Travel Warnings

Civil unrest is generally not a problem in Estonia.

However, you should monitor local media for updates during public protests and events that draw large groups of people. If you're in an area affected by protests, follow the advice of local authorities.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Street crime includes:

• bag snatching
• pickpocketing
• mugging
• petty theft

Airports, train stations, parks, routes to major hotels and the Old Town in Tallinn are popular locations for pickpockets.

Pickpockets often work together in small groups. Keep a close eye on your belongings.

Credit card fraud happens in tourist areas. Locations include shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. 

Internet crimes have been reported. These include online dating and scams involving money.

Be wary of online contact from people you don't know.

Don't send money until you've checked who you're sending it to.

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas 

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. If you feel any symptoms, tell your friends immediately. Ask someone you trust and know well to take you to a safe place. If a friend shows any of these symptoms, don't leave them alone. You may need to seek medical care.

Locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died or become seriously ill from poisoned drinks overseas. Methanol is highly toxic. As little as one shot can be fatal. Methanol can be added or accidentally created during poor quality alcohol distillation and production. Protect yourself by making smart drink choices. Choose branded beers, ciders, wines and premixed cocktails in sealed bottles and cans. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been poisoned.

More information:

• Partying safely while overseas

Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals, concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Estonia can experience natural disasters or severe weather across the country, including:

• extremely cold winters
• heavy snowfalls

These affect major metropolitan areas.

Flooding may happen in spring, from March to May.

Winter weather can severely delay transport and temporarily shut down services and roads.

Be particularly careful when walking outside in winter. Roads and footpaths can be very slippery and icy, and broken bones are common. Consider carrying and wearing ice grips for shoes where necessary, even in urban areas.

In winter, don't venture onto frozen bodies of water (lakes, rivers, the sea) without following (or seeking advice from) local authorities. Serious accidents can occur.

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather, check media for updates and follow the instructions of local authorities.