Tallinn - Discovering Estonia

Travelling to Tallinn

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tallinn, a pretty good destination in Estonia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Tallinn and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Tallinn, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Estonia, here's everything to know about Tallinn for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tallinn

Tallinn is the capital city of Estonia, located on the northern coast of the country on the Gulf of Finland. It has a population of approximately 450,000 people and is the country's political, cultural and economic hub. Tallinn is a historic city with a medieval Old Town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring well-preserved centuries-old buildings, churches and narrow streets. The city is also renowned for its cutting-edge technology, innovative startups, and digital innovation, which has made it one of the most advanced e-societies in the world. Visitors enjoy the city's rich cultural heritage, scenic waterfront, vibrant culinary scene, and numerous museums, galleries, and entertainment venues.

What to visit in Tallinn

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions of Tallinn, Estonia: 1. Old Town: Often referred to as the heart of Tallinn, the old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts charming cobbled streets, stunning architecture and numerous historic sites such as the Gothic Town Hall.
2. Toompea Castle: A beautiful hilltop castle which is home to the Estonian Parliament and various government offices. It is a popular tourist attraction thanks to its panoramic views over the city.
3. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: A stunning cathedral with onion-domed towers which was built in the late 19th century. It is located on Toompea Hill and is a major symbol of Tallinn.
4. St. Olaf's Church: The tallest church in Tallinn which dates back to the 12th century and has had an eventful history. Visitors can climb the tall spire for panoramic views over the city.
5. Kadriorg Palace: A stunning baroque palace which was commissioned by Peter the Great for his wife in the early 18th century. It is located in a beautiful park and now houses the Estonian Art Museum.
6. Kumu Art Museum: The largest art museum in Estonia which showcases works from both local and international artists. It is housed in a modern building and is located in Kadriorg Park.
7. Tallinn Town Wall: A nearly-intact medieval wall which was built in the 14th century. Visitors can walk along the wall and see various towers and gates which once protected the city.
Hope this helps you plan your trip to Tallinn!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Estonia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Tallinn.

When to go on holiday to Tallinn

The best time to visit Tallinn is during the summer months between June and August when the weather is mild and the days are long with up to 19 hours of daylight. This is also the peak tourist season where the city is bustling with events and festivals. However, it can be crowded and expensive during this time. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May or September, where the weather is still pleasant and the prices are lower. Alternatively, if you are interested in winter activities and festivities, you can visit Tallinn during the winter season between December to February when the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and snow activities. However, do note that the days are shorter during this time of the year.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Tallinn

There are several ways of getting to Tallinn, Estonia: 1. By plane: Tallinn Airport is the largest airport in Estonia, and it has direct flights to many European cities. Once you land at the airport, you can take a taxi or public transport to get to the city center.
2. By ferry: Tallinn is also accessible by ferry from Helsinki, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg. The ferry terminal is located in the heart of the city, and it's easy to walk to the main attractions from there.
3. By bus: There are several international bus companies that offer routes to Tallinn from different European cities. The central bus station is located just outside the Old Town, and it's easy to get around from there.
4. By train: Although there are no direct trains from other European cities to Tallinn, you can take the train to neighboring countries, such as Latvia or Russia, and then take a bus or fly to Tallinn.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tallinn, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tallinn

Here are some typical foods from Tallinn, Estonia with a short description of each: 1. Black Bread (Leib) - This is a dark rye bread which is a staple food in Estonia. It's dense, moist and has a slightly sweet and malty flavour.
2. Smoked Fish (suitu kala) - Smoked fish is popular in Tallinn, often available in street markets and restaurants. Fish like salmon, halibut, and eel are commonly smoked.
3. Kohuke - A type of sweet treat made of curd cheese or cream cheese, covered with chocolate or other sweet coatings. It's a popular snack in Tallinn and throughout Estonia.
4. Verivorst (Blood Sausage) - This sausage is made from pork, barley, and flavoured with blood, it is popular during Christmas time celebrations.
5. Sauekraanika - A traditional dessert that is made from semolina and cranberries in layers. It's commonly served during festive occasions.
6. Pea Soup (Hernesupp) - A hearty soup made from dried peas and a combination of pork and vegetables. It's commonly served with Black bread.
7. Kama - A mixture of ground grains like barley, rye, oats, and peas. It is often mixed with yogurt, buttermilk or kefir to create a healthy and quick breakfast meal.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods you can try while visiting Tallinn. Estonia has a rich culinary tradition that is influenced by neighbouring countries such as Russia, Finland and Latvia.
You can find general info about typical foods in Estonia here.

Is Tallinn an expensive destination for tourists?

Tallinn can be considered a relatively expensive destination compared to other popular tourist destinations in the region, such as Riga or Vilnius. However, the cost of traveling to Tallinn largely depends on your travel style and budget.
Accommodation, food, and transportation prices in Tallinn are overall higher than in some other European cities, but you can still find affordable options for all these aspects if you look well enough. Generally, prices in the old town tend to be higher than in other parts of the city.
Some ways to save money while traveling to Tallinn include staying in budget hostels or renting apartments, using public transportation instead of taxis, and eating at local cafes and smaller restaurants instead of fancy touristy places.
In summary, while Tallinn may have higher prices compared to some other places in the region, it is still possible to travel to Tallinn on a budget and enjoy all the city has to offer!

Where to find accomodation in Tallinn

There are several areas in Tallinn where visitors can find accommodation depending on their preferences and travel goals.
1. Old Town: The medieval Old Town is the main tourist hub of Tallinn and is an excellent place to stay to fully experience the city's charm.
2. City Centre: The city centre is a great area to find accommodation if you prefer modern and polished facilities, shopping opportunities, and easy access to public transport.
3. Kalamaja: Kalamaja is a bohemian neighbourhood with a lot of hipster vibes and street art. It has a unique atmosphere and is a good opportunity to explore less touristy parts of the city.
4. Kadriorg: Kadriorg is a neighbourhood known for its grandiose imperial park and palace. It is a peaceful residential area with high-end hotels and a great option for visitors looking for a quieter place to stay.
5. Pirita: Pirita is a seaside neighbourhood but still relatively close to the city. It is an ideal area to find accommodation if you are interested in outdoor activities like sailing, hiking, or cycling.
You can check hotel prices at Tallinn here:
Booking.com

Is Tallinn a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Tallinn is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The city has a low crime rate, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any other tourist destination, visitors should still take basic safety precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas at night, and keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded areas. It's always a good idea to ask hotel staff or locals about any potentially dangerous areas in the city. Overall, Tallinn offers a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Estonia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Tallinn.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tallinn the most?

Tallinn is a city that offers something for everyone, so it depends on what kind of experience you are looking for. However, here are some suggestions for different types of travelers: - Couples: Tallinn is a romantic city with beautiful old architecture, charming medieval streets, and cozy cafes. A walk in the old town, a visit to Toompea Hill, and a dinner at a local restaurant would be a perfect romantic evening.
- Young people looking for fun: Tallinn has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and music venues. You can enjoy drinks with friends at the trendy Telliskivi Creative City area, dance to techno music at the Kultuurikatel venue, or attend a live concert at the Rock Cafe.
- Families: Tallinn has several family-friendly attractions, such as the Tallinn Zoo, the Seaplane Harbour, and the Estonian Open Air Museum. You can also take a ferry to nearby islands like Naissaar or Prangli, where you can explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Overall, Tallinn is a versatile destination that can accommodate various types of travelers.

How to get around Tallinn

In Tallinn, you'll have a few options for transportation: 1. Walking - Many of the main attractions in Tallinn are within walking distance of each other in the Old Town.
2. Public transportation - Tallinn has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trolleys. You can buy tickets from kiosks or use the Tallinn Card for unlimited public transport.
3. Taxi - Taxis are widely available in Tallinn and can be hailed on the street or ordered through an app.
4. Bike - There are several bike rental companies in Tallinn, and the city has bike lanes throughout.
5. Car - If you plan to venture outside of Tallinn, you may want to rent a car. However, traffic and parking in the city can be challenging.

What to see around Tallinn

Sure, here are some great places to visit in a day trip from Tallinn: 1. Lahemaa National Park 2. Pärnu 3. Tartu 4. Viljandi 5. Haapsalu 6. Saaremaa Island 7. Narva 8. Kärdla 9. Hiiumaa Island 10. Otepää All of these destinations offer unique sights and experiences, whether it's exploring historic towns, visiting enchanting islands, or hiking through national parks. I hope this gives you some inspiration for your next day trip from Tallinn!
For every travel information about Estonia you can click here.

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