Things To Do
in Tallinn
Nestled on the shores of the Baltic Sea, this picturesque capital city boasts a vibrant mix of medieval architecture and modern culture. Its well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites visitors to step back in time amidst its cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
Tallinn also thrives as a technology hub, earning acclaim for its innovative digital initiatives and lively startup scene.
- "Tere" - Hello
- "Aitäh" - Thank you
- "Palun" - Please
- "Head aega" - Goodbye
- "Kuidas sul läheb?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the cobblestone streets of Tallinn's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't miss the stunning views from Toompea Hill.
Have lunch in one of the many cozy cafes and then visit the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Take some time to explore the unique shops filled with local crafts.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Estonian restaurant and try local dishes. Cap off the night with a stroll to the Town Hall Square, beautifully lit at night.
Visit the Kumu Art Museum to see a blend of modern and classic Estonian art. The museum's architecture itself is a masterpiece worth admiring.
Explore the Estonian Open Air Museum to experience rural life from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Enjoy a picnic among historical buildings and scenic nature.
Dine in the Kadriorg Park area and then catch a performance at the Estonian National Opera. Savor the blend of culture and culinary delights.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Efficient public transportation system
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene
- High level of digital innovation and e-governance
- Beautiful medieval architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Clean environment and access to nature
- Welcoming attitude towards expatriates and international communities
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western European cities
- Growing job market, especially in tech and startups
- Cold winters with long periods of darkness
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors outside tech
- Language barrier for non-Estonian speakers
- Possible bureaucratic challenges for residency and permits
- Higher costs for housing in popular areas
- Public services may vary in quality compared to larger Western cities
- Social scene can be perceived as quieter compared to other European capitals
- Limited accessibility to some rural areas and smaller towns
Best Activities in Tallinn
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful city of Tallinn on a bike and ride along the coastline or through the parks.
Enjoy nature and scenic views by hiking in the surrounding forests or along the coast near Tallinn.
Take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the nearby archipelago or the Baltic Sea.
Relax and have a picnic in one of Tallinn's many parks, such as Kadriorg Park or Pirita Park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tallinn with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tallinn
Visit one of these nice places.
The medieval old town with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and iconic towers offers numerous picturesque viewpoints for stunning photos.
Toompea Hill provides panoramic views of the city and is home to landmarks such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Estonian Parliament building.
Located on Toompea Hill, this viewing platform offers breathtaking views of the old town, the harbor, and the surrounding area.
Another scenic viewpoint on Toompea Hill with stunning views of the old town and the towers of Tallinn.
Food in Tallinn
Tallinn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This traditional Estonian jellied meat dish is often served as an appetizer. It can be found at Olde Hansa, a medieval-themed restaurant in the heart of Tallinn's Old Town.
Must-Try!
Kartuliporss is a creamy potato and pearl barley porridge topped with pork and bacon. For an authentic taste, head to Kolmas Draakon, a historic eatery located in the Town Hall.
A unique Estonian dessert made from a mixture of roasted flour, buttermilk, and different grains. You can sample kama at the famous Maiasmokk Café, the oldest operating café in Tallinn.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tallinn better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide range of local produce, street food stalls, and artisanal products. Don't miss the chance to try herring sandwiches and other Estonian street food delicacies.
Held annually, this festival showcases the diverse street food scene in Tallinn, with vendors offering everything from traditional Estonian fare to international street food classics.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tallinn, it is customary to shake hands when greeting someone, and it is polite to address people using their formal titles and last names.
Estonians have a strong connection to nature, so it is important to show respect for the environment and avoid littering or damaging natural spaces.
Being on time is valued in Estonian culture, so it is important to arrive punctually for social and business meetings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tallinn with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tallinn
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Estonia, including in Tallinn. While it is appreciated in some service establishments, it is not expected, and there is no set percentage or amount for tipping.
In Tallinn, Estonia, payment is mainly done through cash and card. Most businesses, including restaurants and shops, accept major credit and debit cards. Contactless payments are also widely accepted. It is not common for establishments to accept foreign currencies, so it's recommended to have euros when visiting Tallinn.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tallinn.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather, blooming flowers, and lively outdoor events
Warm temperatures, long days, and bustling festivals
Colorful foliage, fewer crowds, and pleasant cool weather
Snowy landscapes, cozy Christmas markets, and winter activities
Tallinn at Night
Hiking in Tallinn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature reserve located just outside Tallinn, featuring a variety of trails through forests and along rivers, perfect for hiking.
Located about an hour's drive from Tallinn, this national park offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking paths along the coast and through forests.
A scenic area near Tallinn known for its waterfall and surrounding hiking trails amidst lush greenery.
Offers a range of trails that wind through serene landscapes, including forested areas and coastal views.
Located in Lahemaa National Park, this bog features wooden walkways and a unique ecosystem, making it a great spot for a nature hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tallinn through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tallinn by plane.
The main international airport serving Tallinn, Estonia.
Located in Finland, this major international airport is approximately 80 kilometers from Tallinn and serves many international flights.
The largest airport in Latvia, located about 300 kilometers from Tallinn.
Sweden's largest airport, located approximately 400 kilometers from Tallinn.
Norway's main airport, located about 700 kilometers from Tallinn.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, mostly speaking Estonian and representing the native population.
The second largest group, primarily speaking Russian, reflecting historical ties and immigration.
A growing demographic group, especially due to recent migration.
A smaller group, often having cultural and familial ties with both Estonia and Belarus.
Residents with ties to Finland, many of whom commute for work or live in Estonia.
Includes various expatriates and immigrants from around the world, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
The Soul of Tallinn
Discover the essence of Tallinn through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular team sport in Estonia, with a strong following and many local clubs and competitions.
Widely played in Tallinn, featuring numerous amateur and professional leagues, with the local team FC Flora Tallinn being particularly well-known.
A popular winter sport in Estonia, with several teams competing in various leagues, and the national team representing the country in international competitions.
Enjoyed by many in Tallinn, both at recreational and competitive levels, with clubs and regular tournaments.
Track and field events are popular among both school programs and amateur athletes, with several clubs offering training.
A popular recreational activity in Tallinn, with many cyclists taking advantage of city bike paths and surrounding scenic areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tallinn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Tallinn are vegetarian and vegan-friendly, offering creative plant-based dishes. Look out for establishments like Vegan Restoran V, which specializes in gourmet vegan cuisine.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find numerous eateries in Tallinn that cater to their dietary needs. Places like Umami and Sesoon prioritize gluten-free offerings on their menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tallinn with these cultural adventures.
