Narva Guide
Narva is the third largest city of Estonia in the far east at the Russian border. Don’t be surprised that most people speak Russian here. From Tallinn it is a little over 200 km to get here. Narva has a population of 66,000 and is located on the left bank of the Narva River, which separates the EU from Russia, in this case the city of Ivangorod. Actually St. Petersburg is closer to Narva than Tallinn. In case you are thinking to make a visit there, be advised that you will very likely need a Visa for Russia and also car rental companies usually wont let you drive outside of the EU. Narva was already founded back in 1223 by the Danes and was later part of the Hanseatic League. You will find impressive fortresses on both sides of the river, exactly opposite of each other. Although larger parts of the old town were destroyed (mainly in World War II) there are still some older historic sites that are worth seeing.
Attractions in Narva
Narva Castle / Museum
Built by the Danes around 1370 it was enlarged by different leaders over the centuries. The 50m high Tower dates back to the 16th century, it is possible to climb up the tower to get an impressive view of Ivangorod Castle on the other side of the Narva river. Inside the castle you will find the Narva museum providing insights to the past of the city. The castle is also home to many of the cities festivities.
Alexander’s Cathedral
The Romanesque style church was built between 1881 and 1884, during soviet times it was used as a store house while it is now opened again to the public with weekly services.
Shopping in Narva
For souvenirs check out some shops along Pushkini and at Peetri Square in the very centre. If you are looking for a shopping centre to buy normal goods or even go bowling then Astri Keskus in Tallinna mnt. 41 is the best choice in or around the city with its 50 shops . There is also a 60m high viewing platform at the shopping centre.
How to get to Narva
If you do not have a (rental) car then your best choice from Tallinn are (express) buses, that leave more than once an hour from the central bus station. Expect the 210 km journey to take a little over 3 hours.
Tourist Information Narva
If you need further tourist information in addition to this Narva guide you can find the official office at Pushkini 13 (just a 3 minutes walk from the bus and railway station).
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