Things To Do
in Tallinn
Tallinn blends a fairy tale medieval Old Town with a modern, tech-forward vibe. Its cobbled lanes, preserved city walls, and spired skyline sit beside a vibrant cafe culture and bustling arts scene. The seafront, parks, and museums make the city easy to explore on foot or by tram, with rapid access to nearby coastlines and nature.
Visitors are drawn by safety, efficiency, and a welcoming, straightforward Baltic atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café in the heart of Tallinn's Old Town. Afterward, stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the stunning medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which showcases beautiful onion domes against the skyline.
Visit the Tallinn City Museum to gain insight into the rich history of Estonia’s capital. Enjoy a traditional Estonian lunch at a local eatery, sampling dishes like black bread and herring. Spend your afternoon wandering through the bustling market at Balti Jaama Turg, where you can find local crafts and delicacies.
As dusk falls, head to Toompea Hill for breathtaking views of the city’s illuminated skyline. Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Old Town, where you can savor Estonian specialties. Conclude the evening with a stroll through the enchanting streets, perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a local pub.
Begin your day in the trendy Kalamaja district, known for its wooden houses and artistic vibe. Grab breakfast at a local café, perhaps trying a delicious coffee and a freshly baked pastry. Explore the nearby seaside promenade and take in the fresh Baltic air as you enjoy views of the harbor.
Visit the Tallinn Creative Hub (Kultuurikatel), a vibrant center for culture and arts, where you can find exhibitions and workshops. For lunch, indulge in modern Estonian cuisine at a nearby restaurant that prides itself on local ingredients. Afterward, explore the unique shops and galleries that showcase the work of local artists.
In the evening, immerse yourself in Tallinn’s vibrant nightlife by visiting a local brewery for craft beers. Sample different brews while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. Later, head to a live music venue or a cozy bar to enjoy the local music scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact city center ideal for walking
- Rich medieval architecture and modern culture
- Excellent public transport and safety
- Strong café and dining scene
- Can be pricey in peak season
- Weather can be unpredictable; pack layers and rain gear
- Winter daylight is short; some activities are seasonally limited
- "Tere" - Hello
- "Palun" - Please
- "Aitäh" - Thank you
- "Kas te räägite inglise keelt?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kus on tualett?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Kui palju see maksab?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Tallinn
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic overlook of Tallinn’s Old Town with red-tiled roofs, spires, and winding lanes—perfect for sunset photography.
Another scenic terrace offering expansive views over the Old Town and lining towers, ideal for early morning light.
The heart of the Old Town with the Town Hall building and cobbled square, great for architectural shots and street life.
An iconic medieval church whose tower provides a dramatic vertical element in skyline shots.
Baroque palace with manicured gardens; a peaceful backdrop for portraits and nature photography.
Industrial-era walls transformed into colorful street art—great for urban photography and creative vibes.
Food in Tallinn
Tallinn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic sprat sandwich on rye bread, often with egg and onions; widely available in markets and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Estonian blood sausage typically served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes, a winter staple but available in many markets year-round.
Mulgi cabbage – pork and sauerkraut with barley; a traditional hearty dish popular in many Estonian homes and traditional restaurants.
A traditional grain dessert served with yogurt, milk, or fruit; commonly found in markets and specialty cafes.
Beet and potato salad with pickles and herring; a common dish in festive and casual settings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling central market offering local produce, smoked fish, rye bread, dairy, and ready-to-eat bites.
A modern market near the train station with food stalls, fresh produce, and quick bites from Baltic and Nordic vendors.
A cluster of stalls and small eateries in a creative district offering street-style bites and coffee.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple ‘Tere’ (hello) or ‘Tere päevast.’ In general, Estonians are reserved; a polite, quiet approach is appreciated.
Punctuality is valued in both business and social settings; plan accordingly and avoid lateness.
Ask for permission when photographing people, especially in private settings; avoid blocking walkways in busy areas.
Public spaces are common, but personal space is valued; keep noise to a respectful level in cafes and public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Tallinn
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in cafés and restaurants, unless a service charge is included.
Cash is accepted in many places, but card payments (Visa/Mastercard) and contactless payments are widely used. Mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are common in urban establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with lingering daylight; expect 60-18 hours of light depending on month, making evening strolls and outdoor dining very pleasant. Expect mild to warm temps, occasional showers; festivals, markets, and outdoor concerts abound.
Cold and snowy, with short daylight hours; temperatures commonly below freezing. Cozy cafés, festive Christmas markets, and illuminated Old Town streets create magical scenes; be prepared for icy sidewalks and wind from the Baltic.
Mild to cool, with increasing daylight and budding greenery. Intermittent rain; great time for city walks and photography of fresh colors in parks.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; rainfall can be common, and streets may be windy. Ideal for architecture and street photography with softer light.
Tallinn at Night
Hiking in Tallinn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive from Tallinn, offering coastal trails, bog walks, pine forests, and historic manor houses.
Educational and scenic trail network within easy reach of Tallinn for longer day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Tallinn by plane.
The main international gateway to Tallinn, located a short drive from the city center with frequent flights and good public transport connections.
A major nearby international hub across the Gulf of Finland; regular ferry connections between Tallinn and Helsinki enable quick day trips or cross-border travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, fluent in Estonian; many also speak Russian and English.
A significant minority with deep roots in the city; bilingual communication is common.
Includes Ukrainians, Finns, Swedes, and other EU nationals due to Estonia’s openness and proximity to the Baltic region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played; local clubs and fan culture are active in Tallinn.
Popular at schools and in local leagues; some venues host public games and events.
A winter favorite, with local teams and indoor rinks open to visitors.
Common in winters; nearby trails and park paths attract enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tallinn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for plant-based mains and sides; many places will customize dishes; opt for mushroom or root-vegetable plates, salads, and rye-based breads. /*Tip: ask for “roheline toidukombinatsioon” for a vegetarian option*/