What To Buy In Estonia

1. Estonian knitwear

Being self-sufficient is ingrained in Estonian culture, and over time, the practice of making one’s own clothes became commonplace. Despite modern conveniences, Estonian knitwear is a staple of Estonian culture. Socks, mittens, and thick sweaters all featuring classic Estonian patterns are commonly found in stores, and not only is Estonian knitwear culturally significant but it is also practical. You’ll never be cozier than in a thick Estonian sweater.

2. Kuma jewelry

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Kuma jewelry is inspired by nature and the environment. Celebrate the Estonian love for the outdoors and simplicity of modern Northern European design aesthetics with Kuma jewelry. The iconic butterfly broaches make a great gift for someone special (or yourself) and they come in an array of colors and styles featuring a sleek design and vegan leather.

3. Kalev chocolates

For practically over 200 years, Kalev chocolates have been the best sweets and chocolate maker in Estonia, and their brand continues to live on to this day. The business originated in a small cafe in 1806, which was known for its sweets and confectionary. It was so popular in fact, that the Tsar of Russia was a fan. To this day, Kalev’s recipes and methods of preparation are still held in big esteem, having won numerous prizes internationally.

4. Helk reflector

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you’re looking for a unique piece of jewelry that reflects modern Estonian culture, look no further than the Helk reflector. Baltic amber might be common in tourist shops, but the real jewelry Estonians from all walks of life wear is a reflector. In 2011, Estonian law mandated that citizens wear a reflective piece of clothing during dark and visibly poor times of the year, like winter. Since there is a lot of winter in Estonia, citizens have stylized and glamorized their reflective wear and there’s nothing nicer than a Helk reflector.

5. Vana Tallinn

Liquor is a popular souvenir of choice around the world, and the Estonian favorite is Vana Tallinn. Although it’s only been around since the 1960s, Vana Tallinn (meaning “Old Tallinn”) is a popular drink of choice and it makes for a pretty good souvenir as it is not commonly found elsewhere in the world. The drink is a rum-based liqueur that’s flavored by spices like orange and citrus oil, or cinnamon and vanilla. Vana Tallinn is usually drunk as a shot (similar to Schnapps) or occasionally put in Estonian coffee.

6. Cushion cover by Emma Leppermann

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Emma Leppermann is not one person but a creative team behind one of Estonia’s coolest and most hip design studios. Named after the commonly found plum variety, Emma Leppermann creates and designs all their things in-house, and often in small batches so there is always something unique and new to check out. If you’re looking for something uniquely Estonian and not found anywhere else, check out Emma Leppermann and pick out some cool cushion covers for your home.

7. Juniper products

Juniper grows in abundance in this part of the world and every part of the juniper tree is used in its own way. Although the wood from the tree is generally too small to be used in things like large structures, the wood is very strong and used primarily in handicrafts. Estonian juniper is common in Estonian households as it is durable, decorative, and often has a pleasant aromatic smell. Juniper is also a common ingredient in flavoring ales and beers in nordic and Northern European areas.

8. Navitrolla artworks

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Born Heiki Trolla, the artist known as Navitrolla is one of Estonia’s most prominent artists. Beginning his career in the early 1990s, Navitrolla’s work is surreal, often implementing the natural world with a surrealist one. Landscapes and animals often characterize his work, and his blend of styles has given his type of artwork its own distinct approach called “Naviism”. The Navitrolla gallery is located in Tallinn’s old town, and while you might not be able to afford the originals, prints are available for purchase.

9. National-pattern socks

It’s not a secret that Estonia gets cold and wet in the winter months. What’s a better way to keep dry and warm than by having a thick pair of socks? Along with mittens and sweaters, socks are an integral part of everyday Estonian wear, especially in the winter! Socks with national Estonian patterns on them are cool and practical, and they make a great gift for yourself or a friend.

10. JOIK products

Established in 2005, JOIK has taken skincare and home decor to a higher level. Founder and owner Eva-Maria was looking for a scented candle that was both organic and smelled nice, but struggled to find something that pleased, so she decided to start making them herself! From there, Eva-Maria produced organic skincare lotion, creams, perfumes, candles, and plenty of other amazing home and body products. Everything JOIK makes is organic and made in small batches to ensure that there is quality in everything you buy. Their operation is located just outside the city center of Tallinn and is locally made with nothing outsourced. So, from start to finish, your product is handled with care.

Bring home a piece of Estonia

Picking up souvenirs is one of the best parts of traveling. It is a little piece of the place you visited and represents a people and culture that you can take back with you. Great souvenirs like knitted clothes, beauty products, and tasty confectionary are all parts of Estonia that you should consider buying.