tourist spots in tallinn

11 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

With surprises around every corner, Tallinn bursts with charm like no other European city. The capital of Estonia is steeped in history, yet has all the modern offerings tourists expect from a destination in the 21st century.

The city is exceptionally photogenic, especially during the midnight sunsets in the summer. And if you want to see the city at its very best, plan your visit during the Estonian Song Festival. It brings together 30,000 of the best singers in Estonia onto one stage every five years to create music that vibrates throughout the city. The next festival is scheduled for July 3-6, 2025.

Tallinn's Old Town has managed to preserve its medieval heritage throughout centuries of domination by foreign rulers, rightfully earning a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. You can still strut through the ivy-covered Viru Gate, explore the gothic Town Hall, and walk along the town walls like others have done for hundreds of years.

But you should spend equal time exploring Tallinn's modern-day offerings, as well. The city boasts Scandinavian-inspired restaurants, viewing platforms, lush parks, and sweets shop s.

Plan your sightseeing around this alluring city with our list of the things to do in Tallinn.

1. Tallinn's Old Town

2. estonian maritime museum, 3. tallinn tv tower, 4. toompea castle, 5. aleksander nevski katedraali, 6. kadriorg park, 7. kumu art museum, 8. estonian open air museum, 9. kalev chocolate shop and workshop, 10. st. olaf's church, 11. telliskivi creative city, where to stay in tallinn for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in tallinn, estonia, tallinn, estonia - climate chart.

Tallinn's Old Town encompasses endless treasures for history buffs and culture hounds alike. Known for being one of the world's best-preserved Hanseatic town centers , the vibrant village-like area features cobblestone streets , lively cafés , and architecture from long-ago centuries.

Start your experience at the Town Hall Square. While you might be tempted to keep your eyes cast up at the colorful buildings, look down until you find the distinctive circular stone marked with a compass. Standing atop it gives you the unique vantage point to see the steeples of five historic churches around Tallinn. Then, make your way inside the church-like Town Hall. Erected in 1404, the oldest town hall in Northern Europe boasts magnificent Gothic arches and precious artworks .

Then, head across the square to one of Europe's oldest continually running pharmacies, Raeapteek. The establishment celebrates its history with a mini museum focusing on antique medical tools and early healthcare techniques. You can also sample herbal tea blends created from local ingredients in the pharmacy's basement.

Another prominent spot in Tallinn's Old Town is the Viru Gate. Once part of the city wall's defense system, this 14th-century structure features fairy-tale-esque, round towers topped with coned roofs fit for a princess. Nearly two kilometers of the original city wall is still standing. You can get a good look at this historic structure from the Patkuli viewing platform on Toompea Hill.

With more than 2,300 islands in its territory, Estonia has developed a strong maritime culture, and there's no better place to visit to experience it than at the Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour exhibit at the Estonian Maritime Museum.

This fascinating museum exhibit invites tourists to step inside Submarine EML Lembit , a 1930s-era vessel that is one of the few remaining submarines of its time. You can also hop aboard the Suur Tõll icebreaker and explore the powerful steamer's captain's cabin, crew rooms, and officers' mess hall. Hundreds of other artifacts displayed throughout the museum continue to tell the story of maritime history in Estonia.

The structure of the museum itself is just as interesting as its contents. Originally built to house seaplanes in Peter the Great's Naval Fortress, the hangar features "the world's first columnless thin-shell concrete domes of such volume." It remained in use until World War II. It's amazing that the cavernous space requires no vertical supports to hold its weight.

Address: Vesilennuki tänav 6, Põhja-Tallinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: http://meremuuseum.ee/lennusadam/en/

Proudly standing 314 meters in the clouds, the Tallinn TV Tower is a must-visit attraction in Estonia. A visit to the observation deck on the 21st floor –the highest open viewing platform in Northern Europe–is one of the most popular things to do. Tourists can get panoramic views of Tallinn and the Gulf of Finland. You won't want to forget your camera when sightseeing here.

Craving an adrenaline rush? Check out the Tallinn TV Tower's Walk on the Edge experience. It will strap you into a harness and let you walk along the ledge of the tower's outdoor terrace. You can even dangle your feet over the 175-meter drop. Don't look down!

This Tallinn attraction also features a number of other less fear-inducing attractions that prove fun for every type of traveler. There's a high-speed elevator that whisks tourists to the observation deck in just 49 seconds. Try out a career in broadcast journalism and record your very own news clip at the TV studio on the first floor. Enjoy multi-course meals in the clouds at the TV Tower Restaurant. And learn more about the history of Estonia's tallest building , including its construction for the 1980 Summer Olympics, at the TV Tower history exhibition.

Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid wasting time in a long line.

Address: Kloostrimetsa tee 58a, Pirita linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://www.teletorn.ee/en/

Toompea Hill has always been the core of power in Estonia. Various rulers of Estonia have changed the Toompea Castle to their liking over the last 800 years, starting with the initial stone structure built by the German Knights of the Sword in the 13th century and eventually turning into a tickle-me-pink Baroque palace, courtesy of Catherine the Great. It's now home to the Riigikogu (Estonian parliament), which commemorates the country's independence by raising the national flag atop the 14th-century Tall Hermann tower every morning.

Tourists can take free guided tours of the Toompea Castle in English, Russian, or Estonian on weekdays, with advance reservations. You'll get to explore the inside of the rosy building, hear about its storied past, and learn about the structure of the Riigikolu.

After your tour, walk 500 meters northeast to the Patkuli viewing platform for an epic panoramic vista of Tallinn. From here, you can see straight down to the port .

Address: Lossi plats 1a, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://www.riigikogu.ee/en/visit-us/toompea-castle/

Take one look at the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, and you might think you've somehow stumbled into St. Petersburg. The 120-year-old cathedral, located directly across from the Toompea Castle , exudes sacred Russian Orthodox style, with five bulbous onion domes crowned by gilded iron crosses and an ornate brown and white exterior. It also houses 11 bells, including the largest one in Tallinn, which clocks in at a whopping 15 tons. You can hear their sounds ringing through the city throughout the day.

While beautiful and well-maintained, the cathedral hasn't always received a warm welcome from Tallinn. Many Estonians saw it as an oppressive symbol from Russia in the early- to mid-20th century and demanded it be demolished. However, that proposal didn't move forward, and the cathedral still stands today.

Address: Lossi plats 10, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Aleksander Nevski Katedraali isn't the only remaining artifact of Russian influence in Tallinn. You can also see it at Kadriorg Park and the palace within it, both commissioned by Czar Peter the Great for his wife Catherine, in 1718.

About four kilometers east of Tallinn's Old Town , the lush 70-hectare expanse is the go-to place for a heavy dose of nature therapy in the city. Tourists will see blooming flower beds laid out in geometric patterns , a luxurious swan pond, a serene Japanese garden , and an English landscape park with an oak grove.

More than just nature, the park is also home to a few impressive structures, the most notable of which is the Kadriorg Palace. Built as an imperial summer palace in the early 18th century, the elegant three-level building was inspired by Italian palaces of the time and now houses the Estonian Art Museum 's collection of foreign works from the 16th to the 20th centuries. North of the palace, you can see the Office of the President of the Republic , a salmon-pink, Neo-Baroque building where the Estonian president works.

Address: August Weizenbergi tänav 10, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: http://www.kadriorupark.ee/park-eng/areas-of-the-park

After you've had your fill of Kadriorg Park, stroll over to the Kumu Art Museum, an award-winning institution that serves as the headquarters of the Estonian Art Museum. It houses a vast collection of contemporary art and serves as a multifunctional space for educational programs and events.

The main permanent exhibition on the third floor offers tourists the opportunity to see Estonian art classics from the 18th century to the conclusion of World War II. Featured artists include Johann Köler, Kristjan Raud, and Konrad Mägi . The works are laid out in such a way that tourists can see how local art styles changed in parallel with the Estonian mentality.

On the fourth floor, a more recently opened part of the permanent exhibition focuses on Estonian Art during the Soviet Era . The collection dives into the many complexities of producing creative works under the strict rules of the Communist Party, as well as the changes that occurred as restrictions on art eased toward the 1980s.

You can also see how Estonian art evolved in the 1990s after the fall of the Soviet Union in another permanent exhibition on that floor.

The permanent collections give tourists plenty to ponder, but should you want an even deeper immersion in local art, check out the museum's fascinating temporary exhibits, which explore a variety of mediums and expressions.

Address: August Weizenbergi tänav 34, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://kumu.ekm.ee/en/

Experience the lifestyles of Estonians from hundreds of years ago at the Estonian Open Air Museum. Located in the seaside area Rocca al Mare , a 20-minute drive from the heart of Tallinn, this year-round, outdoor, educational attraction includes 14 farms that recreate the way rural Estonian villagers and fishing communities lived from the 18th century to the 20th century.

Tourists can wander through many of the 74 buildings scattered around the 72-hectare property. You'll see a traditional school house, seaside fishing sheds, historic homes, a fire station, and windmills, many of which were plucked from their original villages and brought to Tallinn.

When you work up an appetite, head to the authentic inn to refuel with heritage dishes, like wild mushroom soup, rye bread with salted herring and cottage cheese, and mashed potatoes with pan-fried meat and groat (hulled kernels of cereal grains). Tourists can also take part in fun activities from yesteryear, including folk dances, midsummer bonfires, and horse and cart rides.

Address: Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 12, Haabersti linnaosa, Tallinn

Marzipan, as with many traditional foods, has a disputed history. While some point to Germany as the birthplace of the almond sweet, others believe it was invented in Tallinn by a man who worked at the Raeapteek pharmacy.

What's not up for debate, however, is the best place to try marzipan in Estonia today: Kalev Chocolate Shop and Workshop. Located in the historic Rotermann Quarter , this sweets shop puts together tempting gift boxes of marzipan and handmade chocolates, along with quirky marzipan figures in animal shapes.

The shop also invites tourists to strap on an apron and try their hand at making their own treats in the workshop. This is a fun thing to do in Tallin if you have the time. The two-hour hands-on classes are guided by a master confectioner who will show you how to make chocolate truffles and mold and paint marzipan using centuries-old techniques. Don't be surprised if you eat as many sweets as you end up taking home at the end of this creative experience.

The Kalev Chocolate Shop and Workshop is just a short walk from the Port of Tallinn. If you're just visiting the Estonian capital on a cruise or day trip from Helsinki , you can easily squeeze in a class at the sweets shop, making your short experience even sweeter.

Address: Roseni tänav 7, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://kalev.eu/#73382

With its 124-meter steeple, St. Olaf's Church is Tallinn's tallest medieval structure . But more than just an eye-catching site, the attraction also has a fascinating history. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century as the center for the city's Scandinavian community before Denmark took control of Tallinn around 1219.

Fast forward a few centuries to the Cold War, and the church took on a new purpose as a radio and surveillance center for the Soviet KGB . Historical records also note that the church has been struck by lightning a whopping 10 times, three of which set the structure ablaze. A Baptist congregation now uses the church for regular services.

Tourists are welcome to visit the modest Gothic interiors and get great views of the city from its observation platform. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes to climb the 232 steps to the top of the steeple!

A 15-minute walk northwest of Tallinn's Old City brings you to one of the coolest places to visit in Estonia: Telliskivi Creative City. Located in what used to be Tallinn's industrial area, this "town within a town" brims with more than 200 businesses across its 10 buildings .

The Creative City's indie shops offer something for just about everyone, including sustainably-made leather bags, locally thrown ceramics, chic homewares, and vinyl records. You can also visit popular cultural attractions, including the Fotografiska photography museum; Sõltumatu Tantsu Lava contemporary dance theater; and the Juhan Kuus Documentary Photo Centre , which focuses on Estonian documentary film and photography.

Before leaving, be sure to grab a scoop or two from La Muu Ice Cream Shop. It offers more than 20 flavors of organic ice cream, including cookies and cream, peppermint stracciatella, and vegan brownie.

Address: Telliskivi 60a, 10412 Tallinn

Luxury Hotels:

• Right in the heart of Tallinn, where the downtown meets the medieval old town, the Savoy Boutique Hotel by TallinnHotels is a great 5-star pick if you're looking for an intimate boutique sleep. The hotel has an elegant vibe throughout, and the rooms are comfortable and spacious. Staff is very attentive. Amenities include a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, airport transport, and a concierge.
• At one time serving as an Estonian Telegraph Company exchange station, today the Hotel Telegraaf is a charming 5-star hotel. The building dates back to 1878, and the ambience is old-world European. Rooms and suites have plush furnishings and high ceilings with chandeliers and crown molding. Amenities here include a day spa and a restaurant serving Russian fare. The location in the heart of Old Town is also excellent, and this is the only property in this area to have an underground parking lot for guests.
• The Schlössle Hotel is another luxury option. On cobbled Holy Spirit Street between the old harbor and Old Town Square, the hotel has a historic ambience and features elegantly outfitted rooms and suites. Breakfast is included in the rate, and there is an on-site restaurant. In the summer there is live music in the courtyard terrace area. This property is also pet-friendly should you be traveling with a dog, but you must pay a pet fee and a deposit.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Centennial Hotel Tallinn is an excellent mid-priced option. The hotel is located about seven minutes by foot from Old Town and is a new property. The rooms and suites are decorated in Nordic minimalist style and have mural accent walls. Amenities here include a free breakfast, sauna, and 100-seat restaurant. The Centennial Hotel is also kid-friendly.
• Next to Freedom Square, the 4-star Palace Hotel dates back to 1937. Designed by a famous Estonian architect, today it has a historic facade and a modern interior design. On-site amenities include a restaurant, steam bath and sauna center, and a fitness center. There is also an indoor swimming pool.
• Hilton Tallinn Park is another mid-range choice. It is located at the edge of Politseiaia Park and has great views of the Old Town and harbor from its modern rooms and suites. The property is family-friendly, and amenities include a restaurant, indoor swimming pool, and workout room. There is also a spa on-site and a sauna and steam room.

Budget Hotels :

• With a very affordable price point, the Hestia Hotel Seaport is a popular budget choice. Located next to the Port of Tallinn and not far from Old Town, it has cozy rooms with eco-friendly cork floors. Breakfast is included, and there is a restaurant and sauna on-site. Car hire can also be arranged here.
• Also try the Dorell Hotel for a budget option. The hotel has tidy rooms with blackout curtains. It is also kid-friendly with family rooms. Amenities include free breakfast, an outdoor swimming pool, sauna, and free Wi-Fi.

Must-see attractions in Tallinn

Niguliste Museum

Dating from the 13th century, the imposing St Nicholas' Church (Niguliste kirik) was badly damaged by Soviet bombers in 1944 and a fire in the 1980s, but…

Estonian Open-Air Museum

This sprawling ethnographic and architectural complex comprises 80 historic Estonian buildings, plucked from across the country and resurrected in…

This futuristic, Finnish-designed, seven-storey building is a spectacular structure of limestone, glass and copper that integrates intelligently into the…

Tallinn Town Hall

Completed in 1404, this is the only surviving Gothic town hall in northern Europe. Inside, you can visit the Trade Hall (whose visitor book drips with…

Great Guild Hall

The Great Guild Hall (1410) is a wonderfully complete testament to the power of Tallinn's medieval trade guilds. Now a branch of the Estonian History…

Kadriorg Art Museum

Kadriorg Palace, a baroque beauty built by Peter the Great between 1718 and 1736, houses a branch of the Art Museum of Estonia devoted to Dutch, German…

Seaplane Harbour

Kalamaja & Telliskivi

When this cavernous, triple-domed building was completed in 1917, its reinforced-concrete shell-frame construction was unique in the world. Resembling a…

Telliskivi Creative City

Once literally on the wrong side of the tracks, this set of abandoned factory buildings is now Tallinn's most alternative shopping and entertainment…

Kadriorg Park

About 2km east of Old Town, this beautiful park’s ample acreage is Tallinn’s favourite patch of green. Together with the baroque Kadriorg Palace, its 70…

Town Hall Square

In Tallinn all roads lead to Raekoja plats, the city's pulsing heart since markets began setting up here in the 11th century. One side is dominated by the…

Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral

The positioning of this magnificent, onion-domed Russian Orthodox cathedral (completed in 1900) at the heart of the country's main administrative hub was…

Kiek in de Kök

This stout, five-storey cannon tower was one of Tallinn’s most formidable defences when built in the 15th century. Its name (amusing to English ears) is…

St Olaf's Church

From 1549 until 1625, when its 159m steeple was struck by lightning and burnt down, this (now Baptist) church was one of the tallest buildings in the…

Tallinn Zoo

Boasting a broad collection of rare goat and sheep species, plus around 350 other varieties of feathered, furry and four-legged friends (including lions,…

Bastion Passages

Tours exploring the 17th-century Swedish-built tunnels connecting the bastions that ring the town walls depart from the Kiek in de Kök tower. Over the…

St Catherine's Church

Perhaps Tallinn’s oldest building, St Catherine's Monastery was founded by Dominican monks in 1246. In its glory days it had its own brewery and hospital…

Maarjamäe History Centre

Maarjamäe Palace, a neo-Gothic 19th-century extravagance built by a wealthy Russian, anchors this excellent cultural-historical complex, run by the…

Hotel Viru KGB Museum

City Centre

The Hotel Viru (1972) was not only Estonia’s first skyscraper, but literally the only place for tourists to stay in Tallinn at the time. Having all the…

Lower Town Wall

Running along the northwestern border of Old Town, the most photogenic stretch of Tallinn's remaining 1.9km of medieval walls connects nine towers,…

A sea fort built in the classicist style in 1840 as part of the defences of the Russian Empire, Patarei was subsequently used as a prison by the Estonian…

Holy Spirit Lutheran Church

The blue-and-gold clock on the facade of this striking 13th-century Gothic church is the oldest in Tallinn, dating from 1684. Inside are exquisite…

Tallinn Botanic Garden

Set on 1.2 sq km in the Pirita River valley and surrounded by lush conifer woodlands, these delightful gardens boast over 8000 species of plants,…

Resembling a cross between a nuclear bunker, a WWII sea-fort and some inscrutable temple to a vanished god, the Linnahall is in fact a covered concrete…

Tallinn Song Festival Grounds

This open-air amphitheatre is the site of Estonia’s quinquennial National Song Festival, assorted blockbuster rock concerts and other momentous events…

Maarjamäe Palace

The principal feature of the dispersed Estonian History Museum's Maarjamäe History Centre is the restored 19th-century Maarjamäe Palace, now a museum. An…

Maarjamäe War Memorial

Perched on the bluff next to Maarjamäe Palace, this large Soviet-era monument consists of an elegant bowed obelisk set amid a large crumbling concrete…

Tallinn TV Tower

Opened in time for the 1980 Olympics, this futuristic, 314m tower offers brilliant views from its 22nd floor (175m). Press a button and frosted glass…

St Mary's Lutheran Cathedral

Tallinn's cathedral (now Lutheran, originally Catholic) was initially built by the Danes by at least 1233, although the current exterior dates mainly from…

City Museum

Tallinn’s City Museum is actually split over seven different sites. This location, its main branch, is set in a 14th-century merchant’s house and traces…

Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom

The permanent exhibition here, ‘Freedom Without Borders’, is divided into five sections examining the suffering of Estonians over five decades of…

Town Council Pharmacy

Nobody's too sure of the exact date it opened, but by 1422 this pharmacy was already onto its third owner, making it the oldest continually operating…

Pirita Convent

Only the massively high Gothic stone walls remain of Pirita, completed in 1436 as the largest convent in Old Livonia. The rest was destroyed in 1577 by…

Adamson-Eric Museum

Erich Carl Hugo Adamson, a towering figure of 20th-century art in Estonia, is celebrated in this reverent little museum in a historic house with which he…

Mikkel Museum

This handsome, two-storey weatherboard, the former kitchen for Kadriorg Palace, now displays a small but interesting assortment of paintings, porcelain…

This state puppet-museum's collection is a wonderful introduction to the art of puppetry from many different cultures and eras. There's enough interactive…

KGB Prison Cells

Formerly producing hushed dread in Tallinn's Soviet-era citizens, the KGB headquarters at Pagari 1 is now a historical site, and the Museum of Occupations…

Town Hall Tower

Old Thomas (Vana Toomas), Tallinn’s symbol and guardian, has been keeping watch from his perch on the town hall's weathervane since 1530, although his…

Rotermann Quarter

With impressive contemporary architecture wedged between 19th-century brick warehouses, this development has transformed an outmoded (if historically very…

Fat Margaret

Attached to the Great Coast Gate, this rotund 16th-century cannon tower once protected a major entrance to Old Town. It's now one half of the Estonian…

Pirita Beach

Tallinn’s largest and most popular beach, Pirita is only 6km from the city. In summer, bronzed sun-lovers fill the sands and hang out in the laid-back…

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33 Amazing Things To Do in Tallinn: The Ultimate Tallinn Bucket List

There are so many things to do in Tallinn, it can be hard to know where to start! So we’ve put together the ultimate Tallinn bucket list.

Whether you’re planning a short break to the Estonian capital, or passing through on an extended trip, there are plenty of things to do in this old-meets-new city.

The great news is that the city is relatively compact so you’ll be able to camp in plenty to your Tallinn itinerary.

If you were wondering what to do in Tallinn here are 33 unmissable experiences. From its rich medieval charm, interesting history and Scandinavian-influenced hipster districts, Tallinn has something for everyone.

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Top Tips for Visiting Tallinn

Check out some of the museums in tallinn, see the quirky medicine at town hall pharmacy (raeapteek), get a head for heights at the tallinn television tower, eat your way through balti jamma turg, check out the traditional colourful wooden houses around kalamaja, discover the kgb radio centre on the 23rd floor of hotel viru, explore the great outdoors at lahemaa national park, budget accommodation – fat margaret’s, what are the best organised tallinn tours, save it for later, tallinn bucket list – overview.

Tallinn is arguably THE most beautiful city in the Baltic States of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. I visited Tallinn as part of a month-long trip around the Baltics. Originally, I had planned on staying for 2 days in Tallinn, but I loved it so much that I tagged on more time.

This Tallinn city guide is divided into sections. The first part covers the practicalities and essential information about visiting the city. The second section goes into detail about what to do in Tallinn and information about the must-visit places as well as some handy tips so you can get the most out of your visit.

The last section has FAQs and answers any other questions you may have. For quick reference, you can also download this free checklist of the best things to see in Tallinn straight to your inbox.

10 Best Things to Do in Tallinn

Walk around the walls of tallinn.

• Explore the UNESCO-listed historical centre
• Visit Seaplane Harbour – The Lennusadam

Explore the Underground World at the Bastion Passages

• See The Stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Walk Down St Catherines Passage
• Climb A Tower or Visit the Panoramic Views of Tallinn Old Town
• Discover Tallinns Harrowing Past at the KGB Prison and Headquarters
• Eat Your Way Around Balti Jamma Turg
• Immerse Yourself In The Hipster Vibe At Telliskivi Creative City

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What to Do in Tallinn, Estonia – Know Before You Go

If you’re in the planning stages of your Tallinn itinerary, this section gives some handy things to know before you go. If you’re reading this and you’re already in Tallinn, then skip to the next section of this Tallinn travel guide.

Getting to Estonia

The main way international visitors arrive in Estonia is by air. Tallinn Airport is the largest in the country. It’s also known as Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL). It’s located only 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) from Tallinn city centre.

You can also arrive in Estonia by boat, train or bus from other destinations in Europe.

Estonia shared borders with Latvia to the south (you can easily tag on a weekend in Riga , the capital of Latvia), and Russia to the east. It’s well connected by sea with Finland.

Getting to Tallinn From Tallinn Airport

Tallinn airport is well connected to the city centre. One of the best ways to get from the airport to the city centre is by tram or bus.

Option one is to go by tram. Tram tram number 4, the Lennujaam – Tondi line. Trams run from 05.00hrs – 00.45 approx and depart approximately every 7 to 10 minutes from Monday to Saturday and slightly less on Sundays. The journey takes about 20 minutes.

You could also catch Bus number 2, which departs every 20 minutes.

If you don’t want the hassle of using public transport, are in a group, or have lots of luggage, then it’s the alternative and more convenient way is by taxi. The journey should take just 10 minutes. If you plan to go via tax, book your transfer in advance this saves queuing when you arrive in Tallinn.

Book Here: Tallinn Airport Transfer Service

Getting Around Tallinn

The easiest way to get around Tallinn is to use public transportation. The city has an extensive network of buses and trams that can take you across town quickly. An alternative option is the Tallinn hop-on hop-off bus which visits all the highlights.

For the majority of my time in Tallinn, I opted to walk. The historic centre is particularly pedestrian-friendly, and part of the fun is getting lost and exploring the pretty cobblestone streets. Tallinn does have some steep hills, sometimes it’s a slope, and other times its steps. You might want to take a taxi up there and walk back down.

Best Small Group Tours of Tallinn

• Tallinn is a fairly compact city and the main highlights are all fairly central. Make the most of the efficient and affordable public transport system for getting about as well as the Tallinn Hop-on Hop-off Bus .
• In this Tallinn guide, I suggest 33 fabulous things to see in the city. I spread these out over my 4-day visit to the city. It would be possible to see all these things if you only have 2 days in Tallinn. However, for a more leisurely Tallinn city break I recommend stretching these ideas out to fit in with your own Tallinn itinerary.
• Tallinn is an incredibly photogenic city. If you’re after those stunning Instagram photos, on a honeymoon or special occasion, then take advantage of hiring a local private professional photographer , they’ll know where to find all the best spots and capture everything on camera for you.
• Make sure you’re wearing a comfortable pair of shoes with grippy soles. Although you’re in the city, the pavements are often made of polished cobbles which can get super slippery underfoot. Also, Tallinn has a few inclines so be prepared for some serious leg work at times.
• If you want the easy option to see the main highlights while getting some insights into the history of Tallinn, then make the most of one of the numerous Tallinn city walking tours .
• If you are planning on staying a bit longer, then it might be worthwhile taking advantage of the Tallinn Card which gives you unlimited use of public transport and entry to loads of the city’s top attractions.

Relate Article: 23 Unmissable Things To Do In The Baltic States

33 Unmissable Things to Do in Tallinn

The city has so much to offer and I can guarantee that you’ll love your trip to Tallinn. Here are 33 outstanding things to tick off your Tallinn bucket list.

If you’re short on time, and wondering what to see in Tallinn, then I recommend sticking in the historic centre and exploring the iconic UNESCO world heritage listed Old Town, and the ancient city walls, then head to the quirky hipster district to grab food before visiting some of the dark tourism attractions and learning about the days of KGB and Soviet era.

Top Things for Your Tallinn Bucket List

This first part covers the best things to do in Tallinn and is perfect if you’re short on time.

Visiting the Tallinn City Wall is probably one of the top things to do if you only have one day in Tallinn. Tallinn’s defence wall would once have encompassed the whole of the city, it even used to have a moat around it.

Today, around half of the City Wall, 1.85km remains intact and has been preserved and parts are open to walk along. Parts called the Nunne, Sauna and Kuldjala towers are connected.

The city’s defence walls date back to 1265, standing around 5 metres high and 1.5 metres in thickness. There are 26 defence towers, 2 complete gates, as well as fragments of another two gates.

Book Here: Tallinn Medieval Walking Tour

Marvel at Seaplane Harbour – The Lennusadam

If you’re wondering what to do with kids in Tallinn, or even have an interest in nautical, then this

is arguably the most modern and interactive maritime museum in Europe if not the World.

Situated in Seaplane Harbour , the Estonian maritime museum features over 200 original items on display, including a 100-year-old submarine, seaplanes hanging from the ceiling and parts of the oldest ship found in Estonia. As you enter the museum, you’ll walk over a suspended walkway looking out over the museum. 

The museum has a real focus on interactive exhibits. With an abundance of things to climb inside of, simulators, dress-up, hands-on activities and cinematic experiences.

Book Here: Tour of Tallinn Old Town and visit to The Seaplane Harbour

Get Some Retail Therapy at Rotermann Quarter

A few years back, the Rotermann Quarter was an industrial wasteland, left abandoned and filled with unoccupied and crumbling buildings. The buildings are situated between the Old Town of Tallinn and the Port were factories built in the 1900s. 

The area has been given a massive overhaul and is now one of the trendiest places to go. It’s filled with stylish apartments, restaurants, cafes and shops. The quirky modern-looking architecture in the area still features many of the old factories.  

Kiek in de Kok!

The child in me can’t say this without a little smirk across my face. The translation of Kiek in de Kok is actually German for ‘peek in the kitchen’. The building got this name from the soldiers who were stationed here peeking into the kitchens in the towns below.

The rotund building contains the Kiek in de Kok Fortification Museum. The giant cannon tower is filled with several floors of armour, weapons and artefacts covering war events from the 13th-18th centuries. This is one of the top historical Tallinn things to do and it documents quite a bit of the medieval history of the city .

The entrance to the Bastion Passages is at Kiek in de Kok. You can buy a separate ticket or a combined one which will get you into both attractions.

The Bastion Passages were originally built in the 17th and 18th centuries to hide the movements of Tallinn’s soldiers from the enemy. They were also used as air-raid shelters during the Second World War. 

The Bastion Passages take you on a journey through time, with various mock-up exhibits showing what life would have been like when they were in use. The use of multimedia, including projected images, eerie sound effects, models and videos brings the Bastion Passages alive and was one of my highlights in Tallinn.

Book Here: Tour of Tallinn Old Town and Bastion Tunnels

Visit The Stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This building is one of the most famous places in Tallinn; the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (Aleksander Nevski Katedraal).

Before arriving in Tallinn, you will probably have seen this cathedral donning any sort of advertisement for the city. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn is stunning.

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral is situated on top of Toompea Hill, opposite the Government Buildings. It was built in 1900 Estonia was part of the Russian Empire. During the Soviet era, the cathedral was left to decline due to the USSR being a non-religious state. There was even talk of demolishing it at one point!

Despite the interior being lavishly decorated with mosaics, for me, the outside was more impressive. The Cathedral with its onion-shaped dome has been beautifully restored and maintained since Estonia’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Make sure this is on your Tallinn to do list.

Book Here: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Entry and Guided Tour

Get Lost Wandering About the Pretty Cobbled Streets of the Old Town

The best way to explore is by foot. Inside the UNESCO World Heritage site of the historical centre, it’s pretty much traffic-free and perfect for aimlessly wandering.

You could spend hours wandering about the maze of cobbled streets, through alleys and passages. It’s a picturesque city, so wherever you wander, you’ll find plenty of photogenic places. Alternatively, book a guided tour of the old town to see all the highlights.

Don’t forget to look up – some of the architecture is stunning!

Learn About the History of the City on a Walking Tour of Tallinn

If you’re wanting to combine learning about the history of the city, and fast-track visits to all the top sights in Tallinn, one of the best ways to do this is on a city walking tou r .

These are a great way to see the city and get your bearings if you’ve just arrived

Book a Tallinn walking tour with your own personal local guide who will be able to point out all the best places to visit in Tallinn and will have tons of insider knowledge.

If you’re wondering what to visit in Tallinn on a rainy day, then head to some of the museums.

There are SO MANY MUSEUMS in Tallinn that even if you aren’t usually a museum type of person, you will find something to interest you here. Here are some of the more popular ones;

• Tallinn City Museum – housed in a 14th-century merchant house, this museum tells the story of Tallinn’s history
• NAKU Museum of Puppet Arts – featuring puppets used in theatre all over the world, showing how they work and create fire and water on stage. There are also gore puppets in this slightly creepy museum
• Luscher & Matiesen Museum of Estonian Drink Culture – A museum dedicated to the Luscher & Matiesen Distillery. In the 1930s it was the nation’s leading winery which is now making a comeback……this is my kinda museum
• Kumu Art Museum – Estonia’s most cutting-edge museum showcasing Estonian art from the 18th-21st century. The building was opened in 2006 and is one of Tallinn’s most prized modern architectural masterpieces
• Estonian Open Air Museum – A living museum set in recreated 18th – 20th century Estonia. This one is great for families, situated in a forested park with actors dressed showing what life was like in historic Estonia

What to Do in Tallinn Old Town

Tallinn Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. It is full of winding cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and monuments from as far back as the 11th century.

People Watch in the Bustle of the Town Square

There’s nearly always something happening in the Old Town Square in Tallinn. Buskers, singers, musicians, magicians, re-enactments, market stalls and so on; there is usually something happening.

The Town Square is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, so it’s the perfect place to grab something to eat and drink and take in the vibe.

The Artisan Quarter and St Catherine’s Passage

If you’re wondering what to see in Tallinn’s old town, this is it. This was one of the most beautiful places in Tallinn, thanks to the cute archways spanning between the narrow lane. Katariina kaik (St Catherine’s Passage) connects Vene street with Muurivahne street and is home to St Catherine’s Guild. 

This bucket list worthy street is home to a variety of craft workshops, where artists and designers use traditional methods to produce glassware, ceramics, jewellery, quilts and hand-painted items.

Be sure to wander in and around all the little workshops and studios here. If you are looking for authentic Estonian hand-crafted souvenirs, this is the place to come. You WILL NOT find a ‘made in China’ sticker on any of the items around here.

The Hidden Gallery Under the Dominican Monastery

If you’re looking for Tallinn hidden gems, I ended up stumbling upon this place just on an afternoon wander.

The hidden gallery is down a steep little flight of stairs and a wooden door in the little courtyard of St Catherine’s Dominican Monastery. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Tallinn and the gallery honestly looks like it hasn’t changed much since that time.

Inside, it’s dark and smoky from the candles which light it. Complete with eerie chant music playing quietly the place is jam-packed with religious artworks, books and scriptures by the artist that rents the space. Quite often he will be down there at work. 

Visit the Danish King’s Garden

Situated next to Toompea and the Kiek in de Kok you’ll find the Danish Garden. An old local legend, states that this is where a flag fell from the sky in this exact spot during the Danish invasion. 

The flag gave hope to King Valdemar II (1170 -1241, he was King from 1202) when the battle turned in his favour. The Danish reign lasted over a century in Tallinn and it was this, that gave the Danish King’s Garden its name.

Today, three slightly creepy monks stand around the gardens. are just plain weird. Their names are; Ambrosius, Bartholomeus, and Claudius. Although I can’t tell the difference between them they are a homage to the numerous ghost stories of hauntings in the city and the old Toompea Castle. 

Have a ‘Dance With the Death’

If you’re even the teeniest slightest bit interested in artwork, then it’s worth checking out the painting ‘Danse Macabre’ by Bermt Notke at the Niguliste Museum at St Nicholas Church.

The only part on display is a small fragment from an original 30-metre-long piece of work. Dated from the late fifteenth century it’s listed as one of the most valuable pieces of medieval artwork in Estonia. 

This building looks relatively understated from the outside, apart from the giveaway hanging sign, is the Town Hall Pharmacy.

The old apothecary is filled with cabinets of medical bits-n-bobs from a bygone era. It dates back to 1422. Today it sells modern medicine (thankfully!) but the side room houses collections of medicine and related artefacts dating from the 17th right up to the 20th centuries.  

Best City Views for Your Tallinn Itinerary

Like I said at the start, Tallinn has hills, and hills usually mean some decent vista points. So what are the top sites in Tallinn for city views?

Panoramic Views of Tallinn Old Town

Discover some of the most Instagrammable places in Tallinn . There are various viewing platforms dotted around the city. Toompea Hill gives views of the lower part of the Old Town, whereas, the Kohtuotsa viewing platform will give you views of the east. The Patkuli viewing platform will give views of the west of the Old City.

Look out for ‘Steven’ the resident seagull (a play on words for actor Steven Seagal) at the Kohtuotsa platform. 

Book Here: Self-Guided Tour to the Most Instagrammable Spots in Tallinn

Tower of St Olav’s Church for Views of Old Tallinn and the Port

It’s a steep and narrow climb, but the iconic white and teal spire of St Olav’s church can be seen from most elevated places around Tallinn. The Gothic steeple is also one of the buildings that feature on any skyline photo of Tallinn and is synonymous with the Old Town of Tallinn.

It was built during the 16th century, and at the time it was one of the tallest buildings in the world. It’s only natural, that going up the tower, will reward you with great views of the city and the Port of Tallinn. To get the views, it’s a 232-step climb.

Tallinn Town Hall Tower For City Centre Views

This is one of the top tourist attractions in Tallinn. If you’ve been to the Town Hall Square, you will have noticed the Tallinn Town Hall and its Tower (Tallinna Raekoja Torn).

True, it’s not the tallest tower in Tallinn, however, it is in a great location. The Town Hall & Tower was built between 1402 and 1040 and is the oldest in northern Europe.

It’s a tight squeeze going up the spiralling 64-metre tower with a cramped viewing platform at the top. It’s comfortable for about 6 people to move about up there, any more than that and you’ll have to squish into the archways of the windows to let people manoeuvre.

This Tallinn view looks down over the Town Square and if you get the angle right, there are some great framed shot opportunities of rooftops and the spires of several of the iconic landmarks . 

If you’re looking for crazy things to do in Tallinn and to get the adrenaline pumping, then you’ll love the Tallinn Television Tower .

Measuring 314 meters, the Tallinn Television Tower just outside of the Old Town is not only the tallest building in Tallinn but also in Estonia. It boasts panoramic views of the surrounding area, as well as an outdoor terrace on the 21st floor and the adrenaline-filled edge walk. 

Best Places to Eat In Tallinn

Tallinn has a wide range of culinary offerings, from traditional Estonian cuisine including soups, stews and hearty rye bread. There’s also a bustling coffee culture happening here too with plenty of artisan cafes and patisseries in the city not to mention their excellent beer!

Work Your Way Through the Craft Beer Selection

If Disneyland made a beerhouse in the style of Medieval Europe, this would be it. The Beer House is a little bit kitsch, with its movie-set-like mock-up of a medieval courtyard and costume-wearing waitresses but it’s fun and light-hearted. Plus the beer is good! 

The beer is brewed on-site. There are 7 craft beers to choose from. They refer to the beers as ‘living’ meaning that they are non-filtered and unpasteurised. 

If you want to try out different Estonian beers, then a great way to do it is on a craft beer tasting tour in Tallinn .

Book Here: Estonian Craft Beer Tasting in Tallinn

Try Delicious Cakes the Oldest Café in Tallinn

You can’t help but miss the huge turning Ferris wheel in the shop window of the oldest café in Estonia . There’s usually a large crowd of people standing in the street outside Café Maiasmokk, taking photos of the window display.

If you head to Café Maiasmokk at peak time (late morning until early afternoon) you will most likely have to wait for a table. It gets busy but it’s a must do in Tallinn. It’s worth the wait.

The interior of the café is pretty much unchanged since its opening in 1864, with its cute tiled floor and traditional wooden counter. It’s worth the queues just to have look inside. The pastries are delicious too, I can certainly vouch for the apple Danish pasty, it was one of the best I’ve ever eaten!

Visit Cafe Maiasmokk as part of this 3-Hour Tallinn Food Tour

Immerse Yourself In The Coffee Culture

Kehrwieder Chocolaterie and Rotisarery boast some of the best coffee and chocolate in the city.

From the outside, the café looks small. Head inside and it’s a rabbit warren of cave-like rooms. Super cosy and jammed-packed with mismatched furniture, it’s got a great atmosphere.

The coffee is roasted on-site, so they have a decent selection on offer along with a wonderful selection of handmade chocolate truffles.  

Watch Artists at Work in the Marzipan Room

Just a single room plays host to the Marzipan Room. It’s actually next door to Café Maiasmokk. In cabinets dotted around the room, you can see the back catalogue of cute little marzipan figures, over 200 of them in this museum come café.

The Marzipan Room is over 100 years old, you can read about its history of it on the information boards on the walls.

On the counter, at the back, you can watch the artists carefully shaping, decorating and painting the Marzipan figures. If you’re lucky, you might even get to have a taste of their marzipan – yum!

Wondering where to go in Tallinn for the freshest artisan food? Located outside of Tallinn Old Town to the northeast of the city, you’ll find Tallinn’s main train station: Balti Jamma. This translates to Baltic Station. Here is also where you’ll find the local artisan market; Balti Jaama Turg.

Tallinn is a great destination for foodies . You’ll find fresh fruit, vegetables as well as baked goods on sale here alongside small eateries catering for every type of cuisine possible. There are so many options, you could eat somewhere different for a good few weeks. The market attracts hipster locals as well as tourists and is reasonably priced.

Next to the artisan market, and inside the large building, you’ll find all sorts of other market-type stalls and a good proportion of vintage fashion and bespoke clothing. This would be a fashionista’s heaven! 

Book Here: Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour

Hipster Places in Tallinn

There’s been an abundance of rejuvenation in recent years in some of the more round own areas of Tallinn. They’ve been given a new lease of life, combining the original buildings with street art, social areas, live music and small independently owned shops.

Wander About Ultra-Hipster Telliskivi Creative City

Not only famed for its street art scene; street art and murals adorn nearly every wall around here, Telliskivi Creative City is also a hub for everything cultured.

The former industrial complex situated next to Balti Jamma Turg and Kalamaja is home to several design studios, quirky creative companies and shops selling unique items, and cool eating and drinking venues including one inside an old train! You’ll also find galleries, theatres, clubs and more.

Hundreds of events happen at the Telliskivi Creative Centre annually including concerts, and exhibits as well as the weekly flea market every Saturday.

BookHere: Street Art Tour in Telliskivi Creative City

Related Article: Visiting Estonia’s Street Art Capital, Tartu

This is one of the most popular residential areas in Tallinn and is certainly worth heading here to take a look at. Despite Kalamaja being part of the nation’s capital, the roads are quiet and it’s free from the bustle of the tourist hub in the Old Town. Kalamaja is the polar opposite of Tallinn Old Town.

The whole area is incredibly photogenic, this is down to the myriad of colourful wooden houses which line the streets, lime green dusty pink, sky blue and any other colour you can possibly think of. Despite it being just a stones-throw from the Old Town of Tallinn , the vibe here is relaxed

To get here, continue heading north from Telliskivi Creative City (it’s 5 minutes from here) if you end up at the Baltic Sea, you’ve gone too far!

Book Here: Tallinn Old Town and Kalamaja Private Walking Tour

Soviet Tallinn & KGB Sites in Tallinn

It wasn’t until 1991 that Estonia gained its independence from the horrors of the Soviet regime. Learn about the harrowing past that plagued the Baltic States for nearly 50 years.

If you want to learn more about this era, then check out this ‘ Behind the Iron Curtain of Tallin n ’ tour where you’ll get to visit an abandoned Soviet air defence base, visit the Soviet Olympic Stadium and learn about life behind the Iron Curtain.

Book Here: Secrets of the Soviets Tour

See Where Soviet Estonia Began at KGB Headquarters & Prison Cells

From the outside, this building is visually stunning. However, the Art Nouveau façade of this building hides a sinister tale. The KGB Prison Cells and Headquarters are situated in the heart of Old Town Tallinn at Pagari 1. 

Before becoming the KGB headquarters, this building was residential. Regular families lived here. It was in 1941 that the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic Commissariat for Internal Affairs converted the basement level of the building into prison cells.

The cellar windows were bricked in and suspected enemies of the state were held here, interrogated and tortured. They were then either moved on to concentration camps or shot. It was used as a prison until 1950.

If walls could talk, I would hate to hear what they witnessed. 

Original fittings such as cell doors, and wall partitions are still intact. The basement of Pagari 1 is now open as a museum displaying images and information about the prisoners who were held there. If you only visit one piece of Soviet history, put this at the top of your Tallinn must see list.

Get Spooked Out at Patarei Prison

Even on the sunniest day, this building would be creepy. However, the day I visited happened to be one of those stormy summer days, angry dark skies, lashing with rain and complete with flashes of lightning and the rumble of thunder in the background.

I arrived here soaking wet and the weather outside just enhanced the spine-chilling atmosphere inside. In a nutshell, the minute you step foot inside Patarei Prison you’ll notice that it feels oppressing and certainly ticks the boxes for anyone interested in dark tourism sites in Tallinn. 

The Patarei Sea Fortress was initially built during the 19th century. It was during Soviet rule that the fortress was made into a prison. Patarei Prison gained notoriety as one of the worst prisons within the Soviet Union and was used for the internment of Political Prisoners.

An exhibition titled ‘Communism is a Prison’ is located inside Patarei Prison, covering nearly 1,200 square metres along the east wing. The original fittings and prison yard are still there, pretty much untouched since its abandonment.

Around the museum, informative boards stated who various prisoners were, what they did as well as their fate. There is a very sinister feeling room downstairs where prisoners would have been executed. I won’t spoil what happens inside the room, but it’s truly haunting!

Visit the Crumbling Ruins of the Ill-Fated Linnahall

I can’t resist a crumbling abandoned building. Built during the Soviet era for the 1980 Moscow Olympics for the Regatta, the Linnahall is a massive monster of a 4000-seater stadium. It’s situated right on the port of Tallinn, so it’s pretty hard to miss it. 

From the early 2000s up to 2009, it was converted and used as an ice skating rink however since then it’s been left to the elements to take over. The inside of the building is closed off currently, but you can wander around the outside of it.

To date, no investor has come forward to convert the dilapidated building, so it’s just sitting and waiting until that day comes. The Linnahall does seem to be a hub for young couples to hang out, sitting arm-in-arm on the many stairs leading up and enjoying the views. Head up the stairs to check out the panoramic views for yourself. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset from. 

The ugly 1970s block building of Hotel Viru located just outside the Old Town of Tallinn hides a secret. To general visitors, there are just 22 floors to the hotel. Floor 23 was a secret floor which housed the KGB Radio Centre.

The hotel was the KGB espionage base, where everything in the hotel was bugged with microphones hidden in every possible location to listen to guests for potential information. 60 rooms in the hotel were fitted with listening devices.

There were even what was called ‘special rooms’ for certain ‘special guests’ who the KGB may have been trying to dig some dirt on. This is also where radio communication signals were intercepted and information was passed back to the Soviet government. 

At the collapse of the Soviet Union, the 23rd floor was suddenly abandoned. The top floor is now open as a museum and is pretty much how it was on that August night in 1991. 

Best Day Trips From Tallinn

If you’ve got some extra time on your itinerary, and feel the need to explore the areas around Tammlin, then here are some great day trips.

Marvel at the Grandeur of Kadriorg Palace & Kadriorg Art Museum

A short tram ride out of the main Old Town of Tallinn and you’ll find the stunning estate of Kadriorg Palace.

The pink and red baroque-style palace was a gift from Tsar Peter 1sr to his wife Catherine. Building work for this grand palace started in 1718 and was named Kadriorg (in German, Catharinenthal) after his wife. Not a bad gift if you ask me?

Kadriorg Park features lavish grounds complete with manicured flowerbeds and fountains. There is a museum attached which houses the Kadriorg Art Museum featuring both Estonian and foreign pieces of work. 

Find Sun, Sea and Sand at Pirita Beach

Depending on what time of year you are visiting Tallinn, you may not find the sun here. Pirita is only a short tram ride from the capital, the sandy beach is situated next to pine forests, so it’s a great chance to escape the city and get back to nature if the crowds get a bit too much.

This is the biggest beach in Estonia so is well-equipped with beach lockers, changing cabins and kiosks selling basic supplies. Spending a day at Pirita Beach is one of the best things to do in Estonia during the short summer season. It can get busy in July and August, but outside of this, it’s a perfect escape from the bustle of the capital if you have more than 48 hours in Tallinn in the summer. 

Naissaar Island

If you like soviet history and prefer to stick with dark tourism, then head out to Naissaar Island with its famous lighthouse. Take a military truck ride to the overgrown fortress ruins and discover secret underground tunnels.

This is a must for anyone wanting to delve more into Estonia’s storied past.

Book Here: Naissaar Island Lighthouse and Underground Tunnel Tour

Catch the Ferry Across to Helsinki

If you’re done with sightseeing in Tallinn and you have a day spare, then it’s really easy to pop over to the Finnish capital of Helsinki.

The ferry takes just 2 hours. Several companies are offering the Tallinn – Helsinki – Tallinn journey , so you’ll find a variety of departure times throughout the day.

Book Here: Return Day Trip Ferry Ticket from Tallinn to Helsinki

If you’re looking to escape the city and you’re more interested in enjoying nature, then you’ll love Lahemaa National Park . This park is rated as one of the best things to see in Estonia.

It’s an easy day trip from Tallinn, where you can breathe the fresh Baltic air of the National Park. Spend time exploring miles of the untouched natural beauty of the peninsulas, bays, forests, beaches, waterfalls and bogs.

Book Here: Full Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park FromTallinn

Where to Stay In Tallinn

Boutique accommodation – schlössle hotel.

• Centrally located in a 13th-century building
• 5-star boutique hotel
• Decorated with antiques
• On-site sauna

Check Availability via Booking

Check Availability via Agoda

• Central location
• Lots of social areas
• Swimming pool

Tallinn Itinerary FAQs

Now you’ve discovered some of the best places to see Tallinn, here are answers to questions you might have about your trip.

Where Is Tallinn?

Three countries make up the Baltic States; Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Estonia is the most northern of these. Tallinn sits right on the north coast of Estonia. The city was declared UNESCO Heritage status in 1997 and named as European Capital of Culture in 2011.

Is Tallinn Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Tallinn is a beautiful and vibrant city with plenty of things to do and see. It’s one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe with an abundance of history, balance out by Scandinavian-influenced and hipster vibes.

How Many Days in Tallinn?

If you only had one day in Tallinn, you’d be able to see the highlights in and around the city centre. It’s doable but you’d miss out on so much.

Ideally, Tallinn can be explored in a few days, although depending on your interests and preferences, you could easily spend a week or more in the city. I’d suggest two or three days to explore the city. That way you can make sure that you get to experience the best of what Tallinn has to offer at a relaxed pace.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Tallinn?

The best time to visit Tallinn is during the summer months of June through August when temperatures are mild and the days are long. Tallinn weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer!

If you want to avoid the peak summer holidays, then go in May, September or October.

Winters in Tallinn can be chilly, although heading there in late November and December, you’ll get to experience the Christmas Markets popping up around the Old Town. If you love traditional Christmas markets, then December is a great month to visit Tallinn, however, wrap up warm!

Is the Tallinn Card Worth It?

If you are planning on seeing more than a few attractions on this list or using public transport like it’s certainly worthwhile investing in a Tallinn card . They are sold at official Tallinn tourism shops.

Work out what you want to see first, as it might be cheaper just to pay for attractions as you go. I planned what I wanted to see in advance, and I saved a fortune, but I crammed in attractions like crazy to make the price of the card financially beneficial.

Find Out More About The Tallinn Card

Check out these small group tours of the top things to do in Tallinn.

How’s Your Trip to Tallinn Shaping Up?

So, how many of these things are going on your Tallinn bucket list?

It’s easy to tell why people fall in love with the Estonian capital. It’s incredibly quaint, with pretty cobblestoned alleyways, wonky houses and tons of history. It’s also small enough that it’s easy to see everything in a 2 or 3 day trip to Tallinn, making it an ideal weekend city break.

If you enjoyed this What to do in Tallinn travel guide, you might also like…

• 21 Unmissable Things To See in The Baltic States
• Discover Estonia’s Street Art Capital of Tartu
• Riga, Latvia 3 Days Itinerary

If you found this Tallinn trip itinerary useful, then save this post for future reference. Know someone else who will find this helpful, then why not share it with them?

Have a question about planning your Tallinn itinerary? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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• The 15 Best Things To...

The 48 Best Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

The breathtaking capital of Estonia — Tallinn — is possibly one of the most beautiful cities in Northern Europe. The encompassing medieval stone walls, sky-scraping church bell towers, and winding cobblestone streets opening into squares and courtyards will certainly cause visitors’ jaws to drop in awe. Continue reading to learn the top sights to enjoy during an escape to Tallinn .

1. viru gates.

Architectural Landmark

Enter Tallinn’s marvelous old town through Viru Gate, which was part of the city’s 14th-century extensive defense system. Though a portion of the Viru Gate was demolished to allow for horse-drawn traffic, the towers of the gate remain. The area around Viru Gate is now home to market stalls selling woolen mittens, sweet smelling roasted nuts, and numerous restaurants. The gates are a key stopping point on any good Tallinn city tour.

2. Old Town

The Old Town has to be the top draw for visitors to Tallinn. Featuring beautiful architecture and locals dressed in medieval clothing, the Old Town somehow escapes feeling overly touristy or kitschy like other cities with costumed workers might experience. Book an Old Town walking tour to discover the area with a local expert.

3. Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform

For the best view of Tallinn, and to take your own stunning photo for Instagram (don’t forget to add the hashtag #visitestonia), head to the Kohtuotsa viewing platform. Located on Toompea Hill, visitors will be treated to unobstructed views of the harbor, bell towers, and the terra-cotta colored roof tiles. This is also a popular spot for local musicians to hang out, providing some background music to the view.

5. St. Olaf's Church

St. Olaf’s Church is one of the most important structures in Tallinn, and is the city’s largest medieval building. This well-preserved church was likely built in the 1200s and is notable due to its high church tower that has been struck by lightening numerous times throughout its history. St. Olaf’s Church is not open for visitors during the winter (open from April until October) and is free of charge. Visitors can climb the narrow stairs to the top of the church for a beautiful view over Tallinn’s Old Town, and get a local’s insight on a guided tour of the city.

6. Town Hall Square

Stunning in every season, but particularly during the annual Christmas market, Town Hall Square has been the heart of Tallinn since the 13th century. Though no longer acting as the city’s marketplace, the Town Hall Square sees bustling activity with café chairs and tables spilling into the square in the summer, numerous tour groups, and occasional festivals. The surrounding architecture is also stunning; keep an eye out for dragons on the Town Hall!

7. Eating out

Restaurant, Northern European, French

Boasting some of the best restaurants in the three Baltic states, eating out is certainly one of the best activities offered in Tallinn. Visitors can indulge in anything from traditional Estonian cuisine to Indian or medieval fare. Some of our top restaurant suggestions include Ribe , Rataskaevu 16 , and Olde Hansa . You can also book a 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour to discover the biggest hidden gems in town.

8. Promenade along the Tallinn Town Wall

Visitors can climb a portion of Tallinn’s wall to explore the towers and enjoy beautiful city views. The wall was formerly 2.4-km long and had 46 towers; while not as magnificent as it once was, it still is impressive at approximately 1.9-km long with around 20 towers remaining. It really is a privilege to walk these ancient defensive walls. Opening hours for the Tallinn Town Wall vary depending on the season.

9. Toompea Castle

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Located next to Alexander Nevsky Church, the present Toompea Castle was built in the late 1700s. This understated castle features a salmon pink exterior, white details, and the national flag and crest. The castle can be visited on weekdays, but visitors must book ahead of time. A large park can be found next to Toompea Castle, providing visitors with a bit of a green reprieve from city life. You can visit the castle as part of the city’s historical walking tour.

10. Local Beer

The Baltics are well-known for their ever expanding craft beer scene, with Estonia leading the pack. Delicious craft beer can be enjoyed throughout the city and during specialty craft beer events. One of the most beloved Estonian craft breweries is Põhjala Brewery , while SIP Wine and Beer Shop is also a great option for beer lovers in Tallinn. Book a craft brewery visit and tasting session to gain a little expert insights into local brewing techniques.

11. Telliskivi Creative City

Located a bit off-the-beaten-path, Telliskivi Creative City should be visited by those interested in seeing the creative side of Tallinn. Telliskivi is a complex of former warehouses turned into boutiques, restaurants, live music venues, and cafés, and all are beautifully decorated with street art. Join the North Tallinn Guided Bike tour to discover the area’s hidden gems.

12. KGB Museum in Viru Hotel

13. Kalamaja District

Though previously a closed border zone, the Kalamaja District has enjoyed rejuvenation in recent years as Tallinn’s hipster neighborhood. Excellent restaurants and shops can be found among traditional wooden homes. Visitors looking for a meal while in Kalamaja should stop by Cafe Moon for perfect Nordic dishes. This area features prominently on the Tallinn Winter Bike Tour.

14. Port of Tallinn

Visitors arriving to Tallinn via ship will likely spend at least some time walking through the Port of Tallinn. The Sadama District (harbor district) is a bustling area of Tallinn with travelers coming from and going to boats. Several affordable hotels and restaurants can be found in this area, as well as the Museum of Estonian Architecture (located in the Rotermanni Quarter). The Museum of Estonian Architecture focuses on contemporary architecture and has frequently changing exhibitions.

16. Go to the beach

Natural Feature

Though the Baltic sea is barely visible from the Old Town, Tallinn is a coastal city; tourists and locals alike enjoy the easily accessibly seashore. The busiest is Pirita, which sometimes attract thousands of visitors a day. And for good reason: the 2km strand has great facilities like playgrounds for children, lockers, and equipment rental but also an amazing view of the Gulf of Finland. Another option is Kakumäe, the furthest and therefore quietest beach reachable with bus 21. Swimming is entirely possible…for those who don’t mind water temperatures around 20° Celsius. You’ll take along Pirita beach on the Tallinn Bicycle Sightseeing Tour. Recommended by Valentine Baldassari.

17. Go on top of the TV Tower

For more great views of the city and the Gulf of Finland, climb (not literally—there’s an elevator) to the 21st floor of the TV Tower near the Pirita suburb. It’s the tallest building in Tallinn and its viewing deck, 170 meters above the ground, offers an astonishing 360 degree panorama, enabling visitor to see the city in a new light. Make sure to visit on a clear day, as the view isn’t nearly as impressive otherwise. There’s also a restaurant , so why not have coffee or a meal above the city? You can book your Walk on the Edge Attraction Ticket via the link below. Recommended by Valentine Baldassari.

18. Seaplane Harbour Museum

Housed in impressive seaplane hangars, this museum presents exhibits of Estonia’s maritime history from its humble beginnings to Soviet times and beyond. What’s really great is being able to actually visit the ships, including a 1936 submarine and a replica of a pre-World War II seaplane. There’s also a range of activities that make the visit perfect for kids too, including aviation simulators and old uniform replicas visitors can try on. The outdoor area contain even more historic ships. The museum is extremely modern, notably in its adoption of a clever system for time-pressed visitors: everyone gets a card they can swipe on every display to get the explanations emailed to them. Recommended by Valentine Baldassari.

19. Patarei Prison

Also in the Kalamaja district, this 19th-century sea fortress was used as a prison from 1919 to 2004. It’s probably the best place in the world to get an idea of what a Soviet prison was like. It is dark, gloomy, and more than a little oppressive, but surprisingly emotional. Visitors can go on their own but booking a tour makes the experience all the more affecting thanks to the guides’ in-depth knowledge of the prison’s history, as well as the possibility of accessing parts of it single visitors aren’t allowed in. For something a little different, book an escape game at Patarei Prison, for example with Blue Drum. Recommended by Valentine Baldassari.

20. Cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin

Located on Toompea Hill, mainland Estonia’s oldest church, also known as the Dome church, was established in the 13th century but repeated modifications have turned it into a fascinating mix of architectural styles; for instance, a baroque spire was built in the western part of the nave in the late 18th century. From that very 69-meter spire visitors can admire a stunning view of Toompea and the Old Town, especially of the Alexander Nevsky orthodox cathedral. Recommended by Valentine Baldassari.

21. Danish King’s Garden

Legend says that in 1219, at the location of this lovely garden, as the Danes were losing a battle, the heavens gave them their flag and the battle then turned in their favor. And that is how Denmark got its flag. Whatever the truth about this story—we suspect a flagmaker’s involved, not God—it makes for a charming anecdote about one of the Old Town’s most quiet, secluded corners. The park itself is popular with locals as a place to hang out, with its benches and grassy areas. It’s bordered by the old town walls on one side and a panorama of Old Town rooftops on the other. All in all, it’s a charming place to relax in after or during a long day of sightseeing. Recommended by Valentine Baldassari.

22. Enjoy Tallinn’s nightlife

Tallinn has beautiful architecture and culture but it’s also an active city with many bars and clubs. Most of the nightlife is concentrated in the Old Town, though the district of Kalamaja is gaining traction. For a city of its size, Tallinn has a lot to offer in terms of going out. Good bars include Labor, where drinks are served in test tubes and beakers, and trendy Red Emperor, but there are many, so don’t hesitate to explore. For clubbing, there’s everything from mainstream to underground. Check out, for instance, the iconic Club Studio . Recommended by Valentine Baldassari.

23. Kadriorg Park

Kadriorg Park is one of the biggest and most beautiful parks in Europe. If you want to relax surrounded by nature, you should look no further than here. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis .

24. Estonian Open Air Museum

After learning more about Estonian history and culture make sure to visit Estonian Open Air Museum and experience it all yourself. There is no better place in Estonia to see everyday lives of the villagers in the 18th-20th century. You can even visit an old village tavern and try out the traditional Estonian dishes prepared by local cooks. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

25. The Russalka Memorial

The Russalka Memorial is one of the most iconic places in Tallinn. This monument was built in 1902 by Amandus Adamson to honor the people who died in 1893 when Russian warship Rusalka (Mermaid) sank on its way to Finland. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

26. Freedom Square

Freedom Square is a very important historic place in Tallinn. This plaza was known as Victory Square during the Soviet era and it hosted all the military parades which celebrated holidays like Victory Day and October Revolution. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

27. Tallinn Zoo

Tallinn Zoo is a great place to see animals from all over the world in one place. It is the biggest zoo in Estonia, housing more than 13,000 animals, and is perfect for all ages. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

28. St. Nicholas’ Orthodox Church

St. Nicholas’ Orthodox Church was designed by famous architect Luigi Rusca and built in the early 19th-century. It is one of the most iconic churches in Tallinn, which perfectly translates the true spirit of the city, with all the turbulent history and magnificent culture. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

29. Estonian History Museum

Estonian History Museum is located in the 15th-century Great Guild Hall, which is already an important historic monument in Estonia. Inside you can find the most important exhibits from Estonian history since prehistoric times, so there is no better place to learn all about this spectacular Baltic State. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

30. Oldest pharmacy in Europe

This pharmacy, located in Town Hall Square, was opened in 1422 and is still operating! It is by far the oldest one in Europe, so if you want to learn what people used as medicine hundreds of years ago, be sure to stop by. Of course, you can purchase modern products just like in any other Tallinn pharmacy. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

31. Kiek in de Kök

Kiek in de Kök is a huge 38-meter-high cannon tower, which is now a museum. If you are interested in walls, cannons, and medieval exhibits, you must drop by this place, which is also a starting point of a hidden tunnels system which runs through Toompea Hill. It features on several walking tours of the city. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

32. Niguliste Museum

Niguliste Museum is located in an old church from the 13th century, which has been renovated to serve as an art museum. It is the perfect place to get to know Estonian history and walk in one of the oldest churches in the country. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

33. Peter the Great House Museum

Peter the Great House Museum is the oldest museum in Tallinn, offering a brilliant collection of items which belonged to Peter I, the Russian Tsar, and his wife Catherine I. The couple stayed in this old manor in the early 18th century, making this site a historical heritage today. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

34. Marzipan Gallery

Art Gallery

Marzipan Gallery really is what it sounds like. Everything inside is made from marzipan, including figures of famous people like Vladimir Putin. Entry is free and food and drink is available for purchase inside. It is one of the most authentic places in Tallinn and one of few museums in the world to utilize the confectionary in its craft. Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

35. The Culture Kilometer

Venture off the beaten tourist track and onto this less traditional 2.5-kilometer route which shows a different side of Tallinn, telling the story of its industrial history and its growth into a modern bohemia. You’ll see abandoned structures from the Soviet era left to ruin, and remnants of railroad tracks going nowhere, but as you walk on, you’ll also see several Soviet factories transformed into bohemian cafés and other thriving community spaces. You’ll see the shells of old buildings completely covered in colorful graffiti, as well as the squeaky-clean facades of newly incorporated upscale residential buildings. Officially starting at Linnahall car park and ending at Port Noblessner, the Culture Kilometer offers visitors an insightful look at Kalamaja’s true character: an ever-evolving neighborhood where culture, art and industry merge. Recommended by Alexa Smith .

36. Linnahall Building

Linnahall was built as a sports and concerts venue for the 22nd Moscow Summer Olympic Games in 1980, and still stands right on Tallinn’s seafront like a friendly ghost from the Soviet era. Though it’s little more than a shell now, it remains a favorite under-the-radar stop for locals, especially at absurdly early hours on summer mornings. Sound a little crazy? Once you’ve watched the sunrise from the rooftop of Linnahall, you’ll understand what’s got everyone out of bed at 5am to visit a defunct stadium: a beautiful rosy panorama of the sea, the old town, the new skyscrapers and the factories, is without a doubt worth a sleepless night. Recommended by Alexa Smith.

37. Kalamaja Kalmistupark (Kalamaja Cemetery Park)

Once the city’s oldest cemetery, Kalamaja Cemetery Park is now a beloved picnic spot and a popular playground for local kids. Though the land served as a cemetery for over 400 years and was the resting place for thousands of graves, in the mid-20th century the graveyard was completely flattened and destroyed by the Soviet authorities. A restored chapel stands as a lone memorial in the park, the only reminder of the area’s former identity. Today, this expansive park has blossomed into the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon strolling and having fun with your family outdoors, or to get a peaceful moment to yourself if you need a break from the city. Recommended by Alexa Smith.

38. The Energy Discovery Centre

Located in Tallinn’s 102-year-old power plant, The Energy Discovery Centre is an electrifying attraction for the whole family. With 130 interactive displays, one-of-a-kind lightning demonstrations, and their own out-of-this-world virtual planetarium, the Energy Discovery Centre is a fantastic educational experience that transports its visitors to different planes, planets and realities. Especially recommended for families with little Einsteins-to-be! Recommended by Alexa Smith.

39. Balti Jaam Market

If you’re fascinated by the culture and styles of the Soviet Era, come to the Balti Jaam train station flea market for a total throwback. Whatever odd or obscure bits and bobs you’re looking for, your best chance of finding them is right here. From Soviet medals and authentic propaganda posters to secondhand clothes and an eclectic mix of foods, this market is buzzing with activity and is a great stop for any bargain hunter or savvy vintage shopper. Well away from the typical tourists’ trail, Balti Jaam Market gives an exciting new life to Tallinn’s past and yields different treasures to explore every day, just like the neighborhood of Kalamaja itself. Recommended by Alexa Smith.

40. Port Noblessner

At the very end of the Culture Kilometer, you’ll arrive at Port Noblessner. Dating back to 1912, this port served the Russian Navy for many decades, and the area has been closed to citizens for nearly a century due to its military functions. Now you can explore the Port’s harbor and yacht club, check out a show at the Port’s new concert venue, or stop in for a coffee at one of its terrace cafes, where you relax and gaze out at the water. After walking all the way from the Art Museum and taking in everything this area has to offer, a calm, beautiful view and a gentle sea breeze make an ideal ending to your inspiring stroll through Kalamaja’s culture. Recommended by Alexa Smith.

The Best Day Trips from Tallinn

Recommended by Kasparas Asmonaitis.

41. Lahemaa National Park

42. helsinki.

It might sound crazy but you can reach Helsinki from Tallinn in under two hours. There are plenty of ferries which can take you to the capital of Finland. There are way too many things to do in Helsinki to list them all, but one thing is for sure – everyone can find something they love in Helsinki, from visiting historic museums to hitting local bars to walking around stunning streets to experiencing Finnish saunas .

43. Prangli Island

Prangli Island is the only permanently inhabited island in Estonia’s north, inviting its visitors for a unique and unforgettable experience. You can visit the local fishermen villages, try traditional fish dishes, walk around sandy beaches and pine forests, and meet the locals to learn more about their customs and culture.

44. Haapsalu

Haapsalu resort town is located on the west coast of Estonia, only one hour and 20 minutes away from Tallin. This small town is a must-visit place if you want to learn more about the unique culture of Estonia and relax on the most beautiful white sand beaches . People who love mechanics and technology should visit the Estonian train museum, which is located in Haapsalu train station, often nominated as the most beautiful of its kind in the whole country.

Tartu is the capital of students in Estonia, so the best time to visit this city is autumn when all the students rush in for the new academic year and the city comes to life. Visit the oldest university in Estonia, learn more about the country’s dramatic past in the KGB museum, or bring your kids to see some old toys in Tartu toy museum . There are also plenty of wonderful restaurants and bars to try some delicious and traditional Estonian food.

If you want to take your other half on a romantic date, Parnu is definitely the place to go. The beaches are stunning and there are various activities you can choose from, including windsurfing and playing mini-golf. Also, the food is extremely delicious in Parnu and some locals even come here just for the pizza, arguably the best in Estonia.

47. Soomaa National Park

People who want to see how the Soviet Union once looked, should consider visiting Narva . Most of the buildings were built during the Soviet era and nothing has changed much since, creating a unique atmosphere of older times. People also come to see two huge fortresses, which are only separated by Narva River. The first one, Narva fortress, stands in Narva and belongs to Estonia, while the other one, Ivangorod fortress, is already in the Russian territory.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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15 Best Things to do in Tallinn, Estonia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Long an important port, Tallinn in Estonia is a very pretty and picturesque place to explore, with a fascinating past for you to delve into. Located on the Baltic Sea, it lies just across the Gulf of Finland from Helsinki, with Saint Petersburg to the east of it. Its strategic position has long attracted people to its shores, and the city is now an increasingly popular tourist destination.

The capital and largest city in the country, there is a wealth of things to do in Tallinn and interesting attractions to discover, with churches, castles, and cathedrals lying alongside elegant palaces and medieval merchants’ houses. These date back to various epochs, with the city having been ruled by everyone from the Swedes and Danes to the Germans and Soviets over the centuries.

Besides its beautiful Old Town, there are lots of great restaurants and bars for you to try out, as well as some brilliant museums on offer.

15. St. Catherine’s Passage

Appearing as if it has been left untouched and unchanged for centuries, St. Catherine’s Passage is a small yet scenic alley that is magical to wander along. Named after the old church which it runs alongside, the cobbled passageway is lined by lots of marvelous medieval buildings and connects Vene to Muurivahe street.

Once home to guilds, its age-old buildings now house workshops and studios where you can watch artists make ceramics, glassware, leather products, and weave textiles. Besides buying some fine handcrafted souvenirs, there is also a little cafe where you can sit and bask in the delightful architecture and atmosphere all around you.

14. KGB Museum

As it was the only place that foreign tourists were allowed to stay at the time, it was on the 23rd floor of Hotel Viru that the KGB set up their headquarters to keep tabs on what they got up to. Opened in 1972, the hotel was the first skyscraper in the city and was used by the KGB right up until the country’s independence in 1991.

Nowadays, visitors can take a captivating tour around the headquarters to see old surveillance devices, uniforms, and artifacts from Soviet times. As well as offering up an interesting insight into the Soviet state and its security apparatus, the museum also boasts a stunning view of Tallinn below.

13. City Wall

Encircling the Old Town, the city wall was first erected in the 13th century, before later being enlarged and strengthened by subsequent rulers. Punctuated by gates and guard towers, it is among the most well-preserved city walls in Europe and certainly makes for a very impressive and imposing sight.

In addition to gazing upon the sturdy defensive fortifications, there is also a small part of the wall that you can walk along; this offers up some fantastic views over the Old Town.

12. Kumu Art Museum

Located in a magnificent modern building set within the pretty Kadriorg Park, Kumu is one of the largest art museums both in Estonia and Northern Europe at large. Spanning three floors, its vast collection showcases some of the best works by Estonian artists, with Socialist Realism paintings displayed alongside more modern and contemporary pieces.

Taking you from the beginning of the 18th century right up until the present day, the award-winning Kumu Art Museum is not to be missed out on and regularly hosts exhibitions featuring international artists.

11. Town Hall

Lying right at the heart of the city, Tallinn Town Hall was built all the way back in 1404 and is the oldest such building still surviving in not only the Baltics, but the whole of Scandinavia. Gothic in design, the town hall sports a lofty tower upon which is perched a weather vane of Old Thomas – a symbol and guardian of Tallinn.

Inside, visitors can find some fabulous architecture, as well as lots of lovely old artifacts, decorations, and finely woven tapestries. Dominating the square of the same name upon which it lies, the Town Hall is one of the most recognizable and important landmarks in Tallinn.

10. Viru Gate

The main entrance to the Old Town, Viru Gate’s twin towers were built in the 14th century and were once part of a more extensive system of gates and towers. Very well-preserved, the gate’s towers lead on to Viru Street – a very busy pedestrian street which is home to lots of little boutiques, restaurants, and street stalls.

Entering the Old Town through the ivy-covered stone towers certainly makes for a very memorable introduction to Tallinn and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

9. St. Olaf’s Church

Named after King Olaf II of Norway, this wonderful church is the largest remaining medieval building in the whole of Tallinn. Built in the 1200s, it is still in remarkably good condition despite being struck by lightning numerous times over the centuries.

Once one of the tallest structures on Earth, its lofty spire towers to a height of 123 meters. From atop of it, you can enjoy breathtaking views out over the city. While its interior is quite stark and sparsely decorated, it is still well worth venturing inside to see some of the brilliant stone carvings on show.

8. Estonian Open Air Museum

If you’re interested in learning more about the country’s rich history and heritage, then no trip to Tallinn can be complete without visiting the Estonian Open Air Museum. The sprawling collection of 80 or so reconstructed historic buildings is fascinating to wander around, and the small village is home to farms and mills, as well as a church, inn, and schoolhouse.

Besides taking in all of the marvelous architecture, you can also enjoy weaving, blacksmithing, and cooking demonstrations; these highlight what life used to be like in Estonia back in the 18th century.

7. Tallinn TV Tower

The tallest building in the country, the Tallinn TV Tower reaches a height of 314 meters and is located to the east of the city. Opened just in time for the 1980 summer Olympics in Moscow, the tall mast was erected to improve telecommunications in the region. This saw it stormed unsuccessfully by Soviet troops in 1991, when radio operators broadcasted news of Estonia’s independence.

Visible for miles, the TV Tower dominates its surroundings, with its observation deck offering up incredible views out over the country. In addition to this, it also has a great restaurant for you to try out, as well as some interesting interactive displays on the history of Tallinn and Estonia.

6. Seaplane Harbor

Now part of the Estonian Maritime Museum, Seaplane Harbor was originally built in 1916 to house Peter the Great’s seaplanes. Stretching away before you, its cavernous concrete interior makes for a majestic sight and is intriguingly lit up by lighting that wouldn’t look out of place in a nightclub.

Now home to lots of historic boats, submarines, and, of course, seaplanes, the extensive collection is magnificent to peruse, with some of them dating all the way back to WWI. Besides the hundreds of planes and boats on display, there are also some fun flight and submarine simulators for you to try out, while its outdoor harbor houses yet more ships and yachts.

5. Kadriorg Park

Located on the outskirts of the city, just a stone’s throw away from the Baltic Sea, the huge Kadriorg Park is a very pretty and picturesque place to stroll around. Commissioned by Peter the Great all the way back in 1718, the park is home to lots of lovely trees and flowerbeds, with sculptures, fountains, and ponds found dotted here and there.

Tucked away among all the delightful nature is the gorgeous Petrine Baroque Kadriorg Palace, which now houses an art museum and other fantastic institutions such as the KUMU and Mikkel Museum.

4. Toompea Hill

Despite only rising 20 or 30 meters above the rest of the Old Town, Toompea Hill’s prominent and strategic position has long connected it to power and prestige. On top of the small limestone mount, you can find a wealth of important and impressive historical sights, with Toompea Castle found alongside St. Olaf’s Church and Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral.

Reputed to be the grave of Kalev – a mythological figure in Estonia – the mound is an amazing place to wander around. Besides the many beautiful old buildings, it also offers up some great views of the city around you.

3. Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral

Only completed in 1900 when Estonia was still part of the Russian Empire, Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral looks absolutely stunning with its red walls, bright white ornamentation, and black onion domes. Set on top of Toompea Hill, the cathedral exhibits some exquisite Russian Revival architecture, with its interior boasting some wonderful wooden iconostases and marvelous mosaics.

Due to its prominent and possibly provocative position atop of the mound, the cathedral was long seen as a symbol of oppression by Estonians and was scheduled to be torn down after independence in 1924. Thankfully, these plans were never put in action, and the Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.

2. Town Hall Square

The beating heart of the city, much of life in Tallinn revolves around its bustling Town Hall Square. Lined by fantastic old medieval buildings – of which the Town Hall itself is the undoubted highlight – the large square is ringed by cafes, bars, and restaurants, and regular markets are held in its center.

Whether it’s stopping for a drink or a bite to eat at one of its establishments or buying souvenirs at the market, there is certainly a lot for you to see and do, and many of the city’s most famous sights lie just a short walk away. One of the most magical times of year to visit is during winter; the square has remarkably hosted a Christmas tree display since 1441, and its Christmas market has long been one of the best to visit in the whole of Europe.

1. Old Town

Home to lots of majestic medieval buildings that were built between the 15th and 17th centuries, Tallinn’s Old Town really is a mesmerizing place to explore. Hemmed in by the city walls that lie all around it, you will find atmospheric cobbled streets, charming churches, and historical monuments, with lots of fantastic bars, restaurants, and cafes also on offer.

Very well-preserved, its centuries-old buildings display several different architectural styles, while its fascinating museums take you through the city and country’s rich history and heritage. Although it is now quite touristy, the Old Town is not to be missed out on for the plethora of incredible sights it has to offer. Wandering around its amazing old streets will make you feel like you’ve entered a fairytale.

Best Time to Visit Tallinn

Set alongside the Baltic Sea, Estonia’s capital Tallinn enjoys a continental climate with cold, snowy winters and pretty mild, rainy summers. Its picturesque old town is very atmospheric to explore in both seasons with July, August and December the most popular times to visit.

In summer, its scenic streets can get quite crowded with lots of cruise ships also docking at its port. Temperatures of 20 to 21°C (68 to 70°F) are perfect for strolling around with some days seeing up to 18 hours of daylight.

The spring and autumn months can also be very pleasant in Tallinn. Cheaper, cooler and less crowded, they have exciting events like the Tallinn Music Week and Tallinn Old Town Days to enjoy. September and October see a lot less sunshine and daylight hours though.

From late November to early January, Tallinn looks absolutely magical as much of its center is decorated in twinkling Christmas lights. Many people visit for its fairytale-like, traditional markets with prices being higher as a result.

Whenever you visit, make sure to bring a coat as each month sees between 11 and 21 days with at least some rain. Summer and autumn are the wettest periods with snow sometimes falling in winter.

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What to See in Tallinn

Our favorite sights and tips for tallinn.

Latest update: August 13, 2023

In a nutshell: Our best Tallinn tips

• Old Town of Tallinn: Surrounded by a city wall and just beautiful – our top sight in Tallinn.
• Balti Jaama Turg : The coolest market hall in the city, where you can try many typical Estonian dishes.
• The best viewpoints in Tallinn are the tower of Olai Church and Kohtuotsa lookout.
• Our hotel tip for Tallinn is Rapunzel Tower Apartment – great location between the Old Town and the sea.
• Our favorite café in Tallinn is Kivi Paber Käärid – they serve delicious chocolate cake.

Those were our tips for a city trip to Tallinn in short format. Do you want to find out more? Great! Then read on and check out all our tips and sights in Tallinn .

Seven interesting facts about Tallinn and Estonia

Let’s start with 7 exciting and astonishing facts about Tallinn and Estonia:

• Tallinn is the capital of Estonia and has 430,000 inhabitants . That’s roughly a third of the Estonian population.
• Until 1918, the city was known as Reval .
• Public transport is free of charge for all residents of Tallinn.
• Free Internet access is a basic right in Estonia. So there is free WiFi everywhere in Tallinn.
• Tallinn is sometimes called the Silicon Valley of Europe. Lots of start-ups are based here. The most famous work by Estonian programmers is a little program you may have heard of… Skype.
• Estonia is the country with the highest share of women relative to its population in the world. There are only about 84 men for every 100 women.
• According to the WHO, Estonia’s air is the cleanest in the world.

That all sounds pretty great, right?

The most interesting districts and sights on a map

Tallinn has a wide variety of different sights and attractions to visit. In this section, we’ll tell you which sights you absolutely have to see on your city trip to Tallinn.

The following map shows the most important sights and districts in Tallinn. You’ll find a more detailed map of the Old Town below.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Of course, there are loads of churches in the Old Town.

The most beautiful church has to be the A lexander Nevsky Cathedral, which was built in the late 19th century .

Patarei Prison

Although Estonia was part of the Soviet Union until 1990, there’s hardly anything left to remind you of that time. A few prefab concrete blocks on the outskirts of the city and the Soviet antique market are some of the few remaining relics that still exude something like Soviet charm .

But there are two more buildings that are inseparably intertwined with this historical era. One of them is Patarei Prison. The sea fortress  was built way back in the 19th century, but during Soviet rule it gained sad notoriety as one of the worst prisons in the Soviet Union .

Until recently, the prison was still open to visitors. Unfortunately, guided tours have recently been suspended.

The future of Patarei Prison is a topic of heated debate in Tallinn. Proposals for its future use range from a cultural center to luxury apartments to the establishment of a memorial. You can find current information about the compound on the Patarei website .

Very close by Patarei Prison, visitors are faced with a huge concrete monstrosity: the Linnahall. The Linnahall was built for the sailing competitions of the Summer Olympics in 1980 , and for a long time, it was the largest event venue in Estonia.

But for years now, the building has been in a steady state of decay. Today, it mostly serves as a subject for oddball photos and a popular hangout to watch the sunset . Because the Linnahall is an excellent place to sit and look out onto the Baltic Sea. That’s definitely something you should do when you’re in Tallinn.

The Old Town of Tallinn

OK, this won’t come as much of a surprise. The Old Town is the absolute main attraction in Tallinn . Presenting all the individual sights within the Old Town would be well beyond scope of this post. After all, the entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The best way to go about exploring is to just let yourself drift through the Old Town and discover the most beautiful places on your own. If you want to get some additional information about Tallinn, you can also take a guided tour of the Old Town.

To the guided tour through the Old Town

The Old Town is surrounded by a medieval city wall which is still preserved over a length of 2 kilometres.

Our next Tallinn attraction is the Telliskivi Creative City. Creative companies, galleries, design shops , and some of the best bars and cafés in Tallinn have settled in this former industrial complex.

Hundreds of events take place in the Telliskivi grounds every year: concerts, exhibitions, flea markets. You can find current information about events on the Telliskivi website .

North of Telliskivi lies the Kalamaja quarter. The streets with their traditional, colorful wooden houses constitute one of the most popular residential areas in Tallinn.

A stroll through Kalamaja, camera in hand, is definitely worthwhile. Colorful wooden houses are interspersed with old industrial buildings , now inhabited by creative types, and if you follow one of the streets in Kalamaja even further north, you’ll reach the Baltic Sea in a matter of minutes. Isn’t that great?

The best viewpoints

There are some great viewpoints in the Old Town. Our favorites were the Kohtuotsa viewing platform with great views of the east of the Old Town and the Piiskopi viewing platform in the west.

But the tower of St. Olaf’s Church offers the best view of all. It costs 5 euros admission and you have to climb a steep, narrow staircase to get to the top. But the arduous ascent is rewarded with a magnificent view of the Old Town and the Port of Tallinn.

St. Olaf’s Church open from April to October

Balti Jaama Turg

To the northeast of the Old Town is Tallinn’s main train station, called Balti Jaam (Baltic Station). Right next to it is the Balti Jaama Turg, without a doubt the coolest market in Tallinn .

The market complex with its striking zig-zag roof has just been freshly renovated. Meat, fish and, vegetables are some of the things sold at the market.

But we were most excited about all the food stalls . From Japanese soups to delicious burgers to vegan wraps, it has everything a gourmet’s heart desires.

If you want to taste more of the Estonian cuisine, we can recommend this culinary tour of Tallinn. You will also make several stops at Balti Jaama Turg market.

To the Tallinn food tour

The area right next to the market hall offers a stark contrast: While the food stalls are mostly frequented by the young, hip residents of Tallinn, the antique market feels like you’ve traveled back in time 40 years.

If you’re into Soviet trinkets and Lenin statues, you can stock up on them here.

Town Hall Square

The main square in the Old Town is the Town Hall Square . It’s always really crowded. There’s also a great Christmas market here during the pre-Christmas season.

Restaurants and bars in Tallinn: Our tips

We had such great food in Tallinn! And drinks! So of course we want to share our favorite spots with you.

Kivi Paber Käärid

Kivi Paber Käärid translates as Rock, Paper, Scissors .

There are some great sunny spots outside where we spent many lazy afternoons. The beer menu is several pages long and they also have delicious food there too.

The vegan chocolate cake with raspberries is an absolute dream! The Pudel Baar directly opposite is also pretty great!

The Surfcafé is a small stall in the Balti Jaama Turg market hall. They say the barista is the best in all of Tallinn, and it’s true – the coffee is outstanding . You have to try the filter coffee.

OK, that may sound a bit weird, but trust us, it’s extremely delicious.

Veg Machine

Also located in the market hall, just two stands from the Surfcafé, you’ll find the Veg Machine. It serves exactly two dishes: vegan wraps and vegan burgers . Both are supper-yummy, even for non-vegans. You should definitely try it!

Boheem Cafe

The Boheem Cafe right by the entrance to Telliskivi Creative City offers delicious food from breakfast to dinner around the clock. Nothing fancy, but it’s all very tasty.

The local café chain Reval Café runs 14 cafés in Tallinn. Besides good coffee , they also offer tasty snacks . The ‘Reval Breakfast’ is really great, a kind of Estonian farmer’s breakfast. Delicious!

Klaus Kohvik

Klaus is located between Patarei Prison and the Linnahall and offers delicious, young cuisine in a stylish setting.

How to get to Tallinn

The fastest way to get to Tallinn is by plane. You can also easily combine a trip to Tallinn with one of the other cities in the region, e.g. Helsinki or Riga.

Flights to Tallinn

There are direct flights to Tallinn from several European cities. For example, you can get to Tallinn from Berlin , Munich and Vienna .

Tallinn’s small airport is very modern and one of the most pleasant we’ve been to so far. It is also only a stone’s throw away from the city centre .

From the airport to the city centre by taxi or Uber

In front of the terminal, there’s a taxi rank where you can catch a cab to downtown Tallinn for 10 to 15 euros . A cheap alternative is to book a ride using Uber. That only costs about half as much as a taxi.

Taking the tram or bus from the airport to the city centre

The line 4 tram stops right at the terminal and goes to the old town in a quarter of an hour. The stops in the old town are Viru and Vabaduse Väljak. The fare is 2 euros .

Bus line 2 also takes you from the airport to the Old Town for 2 euros .

Taking the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn

Tallinn and the Finnish capital Helsinki are only separated by a two-hour ferry trip. Different companies serve this route, so there are usually several ferries per hour .

Tickets start at around 25 euros . If you only want to go on a day trip, there are also cheap day return tickets that allow you to travel to Helsinki and back in one day for around 34 euros .

To the ferry tickets

Taking the bus from Riga to Tallinn

Tallinn is also very well connected with the Latvian capital of Riga. The bus company Ecolines connects Riga and Tallinn with very comfortable buses and up to 7 trips a day .

The journey takes about 4 hours and costs 19 euros . If you book very early, you can get even better deals. You can just book your tickets online here .

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more adventurous, you can also take the train from Tallinn to Riga. However, it isn’t any cheaper, takes much longer, and you have to change trains once, but it’s much more adventurous.

Even more practical tips for Tallinn

As we already mentioned, Tallinn is extremely easy to travel. But we still have some additional information and extra tips for you.

#1 Paying in Tallinn

The official currency in Tallinn is the euro .

Card payments are extremely common here. Even tiny stores accept cards. We always take our two travel credit cards wherever we go, so we were able to pay and withdraw money in Tallinn with no extra fees.

#2 Choosing the right place to stay

Tallinn is really very compact, so it isn’t that hard to pick an area to stay. Especially in the Old Town, Kalamaja and west of the Old Town , you can stay well and quickly reach most of the sights in Tallinn.

We have summarised our hotel recommendations for every budget:

Villa Kadriorg Hostel Old Town Hostel Alur

Hotel L'Ermitage

Rapunzel Tower Apartment Nordic Hotel Forum

#3 Join a guided city tour

In principle, you can easily explore Tallinn on your own. The city isn’t very big, and almost everything is within walking distance. But nevertheless, we still recommend taking a guided tour because a tour guide can provide you with invaluable insider tips that you would never hear about otherwise.

You can book a private tour of the city. The great thing about this tour is that you have the guide all to yourself and aren’t stuck with a group.

To the private tour

Another way to discover Tallinn is by combining a bus and walking tour . This tour will also take you beyond the city walls of the Old Town to some interesting places in the area.

To the bus and walking tour

#4 What to pack

As Tallinn is located very far north, it gets pretty cool even in the warmest summer evenings. So make sure to pack a sweater or a jacket.

In summer, sunscreen makes a lot of sense too because you can get a sunburn much faster than you may think. And if you’re planning to visit the Estonian national parks, don’t forget to take mosquito repellent .

Those were our best Tallinn tips and the most beautiful sights

Have you booked your flight to Tallinn yet? No? Then go ahead and do it. You won’t be disappointed! Do you have any questions? Then feel free to ask us in the comments.

If you’ve already been to Tallinn and have a tip for us that we absolutely need to add, then please let us know in the comments below.

Things to do in Tallinn | 35 sights, attractions & tips

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia and is becoming popular! And that can hardly be otherwise! Tallinn is known for its beautiful medieval center, where you can walk for hours through the narrow streets, hidden courtyards, along former city walls, churches and old merchants houses. But there are also hip neighborhoods like Telliskivi and Noblessner, former industrial areas transformed into creative places with cool museums, street art, design stores and galleries. Tallinn is the cool city of Estonia where you can go sightseeing and keep exploring! In this article you’ll read everything you want to know about Tallinn in Estonia, including the best tips for things to do in terms of art, history, culture, cool neighbourhoods, good restaurants, attractions and other sights in Tallinn.

Pikk Jalg – long leg gate

Kiek in de kök, presidential palace, dancing in hall, pirita tallinn beach, how to reach tallinn estonia, what to do in tallinn estonia – 35 sights, attractions and tips.

Almost thirteen years ago I came to Tallinn for the first time for a work visit. Little time did I have to really see anything of the city. That’s why I’ve always wanted to come back, go sightseeing and discover attractions in new neighborhoods in Tallinn. When I was invited by VisitEstonia, I couldn’t resist to fully immerse myself in Tallinn and create a list of best things to do in this Estonian capital.

Things to do in Vanalinn – Tallinn’s old town

Tallinn is located on the Gulf of Finland and is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe. The old town Vanalinn, consists of two parts, the higher part Toompea hill, the cathedral mountain, and the lower town, separated by a city wall. Tallinn was a Hanseatic city for many years and this can still be seen in the lay out of the city. In the old town of Tallinn you walk along numerous attractions and sights such as city walls, canon towers, narrow alleys, hidden courtyards and old merchant’s houses. The center gives you the feeling to go back in time and enter the Middle Ages.

Raekoja Plats – Town hall square – typical things to do in Tallinn

This image of Tallinn you have certainly come across before. Raekoja Plats is the central square of Tallinn and is surrounded by colored houses and the 15th century town hall, which is also the oldest town hall in the Baltic States and Scandinavia. From the Raekoja Plats you can easily start your sightseeing tour and walk right into the different streets of Tallinn’s old town.

Extra Tallinn tips: Make sure to have a look at the pharmacy, located on the northern side of the square. It is one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, which is still in use

This entrance gate, built in the 14th century, was part of Tallinn’s former city wall.  Most of the gate was demolished in the late 19th century to make room for traffic. These two towers remained standing and have become a symbol of the city since. Of course, you should come here very early in the morning to take the best pictures, but I’ll save this for a next time. Viru gate is the place where you leave modern Tallinn behind and enter the medieval city. Before the gate you will find a small flower market and after the gate you will come to the shopping street, Viru Tänav, which leads to the Raekoja Plats.

St. Catherine’s Alley

This is one of the alleys that you should know about in advance, otherwise you will walk right past it. St Catherine’s alley is a small medieval alley, where also the 700 year old monastery of the same name is located. This courtyard used to be the workshop of the craftsmen and still there are small stores with hats, ceramics and glass. Recommended to have a look!

Masters Courtyard

This is what squares must have looked like centuries ago. Masters courtyard, the courtyard of the craftsmen, is a hidden gem and sight in the city of Tallinn. The medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, colored walls and many flowers make it an idyllic place to take pictures or sit on the terrace at the Chocolaterie de Pierre. These kind of places are the type of sights you want to see and what makes Tallinn so unique to visit!

The Guild Houses on Pikk

Beautiful architectural attractions can be found on the street Pikk in Tallinn. This was in fact the street of the guild and rich merchants. Nowadays you can still admire the beautiful 15th century merchant and guild houses with facades. From the large guild, the guild of the artisans to the notorious brotherhood of Black-Heads (a reference to the African Saint Mauritius, the patron saint of the brotherhood) for young unmarried merchants. On the walls you will find information signs with explanations that are worth reading. A number of buildings house a museum or event space.

Helleman to wer

One of the sights you should not miss in Tallinn is the Helleman Tower. Here you can walk on the old city walls while overlooking the old city. Via a narrow staircase you climb up and pass a few rooms with information about the history of Tallinn. Once at the top, you walk about 200 meters from one tower to another. A visit does not take long but is very rewarding!

Tallinn tips: The most beautiful view can be found on the top floor of the Hellaman tower. This in fact offers panoramic views of Tallinn, with the different church towers rising above the city.

St. Olaf church

St. Olaf Church, named after the Norwegian King Olav II, is one of Tallinn’s most striking attractions and landmarks, because of its 124-meter-high tower. Today, you can climb the 232 steps to the tower for fantastic views of Toompea and the lower city. Keep in mind that the tower was closed to visitors in 2021.

St. Nicholas church (Niguliste kirik)

This 13th century church is located in a large square, on Ruutli street and is surrounded by nice restaurants and a small park. During World War II, St. Nicholas Church was badly hit by Sovjet bombing but later rebuilt. Today the church serves as a museum of religious art. Personally I am not so much interested in this type of art but the exterior of this Gothic church is one of the sights you definitely want to see in Tallinn.

For a long time the upper town and lower town were separated by gates. In this way, the elite on the Domberg managed to control the lower town and its citizens. The Luhike jalg was the gate for pedestrians and the Pikk Jalg (long leg gate) was the only major road connecting both parts of the city.

Attractions and sights in Toompea hill Tallinn

Toompea hill is a hill and the former upper town of Tallinn. In the time of the German Empire, this was the place for the elite. They looked down on the traders and workers in the lower town. Nowadays this area of Tallinn houses government buildings, embassies and some interesting sights, attractions and other things to do.

Viewpoints – best things to do in Tallinn

Toompea has two viewpoints that are worth visiting. From the Patkuli Viewing Platform you overlook the western part of Tallinn and have a good view of the city walls, towers and the Gulf of Finland, where the cruise ships are docked. The Kohtuotsa viewpoint, in the north, offers yet another view of the city. From here you look straight at the streets, orange-tiled houses and sights of Tallinn. Both points are within walking distance of each other and are prefect photo spots! You don’t want to miss these viewpoits during your sightseeing in Tallinn.

Toompea castle

Since the 13th century, this has been the seat of power. And still the Estonian parliament houses here. The castle was built in the 18th century, on the 13th century fortress placed by the Danes. You will notice, an interesting combination of structures and styles. On one side you see a baroque pink palace and if you walk down a little more, you see the old moat, city walls and towers.

Fact: The flag at the top of the Pikk Herman tower (long Herman), one of the corner towers, tells you who is in power. Today, of course, the flag of Estonia hangs here but looking at history, this was not always the case. Several flags have hung here over the years.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – best things to do in Tallinn

I think this is one of the most beautiful churches in Tallinn. The Alexander Nevsky is a colorful and richly decorated Orthodox Russian church, totally different from all the other churches in the city. When Estonia was part of the Russian empire and the call for independence grew, the Russian Tsar had this church built, as a form of display of power. And that right across from the Toompea Castle. Not only the outside is impressive, inside you will find a totally different world, with many Russian Orthodox visitors.

St Mary’s Cathedral

Also known as Tallinns Cathedral, the Lutheran church St Mary was rebuilt several times. That created a mix of architectural styles, dating from the 13th century to the 18th century Baroque style. For years, the Estonian elite was buried here. Today, you can visit the church and climb the 69-meter high Baroque bell tower for scenic views

An unusual name for sure! Kiek in de Kök is Low German for “Look in the kitchen”. Lower German was the common language spoken in the Hanseatic cities (including Tallinn) during the Middle Ages. It was the name of one of the gun towers, which was part of the former city wall, because it allowed the soldiers to look into the kitchens of the surrounding houses. Today, Kiek in the Kök is a museum complex and one of Tallinn’s main attractions. The museum includes 4 cannon towers and is a place where you can learn all about the defenses and military history. It is also possible to visit the 17th century underground corridor system, by guide.

Extra Tallinn tips: Make sure to have a look at the post office for a picture. A beautiful building with pastel green colors.

T hings to do in Kadriorg District Tallinn

Are you looking for some greenery?  Less than 2 kilometers from the old town you will find the Kadriorg Park, known for the Kadriorg Palace. The Russian Tsar Peter the Great had the park and palace built for his wife Catherine I, after he conquered Estonia. It is a wonderful area to take a break, wander along the green promenades and sit on a bench around the swan pond. Especially on weekends, it is a popular place for young and old to gather.

Kadriorg palace

More than 300 years ago Tsar Peter the Great had this baroque palace built for his wife. Kadriorg therefore means Catherine’s valley. Today it is an art museum. But even if you don’t feel like visiting a museum, it’s worth it to admire the rose-red colors and architecture. Don’t forget to walk to the back of the palace. Here you will find a beautiful palace garden.

Tallinn history tips: Are you interested in history and want to know more about Peter the Great and the time of the Russian Tsars? At the Peter the Great museum you can take a look at the house where he and his wife lived during the construction of the palace.

Kumu art museum

The Kumu art museum is one of the best things to do in Tallinn if you are into art. The futuristic building, consisting of glass, limestone and copper, was designed to fit perfectly into the landscape. And it succeeded. Kumu consists of seven floors of art from Estonia, starting from the 18th century. Fantastic to spend a morning or afternoon here getting inspired by artists you probably know little or nothing about. The museum won the European Museum of the Year Award almost immediately after opening.

Tallinn art tips: Interested in modern art? Then make sure to get inspired in the Estonian Museum of Contemporary art, an institution that wants to build a bridge between official art institutions and alternative galleries. Opinions about the exhibitions are divided, but that’s exactly the point!

Behind the Kadriorg Palace there is the Presidential Palace of Tallinn. Because it is still the official residence of the president himself, it is closed to the public. However, you can take pictures of the outside and observe the changing of the guard.

Kalamaja district in Tallinn Estonia

What used to be a district where you didn’t want to be seen, is now the hipster district of the city. Located behind the train station, Kalamaja is known for its beautiful wooden houses, which attract wealthy families and artists. Nice to stroll around, take pictures and experience a different side of Tallinn.

Things to do in Telliskivi Tallinn  | 5 sights & attractions

I had heard a lot about this neighbourhood and I couldn’t wait to visit. Telliskivi Creative city is a former industrial area in the Kalamaja district that was transformed into a creative hub, where many startups and creative companies have found their way. You will find trendy stores, cool restaurants and coffee bars , art spaces, theaters and lots of cool street art. Maybe even a bit comparable to the cultural area Aparaaaditehas in Tartu. Take your time to go sightseeing in Telliskivi in Tallinn, as you can enjoy yourself here for hours. These are my tips for best things to do in Telliskivi Tallinn.

Fotografiska Tallinn Photography Museum

The Fotografiska museum is without a doubt one of the top museums. And especially if you love photography, it is one of the best things to do in Tallinn. Fotografiska opened in Stockholm in 2010 and now has museums in New York, Tallinn and soon Berlin. Many exhibitions travel therefore from country to country.

I was blown away by the great exhibition This Empty World/Inherit the Dust by photographer and director Nick Brand . In this exhibition, he captures in a special way the impact of humans in places where animals used to live. The photos were taken at two different moments in time and merged later. However, the moments were captures at exactly the same location. In the first phase, a set was built, in Kenya, among other places, through which animals from the region found their way after time. After the animals were captured on camera, the sets were converted but the camera remained in place. A second series was photographed with a cast of people from local communities. The final result asks attention to the desperate situation of wildlife and the devastating consequences of development. Fascinating and intriguing!

But the pieces of the Scandinavian artist Helene Schmitz and the exhibition with work of different Estonian photographers were also worth it. In Thinking like a Mountain Helene Schmitz uses photography to show the influence of industry on the beautiful nature of Iceland and Sweden.

On the website you can find an overview of all the exhibitions.  But believe me, even if you don’t know the photographer, the exhibitions are of world class and beautiful.

Extra Tallinn tips: On the roof terrace of Fotografiska there is a restaurant with a terrace and view of Tallinn. Also the coffee shop and museum store downstairs are nice places to spend time. Make sure to save some room in your suitcase for one of the nice museum books!

Baltic Station Market – Food mark et

This unusual building houses a cool food market with 300 different stores. There is a separate area for fruits and vegetables and meat and fish. And a street food hall with numerous stalls where you can taste and buy all kind of things. On the top floor you’ll find a section with vintage clothing, antiques and art. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Tallinn if you are into food.

Enjoy street art

Telliskivi is known for its cool street art. You can walk along the artworks. Or if you want to know more about the thoughts behind the works, it is interesting to take a street-art tour .

Shopping in Telliskivi

The large halls in Telliskivi are the home of hip stores with design, clothing, music, books, art cosmetics and other gadgets. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, it’s a great way to observe Estonian style.

Depoo is the food street of Telliskivi. Train cars and containers are the setting for restaurants and food trucks. Especially on weekends it is the place-to-be. Terraces are packed and there is live music everywhere.

Curious about nice places to eat and drink? In the following article you can read my tips for the best restaurant in Telliskivi Tallinn.

Things to do in Noblessner Port Tallinn | 4 sights & attractions

Another surprising district with interesting sights and things to do is the Noblessner Sea Quarter in Tallinn. Noblessner port used to be an industrial area with 12 submarine factories, built by order of the Russian Tsar in 1912. For years the area was closed to the public. But today the factories house museums, boutique stores and restaurant. Also here you can easily spend a morning or afternoon, walk along the boulevard, eat in great restaurants and get inspired by the many creative places. There are also regular events and markets. These are my tips for things to do in Noblessner port in Tallinn.

Kai Art Centre

Kai Art Centre is the cultural heart of Noblessner port. Inside you’ll find modern art exhibitions, a cinema, a bakery and some restaurants.

Proto Invention Factory

In Proto Invention Factory everything revolves around virtual – reality, where you experience the greatest inventions of through the years. You can walk on the bottom of the ocean, pilot a hot air balloon or race a 19th century steam engine through underground passages. This way you follow in the footsteps of famous scientists. For kids? Definitely! But it’s also one of the fun things to do in Tallinn if you are looking for something different. 

Have a look at interior design store Shishi

This is where you’ll definitely want to drop in. Shishi is a Norwegian/Estonian interior design brand, which is sold in the best department stores in the world. In this hall in Nosblessner port you’ll find vases, candles, candlesticks, plants and trees: Lots of beautiful things to decorate your home with. For the lovers, there is also an annual Christmas collection. Perhaps not handy to carry in your luggage, but in any case nice to get inspired.

Into electronic music and feel like going out? Then you definitely want to check out the line up of Technoclub Hall , one of the better clubs in the region.

Rotermanni Quarter

This former industrial area, located between the old town and port, has become a new destination as well. You’ll find apartments, restaurants with nice terraces and the Museum of Estonian Architecture. The perfect place for a drink!

Tallinn tips and good to know! Keep in mind that most museums sights in Tallinn are closed on Mondays.

Things to do in and around Tallinn Estonia

Did you know that Tallinn also has a beach? Especially in the summer, Pirita is a wonderful place and one of the best things to do in Tallinn. But also on a windy day you can walk through the pine forests, along the beach and take a look at the many surfers. Highly recommended! Curious about more beaches around Tallinn? Have a look here.

Did you find these tips with sights & attractions for Tallinn interesting? About 2 hours drive from Tallinn you’ll find Tartu, the second city of Estonia . Tartu is known as a university city and is also seen as the intellectual cultural capital of the country. In Tartu you will find concert halls, theaters, exhibitions and trendy neighbourhoods with many bars. In the next article you will find my personal recommendations for what to do in Tartu, with great attractions and useful tips for your visit.

Mini Travel Guide Tallinn Estonia

Tours in tallinn estonia, restaurants tallinn estonia.

Tallinn is bursting with nice and good restaurants. And there is nothing better than enjoying a great meal after a day of sightseeing in Tallinn. From cozy restaurants in the center like Pegasus and Rataskaevu 16 to hotspots like F-Hoone in Telliskivi and Lore Bistro in Noblessener port. But there are also high end diners at Mon Repos in Kadriorg and culinary experiences at 180 degrees. In the next article you’ll find my tips for the best restaurants in Tallinn.

H otels in Tallinn Estonia

Hotel telegraaf, autograph collection.

Hotel Telegraaf is the kind of hotel that makes me happy. This former post office has been transformed into a luxury boutique hotel, located in the center of the city.  A great starting point if you want to go sightseeing in the old town of Tallinn. The hotel has character and exudes history.  There are different types of rooms, modernly decorated with art deco elements. You will also come across old telephones and paintings throughout the hotel. Make sure you reserve a table in the accompanying Restaurant Tchaikovsky. As the name suggests, music plays an important role here. The cuisine consists of a mix of French influences, Russian traditions and Estonian ingredients. It is even in the list of Estonia’s best restaurants.

Curious about  Hotel Telegraaf, Autograph Collection ? Check availability and current rates for  Hotel Telegraaf here .  Looking for more hotel options? Here you can find an overview of  hotels in Tallinn.

Hotel L’Embitu

Hotel L’Embitu is a modern hotel, within walking distance of the old town. The rooms are spacious and the beds lovely. You can also dine in the rooftop restaurant and use the hotel spa for free as a guest.

Check availability and current rates for Hotel L’Embitu here .   Looking for more hotel options? Here you can find an overview of  hotels in Tallinn.

Looking for a special place to stay? In Iglu park , located in the Noblessner district, you’ll find small but comfortable igloo cottages with a view of the water. You can also use the igloo sauna houses. Very cool!

Check availability and current rates for Iglu park here . More inspiration for hotels in Tallinn can be found here.

How to get around in Tallinn

All the sights and attractions in Tallinn’s old town can be explored by foot. And if you don’t mind walking, you can easily walk to other districts such as Kadriorg, Telliskivi and Noblessner to continue your sightseeing in Tallinn. Another great option is to rent an electric scooter. Download the Tuul application and you’ll find one in no time. In addition, cabs and uber’s are quite affordable. Especially in the evening or in case of bad weather you can get to your next destination for a few euros.

Air Baltic has regular flights from different destinations. From Tallinn you can also travel to Tartu, the second largest city of Estonia . There are several trains a day, that take you to Tartu within two hours. Or  rent a car ,  like I did, so you can be independent and see even more of South Estonia.

Need a rental car for your trip to Estonia? Use  Rental Cars  to search and compare your car rental options. A quick and easy tool and no need to have up multiple tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. They also have great discounts and cancellation policies. 

If you are planning a trip to Estonia, make sure to check out South Estonia. A new world will open up with forested areas where you can walk, pick mushrooms and berries, traditions and customs of the Seto’s and Old Believers, small villages around  Lake Peipus,   delicious local dishes and many friendly people who are ready to offer you a glimpse into their lives. In the next article article you can read my tips for things to do in  South Estonia ,  and why you should definitely visit this region.

More about Estonia

Did you like reading this article with tips for Tallinn sights and attractions? Looking for more sightseeing inspiration in Tallinn? Then check out the website of VisitTallinn for more Tallinn tips. Do you want to read more about Estonia? In collaboration with VisitEstonia I made a fantastic trip through Estonia where I got to visit different sides of the country.  Check out my  Estonia archive for articles including:

• The best things to do in Tartu Estonia
• Tips for the Onion Route and Lake Peipsi
• My favorite restaurants in Tallinn 
• Guide with things to do in South Estonia

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Top 20+ BEST Things to do in Tallinn (Estonia)

Interested to know what are the top things to do in Tallinn? Read on and learn more about this beautiful city.

Born at the crossroads of the Medieval Trades, Estonia’s capital of Tallinn, which translates to city or downtown in the local language, is a cultural and sightseeing hub. Tallinn nightlife is much popular among tourists and medieval-themed walled Old Town.

Residing peacefully on the Gulf of Finland and by the Baltic sea, there’s no doubt that Tallinn’s top attractions drive many tourists from all its corners.

Mostly referred to as the treasure of the Baltic, Tallinn’s tourist attractions combine with cultural richness, ultimately becoming the center of tourism and notable highlights.

The Estonian life in the 18th century, along with the hand-made crafts or the synchronous Tallinn activities, can be a delight to see and experience during your stay. You won’t ever ask yourself what to see in Tallinn because the city’s sights offer its best in possibly every way.

The charming vibe surrounding the Old Town’s cobblestone-lined roads is one of the top attractions in Tallinn, along with many others like Gothic Town Hall and St. Nicholas Church. These landmarks represent Tallinn’s history and culture through its spiritual art .

Here are the must-see Tallinn points of interest that will fascinate you in a split second!

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Table of Contents

Experiences and top things to do in Tallinn

What to see in tallinn in one day join the free walking tour.

If you’ve seen my other city and travel guides on this website, then you’re probably aware that I love joining free walking tours, and truthfully, I can’t recommend going on a free walking tour in Tallinn enough.

Not only will you learn a bit about the city and the country itself (history and culture), but you’re also supporting a group of people who are passionate about sharing their knowledge – for free! I know these walking tours are tip-based, so in the end, you pay a little bit, but they are not necessarily expecting that. However, it is a Nice gesture to give a little bit of something in exchange for the little knowledge they share.

Also, young locals guide the free walking tour in Tallinn. The idea behind it is to give an alternative to the younger citizen to do something meaningful rather than wasting their precious time doing something that does not contribute to society. So, in the end, we all win in this.

Where to stay in Estonia? Check out this list of hotels, find great deals, and how to book!

Book this unique tour: Tallinn Private Walking Tour with a Local

Roam around the Old Town of Tallinn (Read more for other top attractions)

Tallinn’s old town is small yet charming. Most tourists who pass by this city mostly spend their time in the old town, which I don’t recommend because Tallinn, as the capital, has tons to offer outside the old medieval town .

However, if you’re short of time, roaming around the old town will be a treat for your eyes. Oftentimes, many activities are happening to entertain visitors, and since it is small, you’ll get to watch and experience most of them by just simply walking around.

What to see in Tallinn which you can hunt down:

• St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Danish King’s Garden
• Bastion Passages
• St Olaf’s Church
• Toompea Hill

Nightlife in Tallinn – Go on a pub crawl!

For years now, Tallinn has been the backpacker’s haven with tons of free-spirited travelers either passing by or staying put for a season, and tons of these awesome people are looking for a good time, so it is just normal that hostels hosts pub crawls for visitors to experience Tallinn nightlife.

Joining a pub crawl will lead you to meet some of the coolest people in the world who are on the same page as you, and if you’re traveling alone, it is always fun to meet like-minded jolly fellows like yourself.

That said, there are tons of eccentric bars around Tallinn’s old town, and it is worth a try to join these pub crawls if your hostel arranges it. Typically they are for free, but you buy your drinks (obviously), and it is a lot of fun!

However, you can ask for brochures or pub crawl schedules if you’re staying in hotels. If not, you’re lucky because most Tallinn pubs are not far from each other, and you can start your own pub crawl! Just make sure you’re responsible and drink wisely. Estonian beers and strong spirits will hit you right on the spot to take it easy, and remember, don’t be that stupid tourist.

Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!

I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!

• Booking.com  – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
• Airbnb  – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
• Skyscanner  – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
• SafetyWing  – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
• GetYourGuide  – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
• My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon)  – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
• Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon)  – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.

I dare you to drink with an Estonian

I’ve tried but failed miserably. There’s no denying that most heavy drinkers reside in this part of the world. Don’t mistake them for alcoholics, though, because there’s a huge difference. Estonians, like the Finns, love their alcohol and surprisingly handle it perfectly.

I’ve seen many other nationalities dare Estonians on a drinking fest only to see them defeated. The last man standing is still holding a vodka in one hand with seemingly no signs of drunkness – yes, I’m talking to you Estonians.

If you’re brave enough, I must say now that Estonians are awesome people, and though they’re not exactly the friendliest type, it doesn’t hurt to mingle with the locals. Therefore few drinks with them shouldn’t hurt – unless you get shitfaced, then boy, the pain will follow you like a waggling tail the next day.

What to do in Tallinn? Visit Telliskivi Loomelinnak!

Sightseeing in Tallinn is not complete if you don’t drop by to see Telliskivi Loomelinnak, the creative center of the infamous capital built inside a former industrial complex. It is located next to the Balti Railway station on the border of the Pelgulinna and Kalamaja districts.

This is the biggest creative city in Estonia, offering all kinds of services. Offices of artists, NGOs, media studios, and graphic designing services are located in this artistic city. Unique types of stores highlighting the graphics and interior decor, natural products and designs, cafes, and restaurants are all present here – making Telliskivi good for doing some Tallinn shopping.

More than 400 hundred events are hosted in the halls and yards of Telliskivi, making it a vital Tallinn tourist spot and festive destination. Vaba Lava Theatre and Sõltumatu Tatsu Lava are also located in this city center. The Outdoor Gallery also offers some beautiful street art and is open round the clock.

To round it up, there are only a million Estonians, and most of these live in the capital city, which is Tallinn, and it didn’t take long for people to realize that the living situation is getting tougher each year; thus, younger people started seeking out for places to stay at.

Telliskivi was an industrial area with factories that were later shut down. The city’s young creatives saw this abandonment as an opportunity to turn the area into something unique and interesting. In no time, Telliskivi became one of the hippest parts of the city, with cafes, restaurants, and interesting shops to visit. Nowadays, some of the buildings in the area were transformed into sought-after apartments.

Here are some of the cool cafes and restaurants to visit in Telliskivi:

• Kivi Paber Käärid
• Reval Café

Take a day tour to Helsinki

I can’t end this guide to Tallinn without recommending a quick visit to my favorite city in the world – my current hometown of Helsinki .

Also, it is only 80 kilometers and about two hours of the ferry ride, and you get to tackle two cities in one holiday or vacation .

There are tons of offers online to check out, which can take you from Tallinn to Helsinki and Helsinki to Tallinn for as cheap as 15€, and most large ferry lines offer day trips starting from both ends.

So, if you eventually run out of things to do in Tallinn – Helsinki is only 2 hours away for you to check out.

Why should you visit Helsinki for a day?

I want to lay out and say Helsinki and Finland are awesome, but not many people agree with me. However, I’d still say that Helsinki is an awesome stopover destination, and you don’t need much time to see most of the city’s main highlights. Trust me. It is that small.

Not long ago, my buddy Jp from The Rustic Nomad decided to take a day trip to Helsinki , and in his four or five hours stay in the city, I got the opportunity to show him around some of the city’s beautiful sites. I could have taken him to more sites, but we were chit-chatting quite a lot!

So yes, I do suggest visiting Helsinki for the day. It will be worth it. Trust me.

Here’s a list of ferry companies that have day cruises to Helsinki:

• Viking Line
• Eckerö Line
• Linda Line (only in  summers )

If you are looking for a restaurant and a late-night party venue at the same place, you need to visit the famous Kivi Paber Käärid. Not only the new town but the old one also has a lot to offer. Must Puudel offers some melodic tunes of Estonia blending with the funky dance.

A concert venue and a cozy restaurant Sinilind, is also trendy among locals and tourists. Art lovers and outdoor party enthusiasts should visit the Culture Club Kelm for fun.

Top Landmarks and attractions in Tallinn

Kadriorg park (especially during spring and summer).

One of the must-visit Tallinn tourist attractions during springtime , the lush nature of Kadriorg Park covers almost 700 hectares. The park was constructed in 1718 on the orders of the Russian tsar Peter I. This park’s designs and elements blend the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.

Swan Pond, surrounded by lush and colorful flower beds along with the promenade leading to Presidential Palace, makes the tourists take a relaxing walk in this park.

The museums and monuments in this Park make it a famous Tallinn tourist attraction. Estonian Art Museum (KUMU), Kadriorg Art Museum, and statues of prominent cultural figures like Amandus Adamson and Jaan Koort, are the core of this mesmerizing park.

Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?

Remember this:  anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!

The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with  SafetyWing  was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.

I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.

Read my post about  why you should get travel insurance  for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from  SafetyWing  – they’re the best, in my opinion.

Bastion passages in the Old Town of Tallinn

One of the top tourist attractions in Tallinn, the Bastion passages in the earthwork fortifications of the Old Town were built in the 17th and 18th centuries. The primary purpose of building these passages was to stop the enemy’s movement and other war equipment, mainly ammunition. These were also used to monitor underground enemy movement.

After the military camps were removed from these passages in 1857, Ingrian and Swedish bastions were included in the parks for visitors and tourists. The trains in these passages can fly you to the future or take you back to the 17th century. So these Tallinn points of interest should be on your list.

KUMU Art Museum

Visiting Tallinn is not complete without checking out one of the best museums in a town filled with contributions from local artists who flock around with great talent.

That said, KUMU is the headquarters of the Art Museums of Estonia, where they showcase different art shows that showcase some local and international artists.

It was opened in 2006 and is now attracting millions of tourists from all around the globe. The largest museum in Tallinn cultivates all kinds of Estonian Art Classics and new modern art trends.

KUMU Art Museum was recognized as the best museum in Europe in 2008. The European Museum Forum awarded it as the winner of the European Museum of the Year Award. One of the best things to do in Tallinn in winter is to visit some of its awesome museums!

Tallinn Television Tower

The Television Tower in Tallinn is 314 meters high, making it the tallest building in Estonia . The tower is regarded as a great tourist and leisure center.

Suppose you wonder why the tower would be counted as a place for Tallinn tourism. In that case, you should think again because this tower offers a mesmerizing view of the Baltic region, an interactive multimedia solutions, a TV studio, a gift shop, and a restaurant on the 22nd floor.

Estonian Open Air Museum

Why stay in Old Town if you can visit one of the best attractions in Tallinn, just a drive of 15 minutes from the city center? Estonian Open Air Museum offers the touch of the countryside to tourists. The Museum exhibits the country’s rural architecture opulently.

The 14 farms showcase glimpses of the social life of people of different strata in this museum in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. Apart from the farms, a church, fire station, tavern, mills, and fishing shed along the sea.

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!

• Warm packable jacket  – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
• Transparent toiletry bag  – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
• Kindle Paperwhite  – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
• Powerbank  – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
• Travel Adapter  – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.

St. Olaf’s Church in Tallinn

The most significant clerical structure and one of Tallinn’s main attractions, St. Olaf’s Church, took its name from the Norwegian King Olav II Haraldsson in 1267. The church quickly became important and soon formed its congregation consisting of a few craftsmen, merchants, and Estonians.

The interesting fact visitors need to know about this church is that lightning struck its tower ten times and resulted in massive fires three times in 1625,1820, and 1931.

You can see this church from high grounds on a viewpoint in Old Town, so don’t miss out on this, as this is one of the top sights in Tallinn! You never know; maybe you’ll see the lightning as it strikes once more… Okay, maybe not.

Seaplane Harbour (Estonian Maritime Museum)

Seaplane Harbour has one of the most beguile museums in Europe – the Estonian Maritime Museum.

The seaplane hangars exhibit is one of the worth-seeing tourist attractions in Tallinn for the tourists, like Lembit (a real submarine), a 184 seaplane, and many other things like the remains of the oldest Estonian ship.

Estonia has a luxuriant maritime history as its surrounded by island-dotted water on both sides. The reinforced concrete shell structure of this museum is praised throughout the world.

Lennusadam – the maritime museum fascinates the tourists with interactive displays, and the highlights include a 1930 submarine, minehunter ships, and the ice-breaker.

Kohtuotsa viewing platform

On the northern front of Toompea Hill, a panoramic viewing platform is known as Kohtuotsa. The brilliant view of the towering spires in the old town, the red roofs of the houses, and some gleaming buildings in the new town fascinate the tourists a lot.

The background is even more enriching, with a full view of the Gulf of Finland and the Pirita District.

Town Hall Square

One of Tallinn’s top sights and tourist spots, Raekoja Plats, is said to be the core of the city since the early marketplace began settling here in the 11th century.

On one side, there’s a large Gothic Town Hall Square with the tourists being delighted with pretty pastels.

Great Guild Hall (Estonian History Museum)

The Estonian History museum gets the visitor’s attention to the ruminations of Estonian psychology represented by mysterious displays making it one of Tallinn’s top sights.

The Old excise chamber is said to be a paradise for tourists who love or collect coins. The ministerial relics date back to the age of Vikings, making it one of the must-visit Tallinn attractions.

Looking more like a canonical temple to some God, Linnahall is a covered arena originally constructed for the 1980 Olympics. LinnaHall is a significant representation of the Heritage of Estonia, no matter how decayed it is.

Previously known as the Lenin Palace of culture and sports, visitors can roam around in this monumental shell.

St. Catherine’s Cloister

St. Catherine’s Monastery was founded in 1246 by Dominican monks. It’s probably referred to as Tallinn’s oldest building.

The Lutherans lit the monastery in 1524, and remained languished before it was partially restored in 1954. The barren church amuses the tourists, and the cloister lined with carved tombstones makes it one of Tallinn’s top attractions.

What to eat and restaurants in Tallinn to try

Enjoy estonian cuisine in a medieval setting.

Traditional Estonian cuisine revolves around the changing of seasons. With that said, just like its sister country Finland, they rely heavily on the summer produce and preserve them for the winter when nothing comes from the ground.

However, meat (pork) and dairy products are two main factors in an Estonian diet; thus, you’ll most likely find tons of pork dishes on restaurant menus.

What to expect in a medieval Estonian restaurant?

Tons of pork, potatoes, and preserves! Sorry vegetarians, some countries do love their meat! But don’t worry, though, because let’s face the fact that we now live in a modern world where food import and export are reliable – you’ll likely find restaurants that sell vegetarian options.

For the meat-eaters, however, you’re in for a treat! Because not only do you get to experience eating in a cavern lit with candlelight (no actual electricity here, guys!) and servers dressed in medieval clothing, but you also get to eat some of the weirdest food you’ll ever have in your life (that perhaps neither the Estonians these days would eat).

You must be wondering now, was it good?

Well, I was semi-drunk before the meal arrived with all those aperitif shots, but as far as I remembered, it was delicious, and the experience was excellent.

The only thing I remember didn’t stick well was the fermented fish with cottage cheese – that was extra weird for me, but I tried it, and for the sake of actually having tried it, I now know that I won’t be ordering it when I see it in a menu.

My ultimate favorite Medieval-themed Estonian restaurant in Tallinn is Olde Hansa. So, this should be high up on your list! Because if what to do in Tallinn is a mystery, this answers it.

Seek out the best Pelmeenid in town!

Pelmeenid is a dumpling quite similar to ravioli of Italy , but instead of eating it with some pasta sauce – you eat it with sour cream! It is delicious, and it is one of my favorite Estonian dishes. My partner, who is Estonian, by the way, totally agrees with this.

However, Pelmeenid does not originate from Estonia, and most Baltic countries have their version of Pelmeenid. Pelmeenid (for Estonians) originated from Russia and was adopted by most Baltic countries once part of the USSR. Nevertheless, each country now produces its very own Pelmenis, which are delicious on their own.

Why should you try this Estonian dish?

I always say this in every guide I write, why shouldn’t you try it? At one point, you’ll have to eat during the day. You’re there already and might as well grab that opportunity to try something new!

Also, make sure they serve it with sour cream, which they normally do, just in case it doesn’t come with it.

If you’re wondering where to get this awesomeness, I suggest Restaurant Troika – it is a little bit on the pricier side for Estonian standards, but it was excellent, and I loved it.

Read also: The 15 Culinary Destinations in Europe That Will Make You Hungry! (Foodie Vacations)

Don’t miss out on Elk soup at III Draakon

Tallinn’s food scene, in general, is getting interesting every time I visit, but if there is one thing I often recommend to people visiting Tallinn besides going to a medieval restaurant is to go to III Draakon to try their elk soup. Why? Not only because it is awesome but also because the ladies working there are awesome! I won’t spare you the surprise, but often they’ll make you sing for your spoon, and I thought that was funny.

They waved their hands and gave me the spoon when I started singing. Terrible singer much? Also, the soup cost only 2€, and they also sell several varieties of savory pies. Plus, you get to fish your pickles from a bucket. I thought it was cool, and most of my friends at III Draakon agree.

Book this unique experience: Estonian Food, Drinks and History Tour

Kalev Chocolate Shop and Sweets Mastery in Rotermann Quarter

If you haven’t made chocolate or sweet yourself, this is the place for you. Apart from the wide range of sweets, the Sweets Mastery on the first floor of Kalev Chocolate Shop is worth visiting .

Breathe in the luscious aroma as you visit, or you can watch the Masters of Sweets at work and learn from them everything that you have been missing all your life – the creation of the sweetest temptation that tastes like heaven but feels like a sin. The showcasing of old packaging in Sweets Mastery captivates the customers, and everyone gets a share at the marzipan and chocolate workshop.

Not to mention, Rotermann is one of the latest Tallinn tourist places to visit! They just recently renovated the area, and it is now booming with loads of eccentric restaurants, bars, and top-class shops and hotels!

Thanks to Visit Estonia for inviting us to see Tallinn! That said, all opinions are all mine.

FAQ’s about Tallinn

Why should you visit tallinn.

First of all, Estonia has three major cities: Tallinn, Tartu , and Pärnu – all beautiful on their own, but we’ll only tackle Tallinn for this post.

To start with, Tallinn’s old town is a well-preserved medieval city making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site . In the old town alone, you’ll get the opportunity to inhale its medieval atmosphere and enjoy a fantastic time checking out some of the Baltics crown jewels.

Is Tallinn worth visiting?

Yes, Tallinn is absolutely worth visiting! As the capital of Estonia, it’s a beautiful and historic city filled with cultural attractions.

The Old Town is a perfect mix of medieval and modern; cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses, churches and cathedrals, cozy cafes and restaurants, bustling markets selling traditional Estonian goods, museums chronicling the city’s history and it’s truly a sight to behold.

And that’s only one side of this multifaceted city! Beyond the old town walls lies an even more vibrant cityscape – modern shopping malls, trendy bars and nightclubs, artistically decorated parks and green spaces, art galleries and theatres showcasing local talent which you can easily get lost in all its beauty.

What’s more is that Tallinn has something for everyone; whether you want to relax on the beach or explore the countryside – there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied. All in all, Tallinn should definitely be at the top of your list when considering places to visit in Europe.

Is 2 Days in Tallinn enough?

Yes, two days in Tallinn is enough to get a good taste of all the city has to offer. While you won’t be able to experience all of Tallinn’s treasures in 48 hours, it is certainly possible to see many of its highlights.

Tallinn offers a variety of attractions and activities, so it can be hard to fit everything into two days. However, with some careful planning, it’s possible to make your stay memorable

What is Tallinn best known for?

Tallinn is best known for its stunningly well-preserved medieval architecture. Many of the buildings in Old Town, including Toompea Castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, are UNESCO Heritage Sites and attract visitors from all over the world.

The city center features cobbled streets, gabled roofs, and spires that have been largely unchanged since they were built centuries ago.

Aside from its historical significance, Tallinn is also a modern city with plenty of shopping malls, museums, parks, and cafes to explore.

It’s a great destination for anyone looking to explore a unique blend of old and new cultures while admiring some truly remarkable architecture.

How many days in Tallinn is enough?

It really depends on what you plan to do and see in Tallinn. If you are only interested in doing a few touristy activities, then three days may be enough.

However, if you explore the city more deeply and check out some of its many attractions, then four or five days is probably a better option. This allows for time to visit the Medieval Old Town, take in the views from Toompea Hill, shop at Viru Keskus Mall, enjoy some local cuisine at the Kadriorg Park, and take in some of the cultural events held throughout the year.

Additionally, with so much natural beauty around – from forests and beaches to historical churches and manors – it’s worth taking a day trip or two outside of Tallinn to really appreciate Estonia’s rural charms.

All in all, if you want to get a good sense of Tallinn while also seeing some of its surrounding area, then five days should be enough to satisfy your curiosity.

Do they speak English in Tallinn?

Yes, they speak English in Tallinn. As Tallinn continues to become more internationalized with an influx of expats from around the world each year, speaking English has become even more important for daily life.

Planning to visit Estonia? Check out these posts!

• Best time to visit Estonia
• Estonia Points of Interests:   Places to visit ,  Visit Helsinki on a day trip ,  Castles to visit , and  Islands to visit
• Places to visit in Estonia:   Tallinn ,  Rakvere ,  Pärnu ,  Tartu ,  Haapsalu ,  Harjumaa , and  Viljandi
• What to do in Tallinn:   Day trips from Tallinn

Where to stay in Tallinn

Activities to do in tallinn, are you on pinterest pin these for later read.

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

38 thoughts on “Top 20+ BEST Things to do in Tallinn (Estonia)”

I am headed to Tallinn in a few short weeks and I feel so much more prepared now! I am so pumped to try out that midevial restaurant you mentioned!

Sorry for the late reply, how did you found Tallinn? Did you liked it?

Spiritual art is a strong enough force to bring anyone to this area. The flower beds at Kadriorg Park and the old town scenery were especially beautiful. Thanks for this article!

Pleasures all mine

I must say I had no idea Tallinn was so pretty. I mean, look at this picture of Kadriorg Park. I also really enjoy this medieval atmosphere and I would definitely love to take part in this sweets mastery at Kalev Chocolate Shop – just need to watch out to grab more than I should 😀

Heh, chocolate is gooood! Can’t blame you 😀

wow the architecture is awesome, st olaf tower is quite impressive. there is alot of great spots you shared, thank you

Thanks Joseph

Never even heard of it but I know it’s in Europe. I really like your travel blogs, they’re inspiring.

Thank you Carrie!

I am absolutely in love with Kadriorg park and especially the pic you posted of it. It looks like the perfect place in spring or summer. This goes in my bucket list.

It is the perfect hangout in summer!

Tallinn sounds like a great tourist destination. I didn’t really think about it that much before but now I’m fascinated.

Glad to have shine a light on it!

The place seems wonderful. I am interested to see the open air museum. I am not much of a foodie but their food looks delicious. Not a drinker so I’d fail that as well. Anyway, great feature of Tallin!

Hope you get to visit one day!

It’s my first time to hear about Tallinn. I’m glad to learn a lot of interesting and beautiful things about it. I enjoyed reading your guide.

Glad you enjoyed it!

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16 awesome things to do in tallinn [estonia] in 2024.

Tallinn is the medieval, vibrant, capital city of Estonia and is bursting with history, culture and wonderful things to do and see. Brad and I had the chance to explore Tallinn with Visit Estonia and we quickly fell in love with this beautiful city. 

So, if you need inspiration on what to do in Tallinn, then read on for my full guide on the best things to do in Tallinn.

What I REALLY love about Tallinn, is that the majority of all the best tourist attractions are located in the Old Town (or close to it) which means it’s easy to access all the best places to visit in Tallinn by walking.

Brad and I spent a full day seeing all the best sights in the Old Town and we didn’t need anything other than our 2 feet!

Travellerspoint

When is the best time to visit Tallinn?

Like many other places in Europe , we found that autumn was a wonderful time to visit Tallinn.

It’s still quite busy following the summer tourists, but the autumn colours are in full bloom and Estonia in autumn is an amazing scene. With what resemble Indian spices in orange, red and yellows, it’s the perfect backdrop to the city attractions. 

However, I’ve heard great things about Tallinn during winter and the Christmas season, so I think it would be a great time to visit too. 

What is the best way to get to Tallinn?

Since Tallinn is the capital city, it’s super easy to fly here! You can get cheap flights across mainland Europe, and you can visit from international destinations too. I suggest you use Skyscanner to find the best deals on flights to Tallinn. 

Or, you can do what Bradley and I did and road trip to Tallinn. Estonia is a small but mighty country with beautiful sights to see. 

We picked our Tinggly campervan from Lithuania and travelled north to Estonia through the Baltics.

Or, if you're coming from the north, you can get the direct Helsinki to Tallinn ferry . We did this the other way around and it's very straightforward.

How long should you spend in Tallinn?

Tallinn really is one of the most beautiful cities in Eastern Europe , and is the perfect place for a city break. So I suggest you spend at least 3 nights there! You could spend more, but no less or you’ll miss out on all the best things to do in Tallinn. 

If you fancy exploring more of what Estonia has to offer in general, then it’s a great idea to rent a car for a couple of days after you’re done exploring all the best tourist attractions Tallinn has to offer and head out and explore the country! 

Tartu is another great Estonian city that is worth visiting.

The top things to do in Tallinn 

1. check out jagala waterfall .

If you decide to rent a car and explore the surrounding areas of Tallinn, then I recommend you check out Jagala Waterfall. 

It’s Estonia's highest natural waterfall and it actually looks pretty cool. It’s only about 30 minutes outside the city centre of Tallinn, but it’s worth it to drive on the Estonian roads lined with beautiful Autumn colours. This waterfall can also freeze and a frozen waterfall looks super cool (if you haven’t seen one before). 

One of the more unique things to do in Estonia , but worth it if you’re there for a few days. 

2. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral 

This is one of my favourite spots in all of Tallinn because this cathedral is a work of art, both inside and out! It’s easy to find and it’s free entrance. 

You can get a good shot of this cathedral from every angle, but really stand and appreciate the beautiful architecture on show. 

3. Explore the Kadriorg Art Museum 

This Art Museum is just as famous for its outside as well as inside! This spot is a real treat in the summer when the gardens are in full bloom with beautiful colours. It’s a restored palace that houses some brilliant art, and it was built when Estonia was part of Russia. 

You can easily access the area by walking from the Old Town (which will take about 35 minutes), or you can opt for public transport to get you there. 

4. Visit Toompea Castle 

Toompea Castle is worth visiting and it’s very beautiful. But it’s no longer a castle as such, as it’s used as the Estonia Parliament (pretty cool spot for government). 

Free tours can be arranged in advance, and you can watch sessions of parliament from the public gallery is you’re interested to see how the government insides work! 

5. Dine in the Old Town

The Old Town of Tallinn is bursting with amazing places to eat and dine. When we were walking around, we were spoilt for choice and couldn’t decide on where to eat. There are lots of options of authentic Estonian food, which is actually a blend of different foods into one! 

We ended up eating in a restaurant that was located in a cellar. It was calld Munga Kelder and it was awesome. The vibe was amazing, the food was reasonably priced and tasted great!

Another popular place to eat in Estonia is Olde Hansa which is quite expensive, but you’re paying for the experience too, so if you want medieval dining, then I suggest you head there!

TOUR: Feeling really hungry? Then indulge in a Tallinn food tour! Book yours here. 

6. Visit the Danish King’s Garden 

The Danish King's Garden is one of the weird, yet wonderful sights in Tallinn. The area is the birthplace of the danish flag. The garden remains an area where locals honour the role Denmark played in Estonia's history.

There are spooky looking monks dotted over the place too, and if you’ve seen Harry Potter, you’ll see a resemble to dementors. 

It’s a totally free area to explore too, so again, a great spot for those looking for the best places to visit in Tallinn on a budget! 

7. Check out St Catherine's Passage 

This has to be one of the most picturesque spots in all of Tallinn! This winding road is half hidden walkway that leads to what was once St Catherine's church.

There is a collection of workshops located in the area, but the ambience of the passage is what you really seek. You’ll feel it as you walk through, trust me! 

If you’re looking for an awesome “Instagram Worthy” spot, then this is one of the best places to visit in Tallinn. 

8. Visit the Tallinn town hall 

The Tallinn Town Hall stands proud as the oldest city call in Northern Europe and the only one that’s preserved in Gothic style (my favourite style!) During August and July the Town Hall is open for visitors who can visit the whole area, including the attic and basement.

Prices start at 5 euro entrance, and you can visit at other times but with prior request I believe. 

9. Get your picture at Viru Gate 

Viru Gate feels like the grand entrance into the Old Town and it’s a really cute spot because it’s lined the florists. Brad bought me a red rose and that made my day! I don’t think it’s very expensive, so you can delight your partner with a rose too by the gate if you wish :P 

Which is a good time to mention that Tallinn is a great spot for couples, there is a very romantic vibe about the place. 

10. Visit St Olaf's Church 

Considered one of the symbols of Tallinn, this iconic church is very beautiful and a great picture spot. You can actually check out the amazing view from the top via 232 steps to the observation platform.  The viewing platform is only open in the summer months, not winter. 

TOUR: You can take a walking tour of the Old Town if you’d like to learn more about the history of the sights you’re seeing. Check this one out. 

11. Explore the KGB Prison Cells 

This was a super unique experience and something I was looking forward to seeing. I’ve studied the KGB extensively in my history lessons in high school and in university and I was intrigued to learn more about the tragic ongoings of the KGB prison cells.

These are the actual prison cells, which is a harrowing, harsh reality as you walk through. 

It’s not a very big museum as such, but it’s more than enough to show you what it was like to be a prisoner during those times- horrific. Each exhibition is in an old cell and it was a truly insightful experience I think you should visit! 

One of the top things to do in Tallinn for sure! 

It’s a 5 euro entrance fee for adults and you can pay card. 

12. Explore the city’s defensive walls 

The oldest parts of the walls of Tallinn were actually built in the 13th century, which means they have a long history! For just a couple of euro, you can climb up the walls and walk along them in one section.

It’s a short tour, but it does give some beautiful views and with learning a little bit about the history of the walls. 

13. Check out the KGB museum located in a hotel 

So this was one of the first things Brad and I checked out when we got to Tallinn, but we didn’t get past the door. Basically, we didn’t realise you can only access via guided tour, and when we visited, the next guided tour in English wasn’t until 3 hours away. We had our day planned meticulously, so we couldn't fit it in. 

But, I think this is an excellent spot. It’s located in the Hotel Viru and I believe it’s the only hotel that holds a museum. You’ll get an insight into the KGB history, and of course the role that this hotel played in all that.

Just book your tickets in advance, it was super busy when we arrived! 

Definitely one of the more unique Tallinn tourist attractions on offer! 

14. Check out Tallinn TV tower

Tallinn TV tower is located outside the main area of the city, so it’s not really walking distance. It’s northern Europe's highest viewing tower and on a clear day, you’ll be treated to some awesome views! 

You can actually “walk on the edge” of this TV tower if you’re feeling brave for only 30 euro, and looking for something truly unique to do in Tallinn. Or, you can dine at their restaurant which boasts amazing views (I’m not surprised!) 

It’s 13 euro to enter the tower for adults. 

You can purchase a fast track ticket right here! 

15. Pop into the Tallinn Creative City 

This is one of the spots Brad and I didn’t go to, but I think is worth mentioning. This is the largest creative hub in all of Estonia, consisting of creative companies, studios and offices of NGOs.

Basically it’s a buzzing place and it hosts over 600 events that take place. There is lots of street art, unique eating spots and photo galleries, it's a great place to spend an afternoon. 

16. Wander the cute streets of the Old town 

The Old Town of Tallinn is filled with cobbled streets and corners that you’ll find cute cafes, delicious eateries and cute souvenir shops. I suggest you just wander around without a map and just see what you discover.

I ended up going into a cute shop located underground and wanted to buy everything in there! In the end I just got a shot glass for my collection, but there are lots of gifts you could bring back to family and friends. 

A tour can be a great way to find the best spots, check this one out!

Is Tallinn expensive? 

Not overly, for a capital city, I think it’s quite well priced, however in comparison to the rest of Estonia, the prices in Tallinn are higher. But it’s far cheaper than most European capital cities and it’s great value for money. 

But, if you're looking for ways to visit Tallinn on a budget, then I suggest you eat outside of the Old Town. You’ll find better deals. 

Getting around Tallinn 

Like I mentioned before, one of the great things about Tallinn, Estonia, is the fact that most of the best sites in Tallinn are within walking distance from any accommodation located in/near the Old Town. 

However, another option is to use the classic sightseeing Hop on Hop off bus, it’ll take you to the best things to do in Tallinn and you can hop on and off as you need too. 

You can book your ticket ahead of time here too. 

CityBee is also an electric scooter rental company and you can download the app and pick up a scooter and take it for as long as you need, then simply leave it within the Old Town for the next person to pick up. We used them in Lithuania , and it’s a brilliant way to sightsee, so using it in Tallinn, is a great idea too. 

So there you have it! My guide to the top things to do in Tallinn. I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and I hope it’s inspired you to do all these amazing things in Tallinn! If you’ve got any other suggestions to add to the list of Tallinn attractions, then simply drop a comment below.

A big thank you to VisitEstonia for hosting us for our stay in Tallinn at their StoryTellers Nest! 

For more help planning your trip in Estonia, check out our other guides:

• Our 2 Week Baltic Road Trip
• The 13 Best Things To Do In Estonia

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Wonderful Tourist Places to Visit and Things to Do in Tallinn

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia and also its larger city. It is also the most popular place to visit in Estonia. Tallinn is located north of Estonia facing the Gulf of Finland. The capital city of Finland, Helsinki, is right across the gulf from Tallinn. Ferry ride to and from Helsinki is among best things to do in Tallinn , Estonia. Another popular destination approachable by ferry is St. Petersburg in Russia. Same is true for Stockholm in Sweden located west of Tallinn. All these destinations are popular for Tallinn day trips. All you need is a bus trip or a ferry ride to visit Tallinn from any of these cities.

Tallinn is also the cultural capital of Estonia. There are more than 60 museums and art galleries among places to visit in Tallinn . Majority of these Tallinn tourist attractions can be found in old city. It is the best place to begin Tallinn sightseeing. Parts of the old city as preserved as they were in the 15th century. You can explore old Tallinn attractions on foot or take a bicycle tour as well. Both are popular activities in Tallinn for sightseeing. You can enjoy several places to visit in Tallinn in the area including Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Toompea Castle, Viru Gate, Old City Docks, St. Mary Church and old city fortified walls. One of the lesser known Tallinn attractions in the old city is ex-KGB headquarters which is now converted into a museum.

Some of the most popular things to see in Tallinn among museums include Estonian History Museum, Maritime Museum, Estonian Museum of Natural History and Museum of Occupation. Other well known Tallinn attractions include Theatre & Music Museum, Photography Museum and Pharmacy Museum. You can also head straight to city’s tourist information center and get Tallinn travel guide. Though you will find much more places to visit in Tallinn other than those attractions mentioned in the guide. Tallinn travel guide would only include major historical and cultural places to visit in Tallinn. It also mentions several enjoyable activities in Tallinn.

The dedication of the nation towards art and artists is reflected in several top things to do in Tallinn focused around art galleries and design centers. Some of the best places to visit in Tallinn to explore the artistic heritage include Estonian Art Museum, Kumu Art Museum, Kadriog Art Museum, Mikel Museum, St. Nicholas Church and Niguliste Museum. You can take a more academic approach towards art & designing at Estonian Museum of Applied Art & Design. It is among top things to do in Tallinn, Estonia for students of creative arts and design related disciplines.

Though limited, Tallinn has a few good beaches. The most popular beach among Tallinn attractions is Pirita Beach connected to the Marina. It is one of the most lively and happening places to visit in Tallinn. If you are looking for some adventure when swimming in the ocean, you should head to Pikakari beach. The ocean gets deep rather close to the shore & the sandy beach is met by huge waves. It is a great place for advanced swimmers, though it can be dangerous if you have no experience dealing with such depth & powerful waves. For a more leisurely experience among top things to do in Tallinn, you can visit Stroomi Beach or Kakumae Beach.

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Table of Contents

5 Days Trip Itinerary To Visit Tallinn Tourist Attractions

As you sit to plan you trip to Tallinn, this section will help you organize your trip. If you are looking to check out a list of all there is to explore and enjoy in and around the city, check out the section after this one.

1. Estonian Open Air Museum (Eesti Vabaõhumuuseum)

This museum depicts the pastoral way of life in the country. It is a unique experience. It is one of the most fun things to do in Tallinn. The museum is quite large, so you would need at least 2 to 3 hours to explore it.

I suggest you should do a guided tour of Estonian Open Air Museum .

2. Tallinn Zoo

This is the most visited zoo in the Baltic region. There are animals form over 600 species in this zoo. You will need 2 to 3 hours here as well.

3. Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam)

Also known as Estonian Maritime Museum, this place tells the seafaring history of the nation. The submarine and flight simulator are among the biggest attraction of the museum. You will need 2 to 3 hours to explore this museum.

I suggest you should book your ticket of Seaplane Harbour in advance.

1. Kadriorg Park (Kadrioru park)

This park is part of 18th century Kadriog Palace. The gardena s well as the palace are known for their ornate baroque style design are among the most beautiful things to see in Tallinn. You will need 30 to 45 minutes at this park.

2. Kadriorg Palace and Art Museum

This art museum is dedicated to works of art created between the 16th and 18th century. It exhibits artworks by Estonian, Russian and Western Artists. You will need about 2 hours to explore the exhibits of this art museum.

3. Kumu Art Museum (Kumu kunstimuuseum)

This is the most innovative art galleries in Estonia. It is also one of the largest art museums among Tallinn tourist attractions. This art gallery is especially known for works of contemporary art and will require about 2 hours time to explore.

I suggest you should get your ticket of Kumu Art Museum in advance.

4. Estonian History Museum (Eesti Ajaloomuuseum)

The exhibits of this museum tell you about 11,000 years of the land’s history. It is one of the Tallinn attractions, which you should visit as soon as you get there. This will help you understand the people and other attractions better. You will need an hour or two to explore this museum.

5. St. Bridget’s Convent Ruins / Pirita Convent (Pirita klooster)

The 15th convent which once stood here, is now in ruins. The convent was destroyed by Ivan the Terrible. The ruins of the convent are now used as a concert hall for various events. You will need 30 to 45 minutes for this place.

6. Tallinn TV Tower (Tallinna teletorn)

This tall tower is among the best places for Tallinn sightseeing. You should keep an hour aside to spend at the observation deck of this Tower.

I suggest you should get a Fast-Lane Ticket of Tallinn TV Tower in advance.

1. Walls of Tallinn (Tallinna linnamüür)

These walls date back to the 13th century and were erected to protect the city from attacks. They still stand strong are among the most important historical places to visit in the city. You would need 30 to 45 minutes for city walls.

2. Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform

Another great place for Tallinn sightseeing is this viewing platform. You can see as far as the Gold of Finland from this point. You would need 20 to 30 minutes for this place.

3. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This 19th century Russian orthodox cathedral is one of the most popular places to visit in Tallinn. You will need about 45 minutes to explore this cathedral.

4. St. Mary’s Cathedral (Tallinna Neitsi Maarja Piiskoplik Toomkirik)

This 13th century cathedral is also known as the Dome Church. It among popular landmarks of the city and visited by tourists for its cultural significance. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore it.

5. Toompea Hill

This limestone hill is the site for several historical things to see in Tallinn. You should keep about 2 hours to explore this area.

6. Toompea Castle

This medieval castle is part of the old town district of the city and is now home to the parliament. There are restrictions to exploring certain sections of this castle, so you won’t need more than 30 minutes here.

7. Tall Hermann (Pikk Hermann)

This 13th century defensive tower is part of the Tompea Castle. You should use 20 minutes to explore this tower while you are enjoying the castle.

1. Estonian Maritime Museum (Eesti Meremuuseum)

This museum focuses on the seafaring history of the nation. The museum is houses in a coastal defensive tower named Fat Margaret. You will need about an hour to explore this museum.

2. St. Olaf’s Church (Oleviste kirik)

This is the largest surviving medical church in the city and is dedicated to King Olaf II. You will need 20 to 30 minutes for this church.

3. St. Catherine’s Passage

This medieval passage has several handicraft workshops and stores to explore when you visit Tallinn. It is one of the most photographed place in the city. Keep 30 to 45 minutes for this historic passage.

4. Town Hall Pharmacy (Raeapteek)

This historic pharmacy has a history going all the way back to 1422. It is also recognized as oldest surviving pharmacy in Europe. You should keep 20 minutes for this historical establishment.

5. Great Guild Hall (Suurgild)

This 15th century trading hall now serves as a museum exhibiting artifacts from pre-history of Estonia to its present. You will need about 2 hours for this museum.

I suggest you should get a Skip-The-Line Ticket of Great Guild Hall in advance.

6. Tallinn Town Hall Square

This square is among the most important historical sites in the city. It is also venue for numerous top things to do in Tallinn. You will need about an hour at this square.

I suggest you should do a guided walking tour of Old Town in Tallinn.

1. Kiek in de Kök Museum and Bastion Tunnels

This artillery tower was built in the 15th century. It is one of the most interesting things to see in Tallinn. The tower itself is a museum and you will need 2 to 3 hours to explore it.

2. St. Nicholas’ Church and Museum (Niguliste kirik)

This 13th church has been converted into a museum. The church is also a concert hall and an art museum. You will need about an hour to explore it.

3. Tallinn Legends (Tallinna Legendid)

This museum is one of the most interesting places to visit in Tallinn. It is an interactive museum depicting folklores of the nation. You will need to 2 to 3 hours for this amazing experience.

4. KGB Museum

This museum is established in a hotel and depicts the history and artifacts related to the KGB. You will need about an hour to explore this museum.

If you plan to visit Tallinn for more than 5 days, check out the section below.

Things to do in tallinn, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in tallinn.

• Tallinn Town Hall
• Kadriorg Art Museum
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• St. Nicholas Church & Museum
• Toompea Castle
• Estonian Open Air Museum
• Kumu Art Museum
• St. Olaf’s Church
• St. Mary’s Cathedral
• Estonian Maritime Museum
• Lennusadam Museum
•  Town Hall Pharmacy Museum
• Linnahall Amphitheater
• Tall Hermann Medieval Tower
• Holy Spirit Church
• Eesti Kunsti Museum
• Nunnatorn ja Linnamuuri Platvorm Tower
• Estonian History Museum
• Kiek in de Kok Museum
• Patarei Sea Fortress
• St. Catherine’s Passage
• Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom
• Pirita Convent Ruins
• Paks Margareeta – Eesti Mere Museum
•  Tallinn City Museum
• Dominican St. Catherine’s Monastery
• Mikkel Museum
• Museum of Estonian Architecture
• Estonia Healthcare Museum
• Maarjamae Castle
• Kalev Marzipan Museum
• St. John’s Church
• Estonian Museum of Natural History
• Children’s Museum
• Proto Avastustehas Museum
• Glehn’s Castle
• Tallinn Synagogue
• KGB Prison Museum
• Adamson Erik Museum
• Museum of Photography
• Contemporary Art Museum of Estonia
• Estonian Museum of Applied Art & Design
• Peter the Great House Museum
• Estonian Theatre & Music Museum
• Tallinn Museum of Order of Knighthood
• Museum of Coastal Folk
• Bronze Soldier Statue

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Tallinn

• Toompea Hill
• Jagala Waterfall
• Lahemaa National Park
• Lake Usemiste
• Pohja Korvemaa Nature Reserve
• Puhkus Eestis
• Matsalu National Park
• Tallinn Bay

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Tallinn

• Tallinn Zoo
• Telliskivi Creativity City
• Port of Tallinn
• National Library of Estonia
• Tallinn Botanical Gardens
• Tallinn Legends
• House of Blackheads
• Maiden Tower Museum Cafe
• Skywheel of Tallinn
• Atlantis H2O Aquapark
• Energy Discovery Center
• Super Skypark Amusement Park
• Tallinn Art Gallery
• Monet 2 Klimt Multimedia Art

Shopping in Tallinn

• Balti Jaama Turg
• Tallinn Central Market
• Nomme Market
• Tallinn City Center
• Stockmann Shopping Center
• Viru Center
• Solaris Mall
• Rocca al Mare

Beaches & Islands in Tallinn

• Aegna Island
• Stoormi Beach
• Pirita Beach
• Kakumae Beach
• Pikakari Beach

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventure in Tallinn

• Nomme Seikluspark Adventure Park
• Pirita Adventure Park

Sightseeing in Tallinn

• Kohtuotsa Viewpoint Deck
• Kadriorg Park
• Freedom Square
• Danish King’s Garden
• Viru Square
• Russalka Memorial
• Patkuli Viewing Platform
• Master’s Courtyard
• Rataskaevu Street
• Hellemann Tower Observation Deck
• Pikk Jalg Street
• Muuga Harbour
• Tammsaare Park

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Tallinn

• Rataskaevu 16
• Rae Meierei
• Wana Wiipuri
• III Draakon
• Von Kralle Aed
• Pierre Chocolaterie
• Tchaikovsky
• Kuldse Notsu Korts

Where to Stay in Tallinn?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range and Budget Hotels in Tallinn. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Tallinn.

Luxurious Hotels

• Palace Hotel Tallinn, a member of Radisson Individuals
• Hotel Telegraaf
• Hilton Tallinn Park
• Kalev Spa Hotel&Waterpark
• Hotel Schlossle
• Swissotel Tallinn
• von Stackelberg Hotel Tallinn
• Original Sokos Hotel Viru
• Centennial Hotel Tallinn
• Merchant’s House Hotel
• Tallink City Hotel

Mid-Range Hotels

• Revelton Suites
• Metropol Spa Hotel
• Metropol Hotel
• Park Inn by Radisson Meriton Conference & Spa Hotel Tallinn
• L’Ermitage Hotel
• Kreutzwald Hotel Tallinn
• Rixwell Collection Savoy Boutique Hotel
• Hestia Hotel Barons
• Park Inn by Radisson Central Tallinn
• Hestia Hotel Seaport
• Hotel Tallinn by Mercure
• Oru Hub Hotel

Budget Hotels

• ibis Tallinn Center
• Meriton Old Town Garden Hotel
• Rixwell Viru Square Hotel
• Knight House
• 16eur Fat Margaret’s Hostel
• Rija Old Town Hotel
• Go Hotel Shnelli
• Economy Hotell
• Angleterre Apartments Hotel
• Hestia Hotel Ilmarine
• St Olav Hotel
• City Hotel Tallinn

Custom Tours Package in Tallinn

How to reach tallinn.

Just 5 kms outside the city is Tallinn Airport, which is one of the best options for Tallinn travel. You can visit Tallinn with direct flights from Moscow , Amsterdam , Berlin , Paris , Riga , Vienna , Vilnius , London , Helsinki, Warsaw , Reykjavík , Santorini , Frankfurt , Brussels , Kiev , Chișinău , Oslo , Stockholm , Trondheim, Dublin , Copenhagen , and Istanbul . There are also a few more cities with direct flights to visit Tallinn, but the aforementioned are the major ones.

Once you land at Tallinn airport, you can take bus, tram or taxi to reach the city. If you do not wish to take either the bus or the tram, do make advance booking for cab service or you will be charged heavily from the airport. You have the convenience to reach any of the places to visit in Tallinn via cab, but airport cabs are costly. The bus and trams on the other hand are public transport services for Tallinn travel and are a lot cheaper than cabs.

You can travel by train within Estonia via Elron trains. You can board the trains from station near Old Town, which is a major Tallinn sightseeing location. Internationally, you can get direct trains to visit Tallinn from St. Petersburg, Viljandi, Moscow and many nearby cities.

Bus network is Estonia is also well connected. You can catch a bus for Tallinn travel from anywhere in Estonia. There are also several buses running between Russia which can be boarded for Tallinn day trips.

Tallinn is the northern center of Estonia. Several expressway routes connect to the capital city which can be used for Tallinn travel. Major routes to visit Tallinn include E265, E67, and E20.

Being a major port in Estonia, hence there are several water transport options available for Tallinn travel. You can get ferry service to visit Tallinn from Helsinki and Stockholm. Tallinn tourist attractions are also popular with cruise ships. Many cruises of the Baltic would include Tallinn day trips on their itineraries.

Image Reference

• Estonian Open Air Museum (Eesti Vabaõhumuuseum) – Delphinidaesy / Flickr
• Tallinn Zoo – Vilve Roosioks / PixaBay
• Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam) – Hans Põldoja / Flickr
• Kadriorg Park (Kadrioru park) – Mark Gregory / Flickr
• Kadriorg Palace and Art Museum – Jorge Franganillo / Flickr
• Kumu Art Museum (Kumu kunstimuuseum) – fabcom / Flickr
• Estonian History Museum (Eesti Ajaloomuuseum) – Visit Tallinn by Merlen Aringo / Flickr
• St. Bridget’s Convent Ruins / Pirita Convent (Pirita klooster) – Visit Tallinn by Merlen Aringo / Flickr
• Tallinn TV Tower (Tallinna teletorn) – Visit Tallinn by Marko Leppik / Flickr
• Walls of Tallinn (Tallinna linnamüür) – Makalu / PixaBay
• Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform – Jorge Franganillo / Flickr
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – Tomaž Klobučar / Flickr
• St Mary’s Cathedral (Tallinna Neitsi Maarja Piiskoplik Toomkirik) – Edward Weston / Flickr
• Toompea Hill – Aditya Karnad / Flickr
• Toompea Castle – Williamson.est / Wikimedia Commons
• Tall Hermann (Pikk Hermann) – Sergei Gussev / Flickr
• Estonian Maritime Museum (Eesti Meremuuseum) – Vladimir Varfolomeev / Flickr
• St Olaf’s Church (Oleviste kirik) – Ahen0barbus / Wikimedia Commons
• St. Catherine’s Passage – Matt Kieffer / Flickr
• Town Hall Pharmacy (Raeapteek) – olgite / Flickr
• Great Guild Hall (Suurgild) – Borodun / Wikimedia Commons
• Tallinn Town Hall Square – Dennis Jarvis / Flickr
• Kiek in de Kök Museum and Bastion Tunnels – Henning Klokkeråsen / Flickr
• St. Nicholas’ Church and Museum (Niguliste kirik) – Anita / Flickr
• Tallinn Legends (Tallinna Legendid) –
• KGB Museum – Vladimir Varfolomeev / Flickr
• Top Things to Do and Sightseeing in Copenhagen
• Interesting Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Helsinki

Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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• Destinations

Highlights of Tallinn

Here are our selected highlights of things to see in Tallinn.

Town Hall Square

Without a doubt, the best place to start exploring Tallinn is Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats), the spiritual and cultural heart of the city. This ­picture-postcard square, surrounded by medieval merchant houses, is where the cobblestone streets converge, where people from all walks of life mingle, and where concerts and craft fairs are held. In spring and summer, the square comes alive with crowded outdoor cafés and groups of tourists. It also plays host to Tallinn’s Christmas Market each December, when it holds the town’s Christmas tree, a tradition that dates back to 1441.

In medieval times, Town Hall Square served as both the centre of Tallinn’s civic life and as its main marketplace (a two-storey weighhouse stood in the southwest corner until it was bombed in 1944). When the summer terraces aren’t covering it, you can find two stones forming an ‘L’ in the area of the square near the Kehrwieder café. They mark the spot where, in the late 17th century, a drunken priest named Panicke was beheaded for killing a waitress with an axe. According to the story, he flew into a murderous rage after she served him an omelette that was ‘as hard as the sole of a shoe’.

An equally noteworthy, and much less macabre, spot on the square is the so-called ‘Centre of Tallinn’. To find it, stand at right angles to the Town Hall’s clock and the nearby Davidoff cigar house, then search the ground for a polished, round stone decorated with a compass rose. Text around its edges in Estonian and Latin proclaims that this is the ‘zero point’ of the Old Town. Whether this is the area’s true geographical centre is debateable, but what makes this spot interesting is that from here you can see the tops of Tallinn’s five most famous spires…with a bit of luck. Accomplishing the feat usually requires some gymnastics, but successfully facing the challenge has become something of a rite of passage for first-time visitors. 

Toompea Castle

The Toompea Castle (Toompea Loss) is the historic abode of Estonia’s rulers and now, appropriately, home to Estonia’s parliament. The castle traces its origins back to 1227–29, when the Knights of the Sword built a square stone fortress here to replace the earlier wooden strongholds of the Danes and the Estonians. In the 14th century, the castle was rebuilt as a convent-style structure with a trapezoidal courtyard, 20-m (65-ft) walls, and towers at each of its four corners. Three of those towers are still standing today. 

Because of the castle’s official function, visitors aren’t allowed inside, but you can see more of the structure by visiting the tranquil Governor’s Garden (Kuberneri Aed), accessible through the gates at the castle’s left. From here you’ll get the best view of another landmark, the castle’s Tall Hermann (Pikk Hermann; see also page 58). The tower was built here at the southwest corner of the castle in 1371, but reached its current height of 48m (157ft) after reconstruction in 1500. It’s a generally accepted principle that whichever nation flies its flag on Tall Hermann can claim to be the ruler of Estonia, so when the Estonian tricolour appeared here on 24 February 1989 instead of the Soviet banner, the act was regarded as a major triumph for the independence movement. The black-, blue-and-white flag has been flying here ever since, making this tower an important symbol of Estonia’s statehood. 

Dome Church

Estonia’s main Lutheran church is the majestic, white Dome Church (Toomkirik). Officially known as the Cathedral of St Mary the Virgin, this was historically the church of the Toompea elite. It’s thought to have been founded as a wooden church after the Danish invasion of 1219, then rebuilt as a stone structure in the 1240s. What you see now is the result of several centuries of development. The church’s vaulted main body, for example, originates from the 14th century, but the baroque tower is a later addition, dating to 1778–79. 

The walls of the main hall are covered with funereal coats of arms, which date from the 17th to 20th centuries. Inscribed with epitaphs, they were used in the funeral processions of wealthy Baltic German families, then placed in the church as memorials.

Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral

This dreamy ­onion-domed masterpiece is the most impressive Orthodox church in Estonia. It was built from 1894 to 1900 by renowned St Petersburg architect Mikhail ­Preobrazhensky, who based its design on the five-domed churches erected in Moscow and Yaroslavl from the 17th century. 

Though the church now serves a purely religious purpose, it was originally placed here as a blatant symbol of Russian power. In the late 19th century, imperial Russia was carrying out an intense campaign of Russification in its Baltic territories, an attempt to exert cultural domination over the mainly Lutheran Estonians and Germans. As part of that drive, this massive Orthodox cathedral was constructed in this place of prominence, directly opposite Toompea Castle, on a spot that would make it visible from much of the town below. Very fittingly, the church was named after Aleksander Nevsky, the heroic Grand Duke of Novgorod.

St Catherine's Passage

One of the most picturesque spots in Tallinn, St Catherine’s ­Passage (Katariina käik) is a narrow lane wedged between the remains of St Catherine’s Church and a ­jumble of 15th- to 17th-century residential buildings. What makes the lane even more interesting is that it’s home to St Catherine’s Guild (­Katariina Gild), an association of artisans who operate a row of open studio/ workshops along the passage’s left side. Visitors are welcome to drop into any of their shops to browse round their ­creations, pick up a gift or two or watch the artists at work on silk screening, ceramics, leather-­making, quilting, blown-glass and other crafts. 

On the passage’s left-hand side, a curious collection of stone burial slabs, rescued from St Catherine’s Church, is on display. The first one, on the left as you face them, is unique in that it’s Tallinn’s oldest-known burial slab for a woman. You can make out her portrait if you look closely.

Seaplane Harbour

www.lennusadam.eu

Opened in 2012, this museum and activity centre makes its home in and around a set of domed seaplane hangars dating to the World War I era. The vast interior displays boats, mines and anti-aircraft guns, while hands-on exhibits let visitors attempt to shoot down helicopters, make paper aeroplanes and try on old military uniforms. Pride of place in the hall is given to the Lembit submarine, built in Barrow-in-Furness, England, in 1936 for the Estonian Navy and later co-opted into the Soviet fleet. Visitors can climb inside to inspect the torpedo hatches, crew’s bunks and the like. 

The outdoor exhibit comprises a handful of ships that can be toured, including the Suur Tõll icebreaker, built in 1914, the largest intact steam-powered icebreaker in the world.

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