15 Attractions in Narva that are Worth Seeing

The Estonian city of Narva was founded in the mid-14th century and has changed hands multiple times, coming under the rule of Denmark, the Livonian Order, Sweden, and Russia. Its rich history has impacted the city's culture. From monumental fortresses and medieval castles to museums and temples, the numerous attractions in Narva make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

The fortress, founded in the 13th century during the Danish rule, is visited by most tourists in Narva. Originally built of wood, the imposing structure with mighty walls overlooks the Narva River was later reconstructed in stone.

The appearance of Narva Castle has hardly changed over seven centuries as it protected the city's borders, although it suffered significant damage during wartime. Today, it houses a historical museum and hosts festivals, fairs, and exhibitions.

Visitors to the castle can climb the tall tower of Tall Hermann (51 m) and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. In summer, the Northern Courtyard opens, recreating the city life of the 17th century: workshops, shops, and pharmacies look just as they did three centuries ago.

Address: Narva Muuseum, Peterburi maantee, Narva, Estonia.

The administrative building appeared in Narva in the 17th century at the initiative of the King of Sweden. Its architectural style is Dutch Classicism, but Baroque features can also be traced; a spire is adorned with a weathervane in the shape of a crane.

The Town Hall Square also housed the homes of wealthy citizens, pharmacies, and offices. However, the buildings were severely damaged or destroyed during World War II. The Town Hall was restored 20 years later. Although no guided tours are conducted, if you ask the custodian nicely to see the inside of the building, they may oblige.

Address: Narva raekoda, Raekoja, Narva, Estonia.

The promenade along the Narva River, especially beautiful during the fall, is a favorite walking spot for locals and tourists. The walkway is paved with cobblestones and reinforced with boulders. After a major renovation in 2014, it was adorned with flower beds, a fountain, and art installations. There are playgrounds and sports areas, as well as designated spots for chess games and even a library. In summer, festive events and concerts take place along the promenade.

Address: Narva Promenaad, Linnuse, Narva, Estonia.

The Narva Art Gallery began its work in 1991. It is housed in a pristine white two-story building from the 18th century. Previously, it served as a gunpowder depot, which was heavily damaged during the war but later restored.

The bulk of the collection consists of objects from archaeological societies and the collection of local merchant Lavretsov. Notable works include those by Aivazovsky, Makovsky, and Shishkin, as well as Estonian masters from the 20th-21st century: Burman, Jansen, Arrak, and others. The gallery's exhibition also includes wooden and porcelain items.

Address: Narva kunstigalerii, Narva, Estonia.

When choosing what to see in Narva, one cannot overlook the Dark Garden, which was established in the 19th century. The attraction got its name because of the prevailing gloom: the lush canopies of ancient maples, plane trees, and lindens shield the sunlight.

The atmosphere of the place invites slow walks along the paths and reflections on benches scattered throughout the area. Little houses hide in the trees: bats also love the mysterious atmosphere of the Dark Garden. Beautiful nature, neatness, and proximity to the main city attractions make it equally beloved by locals and visitors.

Address: Pimeaed, Pimeaia, Narva, Estonia.

The factory was founded by a German entrepreneur in 1857 and quickly began to prosper, providing jobs for many residents of the city. By 1913, the number of workers reached 10,000 people. The products were renowned far beyond Narva and even Estonia.

Particularly in demand was the bed linen produced at the factory. The factory operated for one and a half centuries and was only recently closed. Tourists can enter with a guided tour.

It's interesting not only to learn about the working conditions but also to see the Kreenholm Manufacturing building itself. Made of red brick, it is an example of 19th-century industrial architecture.

Address: Kreenholmi manufaktuur, Joala, Narva, Estonia.

Narva has long been a part of the Russian Empire. To this day, Russians make up about 80% of the city's population. Since the state religion of Russia is Orthodoxy, the Estonian city needed its own Orthodox temple.

In the 19th century, the Cathedral of the Resurrection was built for this purpose (by the way, the funds for its construction were donated by the owners of Kreenholm Manufacturing). The Resurrection Cathedral is designed in accordance with the traditions of Byzantine architecture. The gem of the temple is the luxurious Orthodox iconostasis, with the images based on ancient Russian icons.

Address: Jeesuse ülestõusmise katedraal, Bastrakovi, Narva, Estonia.

Although the majority of the population consisted of Orthodox Christians, there were many Lutherans living in Narva. Hence, the need arose to construct a Protestant church. The temple was completed in 1879 and named in honor of the Russian reformist tsar Alexander II.

The building's style can be characterized as Neo-Romanesque: monumental grey stone walls, strict forms, and a single bell tower. The church was damaged during wartime actions in World War II and later used briefly as a warehouse. Today, the Alexander Church has been restored and welcomes parishioners. The building looks especially striking at night when the illumination is turned on.

Address: Narva Aleksandri Suurkirik, Kiriku, Narva, Estonia.

The advantageous strategic location and wealth of Narva made it a frequent target for military raids and conquests. Thus, the city needed strong walls and fortresses for protection.

In the early 17th century, when Narva was under Swedish control, fortifications with tunnels and casemates were constructed, and moats were dug.

However, they did not serve their purpose: during the Great Northern War, the city was captured by Peter I. After the capture, the Narva Bastions were improved, forming a fortified outpost on the way to St. Petersburg. Today, the remains of the fortifications are popular with tourists.

Address: Victoria Bastioni Kasematid, Pimeaia, Narva, Estonia.

Narva College was established in 1999, and the building in the square was completed in 2012. The modern structure presents an interesting contrast to the nearby ancient Town Hall.

Some residents even sought to prevent the construction, believing that the building would not fit the historical appearance of the city center.

Nevertheless, the Tartu University College building was completed, and the site has become a hub of student life. At the college, students receive higher education in accordance with the quality standards of the oldest university in Estonia.

Address: Tartu Ülikooli Narva Kolledž, Raekoja plats, Narva, Estonia.

The Narva River serves as the natural border between Russia and Estonia. In addition, most residents of Narva are Russian. This creates a paradoxical situation: the river divides one people, but they belong to different states. However, the beach at Lipova Hollow is popular for other reasons.

It is located close to the main city attractions: the river offers a beautiful view of Narva Castle and Ivangorod Fortress. In 2013, the city authorities began improving the riverside area. The project includes the installation of changing rooms and shower cabins, as well as opening rental points for sports equipment and eateries.

Address: Joaoru Liivarand, Igor Grafovi, Narva, Estonia.

Every year, guests of the city can visit an exciting and unusual tour - the release of the Narva Waterfalls. Previously, the Narva River flowed through an old channel. Two branches formed Kreenholm Island, where the manufacturing plant is located.

At that time, it was possible to admire the most powerful waterfalls in Europe year-round. Then the old channel was drained due to the construction of a new hydroelectric station, and the Narva Reservoir was built. Now, the rushing water can only be seen in spring during the flood, when excess water is released from the reservoir into the old channel.

In the city center, there is a street named after Pushkin, along with a park of the same name featuring a bust of the great poet. Larch trees are planted along the alley, with benches and flower beds boasting beautiful lighting.

Pushkin Square has gained special charm after the renovation in 2013 when the lighting system was replaced and new greenery was added. The alley is located near the main tourist attractions and serves as a favorite walking spot for locals and visitors alike.

Address: Ausammas Puškinile, Aleksander Puškini, Narva, Estonia.

Narva Castle is not only the main architectural attraction of the city but also a chance to delve into its history: it houses the Narva Museum. Its history began in 1861 with the opening of a museum room.

Later, the exhibition was expanded by adding Peter's house and then the Art Gallery. During World War II, both museum buildings were damaged, but fortunately, the exhibition survived, even though many items were taken to Russia. After the war, efforts were made to restore the collections. Currently, the museum's exhibition covers all stages of Narva's history. Among the exhibits are historical documents, photographs, and weapons.

Address: Narva Muuseum, Peterburi maantee, Narva, Estonia.

Not far from the city is the Narva-Jõesuu resort, so tourists visiting Narva in the summer have the opportunity to relax and warm up on beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by ancient pine trees.

The waters of the Gulf of Finland rarely warm above 64 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this does not diminish the popularity of Narva-Jõesuu: the well-maintained resort has facilities for changing and showers; rescue teams are on duty. The beach infrastructure also includes sanatoriums, sports grounds, attractions, and dining establishments.

Address: Narva-Jõessu rand, Ida-Viru County, Estonia.