tallinn travel

Map of Estonia

Estonia's laidback capital city is a perfect holiday destination for those wanting to combine modern comforts, medieval charm, and coastal vibes.

Though tallinn may be over 700 years old, it is looking towards the future. .

In the morning, you can wander the streets of Old Town and marvel at buildings dating back to the Middle Ages . Then in the afternoon, you check out an avant-garde art exhibition in what used to be an old submarine factory. Thanks to Tallinn's compact footprint, old and new mix in every part of the city. 

The walkable city center is one of the city's most attractive features.

Old Town may be the main draw, but lively neighborhoods with diverse  dining and entertainment options are only steps away.

Don't let Tallinn's size fool you, though. It may be tempting to think you can cross it off your list in a day, but you'll have only just scratched the surface. The vibrant cultural scene, excellent fine dining, and fascinating history will make you want to spend a day or two (or more!) in Tallinn. 

Tallinn's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tallinn is one of Northern Europe's best-preserved medieval cities and was added to UNESCO's list back in 1997. As part of the influential Hanseatic League , Tallinn was home to wealthy merchants who left their mark on the city's architecture. The city's iconic skyline is dotted with church spires and red-roofed towers. Professional photographers and amateur Instagrammers will find endless options for the perfect backdrop, while history buffs can spend hours, even days, working their way through Tallinn's museums. 

Source: Kaupo Kalda

Source : visit estonia

Coastal vibes... 

Tallinn has an alluring urban coastline. In the past, Tallinn's seaside development was limited largely to industrial and military endeavors. However, the city has opened up to the sea, and now scenic promenades and bustling seaside areas are popular with both locals and visitors. For example, Paljassaare Peninsula was once a restricted militarized zone; now, it's a haven for nature lovers who can go forest bathing and wild swimming without having to leave the city. In the opposite direction, you'll find a promenade linking Kadriorg to Pirita's long sandy beach.

...and great food 

Estonian food is known for its focus on seasonal ingredients and modern takes on traditional techniques. Tallinn is home to Estonia's only MICHELIN-Starred restaurants and one of Estonia's three Green Star restaurants. If you're looking for something quick and casual, indulge in the city's bakeries and coffee shops. Regardless of the venue, menus often change with the season, as many restaurants make an effort to offer freshly procured ingredients from local sources.  

To find out more about what Tallinn has to offer, go check out Visit Tallinn, the city's official tourism website.

Get to know Tallinn's different neighborhoods

Tallinn Town Hall Square

Architecture and history

Noblessner seafront quarter

Telliskivi Creative City

Local convenience stores

Kadriorg Palace

Rotermann Quarter

Põhjala Factory

Pirita promenade

This former submarine factory is now one of the city's trendiest places to hang out.

One of Europe's top Christmas markets

This year, Tallinn's Christmas market will be open from November 22nd to December 27th.

Looking for something to do in Tallinn?

Tallinn's summertime white nights

Tallinn's top museums and must-see attractions

Tallinn's best restaurants

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A first-time guide to Tallinn

Aug 1, 2024 • 9 min read

Explore Tallinn, Estonia's capital, with its stunning medieval old town, vibrant culture, innovative tech scene, and rich Baltic history. Kapi Ng/Shutterstock

The Estonian capital Tallinn is often described as a fairy tale, and it’s hard to argue with those accounts.

On the cobblestoned alleys of the Old Town, between the defensive ramparts, the gothic church spires and the stately merchant’s houses, it’s easy to imagine a knight of the Teutonic Order marching by.

But there are plenty more layers to Tallinn. The painful memory of the Soviet occupation has left emotional and architectural scars on the city, while the promise of a bright digital future shines through. In tech-savvy Estonia, home to the highest number of start-ups per capita, even toddlers can program.

Tallinn also boasts top-tier museums, a rich cultural scene, and a proximity to nature. Its flourishing cuisine blends Nordic, German and Russian influences. In other words, there’s a lot to unravel for open-minded travellers.

When should I go to Tallinn?

Tallinn experiences very distinct seasons.

Despite Estonian jokes about summer (“three weeks of bad skiing weather”), June, July and August are the most glorious time to visit the country. Nature blooms, terraces are out, days seemingly never end (these latitudes get near-white nights) and even the gloomiest local can manage a smile. Because of the harsh winters, Estonians truly cherish summer: it’s a time to recharge the batteries in the country, at summer cottages by a lake or the seaside. 

Midsummer celebrations (Jaanipäev) and the Singing Festival (Laulupidu, twice every five years) are particularly vibrant, making it an ideal time to experience Estonian culture. On the flip side, cruise ship tourists crowd the city during summer days, making the tiny Old Town feel claustrophobic. Accommodation prices are higher.

While spring and autumn promise thinner crowds and lower prices, be aware that the weather is highly unpredictable. March, April and May routinely bring the fifth, sixth and potentially seventh coming of Estonian winter, snow in these months is hardly exceptional. And what Gogol wrote about St Petersburg , that the wind blows from four directions at once, can be said of Tallinn, too. In November, the Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF) draws film buffs from all over the Baltics.

Winter gets cold, snowy and dark. Locals combat the blues by holing up in saunas and staying active on lit-up cross-country ski tracks. Sports centres in Pirita and Nõmme rent out gear. In December, ice rinks open across the city and Tallinn’s Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square) becomes the backdrop to a cosy Christmas market. Warm up with glöggi (mulled wine with almonds and raisins), verivorst (blood sausage) and hapukapsas (sauerkraut).

How much time should I spend in Tallinn?

You can explore the cobbled alleys of the charming, small Old Town in a day, but that doesn’t mean you should rush Tallinn. Reserve two days and you’ll have time to include Kadriorg, a sprawling park with two of the best art museums in town. Three, four or more days allow you to take things slower and head out further. 

Spice up your itinerary by visiting more museums ( Estonian Open Air Museum , Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom , Seaplane Harbour ), put on your hiking boots to soak up some urban nature or discover Tallinn’s brutalist Soviet architecture.

Alternatively, wander into less obvious parts of town that show different facets of Tallinn. Kalamaja (wooden houses, bohemian vibes), Rottermanni (formerly industrial, now a cluster of chic restaurants and boutique shops), Telliskivi (lively hipster neighbourhood), Pirita (seaside) or even Lasnamäe are waiting to be explored. The latter is one of the expansive sleeping districts built during the Soviet times – full of residential blocks, dingy kiosks and nail salons, all connected by elephant trails.

Is it easy to get in and around Tallinn?

Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport , just 4 km out of the city, connects the Estonian capital to over 50 European destinations. Because of works on the tram infrastructure, estimated to finish in February 2025, a bus links the airport to the Old Town. From the Port of Tallinn, regular ferries depart to Helsinki (Finland), Stockholm (Sweden) and Mariehamn for the Åland Islands (summer only).

Trains to Tartu, Narva, Paldiski, Viljandi and other domestic destinations leave from Balti jaam (Baltic station). Four daily trains to the border town of Valga link the Estonian with the Latvian rail network. Buy tickets through Elron . From Balti jaam, local buses serve the countryside surrounding Tallinn. Long-distance buses to major cities in the Baltics and beyond depart at Bussijaam (bus station), 2 km from the Old Town. For schedules and tickets, check Tpilet .

The walkable Old Town is best discovered on foot, meaning you might not even need public transport in the city. If you do, buses are generally punctual, modern and easy to navigate. Use Google Maps or the Peatus route planner . You can buy a green transportation card from a kiosk or a supermarket and top it up with credit or swipe your credit card on the bus. It’s not possible to buy a ticket from the driver. Taxis are affordable. Do as the Tallinners and download the Bolt app, the successful Estonian equivalent of Uber.

Top things to do in Tallinn

Medieval vibes in the Old Town

The Old Town of Tallinn, regarded by UNESCO as one of the best preserved medieval city centers in Europe, entices impromptu explorations. Cobbled streets take you past medieval ramparts, defense towers, dizzying church spires and the oldest continuously operating pharmacy in Europe. The biggest delight lies in finding the many Instagrammable secret nooks and crannies, the romantic hidden courtyards and the alleys that keep twisting and turning. Worm your way up to Toompea, the hill that looms over Tallinn, where platforms offer views over red-tiled roofs and where the resident seagull, Steven, is ever ready to pose.

Nowhere in Tallinn do the Middle Ages live on more vividly than behind the pale white facade of Olde Hansa . Step into a candlelit dining room – it’s the 15th century, another 400 years until Thomas Edison invented the light bulb. Once, only the rich dined here, bishops and wealthy noblemen from the Hanseatic city of Reval, the old German name of Tallinn. Nowadays, you can taste “medieval” dishes made with ingredients known in Europe at that time. You’ll not find potatoes, tomatoes, or pumpkins (or Coca-Cola, for that matter) on the menu, although an exception is made for coffee. Instead, you can sample brown bear stew, chanterelles, and blueberry jam. On a budget? Medieval tavern III Draakon , just around the corner, evokes the same period’s atmosphere.

Go forest bathing

Amongst the last in Europe to be christened, Estonians are essentially nature hippies who worship the sun, holy oak trees and glacial erratics. That means people are still closer to nature than in most other parts of Europe. Even the busiest marketing manager from a hip Telliskivi start-up will regularly leave the hustle and bustle behind to go foraging for berries and mushrooms on all fours in the boundless forests and bogs of the country. Yes, Estonians have been forest bathing way before it was even a thing.

If you don’t have the time to head out of town, worry not! Tallinn has plenty of easily accessible urban nature. Within the boundaries of the city, you can venture on trails and boardwalks through a bog (Pääsküla Bog), a lush river valley (Pirita River Valley Nature Reserve) and forests (Harku, Merimetsa). Or head to Paljassaare peninsula, where colonies of birds inhabit a landscape dotted with crumbling Soviet bunkers. Pirita and Stroomi are the most popular city beaches.

Get sweaty in the sauna

They might not make such a fuss about it as their Finno-Ugric brothers and sisters on the other side of the Gulf of Finland, but Estonians are just as attached to their sauna. The latest estimate places the number of saunas in Estonia at 100,000, one for every 13 people. Traditionally, the sauna (saun in Estonian) was a sacred place where generations of local women gave birth. It’s still the environment where Estonians unwind and share their deepest secrets.

If you’re staying in a hotel in Tallinn, chances are you will have access to a sauna. For a more authentic experience, however, go to a public sauna like Kalma Saun , Raua Saun or Tallinn Saun – the oldest public sauna in town, with brick ceiling vaults and chandeliers. Vaudeville club Heldeke! and craft beer taproom Põhjala also fire up their saunas regularly. Feeling brave? Go for a (winter) swim in the Baltic Sea first, then warm up afterwards. Both winter swimming club Lennusulps and community sauna Logi Saun offer access to the frosty sea water.

Soak up culture in Kadriorg

Kadriorg, a stately park east of the Old Town, is home to the presidential palace and two art museums. In KUMU , seven floors chock-full of Estonian art await, whilst Kadriorg Art Museum showcases early Russian and European art in a baroque summer residence built by Tsar Peter the Great.

If the weather allows, picnic in the Japanese garden or by the swan pond. Nearby organic deli NOP can outfit you with everything you need, from sea buckthorn cake and tomato/kimchi juice to jars of marinated delicacies.

My favourite thing to do in Tallinn

Unlike Baltic neighbours Latvia and Lithuania, who both have zero, Estonia has plenty of islands. The latest count increased the number from 2222 to 2317. Especially in summer, I love leaving the city behind for a day to escape to peaceful Aegna , a pocket-sized island in Tallinn Bay (population: 16). The nature here represents a miniature version of Estonia: rocky coasts, sandy beaches, coniferous and deciduous forests, a gathering of glacial erratics, foxes frolicking in the heath and a free camping spot! In the summer months, a pop-up cafe opens next to the port.

How much money do I need for Tallinn?

Following the war in Ukraine, inflation drove up prices in the Baltics more than elsewhere in Europe. No longer is Tallinn one of the cheapest city breaks of the continent. Having said that, savvy travelers can still find excellent value for money compared to some of the Western European capitals. Wander away from the tourist restaurants near the Town Hall Square and you can get lunch deals for €5 to €9. Accommodation prices vary widely between different seasons.

Hostel dorm bed: €15-€25 Basic room for two: from €40 Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from €45 Public transport ticket: €2 Coffee: €2-€3 Pirukas (pie) in a cafe: €2-€3 Dinner for two: €50-€80 Beer at the bar: €4-€6 Kohuke (curd cheese bar) in the supermarket: €0.30-€0.60

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• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Present day
• 1.3 Districts
• 1.4 Climate
• 1.5 Tourist office
• 2.1.1 From Helsinki
• 2.1.2 Other regular ferry routes
• 2.1.3 Passenger ferry terminals in Tallinn Port
• 2.1.4 Using your own boat
• 2.2 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 3.1 By public transport
• 3.2 By taxi
• 3.3.1 Car rental
• 3.3.2 Parking
• 3.4 By bicycle
• 3.5 On foot
• 4.1.1 Toompea Hill
• 4.1.2 Vanalinn (Old Town)
• 4.1.3 Outside the Old Town
• 4.1.4 Kadriorg quarter
• 4.3 Põhja-Tallinn
• 4.4 Haabersti
• 5.1 Beaches
• 5.3 Film festivals
• 5.4 Music festivals
• 8.1 Department stores & shopping malls
• 8.2 Boutiques and souvenirs
• 8.3 Markets
• 8.4 Records
• 9.1.1 In the Old Town
• 9.1.2 Near the Old Town
• 9.1.3 Around the market Balti Jaama Turg
• 9.1.4 East of the old town around the Coca-Cola Plaza
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10.2 Nightlife
• 10.3.1 In old town (vanalinn)
• 10.3.2 Out of old town
• 10.4 Nightclubs
• 11.1.1 Hostels
• 11.1.2 Hotels
• 11.2 Mid-range
• 11.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe
• 15.1 Embassies

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Tallinn\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Tallinn is Estonia 's capital and largest city. Tallinn is an important port of the Baltic Sea, with the busy passenger section of the port reaching the foothill of the picturesque medieval Old Town, which has been astonishingly well preserved and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997.

On the shore of the Gulf of Finland, it is a city of over 450,000 inhabitants (2023). It is home to a third of the country's population, and is also the capital of Harju County in Northern Estonia .

In a striking contrast to its Old Town, its immediate outskirts are filled with a cluster of modern office towers, with intermittent architectural monuments to the Soviet era . Further out, you will find a bewildering variety of historic and modern neighbourhoods, religious, civic, industrial and maritime heritage. This all provides for the city seeing very sizeable tourist traffic given its size, which in turn means the infrastructure is robust and extensive.

Tallinn is a historic city dating back to medieval times. The first fortress on Toompea was built around 1050 and Tallinn was possibly first recorded on a world map in 1154. In 1219, the city was conquered by Valdemar II of Denmark and it became a member of the Hanseatic League in 1285. The city, known as Reval at the time, prospered as a trading town in the 14th century, and much of Tallinn's historic centre was built at this time.

Tallinn then became a pawn in the geopolitical games of its big neighbours, passing into Swedish hands in 1561 and then to the Russian Empire under Peter the Great in 1710. By World War I and the ensuing brief Estonian independence (starting 1918) Tallinn's population had reached 150,000.

Estonia was occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940, conquered by Nazi Germany (1941–44), and then retaken by the Soviets. In World War II , the city was quite extensively bombed by the Soviets, although luckily the medieval town remains. The Soviet Union undertook a program of massive East Slavic migration, and just over 40% of Tallinn's current inhabitants are Slavic (compared to an average of 28% for the entire country). On 20 August 1991, Estonia declared independence and Tallinn became its capital once again.

Present day

Today Tallinn is a bustling, gleaming city. However, among the tall glassy buildings and corporate headquarters, Tallinn retains an inner charm seldom found elsewhere. Estonia considers itself a Northern European/Nordic country, with very close ethnic, linguistic and cultural ties to Finland and cultural ties to Scandinavia, and visiting Tallinn you will find a mix of at least three architectures in this very visual city—old Europe (the city walls with rustic buildings and charming living areas with well-preserved and colourful wooden houses of bourgeois taste of 1920s), Soviet brutalist (concrete apartment blocks), and modern Europe (including McDonald's next to the city walls!)

Tourism is important for Tallinn and this is especially visible in the old town where almost every door leads into a souvenir shop, restaurant or bar. Unsurprisingly the majority of visitors are day trippers from Finland. The neighbours from across the bay usually know their way around without a map and have already seen the sights of Tallinn a couple of times. They come to enjoy low prices on practically all goods and services from restaurant meals to fuel and even plastic surgeries, not to forget as much alcohol as the customs regulations allow you to bring into Finland!

• Visit Tallinn tourist information.

Tallinn is made up of 8 administrative districts ( linnaosa ), which are further divided into numerous quarters ( asum ). Most of the points of interest to tourists are located in the seaside districts. The districts of Tallinn are:

• Kesklinn - literally meaning "city centre" and being just what the label says, this district includes the main part of the Port of Tallinn, the Old Town ( Vanalinn ), Tallinn's central business district with its skyscrapers and many other tourist attractions in the quarters surrounding them, including the Kadriorg park and palace and most of the coastline of Lake Ülemiste except for the part immediately adjacent to the airport
• Haabersti - the westernmost district with the extensive coastline holds the Estonian Open Air Museum, the Tallinn Zoo and the Saku Suurhall Arena
• Põhja-Tallinn - literally meaning "north Tallinn", extends north of the railway line and includes the industrial part of the Port of Tallinn, as well as many monuments to its military heritage, the Maritime Academy and the quarter of Kalamaja known for its wooden houses
• Pirita - the least populous district of Tallinn stretches along the eastern part of its coast and includes both a popular beach and a forest. This is one of Estonia's most desirable places to live, in single-family houses, for the affluent, and home to some tourist attractions as well, including Tallinn's TV Tower or the Botanic Gardens
• Lasnamäe - the most populous district of Tallinn holds over a quarter of its inhabitants in the large Communist-era blocks of flats, but apart from the airport it has little of interest to the tourists
• Nõmme - formerly an independent town founded as a leisure/summer residence, Nõmme remains green and sparsely inhabited, with rich architectural heritage and many private villas. It ranks as one of the country's most affluent areas.
• Kristiine and Mustamäe are residential districts southwest of the centre.

At these latitudes winters are dark and cold and temperatures under -20°C are not unheard of from December to February. Thankfully, the sea moderates the winter temperatures a bit compared to continental cities with similar temperatures like Moscow .

Spring is the driest season and while there are often sub-zero temperatures at night until well into May, the snow usually disappears towards the end of March and the days are getting gradually warmer. Summer months are pleasant with day temperatures between +20°C and +30°C in July and August, however if it's raining, temperatures are lower. The summer is the best time of the year to visit Tallinn. Although Tallinn doesn't experience the Midnight Sun, in the middle of the summer it doesn't get really dark at night.

Usually you will need your jacket again towards the latter half of September. The autumn is the "rain season" and with both temperatures and the leaves falling, Tallinn doesn't look very attractive this time of the year. However the greyness is covered up by the snow that usually arrives in early December. Visiting Tallinn in December when the Old Town is beautifully covered in snow and Christmas decorations is not a bad idea.

Tourist office

• 59.43649 24.74437 1 Tourist Information Centre in Old Town , Niguliste 2 / Kullassepa 4. , ☏ +372 645 7777 , [email protected] .  

From Helsinki

The most common ferry route is from Helsinki , Finland to Tallinn Port, which has upwards of 20 departures daily. Depending on the ferry, journey time is 1½-3½ hours. Prices average €16-30 one way, depending on operator, season (summer costs more), day of week (Fridays and Saturdays cost more) and time of day (to Tallinn in the morning and back in the evening is popular and hence more expensive). Particularly popular are day cruises , which can go for as little as €10 return. All ferries also carry cars, from €25 one way. Bicycles can be taken for around €5 one way. Bikes on car ferries must go through vehicle check-in, which closes earlier than passenger check-in, so plan for extra time.

The following companies operate ferries between Tallinn and Helsinki:

• Eckerö Line , ☏ +372 664 6000 , [email protected] . Operates only one ship, the 2000-passenger Finlandia (3 times daily, travel time 2½ hr). Often has the cheapest fares. If you take the morning sailing to Tallinn and the evening sailing back you will have about eight hours in Tallinn. ( updated Feb 2019 )
• Tallink Silja , ☏ +372 640 9808 , [email protected] . Up to 6 departures daily on large Shuttles Star and Superstar (2 hr). They also operate the MS Baltic Queen (3½ hr), a 2,800-passenger cruise ship for easy overnight stays in Tallinn. Discounts are available to Eurail pass holders. As this company has more departures you will have more flexibility planning your day trip. ( updated Mar 2015 )
• Viking Line . Large Viking XPRS ferry (2½ hr). Departs Helsinki midday and late in the evening. The day departure from Helsinki is very late (11:30) so you will have less than four hours to spend in Tallinn (you need to be back on board half an hour before departure) before the ship sails back. On Sundays the ship leaves even earlier. If taking this boat you would better stay overnight in Tallinn if you want to do any serious sightseeing.  

Eckerö and Viking usually have the cheaper fares, as they are more geared towards day-trippers and the party crowd who come to have a great time on board and tend to spend more in the bars, restaurants and shops on board. Tallink is more geared towards frequent travellers such as Estonians working in Finland.

Other regular ferry routes

• Tallink also offers a year-round daily overnight service from Stockholm taking 16 hr.

See also Baltic Sea ferries and Cruising the Baltic Sea for details on travelling in by ferry.

Passenger ferry terminals in Tallinn Port

All ferries dock at Reisisadam port, to the north of the center. Tallink uses 59.4434 24.7673 1 Terminal D at the south-eastern side of the bay and Eckerö and Viking the 59.4447 24.7619 2 Terminal A/B at the northwestern side. At Terminal A/B you can grab a useful free city map just before exiting the terminal. From there, city bus #2 and commercial bus #90K operate to the city centre (A. Laikmaa stop), inter-city bus station (Autobussijaam stop) and the airport (Lennujaam stop). Or, you can take a leisurely 15-min walk toward the Old Town that is easily visible from the terminals. View a map of route 2 [ dead link ] .

The journey from the port to the city centre is not all that impressive but don't be shocked - this isn't the real Tallinn! As of late 2015, construction of a new, glitzy shopping area is underway, something that will cover much of the ugly sand and mud fields (on the downside these buildings will reportedly partially cover the view to the old town).

If you are travelling with your car on the ferry, the traffic in the harbour can be a bit chaotic as everyone tries to get out from the area as quickly as possible and lanes are not clearly marked, especially around Terminal D.

Using your own boat

You can sail with a yacht to Old Town Marina [ dead link ] , the special harbour for recreational vessels.

Getting there/away :

• Taxis to the old town should cost €7–10. The Bolt app is more popular than Uber (it's Estonian after all!)
• Tram 4 is closed for construction until 2025. Bus 15 will be stopping at Tallinn Airport, at the same place where the tram used to stop. This bus stops at the bus station (bussijaam) and finishes near the old town.
• Bus #2 [ dead link ] departs roughly every 15 min. The journey to Balti Jaam (Baltic Station, the Central railway station close to the old town) takes approximately 20 minutes. Both inbound and outbound line #2 buses stop on the Tartu highway (about 5 minutes walk from the terminal). To get to the city, catch the bus travelling towards "Balti Jaam", and not towards "Mõigu", which is a residential area on the outskirts of the city. Tickets are €2 and you can buy a ticket from the driver, use your contactless payment card (at the front-most ticket reader only), purchase a ticket online or purchase a rechargeable "green card" from the R-Kiosk located in the terminal building (see Transport ). View a map of route 2 [ dead link ] .

You can also hop on one of the hourly Sebe buses to Tartu . They stop in front of the terminal. Tickets can be bought from the driver or from the ticket machine installed on the ground floor of the terminal building. Buses to other Estonian destinations depart from the city bus station (see below) and do not stop at the airport.

• 59.4272 24.7738 5 Intercity Bus Station ( Bussijaam ) ( on Tartu mnt. halfway between the city centre and the airport ). You can easily walk here from the Old Town in 20 min, or use public transport (buses #2, 17, 23; trams #2, 4). ( updated Jan 2020 )

Frequent buses operate between Tallinn and other cities in Estonia . Domestic bus schedules and prices can be found at Tpilet.ee and Peatus.ee (a good trip planner as well).

International buses run frequently between Tallinn and Riga , Latvia (4½ hr) with continuing service to Vilnius , Lithuania and the rest of Europe. Another popular route is between Tallinn and St. Petersburg , Russia (€25-30, 8 hr). Free Wi-Fi is usually available on board.

The following bus companies operate international bus service to/from Tallinn:

• Lux Express

The Old Town is best navigated on foot, not that you have much choice. A network of buses, trams and trolleybuses covers the rest of the city. There is an abundance of relatively cheap taxis. Before you jump in a random taxi car make sure you check the price on the window of the car. In Tallinn there are more than 20 taxi companies and some can be a rip-off.

By public transport

Due to massive road works in the summer of 2023, temporary routes are in use in the centre. Check latest information and be prepared for problems caused by traffic jams.

TLT operates frequent bus, trolley and tram services daily 06:00-23:59. Timetables and maps are available in English.

Põhja-Eesti Public Transport Centre is a local authority which organizes public transport in Harju County, the province surrounding Tallinn.

Public transport is comparable cheap in and around Tallinn, compared to overland prices of the same distance, due to the zone structure of Tallinn. Thus, many sights even an hour away from Tallinn (e.g. Jägala Falls ) are highly affordable, as long as they are within the zones. Information about zone boundaries and ticket prices are available.

Public transport is free for residents of Tallinn.

Unless you are registered as a resident, remember to buy your ticket. From driver the price is €2, no change given; the ticket is valid for exactly one trip, no transfer.

It is possible also to use a contactless payment card (Mastercard, Maestro, Visa and Visa Electron) to buy one-hour (60 min) ticket for €1.50, then you must use public transport front door. As you board a public transport vehicle, you will be required to validate your trip every time by swiping the payment card at the rectangular orange validators in the front of the vehicle. If you see a green light, your trip has been validated. The system tracks your daily usage and automatically bills your bank account for the cheapest ticket you are entitled to for the day, meaning the maximum you will pay in a single day for an unlimited amount of trips is the price of a one-day ticket (€4.50).

Rechargeable "green card" (Ühiskaart), which is a brand new, cash-free, and smart way of payment. Use your card to touch a bright orange box every time you enter the bus: a single 1-hour ticket (€1.50, transfer allowed) will be charged automatically and on each day individual tickets will total until the price of the day ticket (€4.5) is reached (as of March 2020). Alternatively, the card can be charged for unlimited travel for 3 days, 5 days, or one month. Get this card from one of the abundant R-kiosks for €2, a refundable deposit which is only refundable in limited locations. Refund is available at the R-Kiosk of the Tallinn Airport, Old City Harbour Terminal A and D, Balti jaam and the service desk of bus station ( details ). You can charge the card immediately or do it later on-line (major credit cards accepted).

If you have internet access, you can purchase a single ride for €1.50 or day ticket for €4.50 online by debit/credit cards (multiple rides/passengers can be purchased at the same time) using Pilet.ee website or mobile app. After payment, you will receive a QR code which can be scanned at the bright orange box only on the front door of the bus/tram as proof of payment. You can also load pilet.ee mobile app to buy tickets.

The Tallinn Card includes unlimited use of public transport.

Bus, trams, and trolleybuses form an extensive network with the major bus hub at Viru Hotel (underground bus station). Some trolleybuses terminate at the nearby stop Kaubamaja , which is adjacent to the main department store (Kaubamaja). Vehicles may have different colours depending on their age and model: some old trolleybuses from the time of the USSR can be still seen in the streets of Tallinn. The level of comfort varies greatly. If you want to avoid steps, look out for special yellow markings in timetables: these denote newer vehicles that are friendly to baby prams and people with reduced mobility.

Tallinn has many different taxi companies and independent taxis. There is no standardised base price or price per km. Some tourist scam taxis have absurdly high prices, and as long as those prices are displayed on the sticker in the window and on the dashboard, they are completely legal. The locals never take those taxis: their sole modus operandi is to prey on innocent tourists. Do as the locals do, and order a taxi by phone.

Do not accept offers from taxi drivers waiting at the harbour or train station. Do not accept offers from taxi drivers who approach you at the airport. The same goes for any taxi that looks shabby or does not carry the logo of one of the reputable companies. Also be wary of taxis that look overly luxurious: large Mercedes, TV-screens inside, usually only a very small and vague logo on the door. If you're obviously drunk and are taking one of those questionable taxis from the harbour, you might be driven to some bar or strip club the taxi driver is collaborating with. Usually you will proceed to have a few drinks there without asking for the price and will then be presented with a huge bill . Taxis hanging out in front of nightclubs often have the highest prices.

Ride-hailing services (Bolt, Uber, Yandex.Taxi) are very common in Tallinn, see Estonia#By taxi .

Some reputable local taxi companies are (rates as of July 2020):

• Takso24 – A taxi company owned by Tallink, which practically offers all the same amenities as Tallink Takso, but the price is clearly cheaper (during the day €0.60/km and at night €0.75/km + €2.95 ride start fee)
• Sõbratakso – "Economy" taxis with a mixed car fleet, somewhat cheaper than the competition (price per kilometer €0.49/km + €2.29 as the starting fee for the ride). Unlike many other economy taxis, the cars are clean and the drivers competent.
• Tulika Takso [ dead link ] – By no means from the cheapest end (during the day €0.79/km and at night €0.89/km + €3.85 ride start fee), but the availability is good and the cars are clean. Usually white Toyota Avensis.
• Tallink Takso – Certainly one of the most expensive taxi companies in Tallinn (during the day €0.99/km and at night €1.10/km + €3.95 ride start fee), but the cars are clean and their availability is also good. Yellow Mercedes B-class, Audi A6, Skoda Superb or Hyundai I30 Wagon (not to confuse with Tallinn Taxi, who also have their cars painted yellow).

Other taxi companies (rates as of July 2020):

• Amigo Takso – daytime €2 + €0.40/km, nights €2 + €0.40/km
• Krooni Takso – daytime €2.50 + €0.50/km, nights €2.50 + €0.55/km
• Marabu [ dead link ] – daytime €2.50 + €0.50/km, nights €2.50 + €0.50/km
• Q-Takso – daytime €2 + €0.50/km, nights €2 + €0.50/km
• Reval Takso – daytime €2.29 + €0.49/km, nights €2.29 + €0.49/km
• E.T.X. Takso – daytime €2.90 + €0.55/km, nights €2.90 + €0.70/km
• Välk Takso [ dead link ] – daytime €3.20 + €0.60/km, nights €3.20 + €0.70/km

Massive road works in the summer of 2023 makes driving in the centre difficult, including getting to some of the ferries.

The road rules and driving style in Tallinn can be confusing to tourists. The one and two way roads change frequently and some signposts are not descriptive. Another peculiarity to be found are roads with three lanes where you need to be a local to know if the lane in the middle is meant for traffic going in your direction or in the opposite direction. Traffic jams in Tallinn clear very quickly, however. The speed limit in Tallinn is 50 km/h, except some major streets such as Laagna tee, Pärnu mnt., Paldiski mnt., Peterburi tee etc., which have a speed limit of 70 km/h.

CityBee and Bolt Drive offer freely accessible vehicle rental services in Tallinn. Cars can be picked up and dropped off in public car parks.

There is an abundance of parking, but you have to pay for it. In some cases you can park free of charge for 15 minutes, but for an average traveller that is of course not enough. To find a cheaper parking area, Parkopaedia mobile app generally helps, with up-to-date prices mapped for most central parking locations; it won't tell the current availability, though. €1.50 per hour, €5 for 24 hr at Europark within walking distance from the downtown is a somewhat typical cost.

The locations of ticket machines, and other methods for paying for parking, aren't always obvious. The ticket machines are the easiest way of paying for your parking. With the ticket machine, just pay the price for the time you wish to park, push the green button, take the ticket and put it inside the windscreen where the parking attendant can see it. Prepare coins in advance, as credit cards and paper money are only accepted by parking machines in large indoor parkings, while breaking money can be difficult to find nearby. Mobile phone payment is popular with locals, but requires a local mobile contract to use it. For tourists the mobile app "PARGI.EE" can be used to find prices and pay for parking either for street parking or for some of the most popular parking garages.

For a rental car, a few helpful tips to avoid being fined are:

• Each rental car should come with a plastic mock clock on the dashboard that should be clearly visible from the outside of the car. This clock is used to indicate when you first park at a location. For example if you park at 05:30, your plastic clock should be set to show 05:30. You can then park for free until 05:45.
• Find a bright-orange vested parking inspector in order to determine what type of parking ticket you need. To ask for a parking ticket, say "Palun, üks parkimispilet" in Estonian .
• Scratch the correct date and length of time you'll be parking. In kiosks and some grocery stores you can buy parking tickets that look like lottery tickets. The ticket is split into sections and they are written in both Estonian and English. Scratch off the date of usage. Then scratch off the time you wish the ticket to start . Make sure it is clearly visible next to the clock on the dashboard.

Signs prohibiting parking are not always well visible, one example is the area between the Terminal D in the port and the Norde Centrum shopping centre. Look out for signs with the word Eramaa - this is Estonian for "private" and means that parking is either prohibited or available for a fee.

There are more than 180   km of bicycle roads in Tallinn. The Eurovelo international route goes from west to east, giving you a good chance to ride comfortably through the city. Many bicycle roads are in green parts of the city and are meant more for recreation, although suitable for commuting. You can ride on every road, and use the sidewalk, though you must heed the pedestrians. Many hostels have bike rentals for their guests.

• 59.439459 24.748599 1 City Bike , Vene 33 ( 500   m from Viru Street, McDonald's corner ), ☏ +372 511 1819 , [email protected] . Oct-Apr 10:00-18:00, May-Sep 10:00-19:00 . Over 140 bicycles and lot of extra gear. Real cyclist centre with experienced staff, opened in 2003. Tours, good recommendations for day-routes in Tallinn and self-guided tours in all over Estonia. €10-13 / 24 hr .  

The Old Town of Tallinn is very comfortably covered on foot.

Audio guides in several languages are available for small charge at the tourist centres.

The Tenet tour is a showcase of sets of the 2020 film Tenet . The Tallinn history tour is a walk through the city's long history.

Kesklinn (city centre)

Toompea hill.

According to myth, the hill was built on top of the grave of legendary Estonian king Kalev, but more historically, its solid limestone and the site of the Danish castle that founded the city in 1219. Toompea was the home of the Danish and later Baltic German aristocracy and relations between the toffs and the plebs were often inflamed, which is why it's surrounded by thick walls and there's a gate tower (1380) guarding the entrance. Check out the viewpoints , some of which give great views over the city. There's also a cluster of amber ( merevaik ) shops around here (no Estonian origin but popular among cruise tourists).

• 59.43572 24.73931 2 Alexander Nevsky Cathedral , Lossi plats 10 , ☏ +372 644 3484 , [email protected] . A classic onion-domed Russian Orthodox church, built 1894–1900, during the Russification period when Estonia was part of the Russian Empire. In 1928, when Estonia was independent, it was argued that the church is a symbol of oppression and architecturally non-suitable, therefore should be demolished. But it survived also the Soviet times, and now is used by the Estonian Orthodox Church of Moscow Patriarchate.  
• 59.43697 24.73911 3 St. Mary's Cathedral ( Tallinna toomkirik ), Toom-Kooli 6 , ☏ +372 644 4140 , [email protected] . The oldest church in Tallinn, built as a Catholic church in 1229 but renovated and expanded many times since then. It became a Lutheran church in 1561.  
• 59.43836 24.74026 4 Stenbock House ( Stenbocki Maja ), Rahukohtu 3 . Today, the Stenbock House is the seat of Estonia's government, but it was built as a courthouse in late 18th century, at the behest of the erstwhile Russian authorities. The Russian treasury eventually found itself unable to pay for the building, so the Count Stenbock, who erected the edifice, was left with it as his personal residence. The treasury was only able to buy it more than a century later, when it finally became the courthouse it was intended to be.  
• 59.43711 24.74014 5 Estonian Knighthood House ( Eestimaa rüütelkonna hoone ), Kiriku plats 1 . The green Renaissance revival building was erected in mid-19th century as the fourth consecutive home of the Estonian Kinghthood, a congregation of essentially German nobles who pratically controlled Estonia up to its independence in 1920s. Since 1920s, it played host to the Foreign Affairs Ministry, National Library, and the art collections on display at Kumu . As of 2014, it is home of the Estonian Academy of Arts. The building is not open to the public as it is used for instruction and faculty work.  

Vanalinn (Old Town)

The medieval Old Town ( Vanalinn ) of Tallinn was built in the 15-17th centuries, and is excellently preserved. It contains a large part of Tallinn's sights and is the only UNESCO world heritage site entirely in Estonia. As clichéd it may sound — you can't say you've been to Tallinn if you haven't visited the old town. This compact area is best explored on foot.

• 59.43656 24.75028 6 Viru Gate ( Entrance to the Old Town via Viru Street ). This section of town is known as All-Linn or "Lower Town", as it's where the merchants and artisans of old Tallinn lived. Today, Viru is still Tallinn's trendiest shopping street and the entire All-Linn is the busiest (and most touristy) bit of Tallinn.  

• 59.43738 24.74553 7 Town Hall Square ( Raekoja plats ). The square in the heart of the Old Town, just next to medieval Town Hall ( Raekoda ), ringed with cafes and restaurants. The square was used as a marketplace.  
• 59.43699 24.74532 8 Town Hall ( Raekoda ), Raekoja plats 1 , ☏ +372 645 7900 . Tallinn Town Hall, built at the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries, is the oldest town hall in the Nordic countries and Baltic states . Its heavy stone structure dominates the square. Nowadays it's used as a museum where smaller concerts are held. The weather vane on top of the spire is called Vana Toomas ("Old Thomas") and it has become a symbol of the city.  
• 59.44136 24.74786 9 St. Olaf's church ( Oleviste kirik ), Lai 51 . Built in the 12th century. Today it is a Baptist church and probably the most visible landmark on the northern end of the Old Town. When Estonia was part of the Soviet Union the tower was used as a radio tower and a surveillance point. Tower €3 . ( updated Sep 2017 )

• 10:00-17:00"},"price":{"wt":"adults €3.50, concessions €2"},"content":{"wt":"St.Olaf's lookalike is at the other end of the Old Town. Heavily damaged in World War II and a fire in the 1980s, it is now an art museum and houses Bernt Notke's famous ''Danse Macabre'' from 1633."}},"i":0}}]}'> 59.43591 24.74269 10 St. Nicholas church ( Niguliste kirik ), Niguliste 3 . W-S 10:00-17:00 . St.Olaf's lookalike is at the other end of the Old Town. Heavily damaged in World War II and a fire in the 1980s, it is now an art museum and houses Bernt Notke's famous Danse Macabre from 1633. adults €3.50, concessions €2 .  
• 59.43254 24.73943 11 Vabamu ( Museum of Occupations and Freedom ), Toompea. 8 , ☏ +372 668 0250 , [email protected] . Daily 11:00-18:00 . Educates and involves the people of Estonia and its visitors and encourages everyone to think about the recent past, to sense the fragility of freedom, and to stand for freedom and justice. Adult €11; concession €7; family €23 . ( updated Feb 2020 )

• 59.43924 24.74227 12 City Wall . A section of the City Wall can be climbed from the corner of Suur-Kloostri and Väike-Kloostri, with entry into three towers possible. Quite frankly, the views from up on Toompea are better, and the spiral staircases are steep and somewhat claustrophobic. €1.25 .  
• 59.43829 24.74564 13 Estonian History Museum ( Great Guild ), Pikk 17 , ☏ +372 6968 690 , [email protected] . Daily 10:00-18:00 (1 May - 30 Sep); Th-Tu 10:00-18:00 (1 Oct - 30 Apr) . The History Museum's main location is the medieval Great Guild Hall. Here, the permanent exhibition takes you through 11,000 years of Estonian history by means ranging from striking exhibits of artifacts to interactive "time capsules". Topics covered include a surprisingly wide range, from coinage and wine to the history of the Great Guild building itself. On top of that, there are always some temporary exhibitions which usually serve as a link with present-day Estonia and Tallinn. €4; Free entry on the last Thursday of every month and on the International Museum Day, 18 May .  
• 59.4425 24.7496 14 Estonian Maritime Museum ( Fat Margaret ), Pikk 70 ( Trams 1/2 and bus 3 to Linnhall ), ☏ +372 6 200 550 , [email protected] . May–Sept: daily 09:00 – 18:00; Oct–Apr: Tu–Su 10:00 – 18:00 . The Maritime Museum dates back to 1935 and is housed inside the largest of the Tallinn city wall towers, aptly named "Fat Margaret" ( Paks Margareta ). Visiting the museum allows one not only to see the potpourri of maritime-themed artifacts, but also the 16th-century cannon tower and experience the view from the cafe on its roof. While the museum is the original location of the Meremuuseum , you absolutely cannot miss their second location in the Seaplane Harbour, where the ships and airplanes are stored (see below). €5, combined ticket with Seaplane Harbour - €14 . ( updated Jul 2019 )
• 59.44056 24.74761 15 Ex-KGB Headquarters , Pikk 61 . Now the Interior Ministry and not generally open to the public, this is where the KGB detained and tortured suspected dissidents. A Soviet-era joke says that this was the tallest building in Estonia: even from the basement, you could see Siberia. Interrogations were indeed conducted in the basement and you can see even today how the windows were crudely bricked up with concrete to mute the sound.  
• 54.897 24.743 16 City Train for kids ( Thomas the Train ), Kullassepa 5 , ☏ +372 5887 7742 . Departs every 20 minutes; so takes the round trip. adult €6, child €4 .  

Outside the Old Town

• 59.43371 24.74407 18 Freedom Square , Vabaduse väljak . The Freedom Square is one of the main squares in Tallinn, featuring the simple and elegant St. John's Church from the 1860s and the contemporary Victory Column, erected in 2009 to commemorate the Estonian War of Independence of 1918-1920. The square looks especially spectacular at nighttime, when the column is lit up.  
• 59.43877 24.75595 19 Rottermann Quarter . An industrial district between the city and the Tallinn Port. The buildings are from the 19th and 20th century, with motifs of Art Nouveau and Historicism. New and stylish apartment buildings with shopping centre have now been built there widely regarded as architectural masterpiece in Tallinn.  

• 59.44662 24.75354 20 Tallinn Linnahall , Mere pst. 20 ( stop: Linnahall Bus 3 or #90K (Airport bus) to stop 7 and then a 5-min walk to the Linda line terminal past the Domina Inn Ilmarine hotel ). A fine example of Soviet Brutalist architecture designed by Raine Karp and Riina Altmäe and built for the 22nd Moscow Summer Olympic Games in 1980 for sailing events held in Tallinn. Scale the exterior of this crumbling monumental eulogy to mass culture and marvel at the fact that beneath its crumbling exterior lies a 5,000-seat amphitheatre (that last held a concert in 2008) and a 3,000-seat ice rink. It is closed to the public as negotiations regarding its redevelopment continu. It is maybe a last chance to see part of Tallinn's overlooked architectural heritage in its current form. Linda line run their catamaran service to Helsinki from offices adjacent to/underneath the helipad.  
• 59.43511 24.76388 21 Estonian Firefighting Museum , Raua 2 , ☏ +372 53 028 404 , [email protected] . M–Th 09:00 – 17:00, F 09:00 – 15:30 .  
• 59.445043 24.751293 22 Contemporary Art Museum of Estonia (EKKM) ( Eesti Kaasaegse Kunsti Muuseum ), Põhja pst. 35 ( coming from the old town, just walk towards Linnahall; the museum is located just after the small road that is behind Kulturikatel ), ☏ +372 53305449 , [email protected] . April to December: Tu–Su 12–19 (you may want to double-check online) . Already when entering, this place plays with what a museum should look like: you enter into a café. The exhibition rooms are diverse, as they make use of old industrial space. The shows are prepared by artists, hence the place builds a bridge between the upcoming and the established scene. free admission, donations very welcome . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• 59.58384 24.74915 23 Peter the Great's Naval Fortress ( Peeter Suure merekindluse suurtükipatarei ) ( on the Aegna Island, 14 km north ). In the 18th century, the coastal protection batteries, part of the larger Peter the Great’s sea fortress system, were built in the island.  

Kadriorg quarter

A beautiful and rich seaside resort district with mostly wooden buildings from the 18th to 20th centuries, and 20th-century Art Deco and Functionalist structures. It also includes the baroque pearl of Estonia, the Kadriorg Palace and Garden.

• 59.4384 24.791 24 Kadriorg Palace , Weizenbergi 37 . An imperial Russian summer residence built by Italian architect Niccolo Michetti for Tsar Peter the Great in 1718. It is in a 90-ha (222-acre) park in the eastern part of the city. The Tsar, a classic and mysterious Russian soul, preferred to stay in a modest house nearby. This event signified the beginning of Tallinn's fame as a summer resort for noble and rich Russians for most of the 18th and 19th centuries. The palace houses some painting collections and other art. A portion of the complex is now occupied by the Office of the President and not available to the public. €6 (for the palace) .  

• 59.4362 24.79614 25 National Art Museum KUMU , Weizenbergi 37/Valge 1 ( stop: Kumu ). Opened in February 2006, this is the largest government-built building since the liberation and it is an almost 50,000 m² (538,196 ft²). The museum, whose architecture is by itself enough to justify the visit, houses a cyclopic house, partly cut out of limestone rock. Permanent exhibition is obviously focused on Estonian art in a wide interval of time. Quality of many pieces is very good and well worth a visit. Also very interesting is the (not too spontaneous) turn of interests of artists toward socialist themes during the USSR period. Exhibitions of modern art, mixed with net/social applications, are often surprising and amusing. Not to be missed or overlooked. €14/28/9 adult/family/discount .  
• 59.44438 24.80794 26 Song Festival Grounds ( stops: Oru, Lasnamägi, or Lauluväljak ). A huge Modernist structure where the All Estonian Song Festival, which is held every five years, features 34,000 singers and dancers in addition to a massive audience.  

Includes forest parks, Botanic Gardens and Metsakalmistu (the last resting place of well-known Estonians). A few km east of the city centre along the seaside road.

• 59.47127 24.88738 27 Tallinn TV Tower , Kloostrimetsa 58a ( stop: Motoklubi ). A 314   m high, free-standing structure with an observation deck on the 21st floor which, with its 170 m, is the highest in Northern Europe. It offers spectacular views across Tallinn and, on a clear day, you can see Finland. €10 .  
• 59.4688 24.88073 28 Tallinn Botanical Gardens ( Bus no: 34A or 38 stop: Kloostrimetsa ). The Tallinn Botanic Garden is in the eastern outskirts of Tallinn, 10   km from the city centre and 3   km from the Pirita Sailing and Recreation Centre.It is a must see destination for nature and plant lovers. The "greenhouse" located near the ticket office houses variety of plants, flowers, trees, cactus family and lot more. Spring temperature is maintained always inside the greenhouse, even during winter season. The outdoor garden is vast and has varied flower collections.  
• 59.47159 24.8712 29 Metsakalmistu Cemetery , Pirita ( stop: Metsakalmistu, Bus no 34A or 38 ). Tallinn's most famous cemetery, housing Estonia’s presidents Konstantin Päts and Lennart Meri, as well as chess player Paul Keres. If you're not there to see the graves of Estonian celebrities, it's a peaceful experience to just stroll among the trees.  
• 59.46658 24.83597 30 Holy Birgitta Monastery ( Pirita beach area, 5km from the city centre ). A monastery of Scandinavian female saints, as well as a landmark of 16th century catacombs and ruins. It includes a guest house operated by the nuns.  

Põhja-Tallinn

• 59.44563 24.73456 31 Kalamaja Quarter ( north west from Old Town ). The oldest suburb of Tallinn, dating back to the 14th century. It was probably inhabited by fishermen ( Kalamaja means "Fish house") and mostly houses workers. The current wooden buildings are from the 19th century.  
• 59.45012 24.74182 32 Patarei (Battery) Prison , Kalaranna 2 , ☏ +372 504 6536 . Built by Tsar Nicholas I in 1820 as a fortress to protect the city from the sea-born attacks, it was turned into a notorious KGB prison in 1920. The prison ceased operations in 2004. ( updated Aug 2019 )

• 59.4517 24.7386 33 Seaplane Harbour ( Lennusadam ), 6 Vesilennuki ( No immediately adjacent public transportation stop - you need to walk at least 1 km from either the Linnahall (bus 3, tram 1/2) or Kalamaja (bus 3) stops. ), ☏ +372 6 200 550 , [email protected] . May-Sep: daily 10:00 to 19:00; Oct – Apr: Tu-Su 10:00 to 19:00 . Lennusadam , literally "air port", was constructed in 1916 for the purpose of serving the seaplane fleet with a spectacular, three-domed concrete hangar. Today, it serves as an outpost of the Maritime museum, serving its large collection of complete ships, airplanes and maritime and military equipment too large to fit the Fat Margaret . Inside the hangar, the highlight is the complete submarine Lembit, whose interior can be visited as well, a shipwreck from the 16th century and a collection of smaller boats and seaplanes. The crown of the collection moored outside in the harbour is the steam-powered icebreaker Suur Tõll. Throughout the museum, a number of state-of-the-art technologies and solutions are employed for a more engaging and enjoyable visit, and the museum has a wide range of activities and tours on offer. As the Seaplane Harbour is a bit out of the way, those getting peckish can enjoy a meal at the museum's restaurant Maru inside the hangars. €14 (combined ticket with Fat Margaret - €16) .  

• 59.42153 24.6607 35 Tallinn Zoo , Paldiski mnt. 145 ( Bus stop: Zoo, trolleybus 6 or 7 ). This is an enormous area. Among its live exhibits, you'll find the world's best collections of mountain goats and sheep, which means there are a lot of them! Tallinn Zoo defies the realities of a relatively modest town -- it features all the elephants and crocodiles a visitor would expect to see in a larger zoo, as well as a breathtaking maze of lake-size ponds that host birds in summertime. It also has pets that children can cuddle in children’s petting zoo. Adult €8, child €5, family €20 . ( updated Jul 2020 )

Also, check out other sights within North Estonia , which could allow for a day trip from Tallinn.

• 59.4373 24.7447 1 Medieval Days ( Keskaja Päevad ), Raekoja plats ( in the Old Town ), ☏ +372 660 4772 , +372 518 7812 (Estonian Folk Art and Handicraft Union), +372 5364 8854 (Costume rental) , [email protected] . July . Come and experience the medieval atmosphere of the historic Hanseatic City! You can find workshops and market with traders, participate in tours and witness exciting tournaments.  
• 59.444214 24.751362 2 Kultuurikatel ( creative hub ) , Põhja pst 27a , ☏ +372 56 2011 15 . Formerly an industrial site, this is now Tallinn's main creative hub, site of many events (see website). ( updated Oct 2018 )
• 59.44408 24.75015 3 Energy Discovery Centre ( for youngsters ), Põhja pst 29 , ☏ +372 620 9020 , [email protected] . Daily 12:00–18:00, public holidays 12:00–17:00 . ( updated Jul 2020 )
• 59.451845 24.730352 4 PROTO Invention Factory ( PROTO Avastustehas ), Peetri 10 , ☏ +372 627 6661 . Indoor amusement park where amusements take place with the help of VR glasses. ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 59.440109 24.751269 5 Kalev Spa , Aia 18 , ☏ +372 649 3300 . One of the largest water parks in Northern Estonia. ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 59.507931 24.827524 6 Atlantis H2O Aquapark , Randvere tee 11, Viimsi ( Buses 1A, 114, 174 ), ☏ +372 666 7045 , [email protected] . The water park has several fun water equipment: a wave pool, a flow pool and eight different slides, the longest of which is over 120 m. For toddlers, there is a separate area with two smaller slides, a climbing area and a 0.20-m-deep swimming pool.  
• 59.227995 24.709268 7 Vembu-Tembumaa , Keskuse tee 2, Kurtna, Saku ( Bus 219, 2 km walk from Kiisa railway station ), ☏ +372 671 9155 , [email protected] . The oldest and largest amusement park for the whole family. €18 .  

A flag system that regulates swimming. A green flag means it is safe swim, a yellow flag means you can swim, but it isn't recommended and a red flag means swimming is not advised, go in at your own risk.

• 59.47194 24.8305 8 Pirita Beach ( Pirita rand ) ( take bus 1A, 8, 34A or 38. to stop "Pirita", or walk by the sea 5 km northeast of centre ). A large sandy beach which in summer is full of locals and tourists.  
• 59.44236 24.68381 9 Stroomi Beach ( Stroomi rand, Pelgurand ) ( take bus 40 to stop "Supelranna" ). The water is clean and warm, and it is the gay friendliest beach of Tallinn.  
• 59.41421 24.63208 10 Lake Harku ( Harku järv ) ( take trolley 6, 7 or bus 16, 36 to stop "Väike-Õismäe" ). Small lake that draws a lot of people. The lake gets dirtier by the year and swimming is not always recommended. Watch out for the vipers on the shore!  
• 59.4505 24.57589 11 Kakumäe beach ( Bus 21 from Balti jaam (where the trains arrive), bus 21A from Väike-Õismäe. Stop Landi (21) or Sooranna tee (21A & 21B); from Landi stop keep walking (1 km) until Sooranna tee stop, there you'll find helpful signs ). The water is one of the purest in all of Tallinn beaches.  
• 59.47334 24.72515 12 Pikakari Beach . The water quality is fairly good and it gets deep quite soon when you go in. The huge waves coming from the ships break on shore for the joy of all swimmers. The historical Katariina Pier is nice to walk on.  
• Football: The men's national soccer team play home games at Lilleküla Stadium (sponsored as A. Le Coq Arena), capacity 14,300, 2 km south of city centre. City clubs playing soccer in Meistriliiga, the country's top tier, are Levadia , Flora , Nõmme Kalju and Tallinna Kalev. FC Tallinn and Legion play in Esiliiga the second tier. The domestic playing season is March-Nov.
• 59.42596 24.64731 13 Simpel Session . Summer/Winter . International skateboarding and BMX event.  
• Tallinn International Horseshow . Spring/Autumn . Biggest international horse riding competition in Baltic states, includes showjumping and dressage. Takes place in Saku Suurhall.  

Film festivals

Music festivals.

• 59.44455 24.80651 15 The Estonian Song Celebration ( Laulupidu ), Lauluväljak - Narva mnt 95, 10127 Tallinn . 3-6 July 2025 . First held in 1869, takes place every five years. In 2014, 35,000 choral singers gathered to perform for an audience of 90,000 people. It is recognised by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Next held 3-6 July, 2025; tickets for the XXVIII Song and XXI Dance Festival “Iseoma” will go on sale in January 2025 and will be available for three dance festival performances and two song festival concerts. ( updated Jul 2024 )
• Tallinn Music Week . Spring . Showcase festival, aiming to stage the best and most outstanding Estonian talent on two nights in Tallinn's most vibrant live venues, as well as a networking event for the music industry professionals.  
• Tallinn International Festival Jazzkaar . April . In addition to Tallinn jazz concerts also take place in Tartu and Pärnu.  
• 59.43734 24.74505 16 Tallinn Old Town Days . May/June .  
• 59.4664 24.8363 17 Birgitta Festival . August . Music and theatre festival, held at the ruins of the historical Pirita (St. Bridget's) convent.  

• 59.4261 24.6474 18 Saku Suurhall . Rocca al Mare. Estonia's largest concert and exhibition space, the venue for the 2002 Eurovision Song Contest. The hall and its facilities include an excellent shopping centre that can easily be reached by trolleybus 6.  

• 59.3948 24.6707 2 Tallinn University of Technology Summer School , Ehitajate tee 5 , ☏ +372 620 2002 , [email protected] . TUT offers every summer courses in English (TOEFL) and Nordic Culture  
• 59.4388 24.7719 3 Tallinn University Summer School , Narva mnt 25 , ☏ +372 6409218 , [email protected] . Tallinn University offers a Summer School to learn Eesti.  
• 59.43456 24.75251 4 Estonian Academy of Arts , Estonia pst 7 , ☏ +372 626 7301 , [email protected] . 17:00-20:40 . Open Academy for everybody interested in arts. Wide range of courses and interactive creativity from €75 .  
• 59.4394 24.7719 5 Baltic Film and Media School , Narva mnt 25 , ☏ +372 619 9909 , [email protected] . Runs a training program and several other activities in the film & media sphere and has a cooperation with Apple  

English language teachers with TEFL certificates or equivalent are in demand. Especially during periods of Summer School and/or TOEFL test times, teachers have good opportunities.

Jobs for non-Estonian speakers are less common in other fields, although several IT companies (e.g. Skype) have English based job openings. Compared to Finland or other Scandic countries salaries are lower, so it could make sense to utilize job opportunities in nearby areas. Estonia is part of the EU and Eurozone, so work permits are easy for EU member states and associated countries. All other will need to apply for work permits.

Digital nomads may take advantage of the several coworking spaces, with new ones still popping up from time to time. Among the bigger ones are, for example, Spring Hub and Lift99 (the latter being application-only and strongly connected to the local startup scene). The national library [ dead link ] , which is a few hundred metres south of the city centre, offers plenty of space and good free internet connectivity during opening hours.

Tallinn may be cheap compared to other major European cities, but it is no longer the bargain deal it once was. Though not overtly touristy, it is much more expensive than the rest of the country. If you come here for an authentic Estonian and inexpensive experience, this is the wrong place. Prices can be comparable to Munich and Milan.

Department stores & shopping malls

• 59.43695 24.75664 1 Viru Keskus , Viru väljak 6 . 09:00-21:00 . In and around the landmark Viru hotel, it is very busy as the bus terminal is below this mall. It is still in walking distance from the port but serves tourists and locals as well.  
• 59.43775 24.75846 2 Foorum Keskus , Narva maantee 5 .  
• 59.43486 24.7567 3 Kaubamaja , Gonsiori 2 . Opened in 1960, this is the grand old department store of Tallinn. Unsurprisingly a lot has changed since the Soviet times.  
• 59.43518 24.75459 4 Melon Kaubanduskeskus , Estonia puiestee 1/3 , ☏ +372 630 6500 .  

• 59.43167 24.7609 5 Stockmann , Liivalaia 53 , ☏ +372 633 9539 . Part of the Finnish department store chain, here since 1996. Close to the port and popular with Finnish tourists.  
• 59.42639 24.65165 6 Rocca al Mare kaubanduskeskus ( Take trolley 6 or 7, bus 21, 41 or 42 ), ☏ +372 6659 345 , [email protected] . A few kilometres west of the old town along Paldiski maantee. Consists of a Prisma hypermarket and tens of smaller, mostly fashion boutiques. Also restaurants.  
• 59.42212 24.79438 7 Ülemiste Keskus ( Near the airport; take tram 4 or bus 2 to Ülemiste linnak ).  
• 59.42697 24.7206 8 Kristiine Keskus , Endla tn 45 ( Take trolleybus 3 or bus 21, 23 or 42 ), ☏ +372 665 9100 , [email protected] . One of Estonia's biggest malls with dozens of clothing and shoe outlets, nearly 20 cafés and restaurants, and countless other shops and services.  
• 59.43851 24.7544 9 Rotermanni Kvartal . Rotermann's Quarter is a downtown shopping area with clothing and department stores and restaurants between Viru Keskus, Tallinn port and the Old Town. If you are walking from the harbor towards Viru Väljak the quarter is on your left hand side. One place to find bargain clothes is the Rotermann Kaubamaja situated right at Mere Puiestee. The Kaubamaja also has a combined cafe and restaurant on the third floor which seems to be surprisingly empty even as they have reasonable prices.  

Boutiques and souvenirs

For boutiques and souvenirs, your best choice is Viru street in the Old Town and its side streets. There are many stalls selling traditional items like woolen pullovers, crystal and amber. Be prepared to bargain in order to get a reasonable price, however bargaining is only accepted at some places. Even though Baltic amber and Russian matryoshka dolls are widely available in souvenir boutiques, neither are related to Estonia or its culture and are sold in Estonian souvenir boutiques mainly because they sell well to tourists.

• 59.439738 24.728562 10 Telliskivi — indie shops , Telliskivi 60a ( use tram 1 or 2 towards Kopli and get off Teliskivi, pass by Depoo into Teliskivi street ), [email protected] . Former industrial, now creative/entrepreneurial district Telliskivi is home to many small boutiques selling nice goods ranging from arts, to clothes and interior. A book shop and a record shop are also welcoming you. You will find all shops on the website. ( updated Oct 2018 )
• 59.43531 24.74631 11 Ivo Nikkolo , Suur-Karja 14 . Fashion-interested people can visit the main store of Estonia's first Post-Soviet designer brand Ivo Nikkolo.  
• 59.453004 24.87539 12 Geek Shop Estonia , Narva mnt 19 , ☏ +372 555 31 000 , [email protected] . M–Sa 11:00–20:00 . Pop culture collectibles and gaming store, which sells toy figures, board games, clothes, accessories and other geek stuff.  

• 59.44094 24.73588 13 Jaama Turg ( Baltijaama turg ), Kopli 1 . A market place next to the train station. Overrated and overpriced, gourmet food at three times the price of regular market places. For tourist and rich locals.  
• 59.43024 24.76653 14 Keskturg , Keldrimäe 9 . Market place 500   m from the bus station. They sell food and clothes.  
• 59.43744 24.74499 15 Jõuluturg , Raekoja Plats . The Christmas Market on the Town Hall square is open from late November to early January. They sell knitwear, various wooden objects for use and decoration, Christmas tree decorations, gingerbread and such. It's not all about shopping, the Christmas tree in the middle is worth taking a photo of and there's a stage when they sing carols. Of course you can occasionally run into Santa at the market. Don't forget to try a mug of hot glögg, sold at many stalls.  
• 59.43754 24.75303 16 Vana Turg , Mere Pst . The name translates to "old market" and is located on a small square just outside the old town. Vana Turg is a place to buy clothes and decoration items often Estonian-made and sometimes sold by the makers themselves: knitted pullovers and caps, gloves, belts and slippers are examples of what you can find here.  
• 59.4438 24.7579 17 Sadamarket , Kai 5 . Daily 08:00-19:00 . Shopping daytrippers who arrive with Viking Line or Eckerö Line and can't be bothered to walk far from the terminal usually end up at this large indoor market. Three floors of clothing, bags, food and souvenirs plus some restaurants on the second floor. And of course also alcoholic beverages at a third of the Finnish prices. ( updated Oct 2015 )

• 59.443435 24.759972 18 Sadama Turg , Sadama 25-4 , ☏ +372 56650770 , [email protected] . Another market near the ferry terminals, selling quality Estonian handicraft, food, and alcoholic beverages at cheap prices. ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 59.436968 24.747486 19 Biit Record , Viru 3 . Tu-F 13:00-19:00 . A music shop covering all major media types, with somewhat of a focus on vinyl. They especially have great indie and electronics offerings, can at the same time help find great local music and also other common genres. Located in an upper floor, the store has a special atmosphere to it. Offering secondhand and a wide variety of new records.  
• 59.428571 24.724214 20 Rockroad Record , Endla 38 . Mainly metal and rock/pop/blues also. Owner knows about Estonian and Russian rock music. Carries many Melodia label records.  
• 59.428571 24.724214 21 Raamatukoi Grammofon Records , Voorimehe 9 . Good selections. Classical, jazz, Estonian, pop-rock and so on. Furthermore, they sell postcards and stamps.  
• 59.43993 24.7297 22 World Clinic record shop , Telliskivi 60a/3 1st floor ( located at the northern end of in the Telliskivi creative area (<10 minutes walk from the central train station) ), [email protected] . a small but very friendly and diverse record shop ( updated Oct 2018 )

The Old Town is packed with restaurants claiming to offer authentic Estonian food, particularly on and around Raekoja plats . Prices at restaurants near the Raekoja Plats are generally more expensive, yet offer the same quality of food, as restaurants off this main square. Prices are steep by Estonian standards, but still much cheaper than neighbouring Helsinki, which explains why on weekends they're always packed with day tripping Finns.

In the Old Town

• 59.43836 24.7457 1 Maiasmokk , Pikk 16 , ☏ +372 64 64 079 , [email protected] . 09:00 to 21:00 mostly . The oldest still operating café in Tallinn, dating back to 1864. Coffee, tea, chocolate and various sweet and savoury pastries at quite cheap prices. Spacious with stylish decor. Next door is the Maiasmokk confectionery shop, which sells good quality Estonian chocolates. ( updated May 2022 )
• 59.437497 24.743138 2 Pub Kompressor , Rataskaevu 3 . Very tasty and varied pancakes. There are also other dishes. Fantastic place with great food and drinks, especially kvass! ( updated May 2022 )
• 59.437 24.745637 3 III Draakon , Raekoja plats . If you'd like to scoop nostalgia. Very interesting to eat in a special way. They have a small menu to offer but very good and very typical. The waitress plays at having the character of a sour waitress but with humor. A memorable experience. ( updated May 2022 )
• 59.43574 24.747118 4 Pizza Grande , Väike-Karja 6a . Very cozy place. Delicious pizza, affordable prices, pleasant service. Great environment. ( updated May 2022 )

Near the Old Town

• 59.43257 24.74649 5 Loca , Tatari 1, Tallinn ( Located near Vabaduse väljak, right next to Söögiplats ), ☏ +372 555 15 235 . 11:00-07:00 . Pizza, falafel, hummus, soup, beer. Fast food joint with wild staff and increasing customer service. €3-8 .  
• 59.4331 24.74782 6 Mr. Mauruse Pub ( Estonia pst 8 ) ( Near the city library. ). A great local pub, featuring cheap food with hearty portions. ( updated May 2022 )

Around the market Balti Jaama Turg

• 59.439635 24.729219 7 F-hoone , Telliskivi 60a/F , ☏ +372 5322 6855 , [email protected] . M-Sa 9-24, Su 9-22; kitchen closes 1 hr earlier . Used to be an industrial hall, now made a great bistro/bar which tends to become very busy in the evenings (book if you can, but as it's big you might well be lucky and find the one spare table. Good value for price. ( updated May 2022 )

East of the old town around the Coca-Cola Plaza

• 59.43708 24.76361 8 Kohvik Narva , Narva mnt 10 , ☏ +372 6601786 . M-F 08:30-20:00, Sa 10:00-20:00, Su 10:00-18:00 . Cafe Narva long boasted an old-style interior preserved from the Soviet area; today's chic interior seems questionably authentic. Ladies at the counter are somewhat brusque (still) and mostly Russian-speaking, although this should not prevent you from enjoying traditional food of Soviet workers as well as delicious pastries baked on the premises. Cake per kg €8.50-12, pastry pieces €0.70, solyanka €3, pancake €2.50-3.50, pasta carbonara €6, schnitzel €7, potato fritter €3-5, Pelmeni €5 . ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 59.4246 24.7934 9 Puffid bakery , Peterburi tee 2 ( on the first floor of T1 and Kristiine Center ), ☏ +372 58500408 , [email protected] . Puffid bakery offers snacks for every taste, curd pockets, a special children's set, croissants, baguettes and salads with different fillings. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• 59.4372 24.74285 10 Aed ( Embassy of Pure Food ), Rataskaevu 8. , ☏ +372 626 9088 , [email protected] . M-Sa 12:00-00:00, Su 12:00-18:00 . Excellent organic, biodynamic and Demeter food, also full vegan options. Beautiful interior, very charming and romantic, wonderful service. Lower-than-tourist prices .  
• 59.43547 24.7614 11 Aserbaijan Restaurant Shesh-Besh , Gonsiori 9 , ☏ +372 661 1422 , [email protected] . This dim and blandly decorated Azerbaijani bar-restaurant "Shesh Besh" offers genuine Azerbaijan cuisine. Although a namesake, it has nothing to do with a branch of Azerbaijan restaurants in Russia. Mains: €6-8 .  
• 59.43765 24.74829 12 Controvento , Vene 12/Katriina Käik . A very nice little Italian restaurant stashed away in a small side passage in the Old Town. Offering genuinely excellent food at reasonable prices with good service. Its only "flaw" is that it's hard to get into and is most often completely full, even on off-season week nights. You may want to call ahead and make a reservation. Pizzas and pasta dishes are around €10.  
• 59.4246 24.794 13 Crudo Resto , Peterburi tee 2 ( in the shopping and entertainment center T1 ), ☏ +372 58777770 , [email protected] . 10:00 - 21:00 . Italian cuisine, pizzas, pastas and a variety of Italian appetizers (antipasti), salads, soups, carefully selected wines, classic cocktails and Italian desserts. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• 59.438308 24.729358 14 Frenchy bistro , Telliskivi 60a/5, hall B , ☏ +372 5604 8262 . M 17-23, Tu-Th 12-23, F-Sa 12-24 . French food bistro in a hip vintage-industrial-modern setting. Has cheap daily offers. ( updated Oct 2018 )

• 59.438412 24.751491 15 Guru , Aia 10 , ☏ +372 5301 7828 . A new Indian restaurant in central Tallinn, just outside the old town. Easy to find as it's on the same street as the Kalev Spa. Offers authentic Indian cuisine with plenty of spices. Try the Indian tea for dessert. Mains €12-20 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 59.439582 24.717268 16 Kaja Pizza Köök , Õle 33 , ☏ +372 6601611 . Tu - Su 11:30 till Out of Dough (they will make a given amount of dough every day, so if it's very busy they will close "early") . pizza baked in a wood oven, with the choice of topping being aligned to traditional south Italian pizza. Small place, just one big table everybody shares. Combining traditional elements and a rather modern/hip atmosphere. pizza 5-8 Euro + 1 Euro per additional topping . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• 59.43601 24.74681 17 Karja Kelder , Väike-Karja 1 , ☏ +372 644 1008 . 11:00-00:00 or later . Pleasant and affordable tourist trap in basement. Located in the middle of Old Town. Main courses €4.50-8 .  

• 59.4451 24.7478 18 Kohvik Moon , Võrgu 3 , ☏ +372 6 314 575 , [email protected] . 12:00 - 23:00 mostly . A rather small restaurant with a nice, minimalistic decor. Serves traditional Estonian food with a Russian influence. Voted best restaurant in Tallinn in 2010. Very popular among tourists, and as such it is usually quite full. Prior reservations are recommended but not mandatory. Main courses €10 – 20 .  
• 59.4374 24.74317 19 Kompressor , Rataskaevu 3 ( Just few minutes walk from Raekoja plats. ). This place offers an assortment of huge and delicious pancakes. Don't give in to the temptation to order two portions, one pancake is usually enough. This place used to be less touristic, but is now. Pancakes from €4.50, Beer €3 .  
• 59.43368 24.75787 20 Madissoni Grill & Baar , Rävala Puiestee 3 ( next to the Radisson Blu Hotel ). This open kitchen type restaurant serves good flame-grilled food at decent prices, especially popular for its daily lunch specials, King Club sandwich and burgers.  
• 59.43694 24.74759 21 Oliver , Viru 3 , ☏ +372 630 7898 , [email protected] . 10:00-00:00 . A traditional restaurant in the heart of the Tallinn Old town. The menu is centered on various kinds of steaks, but there are also pastas and vegetarian dishes available. Main courses €15 – 23. ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 59.43669 24.74685 22 Restoran Peppersack . A middle ages-themed restaurant one block away from the city hall square - even the names of the dishes are medieval themed. Outdoor seating available in the summer, when they also played medieval (what else?) music on a small outdoor stage, and they seem also to have sword fight and oriental dance performances. Probably the main competitor of Olde Hansa and a bit touristy indeed but fun.  
• 59.39254 24.67387 23 Pirosmani , Üliõpilaste tee 1 , ☏ +372 639 3246 . 10:00-24:00 . Georgian food as it is done in Georgia. It's well out of the way, but that's a good thing. Almost everyone at this restaurant is local (although the menu has English), and tourists are not in sight, so the food here is good and great value. Try the Khinkali or the Harcho.  
• 59.43733 24.74596 24 Troika , Raekoja plats 15 . Offers generous portions of Russian food. In the warm summer months, people dine on the terrace. In winter, they head down to the warm cellar. To fill up, get a small zakuski (which is anything but small) appetizer plate. It's big enough for three and costs €9, then dip your pelmeni dumplings (costing €6) in smetana or the other sauces provided and wash it down with a shot of vodka (€5).  
• Umami offers Estonian-style cuisine with an international twist, as well as a diverse wine list. The restaurant has a spacious terrace and is a short walk away from the ferry terminal. The burger of the day is worth trying."}},"i":0}}]}'> 59.445745 24.749621 25 [ formerly dead link ] Umami , Kalasadama 8 , ☏ +372 600 1035 , [email protected] . 12:00-20:00 mostly . Considered among the best restaurants in Tallinn. Originally located in Mustamäe, the restaurant came under threat of closing down in March 2019 when the building housing it was demolished. Instead of closing down, it opened in new premises in Kalamaja in northern Tallinn. Umami offers Estonian-style cuisine with an international twist, as well as a diverse wine list. The restaurant has a spacious terrace and is a short walk away from the ferry terminal. The burger of the day is worth trying. Main courses €11.50-21.50 . ( updated Jun 2019 )

• 59.43716 24.74262 26 Vanaema Juures , Rataskaevu 10/12 , ☏ +372 626 9080 . Translates as "At Grandma", which gives you an idea of the warm welcome you can expect here. Friendly and attentive staff are happy to explain the traditional dishes. Excellent value for money. It's a tiny place, so reservations are essential in the high season. Try the meatballs or the pork with sauerkraut and don't miss the kama porridge for dessert. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 59.43624 24.74479 27 Bar Fish and Wine , Harju 1 , ☏ +372 662 3013 . M-Th 11:30-23:00, F Sa 11:30-24:00 . The name pretty much says it. This is a modern cocktail bar and restaurant serving vodka and caviar, fish dishes and a wide range of wines.  
• 59.43992 24.74777 28 Bocca , Olevimägi 9 , ☏ +372 611 7290 . M-Th 11:30-23:00, F Sa 11.30-24:00, Su 13:00-22:00 . One of the trendiest restaurants in Tallinn. Features Italian cuisine by Nicola Tanda. It also has a nice bar to enjoy cocktails and snacks. This is one of the busiest restaurants in Tallinn. Reservations are highly recommended. €30 .  
• 59.44011 24.74798 29 Chedi ( chedi ), Olevimägi 11 ( next to restaurant Bocca, in old town ), ☏ +372 646 1676 . M-Th 11:30-23:00, F Sa 11:30-24:00, Sun 13:00-22:00 . Modern Asian kitchen supervised by Alan Yau from Hakasan, London. Modern and warm interior to give a retro Asian impression. Reservations recommended for the weekend and during summer holidays. €20 .  
• 59.43707 24.74344 30 [ dead link ] Kuldse Notsu Kõrts , Dunkri 8 , ☏ +372 628 6567 . Daily 12:00-23:00 . Good traditional Estonian restaurant close to the main square. Try the house beer or vodka and fresh buckthorn and honey apertif with your blood sausage or the famous pork knuckle with extra spicy mustard. The traditional desserts are also worth a try. Live traditional music Sep-May F Sa nights. €20-30 including drinks and dessert .  

• 59.43644 24.74284 31 Musi , Niguliste 6 , ☏ +372 5663 6211 . 17:00-24:00 . This is primarily a wine bar, but it has light meals as well. From the outside it looks like a cosy oasis, and you might think the place is one little rustic room on display but there is more tables behind the wine bar. Welcoming staff and a good selection of wine by the glass. A good place for a relaxed meal, or with your friends before or after dinner. Glass of wine: €4; Small dishes: from €5 .  
• 59.43668 24.74599 32 Olde Hansa , Vana turg 1 . The ruling king among Tallinn's purely touristy restaurants with some of them trying to copy its style. The place is simply medieval, not just in terms of food but also in the sense of performance - no electricity, no music except live and authentic, no modern inventions. The house special is bear meat "marinated in rare spices and cooked over a fire in honour of Waldemar II, the brave King of Denmark" costing €40+. Try one of the extraordinary beers, such as the honey beer. It is not likely that you will meet any locals here.  
• 59.43895 24.75443 33 Restaurant Ö , Mere pst. 6E ( close to old town, near harbour ), ☏ +372 661 6150 . M-Th 12:00-23:00, F Sa 12:00-24:00, Su 13:00-22:00 . Reopened and two new chefs Martin Meikas and Ranno Paukson with focus on Modern Estonian kitchen. Good view of old town. €20 .  
• 59.43779 24.74735 34 Tchaikovsky , Vene 9 , ☏ +372 6000 610 . M-F 12:00-15:00, 18:00-23:00; Sa Su 13:00-23:00 . As the name suggests, it is a Russian restaurant, but don't expect wooden benches, traditional food, and folk music. On the contrary, you will find a selection of Russian delicacies ranging from pancakes with caviar to pelmeni with pork and wild mushrooms, along with fusion-style cuisine (rabbit with Jerusalem artichoke being a good example). Expect delicious food and very high prices, but if you are looking for typical Russian fare, try to find another place for dinner. Mains start from €20 .  

There are plenty of nice cafés, especially in the centre. Among the interesting ones:

• 59.435309 24.73116 1 Café Mademoiselle ( Kohvik Mademoiselle ), Toompuiestee 27 / Paldiski mnt 4 ( in the Kelmiküla district; at the Meriton Grand Conference & Spa Hotel ), ☏ +372 62 88 155 , [email protected] . Daily 08:00–22:00 . A café with the high quality confectionery products. ( updated Jun 2023 )
• 59.434252 24.744304 2 Wabadus Kohvik ( Café Wabadus ), Vabaduse väljak 10 , ☏ +372 6604019 . M-Th 9-23; F 9-1; Sa 11-1, Su 11-22 . located just next to the freedom square, this café has good drinks as well as dishes. The interior is a great blend of classical styles of prior decades with the modern times. ( updated Oct 2018 )

Tallinn's crazy nightlife is out of proportion to the city's small size. The days of armed mafiosos are over and these days any drunken fights tend to involve stag parties. Exercise some caution in choosing your venue, as some strip clubs and regular clubs make their money by fleecing tourists who come in for a drink. In local places, beers cost €2.50-4.

Bars and pubs

In old town (vanalinn).

• 59.43684 24.74369 3 Beer House , Dunkri 5 . Plenty of beers to choose from in this large authentically styled and decorated Bavarian Beer hall, including 5 of their own beers made on site. Try the Medovar Honey beer.  
• 59.434981 24.746536 4 The Dubliner , Suur Karja 18 , [email protected] . 11:00-midnight (03:00 at the weekend) . Popular Irish pub on one of the nightlife axes. Attracts younger people and is relative new, so no pub crawlers puke in front of the door.  
• 59.43544 24.74814 5 Drink Baar , Väike Karja 8 , ☏ +372 644 9433 . Su-Th 12:00-23:00, F Sa 12:00-03:00 . The widest selection of beers of any pub in town including many quality imports from Brewdog and Mikkeller. Good English-style pub-grub, featuring award winning fish and chips. Monthly comedy nights from the "Comedy Estonia" and quiz nights.  

• 59.43936 24.74676 6 Hell Hunt , Pikk 39 . The name means "the gentle wolf" in Estonian. A comfortable and homey pub in the Old Town and offers a wide selection of beers (including two of their own brews) and some pretty decent food. Don't miss the spare ribs.  
• 59.43655 24.74893 7 Helsinki Karaoke Baar , Viru 18 , ☏ +372 641 6164 , [email protected] . Su–Th 13:00–01:00, F 13:00–03:00, Sa 10:00–03:00 . A legendary gathering place for Finns. This bar, also known as Lokaal Helsinki , is a popular destination for both locals and tourists who crave a cozy atmosphere and Finnish music.  
• 59.43427 24.74482 8 Kuku klubi , Vabaduse väljak 8 . Founded 1935 by local art community and claiming to have had the best accessible cuisine in the former USSR since 1958 during the Russian occupation.  
• 59.43561 24.74626 9 Lab Bar , Suur-Karja 10 . Laboratory themed bar known for its shots in test tubes. You should definitely try the "Brain Scan".  
• 59.44009 24.74837 10 Levist Väljas , Olevimägi 12 . A cozy alternative bar in Old Town with a small dance floor.  

• 59.43604 24.74621 11 Nimeta Baar (The Bar With No Name) , Suur-Karja 4 . Really fun place, popular with tourists.  

• 59.434658 24.743135 12 100 õlle koht , Harju 6 , ☏ +372 5884 9729 . M-Sa 12:00-20:00 mostly, closed Sundays . The name means "the place of 100 beers" and the establishment indeed serves over 100 different types of beer. Traditional Estonian pub snacks also available. It's in an underground cellar so it's not suitable for people with limited mobility. ( updated Mar 2020 )
• 59.43966 24.7469 13 Texas Honky Tonk & Cantina , Pikk 43 , ☏ +372 631 1755 . 12:00-23:59 . Texas-style cantina is a casual place for a Corona or, if you must, a Bud, or even to try out the frozen margaritas churning in the electric mixer behind the bar. More serious drinkers can try the "tequila flights": 3 or 5 shots of different tequilas to give you a sampling, not that you're likely to remember which was which next time around.  
• 59.43727 24.74284 14 Von Krahli , Rataskaevu 10 . An avant-garde theatre/bar.  

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16 Things to See and Do in Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia , is a medieval city nestled against the Baltic Sea. With its picturesque historic Old Town that dates back to the 13th century, it has been drawing in tourists since the fall of the Soviet Union.

Cheap flights, cheap prices, and the beauty of Prague without the crowds have made Tallinn an appealing weekend getaway for Europeans.

I visited the city on a trip from Finland — there’s a frequent ferry service between the two cities — and was enamored by it. It was a blend of Nordic and Baltic culture with plenty of things to see and do.

Best of all, it was super affordable!

Though the city has become a bit more crowded and expensive in the last couple of years, it’s still one of my favorite places in the region. It’s peaceful and wonderful: the people are open and relaxed and the country is super tech-forward (they offer e-residency services specifically for digital nomads).

To help you make the most out of your trip, here are the best things to see and do in Tallinn — from the super touristy to off the beaten trail!

Table of Contents

1. Take a Free Walking Tour

2. estonian maritime museum, 3. glehn park & castle, 4. tallinn town hall & square, 5. tallinn museum of photography, 6. estonian open-air museum, 7. ichthus art gallery, 8. epitaphs of the cathedral of saint mary, 9. estonian architecture museum, 10. tv tower, 11. telliskivi creative city, 12. bastion tunnels, 13. toompea castle & alexander nevsky cathedral, 14. soviet statue graveyard, 15. kgb museum, 16. take in the view, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

Not only will it give you a solid introduction to the city but you’ll get access to a local guide who can answer any and all questions you might have.

EstAdventures has a few different free tour options, including general walking tours, tours focused on the city’s communist past, and street art tours. Just make sure to tip your guide!  

Founded in 1935 and located inside a historic 500-year-old building, this museum highlights the history of Estonia’s maritime culture. The main attraction is the interactive Seaplane Harbour exhibition, which includes a Short 184 seaplane as well as the steam-powered icebreaker Suur Toll.

And don’t miss the 1936 submarine Lembit, the only surviving Baltic warship from before WWII (and one of only two submarines in Estonian naval history). There’s also an aquarium, ship miniatures, and a flight simulator. It’s a fun and educational place for adults and kids alike.

Vesilennuki tee 6, +372 6200 550, meremuuseum.ee. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10am–6pm; closed Monday. Admission is 20 EUR.  

Glehn Park, located on the Nomme hillside, is home to medieval-style Glehn Castle. Built in 1886, both the park and castle were created by Nikolai von Glehn, a rich and eclectic man known for his unusual taste in decoration (such as tables and chairs carved like figurines, large statues, and an obelisk in front of his house marking the grave of his favorite horse).

Unfortunately, most of the castle was looted during World War I, so none of the unique pieces of furniture he created remain. However, you’ll still get to see the statues he built on the grounds of the park. There’s also an observatory tower and palm house, which has a gorgeous mosaic rooftop. It’s a good place to relax, go for a walk, or go skiing during wintertime.

Vana-Mustamäe 48, +372 652 5076, ttu.ee/organisatsioonid/glehni-loss. The building isn’t open to the public as it is now used for events (weddings, conferences, receptions, etc.).  

You can climb the spire to 34 meters (111 feet) from May through September. The interior of the Town Hall is open to visitors as a museum only during July and August; inside, you’ll get to see colorful designs on the walls, intricate wood carvings, and stunning arched ceilings as you learn about the city and its history.

The surrounding plaza is a great place to people-watch and it hosts lots of activities and markets throughout the year.

Don’t miss the annual five-day Tallinn Old Town Days festival held in May. It’s dedicated to the cultural heritage of Tallinn and includes themed days such as Medieval Day and Children’s Day, as well as numerous workshops, music, and theater performances.

Raekoja plats, Kesklinna linnaosa (City Center), +372 645 7906, raekoda.tallinn.ee/. Open weekdays from 10am-4pm. Advance reservations required. Admission is 7 EUR.  

Hidden amidst the cobblestone streets of Tallinn, this small museum is tucked away inside a 14th-century prison. It focuses on Estonia’s history of photography with a permanent exhibition including antique photos and cameras from 1840 — when photography first made its way to Tallinn — to 1940.

You can also check out contemporary photography from modern-day artists in many of the museum’s rotating exhibits. It’s a very small museum, but super interesting even if you’re not a huge photography buff.

Raekoja 4/6, +372 644 8767, linnamuuseum.ee/fotomuuseum. Open Saturday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10am–5pm, Thursdays from 12–8pm, and Sunday from 11am–4pm. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Tickets are 12-17 EUR.  

Located 15 minutes from the city center by car, this open-air ethnographic museum recreates what life was like in Estonia’s rural countryside. It’s a life-sized rural village composed of farms, a wooden chapel, a school, fire station, shop, and an inn that highlights how families from different social classes lived during the 18th and 19th centuries.

There’s plenty to do, from eating a traditional Estonian meal to riding a horse to taking a workshop. It’s open all year round, but you might want to go during the summertime when it’s warm! It’s also one of the best things to do in Tallinn with kids. Download the mobile app Numu for a free audio guide while you’re at the museum.

Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 12, +372 654 9100, evm.ee/est/avaleht.Open daily from 10am–5pm. Admission is 16 EUR in summer and 12 EUR in winter. Free entrance with a Tallinn Card.  

This is one of Tallinn’s best-kept secrets. It’s tucked away in the depths of St. Catherine’s Dominican Monastery, which dates back to 1246. On arrival, turn right toward steep steps that take you into the cellar. The confined space used to contain three wings, called the Claustrum, that housed monks in the 13th century.

Today, the space is used by artist Aleksandr Savchenkov, who sells his original artwork from the cellar. As you wander about you’ll also see the ‘Energy Pillar’, which is located in the ancient monastic chambers and is said to be a source of spiritual well-being.

Müürivahe Tänav 33, +372 5559 5920. Admission is free; however, donations are accepted.  

The grounds of this church date back to the 13th century, though the current building itself is from the 17th. What makes it unlike most other churches is that coats-of-arms epitaphs hang on the walls of the church instead of more traditional religious artwork or decorations.

Historically, these were used as headstones for people of importance, such as nobles and knights. They reflect the people of status who were buried on the grounds.

In fact, the first man who ever led a Russian voyage around the world, Admiral Adam Johan von Krusenstern, is buried here. Climb the 69-meter (226-foot) bell tower to get a beautiful view of the city.

Toom-Koolitänav 6, +372 644 4140. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10am–3:30pm, closed Mondays. Admission is 5 EUR for adults and 3 EUR for children. Dress respectfully as this is a place of worship.

The Estonian Architecture Museum was established in 1991 during the fight for Estonian independence. The museum is located in the Rotermann Salt Storage building, which was built in 1908 (and then reconstructed in 1995 with multiple additional floors for the museum).

Its galleries now feature drawings from the 1920s, as well as over 11,500 archived items (such as drawings and sketches) and some 18,000 items in their photo collection. There are always some interesting rotating exhibits here too.

Ahtri tänav 2, +372 625 7000, arhitektuurimuuseum.ee. Open Tuesday–Sunday 11am–6pm, closed Mondays. Admission is 8 EUR.  

The TV Tower was constructed when Tallinn was chosen as a host city for sailing during the 1980 Moscow Olympics. It closed in 2007 for renovations and reopened in 2012. It has floor-to-ceiling windows (not ideal if you’re afraid of heights) so you can really soak in the view as well as touch-screen information panels so you can learn about the tower and the city.

The tower hosts many events, such as music concerts and the annual Stair Run to mark the anniversary of its reopening.

Kloostrimetsa tee 58 A, +372 686 3005, teletorn.ee. Admission is 17 EUR and the Walk on the Edge costs 39 EUR.  

The Telliskivi Creative City is a workplace for over a thousand people, with artist’s studios, a radio station, rehearsal spaces, and NGO offices, all situated throughout ten repurposed factory buildings. Telleskivi hosts a flea market every Saturday, and there are over 600 cultural events throughout the year, including dance performances, music concerts, and improv theater.

There are colorful murals on many of the buildings and you’ll also find restaurants and bars full of locals and tourists alike. Make sure you eat at Peatus (“Stop” in Estonian) for a really unique experience: it’s located inside two old Soviet railcars (and the food is great too!).

Telliskivi tänav 60a, Pohja, Tallinna linnaosa.  

These tunnels were initially built in the 17th century as an addition to the Kiek in de Kök ( Peek in the Kitchen ) tower, and were intended for storage. They later held prisoners and then were used as shelters against air raids during World War II.

In more modern history, thieves and rebels used them for shelter since the police usually avoided the tunnels. They were cleaned out and opened up to the public in 2004. If you’re brave enough, you can explore the winding maze of the dark, damp tunnels on a guided tour when you visit the tower.

Komandandi tee 2, +372 644 6686, linnamuuseum.ee/kiek-de-kok. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10am–5pm (Thursday until 8pm), closed Monday. Admission is 8 EUR.  

You can also visit the nearby Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. It opened in 1900 during the Czarist Empire and is home to Tallinn’s largest bell (it weighs 15 tons). The impressive exterior showcases Russian Revival architecture with its onion-shaped dome. The interior is decorated with colorful mosaics and stained-glass windows and has three ornate altars.

Toompea Castle: Lossi plats 1a, +372 631 633, riigikogu.ee. On Thursdays at 11am, there’s a 45-minute English-language tour of the castle. Admissions is free though you need to reserve your spot in advance.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Lossi plats 10, +372 644 3484, cathedral.bg/en/home. Open daily from 7am-7pm. Admission is free. Dress respectfully as it is a place of worship.  

The Soviet Statue Graveyard, located near Maarjamäe Castle, contains a collection of discarded statues, such as those of Joseph Stalin, Vladimir Lenin, and Mikhail Kalinin. After the Soviets left Tallinn, they were dumped here and ignored.

You’ll find large statues of heads (a classic Soviet statue trend) and others that tower over three meters (ten feet) tall. It’s a surreal place to visit — especially when you realize it hasn’t even been 30 years since Estonia achieved independence and these statues were left to fade into history.

Pirita tee 56, 10127, ajaloomuuseum.ee/exhibitions/permanent-exhibitions/noukogude-aegsete-monumentide-valinaitus. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10am–6pm, closed Monday.  

Rooms previously used by spies during the Soviet era sit on the top floor of the stylish Hotel Viru, located on Viru Square. They house listening and recording equipment (some cleverly disguised), dial telephones, uniforms, and a typewriter.

Few people ever knew these rooms existed, and they were only exposed in the 1990s when the KGB fled the city. They shed light on just how controlling and subversive the Soviet government was during the occupation.

Viru väljak 4, +372 680 9300, viru.ee/en. Open daily from 10am–5pm. The guided tour begins in the hotel lobby. Tickets are 14 EUR.  

For the best view in the city, head to Kohtuotsa viewing platform. It’s on Toompea Hill and offers the best view of the city and harbor. You’ll also often find buskers here, making it a nice place to end your day and watch the sunset.

Tallinn remains one of my favorite destinations in Europe . It’s a fun and lively city home to quirky museums, hidden art exhibits, and beautiful architecture.

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Estonia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned. Start with Skyscanner first though because they have the biggest reach!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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33 Amazing Things To Do in Tallinn: The Ultimate Tallinn Bucket List

There are so many things to do in Tallinn, it can be hard to know where to start! So we’ve put together the ultimate Tallinn bucket list.

Whether you’re planning a short break to the Estonian capital, or passing through on an extended trip, there are plenty of things to do in this old-meets-new city.

The great news is that the city is relatively compact so you’ll be able to camp in plenty to your Tallinn itinerary.

If you were wondering what to do in Tallinn here are 33 unmissable experiences. From its rich medieval charm, interesting history and Scandinavian-influenced hipster districts, Tallinn has something for everyone.

Some of the links on Meet Me In Departures are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Tallinn Bucket List – Overview

Tallinn is arguably THE most beautiful city in the Baltic States of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. I visited Tallinn as part of a month-long trip around the Baltics. Originally, I had planned on staying for 2 days in Tallinn, but I loved it so much that I tagged on more time.

This Tallinn city guide is divided into sections. The first part covers the practicalities and essential information about visiting the city. The second section goes into detail about what to do in Tallinn and information about the must-visit places as well as some handy tips so you can get the most out of your visit.

The last section has FAQs and answers any other questions you may have. For quick reference, you can also download this free checklist of the best things to see in Tallinn straight to your inbox.

10 Best Things to Do in Tallinn

Walk around the walls of tallinn.

• Explore the UNESCO-listed historical centre
• Visit Seaplane Harbour – The Lennusadam

Explore the Underground World at the Bastion Passages

• See The Stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Walk Down St Catherines Passage
• Climb A Tower or Visit the Panoramic Views of Tallinn Old Town
• Discover Tallinns Harrowing Past at the KGB Prison and Headquarters
• Eat Your Way Around Balti Jamma Turg
• Immerse Yourself In The Hipster Vibe At Telliskivi Creative City

What to Do in Tallinn, Estonia – Know Before You Go

If you’re in the planning stages of your Tallinn itinerary, this section gives some handy things to know before you go. If you’re reading this and you’re already in Tallinn, then skip to the next section of this Tallinn travel guide.

Getting to Estonia

The main way international visitors arrive in Estonia is by air. Tallinn Airport is the largest in the country. It’s also known as Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL). It’s located only 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) from Tallinn city centre.

You can also arrive in Estonia by boat, train or bus from other destinations in Europe.

Estonia shared borders with Latvia to the south (you can easily tag on a weekend in Riga , the capital of Latvia), and Russia to the east. It’s well connected by sea with Finland.

Getting to Tallinn From Tallinn Airport

Tallinn airport is well connected to the city centre. One of the best ways to get from the airport to the city centre is by tram or bus.

Option one is to go by tram. Tram tram number 4, the Lennujaam – Tondi line. Trams run from 05.00hrs – 00.45 approx and depart approximately every 7 to 10 minutes from Monday to Saturday and slightly less on Sundays. The journey takes about 20 minutes.

You could also catch Bus number 2, which departs every 20 minutes.

If you don’t want the hassle of using public transport, are in a group, or have lots of luggage, then it’s the alternative and more convenient way is by taxi. The journey should take just 10 minutes. If you plan to go via tax, book your transfer in advance this saves queuing when you arrive in Tallinn.

Book Here: Tallinn Airport Transfer Service

Getting Around Tallinn

The easiest way to get around Tallinn is to use public transportation. The city has an extensive network of buses and trams that can take you across town quickly. An alternative option is the Tallinn hop-on hop-off bus which visits all the highlights.

For the majority of my time in Tallinn, I opted to walk. The historic centre is particularly pedestrian-friendly, and part of the fun is getting lost and exploring the pretty cobblestone streets. Tallinn does have some steep hills, sometimes it’s a slope, and other times its steps. You might want to take a taxi up there and walk back down.

Best Small Group Tours of Tallinn

Top tips for visiting tallinn.

• Tallinn is a fairly compact city and the main highlights are all fairly central. Make the most of the efficient and affordable public transport system for getting about as well as the Tallinn Hop-on Hop-off Bus .
• In this Tallinn guide, I suggest 33 fabulous things to see in the city. I spread these out over my 4-day visit to the city. It would be possible to see all these things if you only have 2 days in Tallinn. However, for a more leisurely Tallinn city break I recommend stretching these ideas out to fit in with your own Tallinn itinerary.
• Tallinn is an incredibly photogenic city. If you’re after those stunning Instagram photos, on a honeymoon or special occasion, then take advantage of hiring a local private professional photographer , they’ll know where to find all the best spots and capture everything on camera for you.
• Make sure you’re wearing a comfortable pair of shoes with grippy soles. Although you’re in the city, the pavements are often made of polished cobbles which can get super slippery underfoot. Also, Tallinn has a few inclines so be prepared for some serious leg work at times.
• If you want the easy option to see the main highlights while getting some insights into the history of Tallinn, then make the most of one of the numerous Tallinn city walking tours .
• If you are planning on staying a bit longer, then it might be worthwhile taking advantage of the Tallinn Card which gives you unlimited use of public transport and entry to loads of the city’s top attractions.

Relate Article: 23 Unmissable Things To Do In The Baltic States

33 Unmissable Things to Do in Tallinn

The city has so much to offer and I can guarantee that you’ll love your trip to Tallinn. Here are 33 outstanding things to tick off your Tallinn bucket list.

If you’re short on time, and wondering what to see in Tallinn, then I recommend sticking in the historic centre and exploring the iconic UNESCO world heritage listed Old Town, and the ancient city walls, then head to the quirky hipster district to grab food before visiting some of the dark tourism attractions and learning about the days of KGB and Soviet era.

Top Things for Your Tallinn Bucket List

This first part covers the best things to do in Tallinn and is perfect if you’re short on time.

Visiting the Tallinn City Wall is probably one of the top things to do if you only have one day in Tallinn. Tallinn’s defence wall would once have encompassed the whole of the city, it even used to have a moat around it.

Today, around half of the City Wall, 1.85km remains intact and has been preserved and parts are open to walk along. Parts called the Nunne, Sauna and Kuldjala towers are connected.

The city’s defence walls date back to 1265, standing around 5 metres high and 1.5 metres in thickness. There are 26 defence towers, 2 complete gates, as well as fragments of another two gates.

Book Here: Tallinn Medieval Walking Tour

Marvel at Seaplane Harbour – The Lennusadam

If you’re wondering what to do with kids in Tallinn, or even have an interest in nautical, then this

is arguably the most modern and interactive maritime museum in Europe if not the World.

Situated in Seaplane Harbour , the Estonian maritime museum features over 200 original items on display, including a 100-year-old submarine, seaplanes hanging from the ceiling and parts of the oldest ship found in Estonia. As you enter the museum, you’ll walk over a suspended walkway looking out over the museum. 

The museum has a real focus on interactive exhibits. With an abundance of things to climb inside of, simulators, dress-up, hands-on activities and cinematic experiences.

Book Here: Tour of Tallinn Old Town and visit to The Seaplane Harbour

Get Some Retail Therapy at Rotermann Quarter

A few years back, the Rotermann Quarter was an industrial wasteland, left abandoned and filled with unoccupied and crumbling buildings. The buildings are situated between the Old Town of Tallinn and the Port were factories built in the 1900s. 

The area has been given a massive overhaul and is now one of the trendiest places to go. It’s filled with stylish apartments, restaurants, cafes and shops. The quirky modern-looking architecture in the area still features many of the old factories.  

Kiek in de Kok!

The child in me can’t say this without a little smirk across my face. The translation of Kiek in de Kok is actually German for ‘peek in the kitchen’. The building got this name from the soldiers who were stationed here peeking into the kitchens in the towns below.

The rotund building contains the Kiek in de Kok Fortification Museum. The giant cannon tower is filled with several floors of armour, weapons and artefacts covering war events from the 13th-18th centuries. This is one of the top historical Tallinn things to do and it documents quite a bit of the medieval history of the city .

The entrance to the Bastion Passages is at Kiek in de Kok. You can buy a separate ticket or a combined one which will get you into both attractions.

The Bastion Passages were originally built in the 17th and 18th centuries to hide the movements of Tallinn’s soldiers from the enemy. They were also used as air-raid shelters during the Second World War. 

The Bastion Passages take you on a journey through time, with various mock-up exhibits showing what life would have been like when they were in use. The use of multimedia, including projected images, eerie sound effects, models and videos brings the Bastion Passages alive and was one of my highlights in Tallinn.

Book Here: Tour of Tallinn Old Town and Bastion Tunnels

Visit The Stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This building is one of the most famous places in Tallinn; the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (Aleksander Nevski Katedraal).

Before arriving in Tallinn, you will probably have seen this cathedral donning any sort of advertisement for the city. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn is stunning.

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral is situated on top of Toompea Hill, opposite the Government Buildings. It was built in 1900 Estonia was part of the Russian Empire. During the Soviet era, the cathedral was left to decline due to the USSR being a non-religious state. There was even talk of demolishing it at one point!

Despite the interior being lavishly decorated with mosaics, for me, the outside was more impressive. The Cathedral with its onion-shaped dome has been beautifully restored and maintained since Estonia’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Make sure this is on your Tallinn to do list.

Book Here: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Entry and Guided Tour

Get Lost Wandering About the Pretty Cobbled Streets of the Old Town

The best way to explore is by foot. Inside the UNESCO World Heritage site of the historical centre, it’s pretty much traffic-free and perfect for aimlessly wandering.

You could spend hours wandering about the maze of cobbled streets, through alleys and passages. It’s a picturesque city, so wherever you wander, you’ll find plenty of photogenic places. Alternatively, book a guided tour of the old town to see all the highlights.

Don’t forget to look up – some of the architecture is stunning!

Learn About the History of the City on a Walking Tour of Tallinn

If you’re wanting to combine learning about the history of the city, and fast-track visits to all the top sights in Tallinn, one of the best ways to do this is on a city walking tou r .

These are a great way to see the city and get your bearings if you’ve just arrived

Book a Tallinn walking tour with your own personal local guide who will be able to point out all the best places to visit in Tallinn and will have tons of insider knowledge.

Check Out Some of the Museums in Tallinn

If you’re wondering what to visit in Tallinn on a rainy day, then head to some of the museums.

There are SO MANY MUSEUMS in Tallinn that even if you aren’t usually a museum type of person, you will find something to interest you here. Here are some of the more popular ones;

• Tallinn City Museum – housed in a 14th-century merchant house, this museum tells the story of Tallinn’s history
• NAKU Museum of Puppet Arts – featuring puppets used in theatre all over the world, showing how they work and create fire and water on stage. There are also gore puppets in this slightly creepy museum
• Luscher & Matiesen Museum of Estonian Drink Culture – A museum dedicated to the Luscher & Matiesen Distillery. In the 1930s it was the nation’s leading winery which is now making a comeback……this is my kinda museum
• Kumu Art Museum – Estonia’s most cutting-edge museum showcasing Estonian art from the 18th-21st century. The building was opened in 2006 and is one of Tallinn’s most prized modern architectural masterpieces
• Estonian Open Air Museum – A living museum set in recreated 18th – 20th century Estonia. This one is great for families, situated in a forested park with actors dressed showing what life was like in historic Estonia

What to Do in Tallinn Old Town

Tallinn Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. It is full of winding cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and monuments from as far back as the 11th century.

People Watch in the Bustle of the Town Square

There’s nearly always something happening in the Old Town Square in Tallinn. Buskers, singers, musicians, magicians, re-enactments, market stalls and so on; there is usually something happening.

The Town Square is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, so it’s the perfect place to grab something to eat and drink and take in the vibe.

The Artisan Quarter and St Catherine’s Passage

If you’re wondering what to see in Tallinn’s old town, this is it. This was one of the most beautiful places in Tallinn, thanks to the cute archways spanning between the narrow lane. Katariina kaik (St Catherine’s Passage) connects Vene street with Muurivahne street and is home to St Catherine’s Guild. 

This bucket list worthy street is home to a variety of craft workshops, where artists and designers use traditional methods to produce glassware, ceramics, jewellery, quilts and hand-painted items.

Be sure to wander in and around all the little workshops and studios here. If you are looking for authentic Estonian hand-crafted souvenirs, this is the place to come. You WILL NOT find a ‘made in China’ sticker on any of the items around here.

The Hidden Gallery Under the Dominican Monastery

If you’re looking for Tallinn hidden gems, I ended up stumbling upon this place just on an afternoon wander.

The hidden gallery is down a steep little flight of stairs and a wooden door in the little courtyard of St Catherine’s Dominican Monastery. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Tallinn and the gallery honestly looks like it hasn’t changed much since that time.

Inside, it’s dark and smoky from the candles which light it. Complete with eerie chant music playing quietly the place is jam-packed with religious artworks, books and scriptures by the artist that rents the space. Quite often he will be down there at work. 

Visit the Danish King’s Garden

Situated next to Toompea and the Kiek in de Kok you’ll find the Danish Garden. An old local legend, states that this is where a flag fell from the sky in this exact spot during the Danish invasion. 

The flag gave hope to King Valdemar II (1170 -1241, he was King from 1202) when the battle turned in his favour. The Danish reign lasted over a century in Tallinn and it was this, that gave the Danish King’s Garden its name.

Today, three slightly creepy monks stand around the gardens. are just plain weird. Their names are; Ambrosius, Bartholomeus, and Claudius. Although I can’t tell the difference between them they are a homage to the numerous ghost stories of hauntings in the city and the old Toompea Castle. 

Have a ‘Dance With the Death’

If you’re even the teeniest slightest bit interested in artwork, then it’s worth checking out the painting ‘Danse Macabre’ by Bermt Notke at the Niguliste Museum at St Nicholas Church.

The only part on display is a small fragment from an original 30-metre-long piece of work. Dated from the late fifteenth century it’s listed as one of the most valuable pieces of medieval artwork in Estonia. 

See the Quirky Medicine at Town Hall Pharmacy (Raeapteek)

This building looks relatively understated from the outside, apart from the giveaway hanging sign, is the Town Hall Pharmacy.

The old apothecary is filled with cabinets of medical bits-n-bobs from a bygone era. It dates back to 1422. Today it sells modern medicine (thankfully!) but the side room houses collections of medicine and related artefacts dating from the 17th right up to the 20th centuries.  

Best City Views for Your Tallinn Itinerary

Like I said at the start, Tallinn has hills, and hills usually mean some decent vista points. So what are the top sites in Tallinn for city views?

Panoramic Views of Tallinn Old Town

Discover some of the most Instagrammable places in Tallinn . There are various viewing platforms dotted around the city. Toompea Hill gives views of the lower part of the Old Town, whereas, the Kohtuotsa viewing platform will give you views of the east. The Patkuli viewing platform will give views of the west of the Old City.

Look out for ‘Steven’ the resident seagull (a play on words for actor Steven Seagal) at the Kohtuotsa platform. 

Book Here: Self-Guided Tour to the Most Instagrammable Spots in Tallinn

Tower of St Olav’s Church for Views of Old Tallinn and the Port

It’s a steep and narrow climb, but the iconic white and teal spire of St Olav’s church can be seen from most elevated places around Tallinn. The Gothic steeple is also one of the buildings that feature on any skyline photo of Tallinn and is synonymous with the Old Town of Tallinn.

It was built during the 16th century, and at the time it was one of the tallest buildings in the world. It’s only natural, that going up the tower, will reward you with great views of the city and the Port of Tallinn. To get the views, it’s a 232-step climb.

Tallinn Town Hall Tower For City Centre Views

This is one of the top tourist attractions in Tallinn. If you’ve been to the Town Hall Square, you will have noticed the Tallinn Town Hall and its Tower (Tallinna Raekoja Torn).

True, it’s not the tallest tower in Tallinn, however, it is in a great location. The Town Hall & Tower was built between 1402 and 1040 and is the oldest in northern Europe.

It’s a tight squeeze going up the spiralling 64-metre tower with a cramped viewing platform at the top. It’s comfortable for about 6 people to move about up there, any more than that and you’ll have to squish into the archways of the windows to let people manoeuvre.

This Tallinn view looks down over the Town Square and if you get the angle right, there are some great framed shot opportunities of rooftops and the spires of several of the iconic landmarks . 

Get a Head for Heights at the Tallinn Television Tower

If you’re looking for crazy things to do in Tallinn and to get the adrenaline pumping, then you’ll love the Tallinn Television Tower .

Measuring 314 meters, the Tallinn Television Tower just outside of the Old Town is not only the tallest building in Tallinn but also in Estonia. It boasts panoramic views of the surrounding area, as well as an outdoor terrace on the 21st floor and the adrenaline-filled edge walk. 

Best Places to Eat In Tallinn

Tallinn has a wide range of culinary offerings, from traditional Estonian cuisine including soups, stews and hearty rye bread. There’s also a bustling coffee culture happening here too with plenty of artisan cafes and patisseries in the city not to mention their excellent beer!

Work Your Way Through the Craft Beer Selection

If Disneyland made a beerhouse in the style of Medieval Europe, this would be it. The Beer House is a little bit kitsch, with its movie-set-like mock-up of a medieval courtyard and costume-wearing waitresses but it’s fun and light-hearted. Plus the beer is good! 

The beer is brewed on-site. There are 7 craft beers to choose from. They refer to the beers as ‘living’ meaning that they are non-filtered and unpasteurised. 

If you want to try out different Estonian beers, then a great way to do it is on a craft beer tasting tour in Tallinn .

Book Here: Estonian Craft Beer Tasting in Tallinn

Try Delicious Cakes the Oldest Café in Tallinn

You can’t help but miss the huge turning Ferris wheel in the shop window of the oldest café in Estonia . There’s usually a large crowd of people standing in the street outside Café Maiasmokk, taking photos of the window display.

If you head to Café Maiasmokk at peak time (late morning until early afternoon) you will most likely have to wait for a table. It gets busy but it’s a must do in Tallinn. It’s worth the wait.

The interior of the café is pretty much unchanged since its opening in 1864, with its cute tiled floor and traditional wooden counter. It’s worth the queues just to have look inside. The pastries are delicious too, I can certainly vouch for the apple Danish pasty, it was one of the best I’ve ever eaten!

Visit Cafe Maiasmokk as part of this 3-Hour Tallinn Food Tour

Immerse Yourself In The Coffee Culture

Kehrwieder Chocolaterie and Rotisarery boast some of the best coffee and chocolate in the city.

From the outside, the café looks small. Head inside and it’s a rabbit warren of cave-like rooms. Super cosy and jammed-packed with mismatched furniture, it’s got a great atmosphere.

The coffee is roasted on-site, so they have a decent selection on offer along with a wonderful selection of handmade chocolate truffles.  

Watch Artists at Work in the Marzipan Room

Just a single room plays host to the Marzipan Room. It’s actually next door to Café Maiasmokk. In cabinets dotted around the room, you can see the back catalogue of cute little marzipan figures, over 200 of them in this museum come café.

The Marzipan Room is over 100 years old, you can read about its history of it on the information boards on the walls.

On the counter, at the back, you can watch the artists carefully shaping, decorating and painting the Marzipan figures. If you’re lucky, you might even get to have a taste of their marzipan – yum!

Eat Your Way Through Balti Jamma Turg

Wondering where to go in Tallinn for the freshest artisan food? Located outside of Tallinn Old Town to the northeast of the city, you’ll find Tallinn’s main train station: Balti Jamma. This translates to Baltic Station. Here is also where you’ll find the local artisan market; Balti Jaama Turg.

Tallinn is a great destination for foodies . You’ll find fresh fruit, vegetables as well as baked goods on sale here alongside small eateries catering for every type of cuisine possible. There are so many options, you could eat somewhere different for a good few weeks. The market attracts hipster locals as well as tourists and is reasonably priced.

Next to the artisan market, and inside the large building, you’ll find all sorts of other market-type stalls and a good proportion of vintage fashion and bespoke clothing. This would be a fashionista’s heaven! 

Book Here: Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour

Hipster Places in Tallinn

There’s been an abundance of rejuvenation in recent years in some of the more round own areas of Tallinn. They’ve been given a new lease of life, combining the original buildings with street art, social areas, live music and small independently owned shops.

Wander About Ultra-Hipster Telliskivi Creative City

Not only famed for its street art scene; street art and murals adorn nearly every wall around here, Telliskivi Creative City is also a hub for everything cultured.

The former industrial complex situated next to Balti Jamma Turg and Kalamaja is home to several design studios, quirky creative companies and shops selling unique items, and cool eating and drinking venues including one inside an old train! You’ll also find galleries, theatres, clubs and more.

Hundreds of events happen at the Telliskivi Creative Centre annually including concerts, and exhibits as well as the weekly flea market every Saturday.

BookHere: Street Art Tour in Telliskivi Creative City

Related Article: Visiting Estonia’s Street Art Capital, Tartu

Check Out the Traditional Colourful Wooden Houses Around Kalamaja

This is one of the most popular residential areas in Tallinn and is certainly worth heading here to take a look at. Despite Kalamaja being part of the nation’s capital, the roads are quiet and it’s free from the bustle of the tourist hub in the Old Town. Kalamaja is the polar opposite of Tallinn Old Town.

The whole area is incredibly photogenic, this is down to the myriad of colourful wooden houses which line the streets, lime green dusty pink, sky blue and any other colour you can possibly think of. Despite it being just a stones-throw from the Old Town of Tallinn , the vibe here is relaxed

To get here, continue heading north from Telliskivi Creative City (it’s 5 minutes from here) if you end up at the Baltic Sea, you’ve gone too far!

Book Here: Tallinn Old Town and Kalamaja Private Walking Tour

Soviet Tallinn & KGB Sites in Tallinn

It wasn’t until 1991 that Estonia gained its independence from the horrors of the Soviet regime. Learn about the harrowing past that plagued the Baltic States for nearly 50 years.

If you want to learn more about this era, then check out this ‘ Behind the Iron Curtain of Tallin n ’ tour where you’ll get to visit an abandoned Soviet air defence base, visit the Soviet Olympic Stadium and learn about life behind the Iron Curtain.

Book Here: Secrets of the Soviets Tour

See Where Soviet Estonia Began at KGB Headquarters & Prison Cells

From the outside, this building is visually stunning. However, the Art Nouveau façade of this building hides a sinister tale. The KGB Prison Cells and Headquarters are situated in the heart of Old Town Tallinn at Pagari 1. 

Before becoming the KGB headquarters, this building was residential. Regular families lived here. It was in 1941 that the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic Commissariat for Internal Affairs converted the basement level of the building into prison cells.

The cellar windows were bricked in and suspected enemies of the state were held here, interrogated and tortured. They were then either moved on to concentration camps or shot. It was used as a prison until 1950.

If walls could talk, I would hate to hear what they witnessed. 

Original fittings such as cell doors, and wall partitions are still intact. The basement of Pagari 1 is now open as a museum displaying images and information about the prisoners who were held there. If you only visit one piece of Soviet history, put this at the top of your Tallinn must see list.

Get Spooked Out at Patarei Prison

Even on the sunniest day, this building would be creepy. However, the day I visited happened to be one of those stormy summer days, angry dark skies, lashing with rain and complete with flashes of lightning and the rumble of thunder in the background.

I arrived here soaking wet and the weather outside just enhanced the spine-chilling atmosphere inside. In a nutshell, the minute you step foot inside Patarei Prison you’ll notice that it feels oppressing and certainly ticks the boxes for anyone interested in dark tourism sites in Tallinn. 

The Patarei Sea Fortress was initially built during the 19th century. It was during Soviet rule that the fortress was made into a prison. Patarei Prison gained notoriety as one of the worst prisons within the Soviet Union and was used for the internment of Political Prisoners.

An exhibition titled ‘Communism is a Prison’ is located inside Patarei Prison, covering nearly 1,200 square metres along the east wing. The original fittings and prison yard are still there, pretty much untouched since its abandonment.

Around the museum, informative boards stated who various prisoners were, what they did as well as their fate. There is a very sinister feeling room downstairs where prisoners would have been executed. I won’t spoil what happens inside the room, but it’s truly haunting!

Visit the Crumbling Ruins of the Ill-Fated Linnahall

I can’t resist a crumbling abandoned building. Built during the Soviet era for the 1980 Moscow Olympics for the Regatta, the Linnahall is a massive monster of a 4000-seater stadium. It’s situated right on the port of Tallinn, so it’s pretty hard to miss it. 

From the early 2000s up to 2009, it was converted and used as an ice skating rink however since then it’s been left to the elements to take over. The inside of the building is closed off currently, but you can wander around the outside of it.

To date, no investor has come forward to convert the dilapidated building, so it’s just sitting and waiting until that day comes. The Linnahall does seem to be a hub for young couples to hang out, sitting arm-in-arm on the many stairs leading up and enjoying the views. Head up the stairs to check out the panoramic views for yourself. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset from. 

Discover the KGB Radio Centre on the 23rd Floor of Hotel Viru

The ugly 1970s block building of Hotel Viru located just outside the Old Town of Tallinn hides a secret. To general visitors, there are just 22 floors to the hotel. Floor 23 was a secret floor which housed the KGB Radio Centre.

The hotel was the KGB espionage base, where everything in the hotel was bugged with microphones hidden in every possible location to listen to guests for potential information. 60 rooms in the hotel were fitted with listening devices.

There were even what was called ‘special rooms’ for certain ‘special guests’ who the KGB may have been trying to dig some dirt on. This is also where radio communication signals were intercepted and information was passed back to the Soviet government. 

At the collapse of the Soviet Union, the 23rd floor was suddenly abandoned. The top floor is now open as a museum and is pretty much how it was on that August night in 1991. 

Best Day Trips From Tallinn

If you’ve got some extra time on your itinerary, and feel the need to explore the areas around Tammlin, then here are some great day trips.

Marvel at the Grandeur of Kadriorg Palace & Kadriorg Art Museum

A short tram ride out of the main Old Town of Tallinn and you’ll find the stunning estate of Kadriorg Palace.

The pink and red baroque-style palace was a gift from Tsar Peter 1sr to his wife Catherine. Building work for this grand palace started in 1718 and was named Kadriorg (in German, Catharinenthal) after his wife. Not a bad gift if you ask me?

Kadriorg Park features lavish grounds complete with manicured flowerbeds and fountains. There is a museum attached which houses the Kadriorg Art Museum featuring both Estonian and foreign pieces of work. 

Find Sun, Sea and Sand at Pirita Beach

Depending on what time of year you are visiting Tallinn, you may not find the sun here. Pirita is only a short tram ride from the capital, the sandy beach is situated next to pine forests, so it’s a great chance to escape the city and get back to nature if the crowds get a bit too much.

This is the biggest beach in Estonia so is well-equipped with beach lockers, changing cabins and kiosks selling basic supplies. Spending a day at Pirita Beach is one of the best things to do in Estonia during the short summer season. It can get busy in July and August, but outside of this, it’s a perfect escape from the bustle of the capital if you have more than 48 hours in Tallinn in the summer. 

Naissaar Island

If you like soviet history and prefer to stick with dark tourism, then head out to Naissaar Island with its famous lighthouse. Take a military truck ride to the overgrown fortress ruins and discover secret underground tunnels.

This is a must for anyone wanting to delve more into Estonia’s storied past.

Book Here: Naissaar Island Lighthouse and Underground Tunnel Tour

Catch the Ferry Across to Helsinki

If you’re done with sightseeing in Tallinn and you have a day spare, then it’s really easy to pop over to the Finnish capital of Helsinki.

The ferry takes just 2 hours. Several companies are offering the Tallinn – Helsinki – Tallinn journey , so you’ll find a variety of departure times throughout the day.

Book Here: Return Day Trip Ferry Ticket from Tallinn to Helsinki

Explore the Great Outdoors at Lahemaa National Park

If you’re looking to escape the city and you’re more interested in enjoying nature, then you’ll love Lahemaa National Park . This park is rated as one of the best things to see in Estonia.

It’s an easy day trip from Tallinn, where you can breathe the fresh Baltic air of the National Park. Spend time exploring miles of the untouched natural beauty of the peninsulas, bays, forests, beaches, waterfalls and bogs.

Book Here: Full Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park FromTallinn

Where to Stay In Tallinn

Boutique accommodation – schlössle hotel.

• Centrally located in a 13th-century building
• 5-star boutique hotel
• Decorated with antiques
• On-site sauna

Check Availability via Booking

Budget Accommodation – Fat Margaret’s

• Central location
• Lots of social areas
• Swimming pool

Tallinn Itinerary FAQs

Now you’ve discovered some of the best places to see Tallinn, here are answers to questions you might have about your trip.

Where Is Tallinn?

Three countries make up the Baltic States; Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Estonia is the most northern of these. Tallinn sits right on the north coast of Estonia. The city was declared UNESCO Heritage status in 1997 and named as European Capital of Culture in 2011.

Is Tallinn Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Tallinn is a beautiful and vibrant city with plenty of things to do and see. It’s one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe with an abundance of history, balance out by Scandinavian-influenced and hipster vibes.

How Many Days in Tallinn?

If you only had one day in Tallinn, you’d be able to see the highlights in and around the city centre. It’s doable but you’d miss out on so much.

Ideally, Tallinn can be explored in a few days, although depending on your interests and preferences, you could easily spend a week or more in the city. I’d suggest two or three days to explore the city. That way you can make sure that you get to experience the best of what Tallinn has to offer at a relaxed pace.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Tallinn?

The best time to visit Tallinn is during the summer months of June through August when temperatures are mild and the days are long. Tallinn weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer!

If you want to avoid the peak summer holidays, then go in May, September or October.

Winters in Tallinn can be chilly, although heading there in late November and December, you’ll get to experience the Christmas Markets popping up around the Old Town. If you love traditional Christmas markets, then December is a great month to visit Tallinn, however, wrap up warm!

Is the Tallinn Card Worth It?

If you are planning on seeing more than a few attractions on this list or using public transport like it’s certainly worthwhile investing in a Tallinn card . They are sold at official Tallinn tourism shops.

Work out what you want to see first, as it might be cheaper just to pay for attractions as you go. I planned what I wanted to see in advance, and I saved a fortune, but I crammed in attractions like crazy to make the price of the card financially beneficial.

Find Out More About The Tallinn Card

What Are the Best Organised Tallinn Tours

Check out these small group tours of the top things to do in Tallinn.

How’s Your Trip to Tallinn Shaping Up?

So, how many of these things are going on your Tallinn bucket list?

It’s easy to tell why people fall in love with the Estonian capital. It’s incredibly quaint, with pretty cobblestoned alleyways, wonky houses and tons of history. It’s also small enough that it’s easy to see everything in a 2 or 3 day trip to Tallinn, making it an ideal weekend city break.

If you enjoyed this What to do in Tallinn travel guide, you might also like…

• 21 Unmissable Things To See in The Baltic States
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• Riga, Latvia 3 Days Itinerary

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed DIY travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a solo traveller on a mission to experience the best adventures our fabulous little planet offers. I love creating my own itineraries that focus on unforgettable experiences, from climbing mountains and scuba diving to spotting wildlife and exploring ancient ruins.

When I'm not on an adventure, you'll probably find me sipping coffee or with a glass of wine in hand, planning my next journey.

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Tallinn , Estonia’s compact, buzzing capital, with its enchanting heart surrounded by medieval walls, has been shaped by nearly a millennium of outside influence. While the fairytale Old Town has become the ideal weekend getaway for city-break tourists, the Estonian capital’s growing importance as a regional centre for business, arts and technology has provided it with a go-ahead contemporary feel coupled with bags of hedonistic energy.

Aegna Island

Church of the holy ghost and st nicholas’s church, estonia’s song festival, kadriorg park, kiek-in-de-kök and bastion tunnels, the maritime museum, the museum of occupations, drinking, nightlife and entertainment, pikk and around, raekoja plats, st olaf’s church, telliskivi creative city, the air harbour, the city walls, the cultural kilometre and patarei prison, the tallinn card, toompea and the aleksander nevsky cathedral.

The heart of Tallinn is the Old Town , still largely enclosed by the city’s medieval walls. At its centre is the Raekoja plats , the historic marketplace, above which looms Toompea , the hilltop stronghold of the German knights who controlled the city during the Middle Ages. East of the city centre there are several places worth a visit, such as Kadriorg Park , a peaceful wooded area with a cluster of historic buildings, and the forested island of Aegna .

Top image © Shutterstock

Travel ideas for Estonia, created by local experts

City hopping in Finland and Estonia

Helsinki enchants with its blend of modernity and nature, entertainment and tranquility accessible everywhere and all the time. Turku, in turn, was the first capital of Finland, and has a lot to teach about the Finnish History. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is not behind in terms of heritage.

Sustainable Baltic Capitals

Enjoy introductory tours and ample free time to suit your interests. In ten days, relish local accommodations, UNESCO town walks, quirky neighborhoods, and private guide tours, delving into the region's history and customs. Start your Baltic States adventure now for independent exploration.

Ultimate Baltics

Uncover both renowned attractions and hidden gems across the Baltic States and Southern Finland. Explore UNESCO sites, serene villages, and sandy dunes. From the capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki to the beaches in Klaipeda in Pärnu.

Winter Adventure in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi, the recognized abode of Santa Claus, serves as the ultimate hub for delving into Arctic landscapes and immersing in Lappish (Sami) heritage. Engage in a diverse array of pursuits, from thrilling snowshoe escapades to chasing the enchanting Northern Lights, or embracing the roles of a husk

Baltic Highlights

Witness unspoiled landscapes and vibrant capitals. From Vilnius to Riga and Tallinn, move all the way up to Helsinki. Along the way, visit national parks like Laheema and castles like the Trakai castle. Private transfers and unique accommodation choices are included.

An hour’s boat ride (May–Sept Mon & Wed–Fri 2 daily, Sat & Sun 3 daily; double-check timetable with tourist office; €6 return) from Pirita harbour (bus #1, #34 or #38 from the underground stop at the Viru Centre), tiny peaceful Aegna is an excellent day-trip destination. Its forest-covered interior and clean beaches attract locals who camp here in the summer.

The fourteenth-century Church of the Holy Ghost (Puhä Vaimu kirik; Mon-Sat: May-Sept 9am-6pm; Oct- April 10am-3pm; €1) on Pühavaimu is the city’s oldest church, a small Gothic building with stuccoed limestone walls, stepped gables, carved wooden interior, a tall, verdigris-coated spire and an ornate clock from 1680 – the oldest in Tallinn.

Contrasting sharply is the late Gothic St Nicholas ’ s Church (Niguliste kirik; Tues–Sun 10am–5pm; museum €5), southwest of Raekoja plats. Dating back to the 1820s and rebuilt after being mostly destroyed in a 1944 Soviet air raid, the church now serves as a museum of church art, including medieval winged altars and the haunting Danse Macabre (“Dance With Death”) by Bernt Notke. It also hosts free organ recitals (Sat & Sun 4pm).

The Lauluväljak at Narva maantee 95 ( w www.lauluvaljak.ee ), just to the northeast of Kadriorg Park, is a vast amphitheatre which is the venue for Estonia’s Song Festivals . These gatherings, featuring a 25-thousand-strong choir are held every five years, and have been an important form of national expression since the first all-Estonia Song Festival held in Tartu in 1869. The grounds were filled to their 45,000-person capacity in summer 1988 when people assembled here spontaneously to sing patriotic songs- in protest against Soviet rule, in what became known as the “ Singing Revolution ”. The next Song Festival is in July 2019.

Kadriorg Park , a heavily wooded area 2km east of the Old Town along Narva maantee, was laid out according to the instructions of Russian tsar Peter the Great. The main entrance to the park is at the junction of Weizenbergi tänav and J. Poska (tram #1 or #3 from Viru väljak). Weizenbergi cuts through the park, running straight past Kadriorg Palace , a Baroque residence designed by the Italian architect Niccolò Michetti, which Peter had built for his wife Catherine. The palace houses the Kadriorg Art Museum (May–Sept Tues & Thurs–Sun 10am–5pm, Wed 10am–8pm; Oct–April closed Tues; €5.50), with a fine collection of Dutch and Russian paintings.

Estonia's Song Festival

The Lauluväljak at Narva maantee 95, just to the northeast of Kadriorg Park, is a vast amphitheatre which is the venue for Estonia’s Song Festivals . These gatherings, featuring a 25,000-strong choir, are held every five years, and have been an important form of national expression since the first all-Estonia Song Festival held in Tartu in 1869. The grounds were filled to their 45,000-person capacity in summer 1988 when people assembled here spontaneously to sing patriotic songs in protest against Soviet rule, in what became known as the “ Singing Revolution ”. The next Song Festival is in July 2019.

Marking the eastern end of Kadriorg Park is the immense, futuristic-looking KUMU (April-Sept Tues & Thurs–Sun 11am–6pm, Wed 11am–8pm; Oct–April closed Tues; €6), a must-see for anyone interested in twentieth century Estonian art. It’s certainly a wide-ranging collection: surrealism, pop art and abstraction flourished during the Soviet period, despite official hostility to such modernist excesses.

The imposing Kiek-in-de-Kök tower , (Tues–Sun: March–Oct 10.30am–6pm; Nov–Feb 10.30am–4.30pm; €6; joint ticket with Bastion Tunnels €10), dating from 1475, stands on Komandandi tee. It houses interactive displays on the development of the town and its fortifications throughout its history. Below the tower lies the entrance to a network of seventeenth-century bastion tunnels , originally built for defence by the Swedes but most recently used as bomb shelters during World War II. Guided tours (Tues–Sat 10.30am–6pm; frequency depends on demand; book in advance on T644 6686 or at Kiek-in-de-Kök; €6;) initiate you into the tunnels’ history and legend; bring warm clothes as the temperature tends to be a cool 6–8°C even in the height of summer.

The sixteenth-century Great Sea Gate , which straddles Pikk at its far end, is flanked by two towers. The larger of these, Fat Margaret Tower, has walls 4m thick and now houses the Estonian Maritime Museum (Tues–Sun 10am–7pm; €4), a surprisingly entertaining four floors of nautical instruments, scale models of ships and antique diving equipment: some displays have English captions.

South of Lossi plats, on Toompea 8, the airy and modern Museum of Occupations (daily : June–Aug 10am–6pm; Sept–May 11am–6pm; €6) brings to life the personal experience of Estonians under Nazi and Soviet occupation through use of interactive exhibitions, and displays of artefacts from 1940 to 1991. It’s well worth taking time to sit and watch some of the documentary films commemorating the anti-Soviet "Singing Revolution" of 1987–91.

Most of Tallinn’s popular clubs cater for a mainstream crowd. More underground, cutting-edge dance music events change location frequently and are advertised by flyers, or try asking around in the city’s hipper bars; expect to pay €4–10 admission.

Pikk tänav, running northeast from Pikk jalg gate and linking Toompea with the port area, has some of the city’s most elaborate examples of merchants ’ houses from the Hanseatic period, including the Great Guild at Pikk 17, headquarters of the German merchants who controlled the city’s wealth; the House of the Blackheads , Pikk 26, with a lavishly decorated Renaissance facade; and the Three Sisters , a gabled group at Pikk 71. Supremely functional with loading hatches and winch-arms set into their facades, these would have served as combined dwelling places, warehouses and offices. Take the parallel street of Vene to the outstanding Tallinn City Museum at no. 17 (Mon & Wed–Sun: March–Oct 10.30am–6pm; Nov–Feb 10.30am–5.30pm; €4), which imaginatively recounts the history of Tallinn from the thirteenth century through to Soviet and Nazi occupations and Estonian independence.

Raekoja plats , the cobbled market square at the heart of the Old Town, is as old as the city itself. On its southern side stands the fifteenth-century Town Hall (Raekoda), boasting elegant Gothic arches at ground level, and a delicate steeple at its northern end. Near the summit of the steeple, Vana Toomas , a sixteenth-century weather vane depicting a medieval town guard, is Tallinn’s city emblem. The well-labelled and informative museum inside the cellar hall (late June to Aug Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; rest of the year closed; €5) depicts Tallinn town life through the ages. For an expansive view of the town square, climb the spiral staircase of the Town Hall Tower (Raekoja Torn; May- to mid-Sept daily 11am-6pm; €3).

The first thing to do when you go to an Estonian sauna is get completely naked, though in mixed saunas wrapping a towel around you is at your own discretion. Once you get used to the heat, scoop some water onto the hot stones; it evaporates instantaneously, raising the temperature. Once everyone is sweating profusely, some might gently swat themselves or their friends with birch branches; this increases circulation and rids the body of toxins. Don’t overdo it – ten minutes should be long enough, but get out immediately if you start to feel dizzy. Locals normally follow up with a plunge into a cold lake, although a cold shower will suffice. A good place to start is Kalma at Vana-Kalamaja 9a (Mon–Fri 11am–10pm, Sat & Sun 10am–11pm; public sauna for men only €9–10; private sauna for both sexes €14–20/hr); t627 1811) – Tallinn’s oldest public bath (built in 1928), containing private saunas for rent as well as men’s and women’s general baths (complete with swimming pool).

At the northern end of Pikk stands the enormous Gothic St Olaf ’ s Church (Oleviste kirik; daily 10am–6pm; free), first mentioned in 1267 and named in honour of King Olaf II of Norway, who was canonized for battling against pagans in Scandinavia. The church is chiefly famous for its 124-metre spire, which you can climb for a spectacular view of Old Town and the port (daily 10am–6pm, July & Aug until 8pm; €3).

Ten minutes’ walk north of the Old Town, a former engineering works on the far side of the Balti Jaam station now houses the Telliskivi Creative City , a cluster of creative companies and artists’ studios. It is also home to an assortment of cafés, restaurants and art-and-design shops, plus a popular Saturday flea market.

The Cultural Kilometre terminates outside Estonia’s most astounding museum attraction, the Air Harbour (May–Sept daily 10am–7pm; Oct–April Tues–Sun 11am–7pm; €14; Wlennusadam.eu) ,a huge hangar built by the Russians in World War I to house a fleet of sea planes. A masterpiece of modern construction, this cavernous concrete space was reopened in 2012 as an extension of the Maritime Museum. A system of raised walkways takes you past the exhibits – including fishing boats, mines, a replica World War I biplane and naval guns. The pièce de résistance is the Lembit submarine, built for the Estonian navy in Barrow-in-Furness in the 1930s. Outside, ice-breaker Suur Toll and several other ships are moored.

The 4km-worth of walls that surrounded the Old Town were mostly constructed during the fourteenth century. Today, 1.85km of them still stand, along with 20 of the original 46 towers. One of the most dramatic stretches can be found along Laboratoriumi (subsequently Gümnaasiumi), where three of the oldest towers – Nunne, Kuldjala and Sauna – can be entered from Gümnaasiumi 3 (June–Aug: daily 11am–7pm; Sept–May daily except Thursday 11am–4/5pm; €2).

Just north of the Old Town, the Cultural Kilometre (Kultuurikilomeeter) is a footpath that runs through an intriguing stretch of post-Soviet, post-industrial Tallinn. It begins beside the Kultuurikattel (“The Culture Boiler”), a former power station now converted into a concert venue. The power station’s iconic chimney is where Russian film director Andrei Tarkovsky shot key scenes of his existential classic, Stalker . From here the path heads west past a small fishing harbour, and the Estonian Design House at Kalasadama 8 (westoniandesignhouse.ee), where young designers display and sell their wares. The path continues past the atmospheric old houses of the Kalamaja district before arriving at Patarei Prison Museum (May–Sept daily noon–7pm; €3), a nineteenth-century fortress that was turned into a jail in 1920. Abandoned in 2004, it remains in pretty much the same state it was left in, providing an eerie, unsettling experience for visitors.

To do a lot of sightseeing in a short time, it can be worth buying a Tallinn Card (€32/42/52 for 24/48/72hr), which gives you unlimited free rides on public transport as well as free entry to a plethora of attractions and discounts in shops and restaurants. Check website for details.

Toompea is the hill where the Danes built their fortress after conquering what is now Tallinn in 1219. According to legend, it is also the grave of Kalev , the mythical ancestor of the Estonians. Approach through the sturdy gate tower – built by the Teutonic Knights to contain the Old Town’s inhabitants in times of unrest – at the foot of Pikk jalg. This is the cobbled continuation of Pikk, the Old Town’s main street, that climbs up to Lossi plats, dominated by the impressive-looking Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral . This imposing onion-domed structure was built at the end of the nineteenth century for the city’s Orthodox population – an enduring reminder of the two centuries Tallinn spent under tsarist rule.

At the head of Lossi plats, the pink Toompea Castle stands on the site of the original Danish fortification. Rebuilt many times, the building is now home to the Riigikogu , Estonia’s parliament.

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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Tallinn Itinerary

Last Updated on January 24, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Many visitors to Estonia’s capital come on a day trip from Helsinki or on a shore excursion from a cruise ship and, therefore, only spend a few hours exploring the old town and fail to see the majority of what this city has to offer. If you have the time, however, it is very much worth planning a 2 or 3 days in Tallinn itinerary in order to really do this city justice.

It’s easy on the surface to assume that one day is enough to devote to the Estonian capital. However, this not only means that visitors miss out on the many attractions that lie beyond the Old Town Walls but they also don’t get the chance to see a side of Tallinn that is more representative of day-to-day life in the city.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Tallinn?

So if you’ve been convinced to spend more than a day in the Estonian capital, you’ll likely be wondering how many days to spend in Tallinn.

Tallinn is not too large and it is easy to get around, however, there is actually quite a lot to see and do that you could easily plan to spend 3 days and still feel like you haven’t managed to tick everything off your list.

3 days will allow you to spend a couple of days in the city, dig a bit deeper and also go on a day trip should you wish. Heading out on a day trip from Tallinn is a great way to see more of the country, as well, especially if you don’t have the time to devote to a longer Estonia itinerary .

If you’re a bit pressed for time but still want to get a lot out of the city, then spending 2 days in Tallinn is certainly an option. While you won’t have time to go for a day trip, it will allow you to spend time in the Old Town, explore Kalamaja and Telliskivi and also head to some museums should you wish.

2 to 3-Day Tallinn Itinerary

Day 1 – old town, kalamaja & telliskivi, tallinn old town.

Though it is important to go beyond the tourist centre in Tallinn, no visit to this city is complete without spending a bit of time in the Old Town – and Tallinn’s Old Town is an absolute stunner. In fact, the entirety of the city centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Because this is the most popular place to visit in Tallinn and the vast majority of tourists don’t venture outside the city walls, it can get very congested.

Keep in mind that Tallinn has quite a large cruise ship port and there are plenty of ferries that carry in eager day trippers each day. Considering that the Old Town is quite small, this means it can feel very packed. So – if you want some peace and quiet, it’s best to get an early start!

Take your first few hours getting lost and wandering in the picture-perfect Old Town. Take in the Tallinn Town Hall in Raekoja Plats (or the Town Hall Square), the main square of the city. Wander over to admire the onion domes of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – a beautiful 19th-century Russian Orthodox church.

It’s also a great idea to head to some of the viewing platforms in order to get (obviously) great views of the red roofs and medical fortifications.

One of the best places to get views of the town walls, for instance, is from the Patkuli Viewing Platform, where you can get a picturesque, panoramic view of the entire old part of the city.

Alternatively, if you’re after a bit more of a hike, head up Toompea Hill for another incredible view (and a delightful park to enjoy, as well!). Or, for another great view, head to the Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform.

If you’re interested in visiting some of the towers and walking along a portion of the walls, then you can also opt to head here for a small fee.

There are also countless museums and historic sights to visit in the Old Town that, if you want to learn more about the history of medieval Tallinn, can be very much worth visiting.

For those who do want to enter a few paid attractions, including the city walls, various churches, a number of museums, the Town Hall tower and much more, it can be worth purchasing a Tallinn Card . It included entry into places like the Kiek in de Kök Fortifications Museum, the Baroque Kadriorg Palace and Art Museum, the Seaplane Harbour Museum and more.

With this card, entry into a plethora of sights is free and you can end up saving quite a bit of your hard-earned cash if you plan to visit a lot of different paid attractions.

And if you would like to have a guide while exploring the Old Town, you can opt to go on a free walking tour . If you’d rather have a private guide, consider booking this private walking tour of Tallinn .

From the Old Town, venture a bit beyond the city walls and head into the hip and trendy Kalamaja neighbourhood. Though not quite as old as the Old Town, Kalamaja has seen life since the Middle Ages when it was originally established as a home for fishermen and sailors. In fact, Kalamaja literally translates to ‘fish house’ in Estonian!

Kalamaja has undergone significant gentrification in recent years and is now a hub of life for many young locals. The area is full of cool boutique shops, flea markets, parks, cafes and bars!

The area is very peaceful and really feels like a world away from the Old Town, though it only takes about five to ten minutes walk from the city walls to reach the district.

One can spend many hours wandering through Kalamaja’s peaceful streets, made iconic for their wooden houses built at the start of the 20th century.

Kalamaja can be a great place to grab a snack or a meal, especially if you’re looking to avoid the higher prices you will likely find in the Old Town. For a casual, local place, consider heading to the Kalamaja Bakery .

If you’re looking for something a bit more hip, then consider heading to Rohe Kohvik – a vegan cafe with a lot of fantastic options that can suit both those following plant-based diets and “flexitarians” alike.

Telliskivi Creative City

Between Kalamaja and the Old Town, lies Telliskivi Creative City – the epitome of gentrification that has occurred in Tallinn over recent years. The former industrial complex is now the hub of hip, artistic life in the Estonian capital with regular events, plenty of street art, more boutique shops and restaurants and a flea market every Saturday.

Telliskivi is the perfect place to round out the first day as there are a number of cool places to explore, lots of art to see and plenty of places to grab a drink or a bite to eat. If you’re looking for a place for a drink, consider heading to the Purtse taproom , which serves beers from the Purtse brewery located in the east of the country.

Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more unique, the nearby Nudist Winery has interesting local fruit wines and spritzes and the Junimperium Distillery & Bar distils its own gin and serves up plenty of cocktails.

For a meal, there are countless restaurants to choose from. F-Hoone is an extremely popular choice and has a lot of great options. Kivi Paber Käärid is another great option and all of their food is completely gluten-free!

Day 2 – Tallinn Harbour and Balti Jaama Turg

Seaplane harbour museum.

A great way to spend your second day in Tallinn is to explore the many attractions that can be found along the sea, north of the Old Town including Patarei Prison, the Seaplane Harbour & Linnahall.

The Seaplane Harbour Museum in Tallinn is a particularly good option if you’re travelling with children, however, is also a great place to visit for people of all ages!

The museum, which is located in an old Seaplane Hanger, contains exhibits on Estonia’s maritime history; while on the harbour there are a number of ships that can be boarded and explored! You can buy a ticket just to visit the ships for €10 or a combined ticket for the museum and ships for €20. Children’s and students’ tickets are discounted.

Patarei Prison

From the Seaplane Harbour, it is only a short walk to Patarei Prison . The prison was originally built as a fortress in the 19th century but gained notoriety when it started to be used as a prison during Soviet times from 1920. It housed prisoners until the beginning of the 21st century and has since been abandoned.

The prison has since been turned into a museum that you can visit to learn more about Patarei itself and Estonia during Soviet times. However, the exhibition is currently closed until 2026. When it opens again, it’s an incredibly well-curated museum that will take about an hour or so to go through. Keep in mind that it is quite heavy and may not be suitable for younger children.

Even thought the museum is, unfortunately, closed for the time being, it is still worth walking by the prison and seeing it from the outside while en route to your next destination.

From Patarei Prison, walk towards another abandoned Soviet-era structure – Linnahall Concert Hall. It was built for the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics as there were some sailing events that were staged in Tallinn, however, it’s essentially been left to crumble away since then.

As with many other crumbling concrete structures around the world, it has become a popular spot for locals to hang out with friends, typically with a beer or two in hand while enjoying the view of the harbour.

Similarly to Patarei Prison, there have been a number of discussions about redesigning this prime spot of real estate in the future so it’s definitely worth visiting soon!

If you’re looking for a place to relax and grab a drink nearby, consider heading to Uba Ja Humal . This is a taproom and bottle shop serving up a number of different Estonian craft beers.

If you’re keen to go for a bit more of a walk, you also could head to the Põhjala Brewery taproom, which is situated a bit closer to the Seaplane Harbour Museum.

Balti Jaama Turg

If all that exploring has got you hungry, then walk away from the harbour towards Tallinn train station where Balti Jaama Market is located. The newly renovated market contains something for everyone and is a great melting pot of people in Tallinn.

You’ll find local residents buying fresh produce for their weekly shop as well as people tucking into their favourite food outlet. There are countless food stalls where you can grab something to eat and there is cuisine from all around the world.

BaoJaam is a very popular option – here they have a number of different bao buns to choose from. Another great option is Veg Machine which has one of the best vegan burgers I’ve ever eaten (it could satisfy even the most ardent of carnivores).

If you’re interested in learning more about the food scene in Tallinn, consider booking this food tour where you can sample the interesting culinary creations of the Estonian capital.

On the top floor of Balti Jamma Turg, you will find a massive flea market that is reminiscent of markets you will find in other former Soviet cities. Here you can browse through antiques and kitsch and it is really a great place to spend a bit of time, either window shopping or picking up a souvenir from your trip to Tallinn.

Day 3 – Lahemaa National Park Day Trip or Pirita

If you only have 2 days to spend in Tallinn, then the previous two days outlined will give you a great introduction to the city. However, if you’re lucky enough to have 3 days, then it’s definitely worth including Lahemaa National Park or adding Pirita and the Estonian History Museum to your itinerary!

Lahemaa National Park

One of the best things to do if you have 3 days to spend in Tallinn is to visit Lahemaa National Park . Located only about forty minutes from central Tallinn, Lahemaa is known for its incredible bogs and beautiful beaches. If you have a car, it is possible to visit both independently.

The main highlight of Lahemaa National Park is the Viru Bog, which is accessible via public transport (take bus 155 from Balti Jaam). The bog walk is a 6km route, however, if you are travelling with children in a stroller or have mobility challenges, the first kilometres is made to be accessible for wheelchairs etc. The walk is very easy and really worth it.

If you have your own car or are interested in going on an organised tour (this full-day tour is a great option), then you also have the option of visiting the Jagala waterfall and some seaside villages, such as lovely Vosu, which boasts a beautiful beach.

Pirita & Estonian History Museum in Maarjamäe

If you would rather stay within the city on the final day of your Tallinn itinerary, then heading to Pirita and the Estonian History Museum can be a great idea.

Both these attractions are located a bit outside of the centre of Tallinn so you’ll need to utilise public transport to get there.

To get to the Estonian History Museum in Maarjamäe, take any of the buses that go to Maarjamägi. The main reason we wanted to visit was to see the Soviet Monuments was what they have in the gardens behind the museum.

Here you find a collection of statues of famous Soviet leaders and party members including Lenin and Stalin. The statues haven’t been restored from their damaged states so you will see some missing body parts while others only have a head!

Inside the museum, there is an exhibition on the last 100 years of Estonian history since the founding of an independent Estonian state. You can also visit other branches of the museum in other areas of Tallinn which showcase different exhibits including the Great Guild Hall in the Old Town.

To round off your time in Tallinn, get back on the bus you used to arrive and head to Pirita Beach if visiting during the warmer months. Pirita Beach is a nice city beach that is a great place to have a relaxing afternoon.

There is a forest you walk through behind the beach or even rent a sailboat or go windsurfing. There is also a long promenade you can walk along if you feel like being a bit more active!

Where to Stay in Tallinn

Savoy Boutique Hotel – This plush hotel is excellent for those after a luxury stay in Tallinn’s Old Town. There are several beautiful rooms, private parking available, a fab breakfast and room service available.

Bob W Telliskivi – These apartments located next to Telliskivi Creative City are perfect for those looking for a self-catering option in the Estonian capital. There are numerous differently sized flats to choose from and all are equipped with the essentials you’ll need for your stay.

Fat Margaret’s Hostel – Perfect for those on a budget in the Baltics , this hostel has a great location, good common areas, plenty of dorms and privates to choose from and even an on-site sauna!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Tallinn!

Planning a Tallinn itinerary can feel a bit daunting when you consider just how much there is to in this beautiful city. Whether you have 2 or 3 days to explore the Estonian capital, you’re sure to fall in love with this beautiful place.

Are you planning a trip to Tallinn? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

A Perfect Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park from Tallinn

The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in Estonia Itinerary

Tallinn or Riga or Vilnius: The Best Baltic City to Visit

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

thanks you, Inspired reading your post. I would definitely visit Tallinn as soon as possible.

Thanks! Tallinn is a lovely city to explore 🙂

I truly enjoyed reading your post. I am now debating either I should visit Tallin any time soon or not and your post inspires me to. Would you say that winter is a good time to visit?

Thanks Anya! If you have appropriate clothing then there is no reason why you shouldn’t visit Tallinn in winter. Crowds will be a lot less compared to summer months and the Old Town looks magical covered in snow!

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16 Best Things to See and Do in Tallinn

Tallinn, the captivating capital of Estonia, is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty.

From its medieval Old Town to its modern art scene, Tallinn offers many experiences that cater to every traveller’s interests. 

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Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Tallinn is an exciting city to explore.

Table of Contents

The Best Things to See and Do in Tallinn:

1) explore the old town (vanalinn).

You can begin your exploration of Tallinn in its UNESCO-listed Old Town, where centuries of history come alive amidst cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares.

During the summer months, the square often hosts a medieval market where vendors sell traditional handicrafts, food, and drinks.

It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the atmosphere of medieval Tallinn.

2) Estonian Open Air Museum

Journey back in time and explore historic farmhouses, windmills, and workshops, and learn about Estonia’s folk culture.

3) Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Marvel at the majestic beauty of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece adorned with onion domes and intricate mosaics.

Be sure to admire the richly decorated interior of this stunning cathedral.

4) Tallinn Street Art

Explore Tallinn’s vibrant street art scene, where colourful murals and graffiti decorate building facades and hidden alleyways.

Take a self-guided tour or join a street art walking tour to discover the stories and inspiration behind these urban artworks.

2 Hour Guided City Walking Tour in Tallinn

5) Kadriorg Palace and Park

Escape the urban hustle and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Kadriorg Palace and Park.

Explore the elegant Baroque palace, stroll through manicured gardens, and visit Kadriorg Art Museum to admire its impressive European and Russian art collection.

6) Tallinn Botanic Garden

Home to a diverse collection of plant species from around the world.

Wander through themed gardens, tranquil ponds, and lush greenhouses, and breathe in the fragrant scents of flowers and herbs.

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7) Estonian Maritime Museum

Delve into Estonia’s maritime heritage at the Estonian Maritime Museum, housed in the historic Seaplane Harbour hangars.

Explore interactive exhibits, climb aboard vintage ships and submarines, and uncover fascinating stories of nautical adventures.

8) Tallinn TV Tower

You can head to the observation deck, which offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Better yet, why not dine on Estonian cuisine while you’re overlooking the city? You can book this two-course lunch, including an entrance to the TV Tower.

For thrill-seekers, dare to walk on the edge with the Edge Walk experience, which provides an adrenaline-pumping perspective.

Want a fun activity in Tallinn? Book this self-guided Scavenger Hunt

9) Tallinn City Walls and Towers

Climb the ancient city walls for panoramic views of Tallinn’s skyline and discover the city’s medieval defenses at towers like Kiek in de Kök and Fat Margaret.

Gain insight into Tallinn’s military history as you explore these well-preserved fortifications.

10) Visit Kalamaja District

Indulge your senses in Tallinn’s trendy Kalamaja district, known for its vibrant street art, hip cafes, and artisanal eateries.

Wander through colourful streets, sample local delicacies, and discover hidden gems in this bohemian neighbourhood.

11) Lahemaa National Park

Embark on a day trip to Lahemaa National Park, a natural paradise just a short drive from Tallinn.

Hike through pristine forests, explore picturesque coastal villages, and admire scenic viewpoints overlooking the Baltic Sea.

Book this popular Day Tour to Lahemaa National Park

12) Take a Day Trip to Helsinki, Finland

Book this popular return ferry ticket from Tallinn , and explore Helsinki for the day!

The two capital cities are just a two-hour ferry ride apart, with excellent views of the Baltic Sea.

Once you arrive in Helsinki, you will have a full day to explore the city before returning to Tallinn.

And, if you’d like to spend more time in this city, check out these top 10 things to do in Helsinki .

13) Tallinn City Museum

Immerse yourself in Tallinn’s fascinating history at the Tallinn City Museum, located in a medieval merchant’s house.

Explore interactive exhibits, archaeological finds, and multimedia displays that trace the city’s evolution from its earliest days to the present.

14) Enjoy Estonian Cuisine

Indulge in Tallinn’s culinary delights at local markets, cafes, and restaurants throughout the city.

Indulge in traditional Estonian dishes like hearty soups, savoury pies, and sweet pastries, and wash it down with a refreshing craft beer or locally distilled spirits.

Our favourite place to eat in Tallinn is Restaurant Rataskaevu 16 . To taste some local specialties, check out the menu at Hell Hunt ; and they serve some great beer.

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16) Tallinn City Hall

Admire the elegant facade of Tallinn City Hall, a symbol of the city’s medieval prosperity and governance.

The tower of Tallinn City Hall is one of the most recognisable features of the building. It is approximately 64 metres tall and offers panoramic views of the Old Town and beyond.

Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a fee (around 6 – 8 EUR) to enjoy the stunning vistas.

15) Wander around Telliskivi Creative City

Discover the heartbeat of Tallinn’s alternative scene at Telliskivi Creative City. Once a forgotten industrial area, it’s now a bustling hub for creativity and culture.

Explore art galleries, design shops, and cosy cafes amidst unique architecture that blends industrial history with contemporary flair.

Take advantage of the Telliskivi Creative Hub, Fotografiska Tallinn, and many boutiques and eateries. With 800+ cultural events annually, there’s always something exciting happening.

Easily reachable by public transport and just a short stroll from the city centre, it offers a dynamic glimpse into Tallinn’s creative spirit.

Explore the historic chambers, admire the ornate ceiling paintings, and learn about the city council’s role in Tallinn’s history.

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Where to Stay in Tallinn

Most visitors usually visit Tallinn for a few days, so I recommend that the best area to stay is in or close to the Old Town, making it easy to walk to many of the best things to see and do in Tallinn.

Here are my top hotel recommendations for every budget.

Luxury: Hotel Telegraaf, Autograph Collection – An elegant and comfortable hotel in the heart of the Old Town, we highly recommend.

Mid-Range: Rixwell Collection Savoy Boutique Hotel – This hotel offers excellent value, and located in the centre of the Old Town, you can’t get a better location than this.

Budget: Meriton Old Town Garden Hotel – The hotel is situated in the Old Town, within a 2-minute walk to the Town Hall Square, while the Telleskivi area is 15 minutes away. It’s a good option for those travelling on a budget.

View ALL Accommodation Options in Tallinn

How to Get Around in Tallinn

Getting around Tallinn is relatively easy, thanks to its well-developed public transportation system and compact size.

Here are some of the best ways to get around in Tallinn:

Public Transportation : Tallinn has an efficient and affordable public transportation network consisting of buses, trams, and trolleybuses. You can purchase tickets from kiosks, R-Kiosks, or use the mobile ticket app. The routes cover most parts of the city.

Walking : Tallinn’s Old Town is best explored on foot due to its narrow cobblestone streets and historic architecture. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other in the city centre. 

Cycling : Tallinn is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and rental services available. You can rent a bike from various locations in the city and explore at your own pace. Many bike rental shops offer guided tours as well, like this recommended 2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Tallinn.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing : Taxis are readily available in Tallinn, and you can either hail one on the street or use ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Uber. They are convenient for travelling to destinations outside the city centre or for late-night journeys when public transportation is less frequent.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours : If you’re a tourist looking to explore the city’s main attractions, consider taking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour . These tours offer a convenient way to see Tallinn’s landmarks with commentary in multiple languages.

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I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the top things to do in Tallinn, Estonia.

Why not explore the cool capital of Helsinki in Finland while you’re here? It’s just a ferry ride away!

Here are our top 10 things to do in Helsinki . Also, don’t miss this delicious list of Finland’s most popular foods .

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16 awesome things to do in tallinn [estonia] in 2024.

Tallinn is the medieval, vibrant, capital city of Estonia and is bursting with history, culture and wonderful things to do and see. Brad and I had the chance to explore Tallinn with Visit Estonia and we quickly fell in love with this beautiful city. 

So, if you need inspiration on what to do in Tallinn, then read on for my full guide on the best things to do in Tallinn.

What I REALLY love about Tallinn, is that the majority of all the best tourist attractions are located in the Old Town (or close to it) which means it’s easy to access all the best places to visit in Tallinn by walking.

Brad and I spent a full day seeing all the best sights in the Old Town and we didn’t need anything other than our 2 feet!

Travellerspoint

When is the best time to visit Tallinn?

Like many other places in Europe , we found that autumn was a wonderful time to visit Tallinn.

It’s still quite busy following the summer tourists, but the autumn colours are in full bloom and Estonia in autumn is an amazing scene. With what resemble Indian spices in orange, red and yellows, it’s the perfect backdrop to the city attractions. 

However, I’ve heard great things about Tallinn during winter and the Christmas season, so I think it would be a great time to visit too. 

What is the best way to get to Tallinn?

Since Tallinn is the capital city, it’s super easy to fly here! You can get cheap flights across mainland Europe, and you can visit from international destinations too. I suggest you use Skyscanner to find the best deals on flights to Tallinn. 

Or, you can do what Bradley and I did and road trip to Tallinn. Estonia is a small but mighty country with beautiful sights to see. 

We picked our Tinggly campervan from Lithuania and travelled north to Estonia through the Baltics.

Or, if you're coming from the north, you can get the direct Helsinki to Tallinn ferry . We did this the other way around and it's very straightforward.

How long should you spend in Tallinn?

Tallinn really is one of the most beautiful cities in Eastern Europe , and is the perfect place for a city break. So I suggest you spend at least 3 nights there! You could spend more, but no less or you’ll miss out on all the best things to do in Tallinn. 

If you fancy exploring more of what Estonia has to offer in general, then it’s a great idea to rent a car for a couple of days after you’re done exploring all the best tourist attractions Tallinn has to offer and head out and explore the country! 

Tartu is another great Estonian city that is worth visiting.

The top things to do in Tallinn 

1. check out jagala waterfall .

If you decide to rent a car and explore the surrounding areas of Tallinn, then I recommend you check out Jagala Waterfall. 

It’s Estonia's highest natural waterfall and it actually looks pretty cool. It’s only about 30 minutes outside the city centre of Tallinn, but it’s worth it to drive on the Estonian roads lined with beautiful Autumn colours. This waterfall can also freeze and a frozen waterfall looks super cool (if you haven’t seen one before). 

One of the more unique things to do in Estonia , but worth it if you’re there for a few days. 

2. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral 

This is one of my favourite spots in all of Tallinn because this cathedral is a work of art, both inside and out! It’s easy to find and it’s free entrance. 

You can get a good shot of this cathedral from every angle, but really stand and appreciate the beautiful architecture on show. 

3. Explore the Kadriorg Art Museum 

This Art Museum is just as famous for its outside as well as inside! This spot is a real treat in the summer when the gardens are in full bloom with beautiful colours. It’s a restored palace that houses some brilliant art, and it was built when Estonia was part of Russia. 

You can easily access the area by walking from the Old Town (which will take about 35 minutes), or you can opt for public transport to get you there. 

4. Visit Toompea Castle 

Toompea Castle is worth visiting and it’s very beautiful. But it’s no longer a castle as such, as it’s used as the Estonia Parliament (pretty cool spot for government). 

Free tours can be arranged in advance, and you can watch sessions of parliament from the public gallery is you’re interested to see how the government insides work! 

5. Dine in the Old Town

The Old Town of Tallinn is bursting with amazing places to eat and dine. When we were walking around, we were spoilt for choice and couldn’t decide on where to eat. There are lots of options of authentic Estonian food, which is actually a blend of different foods into one! 

We ended up eating in a restaurant that was located in a cellar. It was calld Munga Kelder and it was awesome. The vibe was amazing, the food was reasonably priced and tasted great!

Another popular place to eat in Estonia is Olde Hansa which is quite expensive, but you’re paying for the experience too, so if you want medieval dining, then I suggest you head there!

TOUR: Feeling really hungry? Then indulge in a Tallinn food tour! Book yours here. 

6. Visit the Danish King’s Garden 

The Danish King's Garden is one of the weird, yet wonderful sights in Tallinn. The area is the birthplace of the danish flag. The garden remains an area where locals honour the role Denmark played in Estonia's history.

There are spooky looking monks dotted over the place too, and if you’ve seen Harry Potter, you’ll see a resemble to dementors. 

It’s a totally free area to explore too, so again, a great spot for those looking for the best places to visit in Tallinn on a budget! 

7. Check out St Catherine's Passage 

This has to be one of the most picturesque spots in all of Tallinn! This winding road is half hidden walkway that leads to what was once St Catherine's church.

There is a collection of workshops located in the area, but the ambience of the passage is what you really seek. You’ll feel it as you walk through, trust me! 

If you’re looking for an awesome “Instagram Worthy” spot, then this is one of the best places to visit in Tallinn. 

8. Visit the Tallinn town hall 

The Tallinn Town Hall stands proud as the oldest city call in Northern Europe and the only one that’s preserved in Gothic style (my favourite style!) During August and July the Town Hall is open for visitors who can visit the whole area, including the attic and basement.

Prices start at 5 euro entrance, and you can visit at other times but with prior request I believe. 

9. Get your picture at Viru Gate 

Viru Gate feels like the grand entrance into the Old Town and it’s a really cute spot because it’s lined the florists. Brad bought me a red rose and that made my day! I don’t think it’s very expensive, so you can delight your partner with a rose too by the gate if you wish :P 

Which is a good time to mention that Tallinn is a great spot for couples, there is a very romantic vibe about the place. 

10. Visit St Olaf's Church 

Considered one of the symbols of Tallinn, this iconic church is very beautiful and a great picture spot. You can actually check out the amazing view from the top via 232 steps to the observation platform.  The viewing platform is only open in the summer months, not winter. 

TOUR: You can take a walking tour of the Old Town if you’d like to learn more about the history of the sights you’re seeing. Check this one out. 

11. Explore the KGB Prison Cells 

This was a super unique experience and something I was looking forward to seeing. I’ve studied the KGB extensively in my history lessons in high school and in university and I was intrigued to learn more about the tragic ongoings of the KGB prison cells.

These are the actual prison cells, which is a harrowing, harsh reality as you walk through. 

It’s not a very big museum as such, but it’s more than enough to show you what it was like to be a prisoner during those times- horrific. Each exhibition is in an old cell and it was a truly insightful experience I think you should visit! 

One of the top things to do in Tallinn for sure! 

It’s a 5 euro entrance fee for adults and you can pay card. 

12. Explore the city’s defensive walls 

The oldest parts of the walls of Tallinn were actually built in the 13th century, which means they have a long history! For just a couple of euro, you can climb up the walls and walk along them in one section.

It’s a short tour, but it does give some beautiful views and with learning a little bit about the history of the walls. 

13. Check out the KGB museum located in a hotel 

So this was one of the first things Brad and I checked out when we got to Tallinn, but we didn’t get past the door. Basically, we didn’t realise you can only access via guided tour, and when we visited, the next guided tour in English wasn’t until 3 hours away. We had our day planned meticulously, so we couldn't fit it in. 

But, I think this is an excellent spot. It’s located in the Hotel Viru and I believe it’s the only hotel that holds a museum. You’ll get an insight into the KGB history, and of course the role that this hotel played in all that.

Just book your tickets in advance, it was super busy when we arrived! 

Definitely one of the more unique Tallinn tourist attractions on offer! 

14. Check out Tallinn TV tower

Tallinn TV tower is located outside the main area of the city, so it’s not really walking distance. It’s northern Europe's highest viewing tower and on a clear day, you’ll be treated to some awesome views! 

You can actually “walk on the edge” of this TV tower if you’re feeling brave for only 30 euro, and looking for something truly unique to do in Tallinn. Or, you can dine at their restaurant which boasts amazing views (I’m not surprised!) 

It’s 13 euro to enter the tower for adults. 

You can purchase a fast track ticket right here! 

15. Pop into the Tallinn Creative City 

This is one of the spots Brad and I didn’t go to, but I think is worth mentioning. This is the largest creative hub in all of Estonia, consisting of creative companies, studios and offices of NGOs.

Basically it’s a buzzing place and it hosts over 600 events that take place. There is lots of street art, unique eating spots and photo galleries, it's a great place to spend an afternoon. 

16. Wander the cute streets of the Old town 

The Old Town of Tallinn is filled with cobbled streets and corners that you’ll find cute cafes, delicious eateries and cute souvenir shops. I suggest you just wander around without a map and just see what you discover.

I ended up going into a cute shop located underground and wanted to buy everything in there! In the end I just got a shot glass for my collection, but there are lots of gifts you could bring back to family and friends. 

A tour can be a great way to find the best spots, check this one out!

Is Tallinn expensive? 

Not overly, for a capital city, I think it’s quite well priced, however in comparison to the rest of Estonia, the prices in Tallinn are higher. But it’s far cheaper than most European capital cities and it’s great value for money. 

But, if you're looking for ways to visit Tallinn on a budget, then I suggest you eat outside of the Old Town. You’ll find better deals. 

Getting around Tallinn 

Like I mentioned before, one of the great things about Tallinn, Estonia, is the fact that most of the best sites in Tallinn are within walking distance from any accommodation located in/near the Old Town. 

However, another option is to use the classic sightseeing Hop on Hop off bus, it’ll take you to the best things to do in Tallinn and you can hop on and off as you need too. 

You can book your ticket ahead of time here too. 

CityBee is also an electric scooter rental company and you can download the app and pick up a scooter and take it for as long as you need, then simply leave it within the Old Town for the next person to pick up. We used them in Lithuania , and it’s a brilliant way to sightsee, so using it in Tallinn, is a great idea too. 

So there you have it! My guide to the top things to do in Tallinn. I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and I hope it’s inspired you to do all these amazing things in Tallinn! If you’ve got any other suggestions to add to the list of Tallinn attractions, then simply drop a comment below.

A big thank you to VisitEstonia for hosting us for our stay in Tallinn at their StoryTellers Nest! 

For more help planning your trip in Estonia, check out our other guides:

• Our 2 Week Baltic Road Trip
• The 13 Best Things To Do In Estonia

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This Underrated European City Is One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 — Here's What Not to Miss

Tallinn, Estonia, is known for its incredibly well-preserved medieval Old Town, but from hipster neighborhoods full of art to award-winning fine dining, there are plenty of new reasons to visit.

Nina Ruggiero is Travel + Leisure's senior editorial director and the co-founder of Be A Travel Writer , an online course for aspiring travel journalists. A New Yorker based in Los Angeles, she has a special interest in beach destinations, outdoor adventures, unique hotels, pet-friendly travel with her golden retriever, @travelswithcali, and all things Italy.

Emerging from the intense heat of the smoke sauna, I run across the wooden deck and plunge into the notoriously brisk Baltic before I can change my mind. I feel the cold sea pierce my hot skin from the soles of my feet upward, like ice water blanching a steamed vegetable from root to stem.

When I come to the surface, my travel companions are bobbing about, screeching and laughing so hard they can barely stay afloat. After flying thousands of miles and working on different time zones, our weary crew of journalists has been injected with pure, visceral energy. 

Nina Ruggiero/Travel + Leisure

Back in Los Angeles, where I live, the sauna-cold plunge one-two punch has become a recent wellness trend, with influencers recreating the setup in their backyards and TikToking from their tubs. But in Estonia, this has been a way of life for centuries — even securing a spot on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list . 

Iglupark , in the Noblessner district of Tallinn, Estonia’s capital city, offers the most modern way to experience the age-old tradition: groups can book private sessions and sweat in sleek, black saunas with buckets of beer on ice, or chill in Adirondack chairs beneath glowing string lights. But while the scene may be curated for the social media set — every last piece of wood aesthetically stacked — the intention of the practice remains the same. 

“There is no wrong way to go to the sauna,” said Elin Priks, project manager behind The Year of the Sauna, an initiative to share one of the oldest living Estonian cultural traditions far and wide. Most Estonian homes have saunas — even many urban apartments — with one sauna for every 10 people throughout the country, she tells me. Estonians head to the sauna seeking stress relief and mental wellbeing, Priks said, calling it an “impressive natural pharmacy.”

Although Estonia’s sauna culture earned its UNESCO status in 2014 (years before world-famous Finland’s), a documentary that delves into its meaning to Estonian women, “ Smoke Sauna Sisterhood ,” put it in the spotlight last year, making the 2023 film festival circuit and earning award nominations from Sundance and San Francisco to Munich and Hong Kong.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

Iglupark : A chic, modern sauna park on the Baltic Sea

180° by Matthias Diether : Inventive fine dining at Estonia’s only Michelin two-starred restaurant

PoCo Art Museum: Pop and contemporary art by Andy Warhol, Banksy, David Hockney, and more 

Nunne Boutique Hotel: The newest hotel in town, with views over Towers Square 

Song and Dance Festival: Estonia’s biggest musical event, occurring every five years

Less officially, this was also Estonia’s year of fine dining; 180° by Matthias Diether — minutes from Iglupark and also within Noblessner — became the country’s first Michelin two-starred restaurant. The 2023 Michelin Guide called it stylish, futuristic, and ambitious, and the same could be said for the Noblessner. Once an industrial shipyard area, it’s now a trendy neighborhood with upscale apartments, waterfront bars, and more than one buzzy restaurant, its defunct submarine factories filled with art galleries and museums.

Another Tallinn industrial-area–turned-hot-spot is Telliskivi Creative City, known as a hipster hangout with startup offices, striking street art, artisan coffee shops, galleries, independent design boutiques, and vintage stores. Its art scene is anchored by Fotografiska , the world-renowned contemporary photography museum, but its smaller galleries offer endless surprises, from the Vaal Gallery to the Juhan Kuus Documentary Photo Center . According to Visit Estonia , more than 800 cultural events are hosted in this part of the city every year.

Still, first-time visitors to Tallinn will want to start in Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lauded as an “ exceptionally complete and well-preserved” medieval city — an incredible feat for a country that’s been conquered by so many nations throughout its history. Bleary-eyed on the first morning of my trip, my gaze shifted in one dreamlike moment from colorful flower vendors to the Viru Gate, the site of Tallinn’s two best-preserved stone defense towers and the most iconic entrance into the real-life fairy tale that is Old Town. 

“Unlike the busy old towns in big cities, Tallinn's Old Town is calm and great for relaxing walks,” said Jana Kutšinskaja, head of international media for Visit Estonia. “Locals themselves often cherish visiting the historic area."

Stepping into Old Town feels like traveling back in time, but there are modern accommodations within its medieval walls, including Hotel Telegraaf, Autograph Collection , one of the city’s most luxurious places to stay, and the Nunne Boutique Hotel , which opened last August with views over Towers Square . 

Staying here means waking up to winding streets dotted with churches and Gothic houses, hidden courtyards, and cobblestone squares that conjure images of 13th-century merchants trading their goods. We ascended the limestone hill to Upper Old Town for an up-close look at the pink Toompea Castle , and to take in sweeping views over the city. But first, we paused in front of the ornate, Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral , a stark reminder that Estonia was under Soviet rule from 1940 to 1991. 

"Being nearly 50 years under Soviet regime serves as a constant motivator today to stay vigilant and innovating," Kutšinskaja told me, pointing to the fact that today, Estonia is a nation with a "strong emphasis on digital innovation, education, and global connectivity" — and a thriving startup scene.

Jana Kutšinskaja

Being nearly 50 years under Soviet regime serves as a constant motivator today to stay vigilant and innovating.

It's also a nation with some of the highest literacy and secondary education rates in Europe, particularly among women, and one that prioritizes the arts. "Estonian brains are almost our only natural resource," Kutšinskaja quipped, paraphrasing former Estonian president Kersti Kaljulaid. "We have no oil or gold."

The entire country’s population is just 1.3 million, but annual theater visits average 1.2 million, and museum visits have topped 3.5 million in recent years. There are plenty of options just within Tallinn: the city boasts more than 50 art institutions. Its PoCo Art Museum is a who’s-who of the pop and contemporary art worlds, with work by Andy Warhol, Banksy, David Hockney, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and more. Meanwhile, Tartu, a university town reachable in 90 minutes from Tallinn by train or car, was named the 2024 European Capital of Culture. (Tallinn took the title back in 2011.)

Perhaps the most quintessentially Estonian art form, however, is song. Historically, Estonians have used music to hold onto their national identity in spite of impositions from outside nations, and it's still common to hear snippets of choruses streaming out of churches, concert halls, and music schools while walking through the city. "Music can be found all year round and everywhere in Estonia," Kutšinskaja said, but of all the festivals (and there are many, from Tallinn Music Week to Viljandi Folk Music Festival ), the Song and Dance Festival is the one not to miss.

Up to 100,000 people gather for the event, Kutšinskaja said, to listen to choirs and orchestras, and watch dance troupes perform. Of course, there's plenty of partying and dancing in the crowds as well. The next Song and Dance Festival won't take place until July 2025, but we don't suggest waiting that long to visit Estonia. Get to know this country of song and it will stick in your mind like a catchy lyric, calling you to come back and sing along.

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Related articles.

Public transport in Tallinn

Information about the different routes and timetables.

Tramline construction in Tallinn – how to navigate the city with ease

Ticket prices and selling points

Ticket prices.

• One-hour ticket (60 min): €2 
• One-day ticket (24h) : €5.50 
• Three-day ticket (72h): €9 
• Five-day ticket (120h): €11 
• 30-day ticket: €30 
• Tallinn Card (includes free entries to museums and sights) (24h/48h/72h): €27 - €78  

Where to buy the different tickets?

One-hour tickets and one-day tickets: , you can buy one-hour tickets:.

• At the ticket machines located at the airport, central bus station, bus terminal at Viru Keskus, and the port's A- and D-terminals
• With a contactless payment card* (Mastercard, Maestro, Visa and Visa Electron) at the rectangular orange validators in the front of the vehicle

You can buy one-day tickets and one-hour tickets (known as QR tickets): 

• By loading money* or the appropriate ticket on your Ühiskaart (green fare card) online or anywhere the cards are sold (see below)
• online from  tallinn.pilet.ee  
• with the mobile app pilet.ee (for  iOS  and  Android ). When you purchase a ticket through the app, a service charge of 0.32 euros will be added to the price.  

*Pay as you go daily caps: the system tracks your daily usage and automatically bills your Ühiskaart (green fare card) or bank account for the cheapest ticket you are entitled to for the day, meaning the maximum you will pay in a single day for an unlimited amount of trips is the price of a one-day ticket. NB! You must validate each entry.  

Three-day, five-day, and 30-day tickets

There are numerous sales points in and around tallinn:  .

• Tourist Information Centre (Niguliste 2)
• Tallinn City Government customer service desk (Vabaduse väljak 7) 
• Any R-Kiosk in Tallinn
• Tallinn Central Bus Station (Lastekodu 46)
• Omniva post offices in Tallinn and Harjumaa
• Select Maxima, Prisma, Rimi, Selver, and Stockmann supermarkets. 

Tallinn Card: 24, 48, and 72 hours

Acts as a ticket, entitling the holder to unlimited, free public transport for the period the card is active. It also gives you free admission to Tallinn’s top museums and sights and other discounts. The card is available for periods of 24, 48 or 72 hours.

You can buy Tallinn Card via the app (available on the Play Store and App Store ), online  or at different  sales points  in Estonia and abroad. 

How to use the different tickets?

One-hour qr tickets, how to use qr tickets.

One-hour tickets and day tickets with contactless payment cards and Apple Pay Express

One-hour and day tickets with ühiskaart (fare card), how to use my ühiskaart , how to top up my ühiskaart, where can i get a refund for my deposit.

• Customer service desk of the Tallinn City Government (Vabaduse väljak 7) 
• T-pilet customer desk at the Central Bus Station 
• R-kiosks at Tallinn Airport, Railway Station (Balti Jaam) and the Port of Tallinn (A- and D-terminals).

Public transport with the Tallinn Card: pay less, see more

Which ticket should i buy, the best ticket for one or two trips, the best tickets for multiple trips, the best tickets for groups, multiple one-hour tickets on one ühiskaart (up to six), how to buy inside the vehicle: .

• Validate your Ühiskaart at any of the orange validators located in the vehicle.
• Use the arrows to choose the required number of additional tickets (up to five extra). 
• Validate the purchase of extra tickets by swiping your Ühiskaart again in front of the validator.

Multiple one-hour tickets with a QR ticket (up to 10) or contactless payment card (up to six)

• Validate your ticket or contactless payment card at the rectangular orange validator by the front door.
• Use the arrows to select the corresponding number of extra tickets in the validator (up to nine or five depending on your choice of payment). 
• Confirm the purchase by re-registering your QR ticket or contactless payment card.

Free travel

• Children under seven years old
• Passengers travelling with children under the age of three (applicable to one adult per child)
• Registered Tallinn residents (using a personalised  Ühiskaart  and carrying an ID).

Useful links

• Bus, trolley, and tram  routes and timetables
• Buy and top up your tickets online
• Tallinn Card app available via Google Play and App Store
• Pilet.ee app on  Apple App Store  and on  Google Play  
• More information on  public transport in Tallinn
• Free public transport for international event delegates