There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Parnu into a quick city adventure. From EPU, the Local Bus can get you into town in around 70 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave EPU:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Estonia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Parnu takes about 70 minutes by Local Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from EPU to Parnu
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus | ~70 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~90 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Parnu might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$7 USD
- A meal: ~$13 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$30 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Parnu.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at EPU may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Parnu’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
What to See and Do in Parnu
For a layover visit to Parnu, we’d suggest Pärnu Beach & Promenade and Pärnu Old Town & Rüütli Street. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
If you’d rather stay inside EPU — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Pärnu Airport Waiting Area & Wi-Fi
- Aircraft Observation (Terminal View)
Where to Eat
For food in Parnu, local travelers recommend Steffani Pizza. If you have time for a second stop, Edelweiss is another popular pick.
Back at EPU, Lennuk Kohvik (Airport Cafe) is the go-to. Quick Bites & Vending Machines rounds out your in-terminal options.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at EPU include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Estonia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
WiFi at EPU should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Estonia and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Parnu is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Parnu.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.