General Information
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a stunning blend of medieval charm and modern innovation. Known for its beautifully preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tallinn’s cobbled streets, ancient walls, and medieval architecture transport visitors back in time. The city is also a vibrant hub for digital technology and innovation, with Estonia being one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world. Tallinn’s proximity to both Finland and Russia has shaped its history, and its eclectic mix of influences is evident in the architecture, culture, and food. From medieval castles to cutting-edge technology, Tallinn offers a unique experience for all types of travelers.
Location
Tallinn is located on the northern coast of Estonia, along the Gulf of Finland, making it a prominent port city with a strategic maritime history. Its position offers stunning views of the sea, with the Tallinn Bay to the north and nearby Pirita Beach for those looking to relax by the water. Tallinn’s landscape is characterized by its hills, forests, and the Old Town, which is perched on a hill overlooking the modern city below.
How to Get There
- By Air: Tallinn Airport (TLL) is the main international gateway to the city, located about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the city center. The airport offers connections to major European cities, as well as some direct international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or tram to the city center.
- By Train: Tallinn is connected to St. Petersburg and Moscow in Russia by train. The main train station, Tallinna Raudteejaam, offers services to neighboring countries and regions. Tallinn to Helsinki by ferry is also a popular route, taking around 2 hours.
- By Bus: Tallinn is well-connected to other cities in Estonia and the surrounding region, including Riga (Latvia), Helsinki (Finland), and Saint Petersburg (Russia), via international bus services like Lux Express and Ecolines.
- By Ferry: Given its location along the Gulf of Finland, Tallinn is easily accessible by ferry from Helsinki. The ferry ride takes approximately 2 hours, and ferries run frequently throughout the day.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April to June): Spring offers mild temperatures (around 5°C to 15°C), and the city begins to bloom with flowers and outdoor events. It’s a great time for sightseeing and walking around the Old Town without the summer crowds.
- Summer (July to August): The summer months bring warmer weather (15°C to 25°C) and long days with nearly 18 hours of daylight. This is the peak tourist season, and Tallinn comes alive with festivals, concerts, and outdoor markets. It’s the perfect time to enjoy Tallinn’s open-air cafes and explore its vibrant culture.
- Fall (September to November): Fall in Tallinn is cooler (around 5°C to 15°C), and the city’s parks and streets are adorned with autumn foliage. The crowds thin out, making it an excellent time to explore at a slower pace.
- Winter (December to February): Winters in Tallinn are cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C. However, the Christmas Markets are a major highlight, creating a festive atmosphere in the Old Town. Snow transforms the city into a winter wonderland, making it ideal for those who enjoy winter activities and cozy cafes.
Where to Stay
- Luxury: For an upscale experience, consider staying at Schlössle Hotel, located in a 13th-century building in Tallinn’s Old Town, offering modern amenities with a medieval touch. Another luxury option is The Three Sisters Hotel, a historic hotel offering elegant rooms in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town.
- Mid-range: Hotel Telegraaf, housed in a former telegraph building, offers a perfect blend of history and comfort with modern facilities. Another good option is Tallink City Hotel, located near the city center and offering easy access to Tallinn’s main attractions.
- Budget: The Monk’s Bunk Hostel is a popular choice for budget travelers, offering a laid-back atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town. Kohver Hostel is another affordable option located in the city center, providing clean and simple accommodations.
- Unique: Stay in a lighthouse or an eco-friendly cabin near Tallinn’s coastline for a truly unique experience. Or consider booking a room in a historical manor house outside the city for a more tranquil stay surrounded by nature.
Top Attractions
- Tallinn Old Town: Tallinn’s medieval Old Town is the main attraction, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and well-preserved city walls. Don’t miss the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Tallinn Town Hall, and Raekoja Plats (Town Hall Square).
- Toompea Castle: Sitting on a hill overlooking the city, Toompea Castle houses the Estonian parliament. It’s also home to the Pikk Hermann Tower, where the Estonian flag is raised daily.
- Tallinn’s City Walls: The city’s historic walls and towers are remnants of the medieval fortifications that once protected the city. Walk along sections of the wall and visit towers like Kiek in de Kök and Fat Margaret for panoramic views.
- Kadriorg Palace: A beautiful Baroque palace built by Peter the Great in the 18th century. Today, the palace houses the Kadriorg Art Museum, showcasing both Estonian and international art.
- Seaplane Harbour Museum: Located in a historic seaplane hangar, this museum offers a fascinating look at Estonia’s maritime history, with exhibits ranging from historic ships to submarines and seaplanes.
- Tallinn TV Tower: For panoramic views of Tallinn and its surroundings, head to the Tallinn TV Tower, the tallest building in the city. The observation deck offers breathtaking views of the city, the Baltic Sea, and beyond.
- Pikk Street: A historic street that stretches through Tallinn’s Old Town, lined with charming shops, cafes, and beautiful buildings. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll and some souvenir shopping.
- Telliskivi Creative City: This former industrial area has been transformed into a creative hub filled with art galleries, design shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to experience Tallinn’s modern, artistic side.
Getting Around
- Public Transport: Tallinn has a reliable and affordable public transport system, including trams, buses, and trolleybuses. The Tallinn Card offers unlimited travel on all forms of public transport, as well as discounts to major attractions.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are widely available in Tallinn, and services like Bolt (Estonia’s version of Uber) also operate in the city, offering affordable rides.
- Biking: Tallinn is a bike-friendly city, with numerous cycling paths. Rent a bike through services like CityBike Tallinn, or use Bolt Scooters for a quick and fun way to get around.
- Walking: The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, particularly in the Old Town, which is best explored on foot. It’s also ideal for simply wandering around and discovering hidden gems.
Local Cuisine
- Kohuke: A popular Estonian sweet, Kohuke is a curd snack coated in chocolate, often filled with fruit or jam.
- Karre: A traditional Estonian meat dish made with beef or pork, served with potatoes and vegetables.
- Mulgikapsad: A hearty dish made with sauerkraut, pork, and potatoes, reflecting Estonia’s rural culinary roots.
- Kiluvõileib: A traditional Estonian sandwich made with sprat fish, butter, hard-boiled egg, and rye bread.
- Rye Bread: Estonians are passionate about their dark rye bread, often served with butter, cheese, or cold cuts.
Restaurants to try include Rataskaevu 16 (for traditional Estonian food), F-hoone (for modern, innovative dishes), and Tuljak (for a scenic dining experience with a beautiful view).
Shopping
- Viru Keskus: The largest shopping mall in Tallinn, offering a variety of international brands, local shops, and restaurants. It’s a popular destination for shopping and entertainment.
- Old Town Shops: Tallinn’s Old Town is filled with unique shops selling traditional Estonian crafts, hand-made jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. Kohver Shop is a great place to find Estonian design items.
- Telliskivi Creative City: For artsy souvenirs, design goods, and local handicrafts, visit Telliskivi Creative City, a hub for independent shops and local artisans.
- Balti Jaama Turg: This modern market is a mix of fresh produce, antiques, and local artisan goods, making it a great place to experience local life and buy authentic souvenirs.
Nightlife
- Old Town Bars: Tallinn’s Old Town is filled with charming pubs and bars, such as Beer House (known for its large selection of beers) and Clayhills (offering cozy, atmospheric vibes).
- Club Hollywood: A popular nightclub with electronic music and live DJ performances. It’s one of Tallinn’s top spots for partying and dancing the night away.
- Põhjala Brewery & Taproom: For beer lovers, this brewery offers a wide range of locally brewed craft beers in a laid-back setting.
- Telliskivi Creative City: This vibrant area comes alive at night with live music venues, bars, and casual hangouts offering a more alternative nightlife experience.
