Estonia Travel Guide
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Guide
Estonia keeps three border crossings open to Russia, Narva to Ivangorod, Koidula to Pechory, and Luhamaa to Shumilkino, and it keeps them open for only twelve hours a day. Hours were cut to 07:00 to 19:00 indefinitely, after Narva's night hours were reduced from 23:00 in mid June 2026. Estonia's Police and Border Guard Board also advises against traveling to Russia at all, citing unpredictable policy changes.
Narva is different from the other two. As of 1 February 2024, vehicles have been barred from the crossing entirely, with Russia pointing to construction on the bridge, a claim the Estonian authorities say they cannot verify. Only pedestrians can cross there, and drivers have to use Koidula or Luhamaa. On 1 July 2026 Russia also closed seven railway border crossings with Estonia, Latvia, and Finland.
Border crossings
- Narva and Ivangorod, on foot only
The historic crossing now handles pedestrians in daytime hours only, and vehicles have been prohibited since 1 February 2024. Estonia has said the crossing will stay closed to vehicles until the war in Ukraine ends.
- Koidula and Luhamaa, the vehicle crossings
These are the ones to use with a car, open from 07:00 to 19:00, and Estonia runs an online queue management system, GoSwift, for the Russian border, which is worth checking before you drive.
- The rail crossings are mostly closed
Russia's closure of seven railway crossings on 1 July 2026 affects Estonia, Latvia, and Finland, so check the current position with the operator before planning any rail journey toward Russia.
Transit routes
- Helsinki to Tallinn, by ferry
The Gulf of Finland ferries are the busiest sea link, and a guide says to carry a valid passport, since Estonia is outside the Nordic Passport Union.
- Queue before you drive
The GoSwift queue management system exists for the Estonian crossings, so consult it as part of planning a drive to the Russian border.
Entry point notes
- Schengen entry rules apply
For most visa exempt visitors, that is 90 days in any 180 day period, with the EES recording entries and exits since 10 April 2026.
- Do not plan a Russia trip from Estonia lightly
The border guard's own advice is against traveling to Russia, and the crossing hours and rules have changed repeatedly.