Tallinn, Estonia
Locavy ratings
Party
4.5/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
3/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
4/5
Experiences
3/5
Party
4.5/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
3/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
4/5
Experiences
3/5
At a glance
The capital of Estonia, Tallinn, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, rich history, and charming Christmas market, making it the perfect destination for a city break.
Party
Tallinn is famous for its vibrant nightlife, making it a top European destination for stag dos. The party scene is centered in the Old Town, with a variety of quirky bars and nightclubs to explore.
Sightseeing
Tallinn is packed with must-see sights, from the iconic city walls to the historic Toompea Castle and stunning Jagala Waterfall. Strolling through the enchanting Old Town is also a perfect way to take in the city’s beauty.
Relaxation
Tallinn isn’t typically a relaxation hotspot, but the surrounding nature offers peaceful escapes. A visit to the serene Lahemaa National Park is ideal for those seeking tranquility.
Value
Tallinn offers good value with affordable dining and accommodation year-round. However, hotel prices often rise on weekends due to tourist surges. For extra savings, consider purchasing the Tallinn Card.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Tallinn Airport, the country’s largest, is just 4km southeast of the city. Regular buses and taxis provide easy access to the city center.
Train
Trains are ideal for exploring Estonia and visiting nearby Latvia. However, within Tallinn, the city’s compact layout and excellent bus network make trains unnecessary for local travel.
Drive
Hiring a car is a great way to explore Tallinn and its surroundings, with popular day trips like Lahemaa National Park and Jagala Waterfall nearby.
Experiences
Tallinn offers a rich variety of experiences. Get lost in the charming Old Town, explore the historic city walls and Toompea Castle, or take day trips to Helsinki and the scenic Lahemaa National Park.
Best Things To Do
1. Wander Through Tallinn’s Old Town
Tallinn’s enchanting Old Town is famous for its medieval city walls, Gothic architecture, and cobblestone streets, making it a must-visit. With charming alleyways and picturesque squares, it’s also home to Tallinn’s top bars and restaurants.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be challenging.
2. Explore Tallinn’s Museums
Tallinn offers a variety of museums, from the captivating KGB Museum, which delves into the Soviet era’s secrets, to the Estonian Maritime Museum, perfect for both adults and children. These sites provide a unique insight into Estonia’s rich history.
Many museums offer free or discounted entry with the Tallinn Card.
3. Discover Lahemaa National Park
Located just 47km from Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park is a nature lover’s paradise with scenic trails, cycling paths, and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. It’s Estonia’s most popular national park, showcasing forests, bogs, and historic manors.
Consider a guided tour to get the best insights into the park’s unique landscapes and history.
4. Take a Day Trip to Helsinki
A quick ferry ride from Tallinn brings you to Helsinki, known for its vibrant markets, stunning archipelago, and lively arts scene. With a travel time of just over two hours, Helsinki makes for an enriching day trip.
Ferry tickets start from 15 Euros; book in advance for the best rates.
5. Walk Along Tallinn’s Historic City Walls
Tallinn’s medieval city walls date back to the 13th century and are among the best-preserved in Europe. Climbing one of the towers offers incredible views and a deeper appreciation of Tallinn’s historical defenses.
Admission to the towers is generally inexpensive, but check seasonal hours before visiting.
6. Visit the Iconic Town Hall
Tallinn’s Town Hall, with its towering spire, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the Old Town and beyond.
Admission to the tower is 7 Euros; arrive early to avoid lines, especially in peak season.
7. Join a Walking Tour of Tallinn
A walking tour provides an excellent overview of Tallinn’s history and culture, covering landmarks like the City Walls, Toompea Castle, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s story.
Many companies offer free or low-cost tours; check online to reserve a spot.
8. Marvel at Jagala Waterfall
Situated 30km east of Tallinn, Jagala Waterfall is Estonia’s largest natural waterfall. It’s particularly breathtaking in winter, when it freezes into an icy cascade.
Visit in winter for stunning frozen views, or in spring for peak water flow.
9. Explore Toompea Castle
Perched atop Toompea Hill, Toompea Castle is one of Tallinn’s oldest and most iconic structures, now serving as Estonia’s parliament. A guided tour of this historic landmark provides insight into Estonia’s political heritage.
Tours are often in high demand, so book in advance to secure a spot.
10. Experience Tallinn’s Christmas Market
Held in Town Hall Square, Tallinn’s Christmas Market is a festive wonderland filled with local crafts, delicious Estonian treats, and traditional music. It’s the perfect place to enjoy holiday cheer and local culture.
The market typically opens late November; wrap up for the winter chill and try the mulled wine.
1. Wander Through Tallinn’s Old Town
Tallinn’s enchanting Old Town is famous for its medieval city walls, Gothic architecture, and cobblestone streets, making it a must-visit. With charming alleyways and picturesque squares, it’s also home to Tallinn’s top bars and restaurants.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be challenging.
2. Explore Tallinn’s Museums
Tallinn offers a variety of museums, from the captivating KGB Museum, which delves into the Soviet era’s secrets, to the Estonian Maritime Museum, perfect for both adults and children. These sites provide a unique insight into Estonia’s rich history.
Many museums offer free or discounted entry with the Tallinn Card.
3. Discover Lahemaa National Park
Located just 47km from Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park is a nature lover’s paradise with scenic trails, cycling paths, and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. It’s Estonia’s most popular national park, showcasing forests, bogs, and historic manors.
Consider a guided tour to get the best insights into the park’s unique landscapes and history.
4. Take a Day Trip to Helsinki
A quick ferry ride from Tallinn brings you to Helsinki, known for its vibrant markets, stunning archipelago, and lively arts scene. With a travel time of just over two hours, Helsinki makes for an enriching day trip.
Ferry tickets start from 15 Euros; book in advance for the best rates.
5. Walk Along Tallinn’s Historic City Walls
Tallinn’s medieval city walls date back to the 13th century and are among the best-preserved in Europe. Climbing one of the towers offers incredible views and a deeper appreciation of Tallinn’s historical defenses.
Admission to the towers is generally inexpensive, but check seasonal hours before visiting.
6. Visit the Iconic Town Hall
Tallinn’s Town Hall, with its towering spire, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the Old Town and beyond.
Admission to the tower is 7 Euros; arrive early to avoid lines, especially in peak season.
7. Join a Walking Tour of Tallinn
A walking tour provides an excellent overview of Tallinn’s history and culture, covering landmarks like the City Walls, Toompea Castle, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s story.
Many companies offer free or low-cost tours; check online to reserve a spot.
8. Marvel at Jagala Waterfall
Situated 30km east of Tallinn, Jagala Waterfall is Estonia’s largest natural waterfall. It’s particularly breathtaking in winter, when it freezes into an icy cascade.
Visit in winter for stunning frozen views, or in spring for peak water flow.
9. Explore Toompea Castle
Perched atop Toompea Hill, Toompea Castle is one of Tallinn’s oldest and most iconic structures, now serving as Estonia’s parliament. A guided tour of this historic landmark provides insight into Estonia’s political heritage.
Tours are often in high demand, so book in advance to secure a spot.
10. Experience Tallinn’s Christmas Market
Held in Town Hall Square, Tallinn’s Christmas Market is a festive wonderland filled with local crafts, delicious Estonian treats, and traditional music. It’s the perfect place to enjoy holiday cheer and local culture.
The market typically opens late November; wrap up for the winter chill and try the mulled wine.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Tallinn Card: Your All-Inclusive Pass
Consider purchasing the Tallinn Card for free access to top museums, attractions, and unlimited public transport across the city.
6.
Safety
Tallinn is a generally safe city, but take standard precautions, especially when exploring at night.
2.
Where to Stay
Staying in Tallinn’s Old Town offers the most scenic views, plus easy access to the city’s best bars, restaurants, and attractions.
7.
Compact City
Tallinn’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, with most major sights within walking distance.
3.
Affordable Public Transport
Tallinn’s efficient and affordable bus, tram, and trolleybus network connects every part of the city, making it easy to get around.
8.
Weekend Accommodation Costs
Due to an influx of Finnish weekend tourists, accommodation rates tend to be higher on weekends than weekdays.
4.
Language
The official language is Estonian, which is closer to Finnish than Russian or Latvian, though English is commonly spoken.
9.
Tipping Etiquette
Tipping is appreciated but not required; 10–15% is typical for good service in restaurants.
5.
When to Visit
Winter offers a charming, festive atmosphere, while summer is perfect for exploring Tallinn’s vibrant outdoor scene.
10.
Currency and Payment Options
Estonia uses the Euro, and card payments are widely accepted, so carrying cash is rarely necessary.
6.
Safety
Tallinn is a generally safe city, but take standard precautions, especially when exploring at night.
7.
Compact City
Tallinn’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, with most major sights within walking distance.
8.
Weekend Accommodation Costs
Due to an influx of Finnish weekend tourists, accommodation rates tend to be higher on weekends than weekdays.
9.
Tipping Etiquette
Tipping is appreciated but not required; 10–15% is typical for good service in restaurants.
10.
Currency and Payment Options
Estonia uses the Euro, and card payments are widely accepted, so carrying cash is rarely necessary.