Pärnu is the summer capital of Estonia, where festivals and parties reign in the summer. The merchants of the Hanseatic League founded the city in the 13th century. Today the "old" Pärnu has become the largest resort in Estonia with one of the best beaches in the country. Changing rooms, attractions, sun loungers and life towers are installed on the shore. Vacationers have fun in beach bars, stroll along coastal meadows and practice water sports in the warm Gulf of Riga.