Estonia’s capital, whose medieval walls and towers survive almost intact in a UNESCO-listed old town; about two hours by ferry from Helsinki, so easy to combine.
Tallinn Christmas Market Held on the medieval Town Hall Square, with a large Christmas tree at its centre.
Tallinn Old Town A well-preserved medieval town of walls and towers, listed by UNESCO.
Toompea viewing platforms Viewpoints over the old town’s red roofs and the sea.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral An onion-domed Russian Orthodox cathedral on Toompea hill.
Where to stay in Tallinn
Old Town
Walk to the market, walls and viewpoints.
What to eat in Tallinn
Kiluvõileib — Open sandwich of sprats on dark rye bread, often with boiled egg
Kohuke — Sweet curd-cheese snack coated in chocolate
Mulgipuder — Traditional Mulgi-region porridge of potato and barley
Kama desserts — Desserts made with kama, a roasted grain flour
Tallinn tips and things to watch out for
Best time to visit Tallinn
The Christmas market runs on Town Hall Square from late November to around 6 January; June–August has long, warm days, while winters are cold and dark. Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Tallinn travel tips
Ferries between Helsinki and Tallinn take about two hours. Check the operators’ schedules if visiting both cities.
Most businesses in Estonia accept debit and credit cards, including contactless payments.
Good to know in Estonia
On Tallinn buses and trams you can buy a ticket on board with a contactless bank card; single tickets and travel cards are also sold at the airport and terminals. source
If you plan to visit three or more paid attractions, the Tallinn Card can pay off. source
Watch out for in Estonia
Pickpockets, sometimes working in teams, target crowded parts of the Old Town and its bars; keep valuables secure. source
Some bars charge tourists exorbitant drink prices; check prices before ordering. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Real menu prices in Tallinn
Per-person meal prices from restaurants’ official menus (where tax and tips are extra, the calculator adds them).
Pancake with minced meat and cheese: €8.50
Fish'n'Chips with garlic mayo: €12.00
Gröstl pan dish: €21.00
Tallinn attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.