Tallinn, the enchanting capital of Estonia, is a city similar to Riga in Latvia, where medieval charm blends effortlessly with modern innovation. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town draws us into a fairytale, while areas like Kalamaja and Port Noblessner pulse with creative energy. The city stretches beyond the tourist core into neighborhoods like Pirita and Maarjamäe, where forest paths and seaside views redefine relaxation. Whether we’re culture lovers, foodies, love beautiful heritage hotels, history buffs, or outdoor explorers, Tallinn offers an exciting mix of experiences. In this city guide to Tallinn, we highlight 30 must-do activities—from the iconic to the hidden—each with details, exact locations, and local insights.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored article where Visit Tallinn provided us with VIP PLUS Tallinn Cards for 48 hours to explore the city and museums as well as make full use of the public transport. As always all views, opinions and photography are my own and therefore remain a copyright of be-lavie.
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Map of Tallinn
This map of Tallinn, includes all the places that we’ve featured in the article as well as related articles like The Schlossle Hotel Luxury Hotel Review, 11 Places to eat great Vegetarian food in Tallinn as well as Noa Chef’s Hall Michelin Starred Restaurant
How to use map: Click on the menu on the left hand side to reveal the legend.
First Things First: Purchase A Tallinn Card
if there is one thing that we’d suggest you purchase to save you time and money with points of interest and public transport, get the Tallinn Card. We were gifted two VIP PLUS Tallinn cards by Visit Tallinn Tourist board as mentioned in the disclosure previously,
The cards are available for 24, 48 or 72 hours and give access to Free entry to over 40 top attractions and museums, free travel on public transport, discounts to sightseeing tours, activities, shops and restaurants. Additionally with Tallinn Card PLUS you also get free entry to the hop-on hop-off buses. We would thoroughly recommend the card as it is a very cost effective, allowing you to plan an organised itinerary seamlessly and without worrying about paying at place or having the correct money for buses etc.
Cards can be bought from either Visit Tallinn office or alternatively by them online before your trip so you can use the bus from the airport to the Old Town. Prices start at around £40/€45 for a 24 hour card with the 72 hour card being around £68/ €73. In our opinion it’s an investment worth making if you intend to go to many of the points of interest, attracyions, museums we’ve included here as well as head to places like Kadriorg, Pirita
35 Things to do in Tallinn: A City Guide
Here’s our guide to Tallinn and the best things we would recommend adding to your itineraries if you’re planning a stay thats at least 3 days in length. For more detailed day specific itineraries, scroll to the ‘itineraries’ section below.
#1. Explore the Old Town of Tallinn (Vanalinn)
The Old Town of Tallinn is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known to be one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns. If you are short of time then we would recommend this Old Town Historical Walking Tour by a local is perfect to maximise time. A local guide will explain the stories of the the winding lanes, gothic spires, pastel-fronted buildings, hidden cobbled-stoned courtyards, drawing their experience with knowledgable insights into must-see sights like Town Hall Square, St. Olaf’s Church, and the medieval pharmacy Raeapteek. They’ll even make personal recommendations for your trip including local dining spots.
The history in Old Town Tallinn is sandwiched with many layers including it’s Hanseatic merchants and Soviet rule leaving behind some notable remnants.
Be-lavie Tip: We’d recommend visiting early morning or around late afternoon/sunset for a quieter and more atmospheric experience. The old town can get incredibly busy especially as it’s a notable port call for cruise liners. Therefore plan your visits early morning or mid-late afternoon. We headed out of the Old Town boundaries to the coast and surrounding parks or visited museums during the middle of the days. This way you’ll make good use of your Tallinn Card and miss the cruise liner hoards of visitors.
Find it Here: Map Location
If you can spare the time and have more than a day for the Old Town, then we would urge you to visit some of the places below that make up the Old Town of Tallinn.
#2. See The Town Hall Square & Views from The Tower
Town Hall Square also known as Raekoja Plats, in Tallinn is the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site with its cobbled-stone square and pastel-fronted stores and restaurants, it’s filled with a lively mix of locals and tourists sitting drinking coffees and taking photos or reading guide books.
We really loved getting a different perspective of the Town Hall Square by climbing the tower. It was constructed with the Town Hall between 1402-1404 however the original Gothic pyramidal spire was replaced by a Late-Renaissance spire in 1627. The height of the Town Hall Tower from the bottom of the arcade to the top of the spire is around 64 meters. But to climb to the balcony which is 34 metres high and only around 115 steps. It can get quite steep the closer you get to the top but you’ll learn throughout this article that we climbed way more steeper towers than this and yes you will need comfy shoes or sneakers!
Be-lavie Tip: Visitors can only climb the tower during the summer months.
Street Location: 10146 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Open Seasonally: 01.06–31.08 I Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00-18:00I Admission: €6.00 Student ticket €4.00 I I FREE with a Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#3. Climb The Hellemann Tower of the Town Wall
For panoramic views and a taste of Tallinn’s old defenses, we climbed The Hellerman Tower of the Town Wall. which originates from the 14th-century town wall. The narrow walkway between towers gives insight into the city’s medieval security system. We also browsed local art stalls just outside the wall. From the top, red-tiled roofs stretch to the sea and the modern skyline. It’s a really great vantage point. The attic of the walls is essentially the viewing platform.
Location: Müürivahe 48, 10140 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00–17:00 I Admission: €4.00 I FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Facebook
#4. Visit Aleksander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral
Walk to the top of Toompea Hill and you’ll arrive at the magnificent grand Orthodox Aleksander Nevksy Cathedral. It is a symbol of the city’s Russian influence. One inside, admire the detailed mosaics, golden icons with the rare echoing of chanting under it’s grandesque domes. It’s one of the key monuments in the city for locals and visitors alike and the square right outside has some wonderful views of the city.
Be-lavie Tip: The cathedral domes look beautiful in the sunset light so be sure to visit during golden hour to snap some photos
Location: Lossi plats 10, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 08:00–18:00 I Admission: Free Entry I More Details: Website
#5. Climb to Toopmea Hill & See Toompea Castle
Toompea Hill is a limestone hill around 400 metres long and 250 metres wide stretching about 17 acres and gives some wonderful views.
Toompea Castle is situated on Toompea Hill as the name suggest and was made on the foundations of the crumbling eastern wing of the fortress built on this site in the 13th and 14th centuries. Note the castle’s ;ate Baroque exterior which was built around 1767 and 1773.
The castle is the home of teh Estonian Parliamen or Riigikogu. The blue, black and white of the national flag can be seen flying on top of the 45.6-metre Tall Hermann tower as the symbol of Estonia’s independence.
Location: Lossi plats 1a, 15165 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Daily, times vary I Admission: Free Entry (guides tours must be booked online Mon-Fri I More Details: Website
#6. Discover Kiek in de Kök and Bastion Tunnels
This defence tower is now a museum and explores Tallinn’s military past. Visitors can walk along the walls, view the antique canons and head down into the secret Bastion Tunnels used during WWII and the Cold War. Each level tells a different chapter of Tallinn’s evolution. It’s immersive and can get a little eerie at times but in a good, informative way!
Be-lavie Tip: Wear comfortable shoes that are flay ideally as there are stairs and uneven surfaces.
Location: Komandandi tee 2, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00-18:00 I Admission: FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#7. Take In The Views From The Patkuli Platform
The Patkuli viewing platform gives one of the mst beautiful views of the Old Town of Tallinn as well as many of its tall medieval towers and old walls. The view extends right over to the port so you may get a glimpse of some of the over powering cruise liners on the coast.
There is a stairway that leads up to the platform which was made in 1903 and there are around 157 steps taht connect Toopea Hill to the Old Town below, and the stairway comes through in Toompark by Snelli pond.
Be-lavie Tip: Visiting at sunset is a lovely time of day to see the old town covered in a golden light
Location: Rahukohtu tn 5, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily I Admission: Free I More Details: Website
#8. Take A Wander Through Katariina Käik
This charming stone walled passageway leads to artisan workshops such as ceramic and potters, leather craftsmen and glass crafters. This displays Estonia’s strong past of the crafts tradition and is the perfect place to purchase locally and handmade souvenirs by local people.
Location: Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Passageway always open I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: No websites due to artisan makers
#9. Admire the View from Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform
Kohtuotsa is one of Tallinn’s best-known viewpoints and can get very busy, especially if there’s a cruise ship in town! The view is picture perfect as you’d expect, as you take in the spires of the churches, towers as well as the Baltic Sea.
Capture a snap with “The Times We Had” in black on the salmon coloured wall with the terracotta architecture below.
Be-lavie Tip: The best time to visit is at sunrise and the city glows as it’s quietly waking up. We say bring your morning coffee with you as you enjoy a calm moment before the city is filled with people heading to work and of course the best views!
Location: Kohtu tn 12, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily I Admission: Free I More Details: Website
#10. Climb To The Observation Deck of St. Olaf’s Church
St Olaf’s Church is a gothic church was once the tallest building in the world. We’re not going to sugar coat it, there are 258 steps to the roof observation deck and they are very steep. If you’re scared of heights we’d say leave this one off the list becasue of the climb but also the narrow roof space. But for us the climb was rewarded with a near 360-degree panorama of Tallinn’s skyline and harbour. The interiors of the church is of a quite a simple design reflecting its history.
Be-lavie Tip: We would suggest for aless crowded climbing experience, opt to go early morning.
Location: Lai 50, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open Mon-Fri 10:00-18:00 I Admission: Free with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#11. Stroll by Freedom Square (Vabaduse väljak) & The Monument to the War of Independence
Freedom Square is a popular meeting place designed for pedestrians. The monument to the War of Independence is also located there.
Over the years, the square has gone by many names: Heinaturg (Hay Market), Peetri Plats (Peter’s Square), and Võiduväljak (Victory Square) among them. It was first named Freedom Square in 1939, remaining so way until 1948. The name was readopted in 1989.
The defensive structures found at archaeological excavations have been preserved and stored in the parking lot under the square. The remains of the guard gates of the defence tower can be seen at the end of Harju Street through a glass screen.
Location: Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
#12. St Mary Lutheran Cathedral
St. Mary’s Lutheran Cathedral dates back to 1233 and has some famous people buried inside, such as Swedish military officer Pontus De la Gardie and his wife, the Swedish King Johann III’s daughter Sophia Gyllenhelm, and Admiral Samuel Greigh. Although we didn’t do the climb to see the Cathedral’s 69 metre baroque bell tower, it does give lovely views over the city. At this point we’d climbed a few towers and were content with the views we’d captured. There are also gravestones from as far back as the 13-18th centuries and coat of arms epitaphs dating from the 17-20th centuries.
Be-lavie Tip: If you’re planning on visiting the bell tower, note that it’s only open in good weather conditions and will be closed for religious ceremonies or concerts. We recommend a donation should be made for a visit to the church. A ticket is required for the bell tower (€4) or it’s FREE with a Tallinn Card.
Location: Toom-Kooli tn 6, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-16:00. Closed Monday I Admission: FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#13. Danish King’s Garden
Right next to Toompea, The Danish King’s Garden is located on the slope looking towards Nicholas Church. The garden is named after a century long reign by the Danish in Tallinn and Northern Estonia.
There are many legends surrounding the name of this garden, however, the most believed is that during battle, this is the area where a flag fell from the sky during the Danish invasion, and switched the victory over in favour of King Valdemar II. The flag later went on to become the national flag of Denmar.
According to an old legend, this is the spot where a flag descended . Later, the flag became the national flag of Denmark. The sculpture Tuli lipp (‘The Flag Descended’) speaks of this legend.
Note the three monks sculptures in the garden, which during the evening hve a light installation around them.
Be-lavie Tip:Annually on the 15th of June, there is a celebration in the garden for Dannebrog or the Day of the Danish Flag.
Location: Lühike jalg 9, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
#14. Short Leg Gate Tower (Lühike jala väravatorn)
Located inside the Kiek in de Kök Museum and Bastion Tunnels complex, this is part of the city wall and one of the surviving towers. The almost square shaped gate’s role was to serve as a defense point. It’s a great place to take a photo with the cobbled stone street street and stone wall. There is also a cafe on teh towers top floor with views over the city.
Location: Lühike jalg 9, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
#15. Long Leg Gate Tower (Pika Jala Väravatorn)
Located inside the Kiek in de Kök Museum and Bastion Tunnels complex, this is another part of the city wall and is located on the other side of the low leg gate tower. with shops and restaurants at either side. It’s not really a place that you’d visit but you cna keep an eye out for it when walking as the first couple of days, we completely walked through the archway and didn’t realise what is was!
Location: Lühike jalg 9, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
#16. Great Coast Gate (Paks Margareeta)
The Great Coastal Gate is part of the Estonian Maritime Museum which features exhibits on Estonia’s seafaring history in a 16th-century tower with city views from the rooftop. This is a must for those who have an interest in maritime history, especially that in the Baltics. We didn’t personally visit but loved the stone walls and tower exterior.
Location: Pikk tn 70, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: 10:00-19:00 Daily I Admission: FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#17. House Brotherhood of the Blackheads
The House of the Blackheads is located in Tallinn’s Old Town and is said to be one of the oldest and most renowned building complexes in the city. The building has a few unique rooms such as the White Hall (1532), which is the first venue in Renaissance style in Tallinn, and the St. Olaf’s Guild Hall (1422), built in the late Gothic style. Today the house offers merchants and craftsmans associations former rooms fro functions, conferecmes and other gatherings.
Location: Pikk tn 26, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 Daily, Closed Sundays I Admission: €3 I More Details: Website
#18. Holy Spirit Church
With it’s striking white hexagonal tower and built in the 14th century, Church of the Holy Spirit is one of the oldest structures in Tallinn. Outside spot the façade which has a clock that has been measuring time since the 17th century. Inside there us a unique altar created by Berndt Notke in the 15th century and the pulpit dates back to 1597.
In medieval times, it was the main sanctuary for common people of the city. After the Reformation. The Holy Spirit Church is located on the same road as the hotel we stayed in, The Schlossle Hotel and we’d recommend this for its location, luxury vibes and great service.
Location: Pühavaimu tn 2, 10123 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: 09:30-18:00 Daily I Admission: FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#19. Town Hall Pharmacy (Raeapteek)
Tallinn Town Hall Pharmacy or Raeapteek is the oldest pharmacy in Europe that has always operated on the same site since it opened in 1422, as noted by the official town records. Although the pharmacy has seen many pharmacists work here, a special honour goes to the Burchart family, who worked in the pharmacy for ten generations.
Today next to the pharmacy there’s museum which charts the history of the medieval healing methods with guided tours behind held in the basement of the building.
Location: Raekoja plats 11, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00 Daily but closed on Sunday I Admission: FREE to visit I More Details: Website
#20. The Viru Gates
The Viru Gates formed part of the defence system of the Tallinn city wall dating back to the 14th century. Two centuries later, the wall had 8 gates with a few more towers causing the entrance to the Old Town to be widened a few gates has actually been knocked down.
The Viru Gates once connected the Old Market with Kadriorg. Although other towers were knocked down, the two corner towers were preserved and the bastion, Musumägi can still be seen. Viru Street wher ethe gates are located in the busiest street in Tallinn and is lined with many cafes, restaurants, a few hotels and shops.
Viru Street with its many shops and restaurants has become one of the busiest pedestrian streets in the Old Town.
Location: Viru tänav, Müürivahe 31, 10140 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
#21. Tallinn KGB Museum
The KGB Museum is a very informative museum telling the stories of content Soviet citizens led by a wise group of powerful men in a place lacking problems versus a real world, or reality, which was very different, much much tougher, fascinating exhibitions, artefacts and real life accounts and videos which are quite emotional. The museum has a thought-provoking effect and will leave you in a deep mind. The KGB prison cells are located in the basement of this former headquarters
Location: Viru väljak 4-23rd floor, 10111 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-16:00. Monday 10:00-14:00 I Admission: FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#22. Mooch Around Kalamaja
Kalamaja is a district of Tallinn that’s literally a very short walk from the Old Town of Tallinn. We were told to follow the signs to Kalamaja from the Old Town and walk over the the railway tracks past Balti Jaam Market and we had arrived! You will instantly know you’re in the right place when you look around and notice the bohemian, cool and hip vibe of the area. If you don’t fancy the walk then, there are trams that take the route also, with frequent services from Old Town to kalamaja
At the start of the twentieth century, Kalamaja started life as a medieval fishing village that was later turned into a modern yet industrial area that houses many of the local factory workers. The heart of Kalamaja is filled with colourful wooden houses with bright panel doors, which are know as the ‘Tallinn Houses’. These are the former living quarters of the area’s fore mentioned factory workers, mainly dating from the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries, now homes to young professionals and families.
Kalamaja is said one of Tallinn’s oldest districts and the area really has a sense of community about it. Imagine it to be a cool hip village within the city with a good measure urban greenery too.
We think you quite easily spend a day hanging out in Kalalamaja exploring museums like the Energy Discovery Centre, the Seaplane Harbour, and the PROTO Invention Factory. One palce you can to visit when in Kalmaja is the Telliskivi Creative City. This is a hub for incredible Estonian design, with the Fotografiska photography centre here as well as, cool bohemian restaurants, pubs, and bars. There are a bog variety of events happening here which makes the area such a social spot to hangout in.
That’s a bit of an overview of Kalamaja but out top picks for Kalamaja are below adn include, Balti Jaan Turg, Depoo, shopping at Uuskasutuskeskus and checking out the Telliskivi Creative City.
Find it Here: Map Location
#23. Balti Jaam Turg (Balti Jaam Market)
If you want to get a real local vibe then head to the three=levels of Balti Jaam Turg, where you’ll see them shopping for produce, meats, crafts, and vintage homewares. Head upstairs to grab a coffee and people watch or if you’re hungry, make a bee line for the food court on the lower floor that has some wonderful lunch options like vegan wraps and burgers. We loved the way the locals in the area went about their everyday here and how the markey gives a great immersion into Estonian culture.
Location: Kopli tn 1, 10412 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Daily 09:00-19:00. I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
#24. Indulge in Some Street Food at Depoo
Just across the road from the Balti Jaam Market, this cool street food dining area is made from shipping containers and disused train carriages. This is really where the cool vibes of Kalamaja start. The street food vendors here are plentiful and there’s lots of choice for vegans and vegetarians also. Think Estonian specialities, dumplings, burgers, falafel, great local craft beers and ales and so much more. The food is affordable, there’s a lovely chilled atmosphere and on the weekends they have DJs or mini festivals around the Depoo so grab one of the old sofas and enjoy!
Our favourite street fod place has to be Peatus, a converted railway carriage which serves up some great veggie burgers, loaded fries and craft beer! Read more about Peatus in our places to eat vegetarian food in Tallinn guide.
Location: Telliskivi tn 62, 10412 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Daily 08:00-21:00. I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
#25. Explore The Telliskivi Creative City
Telliskivi Loomelinnak or Telliskivi Creative City (Telliskivi 60) is a collection of former factory and railway buildings transformed into a centre for creative enterprises: an entire quarter filled with offbeat eateries, trendy cafés, and hip bars along with design, antique and vintage shops, art and photo studios, homeware stores and more! Telliskivi is also home to the internationally renowned photograph museum Fotografiska Tallinn and several event venues, such as Vabalava or Erinevate Tubade Klubi, that regularly host concerts, parties, expos and other performances.
The Creative City is also home to many regular outdoor and community events, such as the Telliskivi Flea Market (every Saturday), Street Food Festival (in June) and the Telliskivi Flea Market Festival (in August).
If you’re a street art fan, Telliskivi is your place with many murals, graffiti work and stencils adorning the factory buildings.
Location: Telliskivi tn 60a, 10412 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Daily 11:00-19:00 daily I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
#26. Look Through Vintage Homewares & Clothes at Uuskasutuskeskus
Estonia’s preloved chain, Uuskasutuskeskus has a branch in Kalamaja and it is full of kitsch homewares, retro fashion and usual finds that are also at a great price! We loved it’s support for a circular economy< It’s also not touristy so you get to see teh local crowd here. They take cash as well as card too!
Location: Tatari tn 64, 10134 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-18:00, Closed Sundays. I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
#27. Spend A Day in Pirita
Pirita is Located in the North Western district of Tallinn and is also known as the seaside district due to its coastal location. It’s a short bus/taxi ride from Old Town Tallinn but well worth a visit to firstly see the phenomenal views from the Teletorn (TV Tower) over Tallinn and as far out as Finland, which is actually 42 miles away from the Tower. The district itself grew around a nearby fifteenth century convent, whose ruins visitors can go and visit. The sandy beach around here is 2km long as well as Pititia River Shores, River Valley and a coastal pine forest are a great escape from the Old Town location is you fancy some nature. There are also some great restaurant along the Yacht Harbour. One of our favourite resraurants in Pirita that we’d recommend for fine dining lovers is Noa Chef’s Hall, a fine Michelin Starred spot with beautiful sea views.
Things to do in the area includes visiting St Bridget’s Convent, Tallinn Botanic Gardens, The TV tower from the 1980 Olympix cames which is now a vicitor centre, the Maarjamäe Memorial to the Victims of Communism, and the exhibition in Maarjamäe Palace which also covers recent history.
Find it Here; Map Location
#28. Visit The Teletorn Tower (TV Tower)
For unmatched views over Tallinn and the gulf of Mexico, head to the Teletorn or TV Tower, which stands 214 tall.
Standing 314 meters tall, this tower offers unmatched views of Tallinn and the Gulf of Finland. The glass-floored observation deck is thrilling. We learn about Estonia’s broadcasting history and independence movement through exhibits. Outside is a lovely park for walking. Adventurous visitors can try the “Walk on the Edge” experience.
The Tower was built in 1980 for the Summer Olympics in Moscow, and on 20 August 1991 it became an important symbols of the restoration of Estonian independence. There are also various guest exhibitions at the Tv tpwer throughout the year.
Be-lavie Tip: Try and visit in the morning as the later the day gets, the viewing platform can get pretty busy.
Location: Kloostrimetsa tee 58a, 15026 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10:00-19:00 & Friday – Saturday 10:00-10:001 I Admission: FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#29. Tallinn Botanic Garden
Virtually next door to the Teletorn is the Tallinn Botanic Garden is well worth a visit in our opinion. A beautiful greenhouse space, café and the most impressive collections of my favourite flower, Peonys we’ve ever seen, period!! It’s around 10km from the Old Town and the gardens are beautifully landscaped with local plants as well as ones from around the world. Infact, there are aroudn 8,000 of species of plants and is a lovely relaxing place tp spend an hour walking through the green houses and plant surrounded paths. You’ll find the most unique flora in Estonia here – don;t forget to ho and look in the greenhouses during your visit.
Be-lavie Tip: Visitors can book a guided tour at the entry kiosk or explore independely with an audio guide,
Location: Kloostrimetsa tee 52, 11931 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-19:00 I Admission: FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#30. St Bridget’s Convent
A very short bus ride down the road from the botanical gardens, Pirita (St Bridget’s Convent) Convent was a monastery for both monks and nuns dedicated to St. Brigitta. It was the largest convent in Livonia and one of the largest in Northern Europe. It’s a beautiful site with no tourists, we in fact had the place to ourselves for the whole time we were there.
The current structure was built on Tallinn’s original 15th century Bridgettine convent, with the modern version being opening in 2001. The original Pirita Convent was consecrated in 1436 and was destroyed during the Livonian War a century and a half later.
It’s worth having a look around the new building which has been divided into two sections. The open area is where there is a small guest house, conference rooms and a chapel. The other portion is closed and is where the 8 nuns live.
Location: Merivälja tee 18, 11911 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-21:00 I Admission: FREE entry I More Details: Website
#31. Visit The Estonian History Museum (Maarjamäe Castle)
The Maarjamäe Castle located in Maarjamäe Park with views of the Bay of Tallinn is a great place for those wanting to educate themselves on the History of Tallinn. It’s a fascinating place with various exhibitions and really immerses you into the culture of the city.
The Estonian History Museum, known as Maarjamäe Palace is an immersive and interactive space with permanant exhibitiosn such as My Free Country. which is a journey through 100 years, from the birth of the Republic of Estonia to the modern day.
There is another permanent exhibit for children which allows little oen sto explore organisation of a democratic state through play.
During the first half of the 17th century the palace was a sugar factory. followed by a starch and spirits factory, and finally a modern hotel-restaurant before becoming a museum.
Location: Pirita tee 56, 12011 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-18:00, Closed Mondays I Admission: FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#32. Maarjamäe Memorial
A five minute walk from the castle is the Maarjamäe memorial, which commemorates those who fell whilst defending the past Soviet Union. It was designed by A. Murdmaa and sculptor M. Varik and stands tall under a crumbling concrete bluff overlooking Tallinn bay. It’s quite thought-provoking and if you’re in the already then its worth just popping by as the sculpture is quite emotional along with the engraved stones.
Location: 12011 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open 24 hours I Admission: Free I More Details: No Website
#33. Kadriorg
Kadriorg is one of Tallinn’s most upmarket districts and houses Estonia’s only Baroque palace in beautiful parklands. The area has become quite notable for being a hub for culture with its seven museums, notable those focussed on art, literature and children’s art.
Walking around Kadriorg, there are lots of rather posh houses and mansions as well as wooden houses that date back to the time when the area used to be a seaside spa destination.
Kadriorg also hosts numerous open-air festivals including the literary festival at the end of summer. If your peckish, theer are some lovely cafes and restaurants in the park but alos around Kadriorg. The famous NOP Cafe (see image below)and shop is only a short walk from the park adn palace and is worth a visit if you’re here. Read more about the Nop Cafe and Shop in our post on vegetarian places to eat in Tallinn.
It is possible to walk from Old Town to Kadriorg but it is quite far, however you can get the cool retro looking trams to get you here with a spot of Nostalgia.
Find it Here: Map Location
#34. Kadriorg Palace
One of the most beautiful parks in Tallinn, Kadriorg Park, houses the stunning Kadriorg Palace, which was the palace of Catherine I of Russia. The Baroque Style palace was ordered to be built by Peter the Russian Tsar and construction began in 1718. It is now Kadriorg Art Museum. The park also has many smaller gardens to visit, one of my favourite areas is the Swan Pond with a bandstand in the distance.
Located a few minutes from the park are the beautiful mansions of this area. I call it the ‘Mayfair’ of Tallinn. Due to the proximity of the palace and wealth in Kadriorg, it was only the aristocracy and upper class who could afford to buy houses here. Today Kadriorg is still one of the wealthiest parts of Estonia.
Location: A. Weizenbergi tn 37, 10127 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00-18:00, Closed Mondays I Admission: FREE with Tallinn Card I More Details: Website
#35. Port Noblessner
Port Noblessner is situated close to the centre of Tallinn, next to the Maritime Museum, just 15 minutes’ walk from the Old Town. The history of the port dates back to 1912, when Alfred Nobel’s nephew Emanuel Nobel and a torpedo manufacturer by the name of Lessner established a submarine plant on the site to serve the navy of the Russian Tsar.
It’s definitely worth a visit as the port area offers, a marina and yacht club, bars and restaurants, one being the very prestigious 180 degrees restaurant, which as the name suggests has 180 degrees views of the water.
There also creative boutique shops as well as some swanky apartment complexes renovated from the existing buildings.
Kalamaja, Telliskivi and Port Nobelssner are located quite close to each other along the coast and I would recommend setting aside a day to visit all three in leisurely fashion.
Location: Peetri tn, 10415 Tallinn, Estonia I Find it Here: Map Location I Opening Hours: Open 24 hours I Admission: Not Applicable I More Details: Website
Day Trips From Tallinn
if you have some extra time in Tallinn or want to head out of the city and see more of the surroundings, we’d recommend Laheema National Park. This is particularly great for those who like to spend time experiencing nature in the form of forests, seashores and coastal fishing villages. Pärnu, a coastal town with lovely beaches and spas is another option or go and see another capital, Helsinki in Finland. It’s easy enough to get a ferry from Tallinn for the day to see a slice of their capital!
An alternative unique option is Rummu Quarry which used to be a prison and has a striking flooded quarry. Those who love the outdoors can head to Prangli Island, which has a unique yet natural landscape and has all the snall island vibes.
Sample Tallinn Itineraries
Here are some suggestions we’ve put together for varying stays to help inspire you craft your own itineraries for your visit.
3 Day Itinerary
Day 1 (Old Town)
- Following breakfast at your Old Town hotel such as Schlössle Hotel, spend the whole of the first day exploring the Old Town of Tallinn. Take a comprehensive Old Town Walking Tour to maximise on time.
- Make sure to head to one of Old Town’s cutest old cafes (such as Maiasmokk) for lunch or a sweet treat, which you’ll find a round up of in 11 Places to Eat Delicious Vegetarian Food in Tallinn.
- If your walking tour is only half a day, then spend the afternoon heading to museums of your choice such as the KGB Museum, or the Bastion Tunnels to mention a few. Alternatively, climb St Olaf’s Church tower for some wonderful city views.
- Head back to your hotel or pop to one of the local bars (Frank Bistro) you see in Old Town or head straight out for dinner, we love, Restaurant Pegasus.
Day 2 (Pirita, Maarjamäe & Kadriorg)
- Plan to head out of the old town and explore a a little further. Use your Tallinn Card to take the bus to Pirita and explore the TV Tower, Botanic Gardens or take a stroll down the coast. Have lunch at one of the coastal restaurants overlooking the beautiful sandy beaches.
- Following lunch take a peek at the Maarjamäe Memorial, Maarjamäe Castle that is the Estonian History Museum and make your way down to see the ruins of St Bridget’s Convent.
- Head to the district of Kadriorg and spend the mid-late afternoon time relaxing in Kadriorg Park or head to Kadriorg Palace
- If you feel peckish, grab some picnic items from NOP Cafe and Shop in Kadriorg
- Either head back to Old Town for dinner or take a Bolt to Noa Chef’s Hall for a Michelin Star mean to remember (you may want to head back to your hotel to change into something a little more fancy). For a sneaky peek of what to expect, have a read of Incredible Michelin-starred dining at Noa Chef’s Hall.
Day 3 (Kalamaja, Telliskivi Creative City and Port Noblessner)
- Take a leisurely stroll or tram ride today to Kalamaja. Walk around the neighbourhood and admire famous wooden architecture of this area.
- Explore museums like the Energy Discovery Centre, the Seaplane Harbour, and the PROTO Invention Factory. One place you must visit when in Kalmaja is the Telliskivi Creative City. This is a hub for incredible Estonian design, with the Fotografiska photography centre
- Mooch around this cool hub and admire the architecture, street art and design studios.
- For lunch pop into F-Hoone or Frenchy Bistro or pop into Balti Jaam Turg Market for a sandwich, before making your way to Port Noblessner. to have a walk around port area offers, a marina and yacht club, bars and restaurants, one being the very prestigious 180 degrees restaurant, which as the name suggests has 180 degrees views of the water. You can pre book to have dinner here.
- if you don’t fancy dinner at Port Noblessner, head back to Kalamaja and have a casual evening at Depoo where they serve great street food in steel containers and disused railway tracks. Our favourite outlet is Peatus for their vegetarian choice of burgers and loaded fries.
4 Day Itinerary
- Day 1, 2 and 3 as three day itinerary
Day 4 (Day trip to Laheema National Park, Parnu, or spend the day in Helsinki Finland via Ferry)
- Book a guided tour to Laheema National Park. This is particularly great for those who like to spend time experiencing nature in the form of forests, seashores and coastal fishing villages. Alternatively opt fora tour to see Pärnu, a coastal town with lovely beaches and spas is another option or go and see another capital, Helsinki in Finland. It’s easy enough to get a ferry from Tallinn for the day to see a slice of their capital!
Practical Information About Visiting Tallinn
How To Get To Tallinn
Tallinn International Airport (TLL) is around 20 minutes from the city centre by taxi, tram or bolt. The help desk at Departures is a really handy service that will point you in the right direction for transport to your accommodation. If you have purchased a Tallinn card online, this can be used for public transport. Alternatively head to the Tourist Office at the airport where you can purchase one.
Best Time To Visit Tallinn
- Summer (June–August): Warmest, with long days and plenty of outdoor festivals. Very busy with cruise ships and summer scholl holidays. Crowds are high and accommodations at their highest rates.
- Autumn (September–October): Less crowds, hotels and restaurants at reasonable rates and the outdoor foliage is beautiful with autumnal colours
- Winter (December–February): Fairytale-like landscapes, cosy cafes and outdoor stalls, Christmas markets in the Old Town which can get quite busy.
- Spring (April–May): Much less tourists, beautiful flowers and foliage blooms and hotels are at a reasonable rate. We went in early April and it was perfect with all museums and points of interest open. There were no cruise ships either.
How Long To Stay In Tallinn?
We’d suggest anything from 2-4 days depending on what you want to see and do. If you have many museums on your list then we’d say 3 days is enough or add on an extra day to spend some time out of the city and head away on a day trip into the nature-filled countryside.
Where To Stay In Tallinn?
Our preferred place to stay neighbourhood-wise would be the Old Town, due to many of the main attractions being located here as well as great restaurants and bars. The area has great links to public transport too. We would recommend the Schlössle Hotel, with a very central location in the Old Town. This luxury hotel is a housed in a heritage building and is a haven away from the bustling streets of the medieval Old Town. Many famous A-listers have. stayed at the hotels including, HRH King Charles and Bon Jovi. have a read of our review of Schlössle Hotel: A luxury hotel in the heart of Tallinn.
Where To Eat Vegetarian Food In Tallinn?
On first thoughts, The Baltics don’t seem like somewhere you’d go for vegetarian food but Tallinn has a wonderful range of restaurants that are dedicated to vegan and vegetarian diets but also regular restaurants that have a great choice on their menus. Our article on 11 of the best places to eat vegetarian food in Tallinn has all of our best picks o cafes, cake shops, street food, brasseries, as well as fine dining spots to ensure you don’t go hungry!
if you’re a fan of foodie tours, then here are a few we’d recommend in Tallinn, which also give a great insight into the history of food in the city and country.
Be-lavie Tallinn Top Tips
- Invest in a Tallinn Card – This is literally at the top of our tips because it IS our TOP TIP!!! The Tallinn Card is an investment fro 24, 36 or 48 hours and gives FREE access to over 40 museums including many on the Old Town, The TV Tower, Seaplane Habour and KUMU).
- Make the most of Public Transport – The tram trolley and bus network is brilliant in Tallinn and the Tallinn Card will give you free access to these. Alternatively it’s possible to purchase a QR ticket online or simply use a contactless bank card once on board. Residents actually ride free on public transport but non nationals do need to pay.
- Try the local cuisine – Estonian cuisine is a fuisn of German, Nordic, and Russian influences. There are plenty of vegetarian options and we’d recommend giving the rye bread and Kama desserts a go. There are wonderful creative dining options in Port Noblessner as well as casual street food spots in Kalamaja.
- Dodge the cruise ships – Many of the cruise ships during late spring and early autumn, dock at Tallinn port from 10:00-15:00 so we’d suggest visiting the Old Town, especially for the viewing points, either early morning or late afternoon for a much quieter and peaceful experiences.
- Pack something warm: The summer months can be pretty warm in Tallinn, however it’s best to be prepared and take something like a windbreaker with you. We found that even in the warmer weather there can be quite a strong breeze so its best to be prepared.
Tallinn City Guide FAQs
Why visit Tallinn?
Stepping into Tallinn is a little like stepping back into time, almost like being in a fairytale. Tallinn is an incredible UNESCO Old Town with wonderful Baltic sea views. It has quite unique Baltic European cuisine with many fine dining offerings, coupled with a creative district celebrating local talent. It’s a pretty affordable capital city by European standards and is quiet magical in many seasons as demonstrated by the times people choose to visit. It also has many off the beaten path things to do by looking further than the Old Town of the city.
Is Tallinn expensive?
Compared to other European capital cities, Tallinn is great value for money and affordable in terms of accommodation, food as well as entry tickets to major attractions.
Is there good transport links in Tallinn?
Yes. Tallinn has great tram and bus links from the Old Town to all over the city. The Tallinn Card gives visitors free access to use the city’s transport. It’s also very reliable and on time. Even without a Tallinn Card, its pretty affordable per journey and is clean and safe to use.
Is Tallinn a walkable city?
The Old Town is very walkable and so are many of the districts once you’re in them. If you are heading to Pirita or Kadriorg we would suggest getting a local bus or tram from Old Town. Kalamaja and Port Noblessner are walkable from the Old Town.
How safe is Tallinn?
We found Tallinn to be very safe however we always recommend for all destinations that caution is taken. Leave all valuables such as excess money at the hotels and don’t walk around too late at night alone.
Best Things To Do in Tallinn Round-Up
Tallinn is quite a compact city compared to many in Europe but it’s complex, and has continued to evolve since it left behind Russian rule. There is a quite regal charm about this city which is moulded by it’s past that make is pretty mysterious and intriguing. We love that it’s a city where people don’t rush around like many other European capitals, but somewhere you savour the history and remember the past within the medieval walls and cobbled stoned streets.
We hope our city guide to Tallinn whets your appetite to visit this ex soviet ruled city, that not many know about beyond it’s fairytale terracotta rooftops, steeples and spires. Tallinn is evolving as a wonderful Baltic foodie destination, a hob for creative art and outstanding architecture as well as a stunning coastline which is very much undiscovered by even those who visit.
Related Articles
- Schlossle Hotel Tallinn: A Luxury Hotel Review
- Where to eat the best Vegetarian Food in Tallinn
- Dining at Noa Chef’s Hall: A Michelin-Starred Restaurant
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