Updated on March 27, 2024 by Axel Hernborg

Axel Hernborg

Tallinn, Estonia’s captivating capital, is a tapestry woven from mediaeval magic, modern marvels, and vibrant culture. Nestled on the Baltic Sea, this charming city beckons travellers with its cobbled lanes, soaring spires, and a touch of whimsical mystery. 

Whether you’re a history buff yearning for tales of yore, a nature enthusiast seeking emerald escapes, or a bon vivant relishing culinary delights, Tallinn has something to ignite your wanderlust.

To help you craft an unforgettable Tallinn adventure, let’s delve into 15 tips that will unlock the city’s secrets:

1- Visit the old town of Tallinn

The old town of Tallinn

Visiting Tallinn Old Town is a dream come true for all history buffs. Built in the 1100s, the Old Town of Tallinn has witnessed a long history of wars and invasions. Throughout the years, Tallinn was under the rule of numerous occupiers, including the Nazis during World War II, and later the Soviets. Still, despite the many turmoils, the Old Town remains one of the best-preserved old towns in Europe, keeping all its mediaeval heritage and charm. All this was enough to include the Old Town of Tallinn on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Rightfully so if you were to ask us.

What is also special is that the Old Town in Tallinn is not only teeming with tourists but has also pushed locals when it comes to the constant creation of life and movement in the district. The mediaeval buildings and the reminiscences of the city wall defence system make the Old Town very compact, and you can, therefore, quickly get an overview. When wandering through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, be sure to visit the Tallinn Town Hall square and peek inside the Tallinn Town Hall, which is the oldest town hall in northern Europe, erected in 1404. For those who wish to, there are guided tours where you can learn all about the city’s ancient history.

2- Visit St. Olaf’s Church

St. Olaf's Church

Towering over Tallinn’s Old Town is St. Olaf’s Church, a beloved landmark with a remarkable history. While its origins date back to the 1100s, it gained worldwide renown in the 1500s due to its extraordinary steeple. At its peak, the steeple soared to an astonishing height of 159 meters, potentially making it the tallest building in the world at that time. Although historical records are uncertain, it’s believed to have held this distinction sometime during the 16th century. Sadly, a fire in 1625 destroyed the upper portions of the steeple, reducing its height to 123.7 meters.

Despite this loss, St. Olaf’s Church remains a visually arresting presence in Tallinn’s skyline. While it no longer holds the title of the world’s tallest building, its architectural grandeur and historical significance continue to captivate visitors and locals alike, solidifying its status as one of the city’s most cherished icons.

What Previous Visitors Say About St. Olaf’s Church on TripAdvisor:

Reviews on TripAdvisor for St. Olaf’s Church are overwhelmingly positive. Several reviewers highly recommend climbing the narrow, spiral staircase to the top of the tower for a spectacular view of the city. However, many reviewers note that the climb can be strenuous and challenging for those with claustrophobia or physical limitations. The church’s interior is described by several as quite simple, but the main attraction is the view from the tower.

Visitors particularly appreciate the opportunity to see Tallinn from a unique perspective, although some mention that the staircase can be cramped and difficult to navigate, especially during peak season.

3- Climb the Tallinn TV Tower

Standing at an impressive 314 meters high, Tallinn TV Tower is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Estonia. The best thing about it is that there are a ton of things to do when there. Want to take a panoramic view of Tallinn and the Gulf of Finland? Climb up to the observation deck on the 21st floor. Or perhaps you crave an adrenaline rush? In this case, try the Tallinn TV Tower ‘Walk on the Edge’ experience and strap yourself to a harness to walk along the outdoor terrace.

Other than that, you’ll be able to experience a high-speed elevator that will take you from ground zero to the observation deck in just 49 seconds! There’s also a museum where you’ll learn more about the building itself. You can even try your hand at TV broadcasting and record a short clip you can later share on your social media. Long story short, Estonia’s tallest building has a lot to offer, so be sure to take advantage of all its attractions when visiting Tallinn.

4- Go to a Tallinn Spa

Spa

Once you quench your thirst for adventure at the Tallinn TV Tower, why not take advantage of the famous Estonian spa treatment? Tallinn is very well known for its variety of spa treatments that have long attracted people from all over the world to the city. Above all, the spas offer massage and treatments with aroma oils.

If you want to have a spa treatment and also make a small excursion, you can visit the coastal town of Pärnu. Pärnu is located about two hours by car or bus from Tallinn and is a centre for various kinds of cure treatments. Trust us. There’s nothing better than a visit to a spa after a long day of sightseeing.

5- Discover New Beer Flavours at Beer House

Beer House

Anyone who fancies some après-ski feeling while tasting Estonian beer can visit Beer House in the old town. It’s crowded with tourists and locals alike to the sound of the classic “après-ski music.” It also has Tallinn’s only mini-brewery that offers various home-brewed beers. The beer brewed here has won several awards and should be tasted by those who want to discover new beer flavours.

What Previous Visitors Say About Beer House on TripAdvisor:

Beer House in Tallinn receives predominantly positive reviews from past visitors who have written reviews on TripAdvisor. Guests praise its excellent location in the Old Town and the cosy atmosphere it offers. Many visitors particularly enjoy Beer House’s wide range of beers, tasty dishes, and excellent service, although some find the prices to be somewhat high. Overall, reviewers agree that Beer House offers an enjoyable experience for all who appreciate good beer and food in a traditional and welcoming setting.

6- Take a Stroll in the Kadriorg Park

Kadriorg Park

As a city that has witnessed the ebb and flow of empires, Tallinn bears testament to its rich and complex history. Among the most captivating remnants of its past is the Kadriorg Palace and its surrounding park, a testament to the city’s time under the Russian Empire.

Commissioned by Peter the Great in 1718 as a gift for his wife Catherine I, the exquisite Kadriorg Palace stands as a stunning example of Petrine Baroque architecture. It served as a beloved summer residence for Russian Tsars for centuries, extending beyond the 18th century. Today, it gracefully embraces a new role as a branch of the Art Museum of Estonia, captivating visitors with its treasures of foreign art spanning the 16th to 20th centuries, featuring renowned works by masters from across Europe and Russia.

The surrounding Kadriorg Park, sprawling over 70 hectares, invites exploration with its diverse landscapes. Meander through the meticulously manicured French-style gardens, discover the serenity of the Japanese garden or find respite in the sprawling English landscape park. Stroll past the iconic Swan Pond, a tranquil centrepiece, and immerse yourself in the park’s historical and cultural significance. Whether you seek relaxation, historical insights, or artistic inspiration, Kadriorg Palace and its park offer a captivating journey through Tallinn’s storied past.

7- Learn About the Soviet Era at the KGB Museum

KGB Museum

The KGB Museum tells a lot about Estonian history and what it was like to be part of the Soviet Union during the 1900s. It is full of interesting information about the future of Estonian society and the constant monitoring that the population was exposed to. Visitors should take a guided tour and also watch a film about the KGB and how they operate in Estonia.

Wherever you go in this fascinating museum, you will come across several different artefacts such as radios and other technical equipment that the KBG used. You also get the opportunity to see what the rooms that the KGB worked in looked like. The museum is located on the twenty-third floor of the Hotel Viru, the hotel that the KGB used as its monitoring centre during the Soviet occupation. Thanks to the high altitude, you’ll get a nice view of Tallinn, as well as all your newfound knowledge about the KGB.

What Previous Visitors Say About the KGB Museum on TripAdvisor:

Reviewers on TripAdvisor give overall positive feedback, emphasizing the museum’s historical significance. Many feel that the guided tours provide a thorough understanding of the KGB’s operations in the hotel and how various individuals were surveilled. The museum is small, but its content and stories are considered very interesting and thought-provoking by reviewers.

Visitors particularly appreciate the guides’ knowledge and storytelling ability. Although some find the museum small, it is a unique experience offering a rare glimpse into a bygone era. The view from the hotel’s top floor is also a highlight for many visitors.

8- Visit One of Europe’s Largest Art Museums

Kumu Art Museum

You don’t have to be an art geek to visit and enjoy the Kumu Art Museum. Even the building’s exciting modern architecture is fascinating enough to treat it as an attraction itself. Opened in 2006, Kumu is the largest art museum in Estonia, with five levels to explore. The museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary art from diverse artists and exhibitions. It also hosts numerous cultural events and educational programs.

As for the main permanent exhibition, you can find it on the third floor. It consists of Estonian classics from the 18th century to the end of World War II, featuring such Estonian artists as Johann Köler and Konrad Mägi. With a fantastic combination of temporary and permanent exhibitions, a vast collection of Estonian and international artists, and cultural events, the Kumu Art Museum is one of the most exciting art galleries in Europe. Indeed, it even claimed the title of the ‘2008 European Museum of the Year.

What Previous Visitors Say About Kumu Art Museum on TripAdvisor:

Past visitors who have written reviews on TripAdvisor laud Kumu Art Museum in Tallinn for its impressive collections and modern architecture. Reviewers particularly appreciate the diverse exhibitions ranging from the Soviet era to contemporary art. Many visitors recommend participating in the museum’s interactive activities and enjoying the creative atmosphere. The café at the museum also receives praise for its selection of delicious dishes and coffee.

9- Relax and Let the Kids Play at Skypark

Skypark

If you bring children to Tallinn, then a few hours at Skypark can be a real hit. Skypark is like a small playground with several trampolines and obstacle courses. There are also several games, the opportunity to do sumo wrestling, and a range of other attractions that will keep your kids occupied for several hours.

Whatever the age of the children, the chances are that they’ll find something to enjoy. Adults must accompany free of charge and can hang out in Skypark’s café while the children get rid of their excess energy. To get there from the centre of Tallinn costs about five euros by taxi.

What Previous Visitors Say About Skypark on TripAdvisor:

According to reviews on TripAdvisor, Skypark in Tallinn offers a mixed experience for its visitors. Many families appreciate the park as an excellent place for children, with plenty of space and activities to keep them engaged for hours. On the other hand, some visitors express dissatisfaction with a lack of information and customer service, as well as issues with parking and long queues. Despite this, Skypark generally appears to be a popular destination for families seeking fun activities, especially appreciated by several reviewers during school days when it is less crowded.

10- Learn About the Turbulent Estonian History at the Museum of Occupation

Museum of Occupation

The Museum of Occupation tells the story of the time during two occupations between 1939 and 1991 which Estonia was subjected to. In this Estonian museum, you’ll learn more about how the German and Soviet occupations affected Estonia and its people’s lives. With pictures, films, and audio playbacks, it is easy to form an opinion about the suffering Estonians went through during the occupation.

The feeling is eerie when you hear and see everything from eyewitnesses’ stories to the propaganda that the Estonians were constantly listening to. There are also many different objects such as Soviet statues, posters, and much more. After wandering around the museum, it is hard not to be affected by what is displayed.

What Previous Visitors Say About the Occupation Museum on TripAdvisor:

The Occupation Museum receives consistently positive reviews from visitors who have written reviews on TripAdvisor. Visitors particularly appreciate the personal stories and the audio guide, which many find provides a deeper understanding of Estonia’s struggle for freedom. Many describe the experience as moving and inspiring, highlighting the museum’s ability to evoke strong emotions and reflection. However, some reviewers mention that the museum can be a bit pricey and that some interactive elements do not function optimally. Overall, most reviewers consider the Occupation Museum an important and thought-provoking attraction in Tallinn.

11- Relax at the Estonian Open Air Museum

Rocca Al Mare

After running around in the central part and historic centre of Tallinn, it might be nice to have a change of environment and relax among some greenery. An excellent place to visit for this purpose is Estonia’s Open Air Museum, which is a great outdoor park with various old Estonian buildings. The year-round museum lies a 20-minute drive from Tallinn’s centre and is a must-visit place for any history lover.

The Open Air Museum includes 14 farms that recreate the rural times of Estonia. There are 74 buildings scattered throughout the 72-hectare area, which will provide you with an insight into how the 18th-20th century Estonian villagers and fishing communities lived their day-to-day lives. If you have the opportunity, make sure you bring along a picnic and eat in one of the park’s big oaks. You can also visit the authentic inn and try some traditional Estonian dishes.

What Previous Visitors Say About Estonia’s Open Air Museum on TripAdvisor:

Estonia’s Open Air Museum receives many positive recommendations from visitors who have written reviews on TripAdvisor. Several reviewers appreciate the museum’s charm and authentic atmosphere. Many reviewers also express great appreciation for the tavern, which serves traditional Estonian food at reasonable prices, and the picturesque village shop offering a wide range of goods. Overall, Estonia’s Open Air Museum is particularly appreciated for its tranquil and beautiful environment, providing a pleasant break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

12- Practice Shooting at Tondi Shooting Range

Tondi Shooting Range

Whoever likes action-packed experiences should not miss a visit to the 1,000 square meters Tondi Shooting Range, which is located a little way away from the city centre. Here you’ll get the chance to test your shooting skills with a variety of weapons and, at the same time, experience a real adrenaline rush.

On-site, there are skilled instructors to help you shoot safely. Everyone is welcome, and the instructors are there, so you do not need to have any previous experience with using firearms. It is possible to come here spontaneously, but if you want to be sure you’ll be able to shoot, you should book in advance.

What Previous Visitors Say About Tondi Shooting Range on TripAdvisor:

Tondi Shooting Range in Tallinn receives glowing reviews from past visitors on TripAdvisor. Visitors particularly appreciate the professional instructors and the exciting, adrenaline-filled experience. Many first-time shooters praise the instructors for their educational and safe guidance through the experience. Overall, most reviewers agree that the Tondi Shooting Range is a memorable and exciting activity for all visitors.

13- Explore the Toompea Hill

Toompea Castle

When visiting a large city like Tallinn, it’s nice to get to a place where you can look out over the city and its vicinity. One of the best places to visit to get a nice view of Tallinn is Toompea Hill. Toompea is part of Tallinn Old Town and is full of exciting historic sites worth exploring. These include the Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the large Toompea Castle which was built 800 years AC and is today the Estonian Parliament building.

To learn more about the history of Toompea, it is possible to go on a free walking tour available in English, Russian, and Estonian. If you are just looking for a fine view, it is a good idea to come here in the evening to watch the sun go down behind Tallinn. There aren’t many sights that can beat that.

14- Explore the Creepy Patarei

Patarei Prison

Anyone fascinated by history and wanting to gain more knowledge about Estonia and the period when the country was a part of the Soviet Union must not miss a visit to Patarei. Patarei is an old prison that was used during the Soviet era to imprison various criminals and political opponents. As a visitor, you’ll get the chance to go into the prison’s various components and explore everything from dining to the different prison cells.

If you want to, you can take a guided tour to get an in-depth story about what it was like to work and be imprisoned in Patarei. If you have a guide, you usually also get the chance to see parts of the prison that are otherwise not accessible to normal visitors. Make sure not to come in short sleeves since most parts of the prison can easily feel cold. Also, remember that what you experience inside the prison can be perceived as quite scary, and small children should not tag along. One thing is for certain. It’s an experience that will stay with you for a long time.

15- Visiting Tallinn – FAQs

When to visit Tallinn?

Although Tallinn is beautiful no matter the time of the year, the best time to visit Tallinn is late summer or early autumn. With the autumn colours in full bloom and fewer tourists, this is when the city is the most pleasant to explore. On the other hand, Tallinn is also a great place for a Christmas excursion. The city covered in snow looks mesmerizing and the Tallinn’s Christmas market held at the town square is one of the most magical ones in Europe.

How to get to Tallinn?

Considering that it’s the Estonian capital we’re talking about here, you shouldn’t find it troublesome to visit Tallinn. The Tallinn Airport handles lots of international flights, and it’s possible to find some great deals and discounts and fly to Tallinn for next to nothing. At Tripplo, we have an extensive collection of the latest airline discount codes and deals, so be sure to check them out and save big on your trip to Tallinn!

How long to stay in Tallinn?

Although Tallinn has a lot to offer, it’s not the largest city in Europe. It’s a perfect place for a 3 or 4-day city break. It’s enough to explore all the essential landmarks and have some fun while doing so. Of course, we highly recommend staying for longer than that if you want to experience Estonian culture and history to the fullest. You can also rent a car and travel around Estonia when done exploring Tallinn.

Is Tallinn expensive?

It depends on how you look at it. Compared to other famous European capitals, Tallinn can be considered budget-friendly. On the other hand, it’s still a capital, meaning that prices are higher compared to the rest of the country. Still, it’s relatively straightforward to explore the city on a budget. Some museums and sites offer free walking tours, and you can always consider eating outside the Old Town to find better deals.

How to get around Tallinn?

One of the best things about Tallinn is that it’s relatively compact. Most of the historic sites and landmarks are just a short walk away from each other, meaning you can explore the city practically entirely on foot. If you’re in a hurry, you can also opt for an electric scooter that you can rent via a dedicated smartphone app. And as for excursions out of town, we recommend renting a car. It’s not overly expensive and much more convenient than travelling somewhere by bus or train.

Choose Tallinn for Your Next Holiday

Tallinn, Estonia, Road Signs

With its vibrant nightlife, a mix of architectural styles, mesmerizing street art, and an abundance of exciting landmarks, Tallinn, Estonia, is one of the most beautiful and fascinating European capitals to visit. Hopefully, this list of things to do in Tallinn will help you experience the city to the fullest.

Of course, there are still several activities we haven’t mentioned, such as paying a visit to the Estonian Film Museum, Estonian Maritime Museum, or the nearby Lahemaa National Park. The problem is, though, there are just too many things to do when in Tallinn. Still, we hope this post inspired you to choose Tallinn and Estonia as your next holiday destination.

For more travel tips and tips for savvy tourists, be sure to read more of our blog posts or contact us directly. We’ll do our best to help you get the most out of your next vacation!

Bonus Tips for a Stellar Tallinn Experience:

  • Purchase a Tallinn Card for free public transportation and discounted entry to many attractions.
  • Learn a few basic Estonian phrases like “Tere” (hello) and “Aitäh” (thank you) to impress the locals.
  • Don’t miss marzipan, a sweet Estonian speciality crafted into whimsical shapes and delectable flavours.
  • Pack for all seasons, as Tallinn

Farewell to Tallinn’s Enchantment: A Lasting Memory

As your Tallinn adventure draws to a close, don’t let farewell turn into a sigh. Instead, let it be a gentle murmur of “aitäh” (thank you) for the memories woven into your heart. Reflect on the cobbled whispers of the Old Town, the echo of history from Toompea Hill, and the vibrant flavours that danced on your tongue. Carry with you the serenity found in Kadriorg Park and the thrill of discovery at Lennusadam.

But Tallinn’s magic extends beyond physical souvenirs. It lingers in the warmth of local smiles, the unexpected turn down a hidden alley, and the laughter shared over a steaming mug of mulled wine. Remember the joy of simple pleasures – a picnic by the shimmering sea, the melody of an ancient street musician, or the comfort of a crackling fireplace in a cosy cafe.

As you depart, remember this: Tallinn is not just a destination, it’s an experience. It’s a city that whispers forgotten stories, ignites hidden passions and leaves you yearning for more. And when the wanderlust calls again, know that this charming Baltic haven awaits, ready to weave new chapters into your travel tapestry.

Can I get discounts in Tallinn via Tripplo.com?

Yes, you can obtain various types of discounts for your stay in Tallinn via Tripplo.com. If you are looking for discounts on attractions, you can take advantage of our Viator discounts. If you are interested in discounts on hotels and accommodation in Tallinn, please visit our pages with Hotels.com discount codes and Expedia discount codes. We also offer several discounts and discount codes from Agoda.

Sources

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