

Põlva, Estonia is a great destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities and nature. It would be ideal for families who enjoy hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities as well as couples looking for a romantic getaway with scenic views. However, young people looking for lively nightlife might not find Põlva as exciting as bigger cities. Overall, Põlva is a peaceful and beautiful place for a relaxing nature-filled getaway.

How to get around Põlva

To move around Põlva, Estonia, you can use buses, taxis, bicycles, or your own car. There is also a train station in the nearby town of Tartu that offers connections to other parts of Estonia. However, the easiest and most convenient way to get around Põlva itself is by using a car or bicycle.

What to see around Põlva

There are many interesting places to visit in a day trip from Põlva, Estonia. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Tartu - Tartu is Estonia's second-largest city and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. It's only about 42 km away from Põlva, making it a perfect day trip destination.
2. Lake Peipus - Lake Peipus is the fifth largest lake in Europe and is located about 50 km from Põlva. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive along the lake, take a boat ride, or visit one of the many quaint fishing villages on the shore.
3. Võru - Võru is a charming little town located about 30 km south of Põlva. It's known for its picturesque wooden buildings, traditional crafts, and beautiful natural surroundings.
4. Otepää - Otepää is a small town that is often called the "winter capital" of Estonia. It's a popular destination for skiing and other winter sports, but it's also a great place to visit in the summer for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
5. Karula National Park - Karula National Park is a peaceful and beautiful nature reserve located about 50 km from Põlva. Visitors can hike through the lush forests, spot wildlife and birds, and enjoy a picnic by one of the many lakes.
For every travel information about Estonia you can click here.

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