tallinn

Estonia’s lovely capital city! Tallinn, located on the Baltic Sea, perfectly combines mediaeval elegance with modern vibrancy, making it a must-see destination for any traveller. This Tallinn Travel Guide takes you to a beautiful blend of old-world beauty and contemporary excitement, with cobblestone lanes, well-preserved ancient buildings, and a flourishing cultural scene. We will cover all you need to know to make the most of your vacation to Tallinn, from navigating the city to experiencing its rich history, indulging in local food, and discovering hidden gems.

Destinations / Estonia / Tallinn
July 2023

Planning Your Visit to Tallinn

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tallinn is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant and daylight hours are long. The city comes alive with outdoor events, festivals, and vibrant street life.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time for sightseeing. Winter (November to March) can be cold and snowy, but it adds a magical atmosphere, especially during the Christmas season.

Note that some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed in the low tourist season, so plan accordingly.

Getting to Tallinn

By Air: Tallinn has an international airport, Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport, with flights connecting to major European cities.
By Ferry: Tallinn is well-connected by ferry services. Ferries operate between Tallinn and Helsinki (Finland), Stockholm (Sweden), and St. Petersburg (Russia).
By Bus: Several bus companies provide routes to Tallinn from neighboring countries like Latvia, Lithuania, and Russia.
By Train: Trains connect Tallinn to St. Petersburg and Moscow. It is also possible to travel by train from other Baltic countries.
By Car: Tallinn is easily accessible by road with well-maintained highways connecting it to nearby cities and countries.

Local Transportation

Once here, Tallinn Travel Guide will suggests you to navigate the city using an efficient network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
Consider factors like cost, travel time, and convenience when choosing your preferred mode of transportation to Tallinn. Check schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Tallinn’s Historic Old Town Tour

Tallinn Old Town Highlights: Explore Tallinn’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, which includes Toompea Hill, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and mediaeval town walls.

Town Hall Square: Discover the heart of Tallinn’sb Old Town, complete with breathtaking architecture, cafes, and seasonal markets.

Stroll the Mediaeval Streets: Take a stroll down the picturesque cobblestone streets, admire the well-preserved merchant buildings, and discover hidden courtyards.

Must see Places in the City: Tallinn Travel Guide

Toompea Hill: Discover the Upper Town and enjoy panoramic views of Tallinn from this historic and picturesque hill. Don’t miss attractions like Toompea Castle and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Kadriorg Palace and Park: Marvel at the elegant Baroque palace, stroll through the manicured gardens, and visit the Kadriorg Art Museum to admire its impressive collection of art.

St. Olaf’s Church: Climb to the top of this medieval church for stunning views of Tallinn’s rooftops and the Baltic Sea. The tower offers a great vantage point to admire the city’s skyline.

Kumu Art Museum: Explore Estonia’s largest art museum, showcasing a diverse range of Estonian art from the 18th century to the present. It’s modern building is a stunning art work.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Admire the impressive Russian Orthodox cathedral with its onion domes and intricate details. Step inside to appreciate its opulent interior.

Estonian Open-Air Museum: Take a journey through Estonian rural life at this outdoor museum. Explore traditional farmhouses, windmills, and see demonstrations of folk crafts.

Estonian Maritime Museum: Located in the historic Seaplane Harbour, this museum showcases Estonia’s maritime history through interactive exhibits and a collection of historic ships.

Telliskivi Creative City: Explore this vibrant and artistic neighborhood, filled with hipster cafés, street art, boutiques, and a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to experience Tallinn’s creative side.

Tallinn’s Culinary Delights

Traditional Estonian Cuisine: Sample local dishes like black bread, elk stew, and traditional desserts at cozy restaurants.
Food Markets: Visit the Balti Jaama Turg (Baltic Station Market) and the Nõmme Market for a variety of fresh produce, local specialties, and souvenirs.
Craft Beer and Distilleries: Explore Tallinn’s emerging craft beer scene and visit local distilleries for a taste of Estonian spirits.

What else?

Kalamaja District: Explore this hip neighborhood known for its wooden houses, trendy cafes, and street art.
Seaplane Harbour: Visit the maritime museum housed in a historic seaplane hangar and discover Estonia’s maritime history.
Pirita Beach: Enjoy a relaxing day at Tallinn’s sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely walks.

Nearby Getaways:

Lahemaa National Park: Venture into the picturesque coastal landscapes, dense forests, and charming villages of Estonia’s oldest national park
Approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) east of Tallinn. Reachable by bus or organized tours.

Paldiski: Discover the remnants of Soviet military structures and explore the stunning coastal cliffs of this former naval base.
Around 50 kilometers (31 miles) west of Tallinn. Accessible by train or bus.

Haapsalu: Enjoy the seaside charm of this historic town, known for its medieval castle, wooden houses, and healing mud spas.
Approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Tallinn. Reachable by bus or car.

Saaremaa Island: Experience the tranquility of Estonia’s largest island, featuring unspoiled nature, medieval castles, and Kuressaare’s charming town center.
Accessible via a ferry from Virtsu (about 130 kilometers or 81 miles southwest of Tallinn). It’s approximately 30 min of ferry ride.

Tartu: Visit Estonia’s intellectual hub, home to the prestigious University of Tartu, vibrant cafés, and a youthful atmosphere.
Around 185 kilometers (115 miles) southeast of Tallinn. Accessible by train, bus, or car.

Essential Travel Tips

Currency: Estonia uses the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always useful to have some cash on hand.
Transportation: Tallinn’s public transportation system, including buses and trams, is efficient and easy to navigate. Consider purchasing a travel card for convenience.
Language: While Estonian is the official language, many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions throughout the year. Pack layers and suitable attire, especially during the colder months.
Safety: Tallinn is generally safe, but exercise caution against pickpocketing in crowded areas and be mindful of your belongings.
Wi-Fi Availability: Free Wi-Fi is widespread in Tallinn, with many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces offering internet access.

Contact Information

Visit Estonia (Official Tourism Website)
Website: https://www.visitestonia.com/
Email: [email protected]

Tallinn Tourist Information Center
Location: Niguliste 2, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia
Phone: +372 645 7777
Email: [email protected]

Emergency Services
Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112

The Tallinn Travel Guide

Tallinn delivers a wonderful vacation experience with its compelling blend of history, culture, and contemporary attractiveness. Tallinn has a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered, from roaming the cobblestone alleyways of the Old Town to indulging in wonderful local food and stepping off the beaten path. So pack your luggage, immerse yourself in mediaeval beauty, and let Tallinn enchant you. Tallinn will leave an everlasting stamp on your heart and create memories to cherish, whether you are a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or a curious traveller.