Tallinn

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This stunning city offers a unique blend of medieval charm, Soviet-era history, and modern Nordic culture. From its picturesque Old Town to its vibrant food scene, there’s something for every kind of traveller in Tallinn.

Before You Go

Visa Requirements

  • Check if you need a visa to enter Estonia here
  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date

Weather and Climate

  • Best time to visit: June to August (summer) or December (Christmas markets)
  • Pack layers for chilly mornings and evenings, even in summer
  • Be prepared for occasional rain showers

Getting There

By Air

  • Tallinn Airport (TLL) is located 4 km from the city centre
  • Fly into TLL from major European cities with airlines like Ryanair, Lufthansa, or Finnair
  • Take bus no. 2 or 49 from the airport to the city centre ( approx. €1-2)

By Ferry

  • Take a ferry from Helsinki, Finland ( approx. 2 hours) with operators like Tallink Silja or Viking Line
  • From Stockholm, Sweden ( approx. 18 hours) with Stena Line or Viking Line

By Bus/Train

  • Take a bus from Riga, Latvia ( approx. 4.5 hours) with Lux Express or Ecolines
  • Or, take a train from Moscow, Russia ( approx. 12 hours) with GoRail

Places to Go

Old Town (Vanalinn)

  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997
  • Wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the medieval architecture
  • Visit the Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) and climb the tower for panoramic views

Toompea Castle (Toompea loss)

  • The seat of the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu)
  • Explore the castle’s museum and enjoy the surrounding gardens

Kadriorg Park and Palace

  • A beautiful Baroque-style palace built by Peter the Great in 1718
  • Stroll through the picturesque park and visit the nearby Kumu Art Museum

Telliskivi Creative City

  • A former industrial area turned trendy neighbourhood
  • Discover street art, boutique shops, and hip cafes

Other Must-Sees

  • The Estonian Open-Air Museum (Eesti Vabaõhumuuseum) for a glimpse into rural life
  • The Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam) for maritime history and waterfront views
  • The TV Tower (Teletorn) for panoramic views of the city

Activities

Walking Tours

  • Join a guided tour to explore Old Town’s hidden gems and legends
  • Choose from companies like Tallinn Old Town Walking Tour or Estonian Experience

Food and Drink Experiences

  • Take a food tour to sample traditional Estonian cuisine, such as verivorst (blood sausage) and herring
  • Visit the Tallinn Central Market (Tallinna keskturg) for fresh produce and local delicacies

Nature Escapes

  • Hike in the nearby Lahemaa National Park or explore the scenic coastal cliffs
  • Relax at one of Tallinn’s many spas, like the Kalev Spa or the Hilton Tallinn Park Hotel’s eforea Spa

Where to Eat

Traditional Estonian Cuisine

  • Olde Hansa: try their medieval-inspired menu and atmosphere
  • Vanaema Juures: sample traditional dishes in a cozy setting

Modern Estonian Cuisine

  • NOA: enjoy seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients with a focus on sustainability
  • Foorum: experience creative, farm-to-table cuisine

Cafes and Bakeries

  • Café Mosaique: indulge in delicious pastries and coffee in a charming atmosphere
  • Maiasmokk: visit this popular bakery for fresh bread and sweet treats

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Hostel Tallinn: affordable dorms and private rooms in the heart of Old Town
  • The Monk’s Bunk: a unique, monastery-inspired hostel with a social atmosphere

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Hotel Telegraaf: enjoy elegant rooms and a relaxing spa in a historic building
  • My City Hotel: stay in a stylish, modern hotel with a great location

Luxury Options

  • Hotel Schlossle: experience luxurious amenities and a stunning location in Old Town
  • The Three Sisters Hotel: relax in a beautifully restored 14th-century merchant’s house

Things to Know

Language

  • Official language: Estonian (similar to Finnish)
  • Many locals speak English, especially among the younger population

Currency

  • Euro (€) is the official currency
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still king in some places

Safety

  • Tallinn is generally a very safe city
  • Take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings

Transportation

Public Transportation

  • Use buses or trams to get around the city (approx. €1-2 per ride)
  • Buy a rechargeable public transportation card (Ühiskaart) for convenience

Taxi Services

  • Use reputable companies like Reval Park Hotel’s taxi service or Taksi
  • Be prepared for higher prices than in Western Europe

Bike Rentals

  • Explore the city on two wheels with bike rental services like Citybike or Rent-a-Bike

Tips and Tricks

Learn Some Estonian Phrases

  • “Tere” (hello), “tänan” (thank you), and “hea” (goodbye) will go a long way in showing respect for the local culture

Download Helpful Apps

  • Google Translate for language assistance
  • Moovit or Ühiskaart for public transportation planning

Be Prepared for Cash-Only Establishments

  • Some cafes, bars, or markets may not accept credit cards

Day Trips and Excursions

Haapsalu ( approx. 1 hour by car)

  • Visit this charming medieval town with its picturesque castle and scenic coastal views

Lahemaa National Park ( approx. 1 hour by car)

  • Explore the stunning natural beauty of Estonia’s largest national park

Helsinki, Finland ( approx. 2 hours by ferry)

  • Take a day trip to the Finnish capital for a unique Nordic experience

Conclusion

Tallinn is a city that will surprise and delight you at every turn. From its stunning medieval architecture to its vibrant modern culture, there’s something for every kind of traveller in this beautiful Estonian city. With this guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Tallinn!