Best 20 things to do in Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to Tallinn, a vibrant city that will sweep you off your feet! In this article, we've unearthed the 20 absolute must-dos that will make your trip here unforgettable. Prepare to be enchanted as you wander through Tallinn's charming Old Town, where medieval wonders hide around every corner. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the bizarrely intriguing Patarei Prison, where you can pretend to be a convict for a day (or just take some spooky selfies). And for the cherry on top, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the Tallinn TV Tower, where you can also experience the thrill of walking on the edge, literally – it's only for the bravest of souls!
Save destination1. Visit Old Town
10111 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the charming and quirky world of Old Town in Tallinn! Prepare to immerse yourself in a medieval fairytale that's slightly more toothless than Game of Thrones. Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, where buildings lean on each other like gossiping friends, and discover hidden nooks where you can sip on medieval honey mead whilst plotting your own conquests. Don't forget to practice your heroic walk and perfect your "serious face" as you meander through the super serious (ahem, not really) medieval market square.
Learn more2. Visit Estonian Open Air Museum
Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 12, 13521 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the Estonian Open Air Museum in Tallinn, where time travel becomes a reality! Get ready to immerse yourself in a captivating journey through Estonia's rich history, minus the pesky side effects of actual time travel like jet lag or confusing fashion choices. As you wander around this marvelous museum, be prepared to have your mind blown by the stunning collection of traditional Estonian folk architecture, as well as the questionable fashion sense of our ancestors (it seems bell-bottoms and feathered hats were all the rage back then). So, grab your camera, put on your comfiest shoes, and get ready to explore Estonia's past in the quirkiest, and dare I say, the most fashionable way possible!
Learn more3. Visit St. Olaf's Church
Lai 50, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to St. Olaf's Church, where towering spires reach for the heavens and the stairs seem designed to give you a good leg workout. Get ready to channel your inner mountain goat as you conquer the never-ending stairs leading up to the observation deck. Just when you think you've reached the top, surprise! More stairs await, like a cruel yet amusing test of your endurance. But fear not, for the breathtaking panoramic views of Tallinn's old town from the summit make it all worth it. So, lace up your walking shoes and embark on this stairway adventure - an unforgettable experience for both your thighs and Instagram followers.
Learn more4. Stroll along Viru Street
Viru tänav, 10140 Tallinn, Estonia
Step foot onto Viru Street in Tallinn, where centuries of history dance cheekily with modernity. As you saunter along, prepare to be serenaded by the sweet symphony of Estonian accents, intermingled with the enthusiastic chatter of tourists attempting to pronounce local delicacies like "kama" without sounding like an asthmatic walrus. Be sure to keep an eye out for the iconic pink tiara-wearing gnome statues that guard the entrances of quirky boutiques, reminding you that fashion is serious business, especially when accessorized with a gnome-approved headpiece.
Learn more5. Discover Toompea Castle
Lossi plats 1a, 10137 Tallinn, Estonia
Nestled atop a steep limestone hill like a smug cat in a cardboard castle, Toompea Castle stands tall in the medieval heart of Tallinn. With its radiant pink exterior resembling a blushing marshmallow, this fortress begs to be explored by curious souls ready for a healthy dose of history, spookiness, and fabulous views. Take a leisurely stroll through the castle's thick-walled chambers, where you can expect to stumble upon hoards of amicable ghosts, who are always up for a witty banter or an impromptu poltergeist party.
Learn more6. Stroll along Pikk Street
Raekoja plats 1, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia
As you stroll along Pikk Street in Tallinn, prepare yourself for a delightful blend of medieval charm and modern quirkiness. This street is like a time machine, whisking you away to the medieval era, but be warned - you might bump into a group of bearded knights practicing their sword-fighting skills. Keep an eye out for the "official" unofficial tour guides dressed in medieval attire, ready to regale you with tales of old, and perhaps even recommend the best spots to satisfy your cravings for elk sausage and Viking-inspired craft beer.
Learn more7. Walk through Freedom Square
Vabaduse väljak 9, 10142 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to Freedom Square in Tallinn, where history, architecture, and pigeons collude to create a unique and slightly chaotic experience. Stroll through this vibrant square, ignoring the occasional pigeon dive-bombing your head in search of crumbs, as you marvel at the grand monuments dedicated to Estonia's struggle for independence with mixed feelings of reverence and amusement. Don't forget to pause and take a selfie with the towering cross of the Victory Column, just make sure to check for any unsuspecting pigeons before flashing those pearly whites!
Learn more8. Explore Seaplane Harbour
Vesilennuki 6, 10145 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the Seaplane Harbour in Tallinn, where you can dive headfirst into maritime history without getting your socks wet. The museum, housed in an old seaplane hangar, is like a big, shiny treasure chest filled with more boats and submarines than you can shake a sailor's hat at. Just when you think you've seen it all, they throw in an actual replica of a World War II submarine, making you feel like you're on the set of a James Bond movie - shaken, not stirred.
Learn more9. Explore Tallinn Song Festival Grounds
Narva mnt 95, 10127 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the Explore Tallinn Song Festival Grounds, where music harmonizes with history and festival vibes! Nestled in the heart of Tallinn, this epic venue is sure to strike a perfect chord with music enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Channel your inner rockstar as you wander through the hallowed grounds that have seen legendary performances and more “out of tune” sing-alongs than you can shake a microphone at – just maybe spare the unsuspecting locals from your own impromptu concert!
Learn more10. Enjoy a day at Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour
Vesilennuki 6, 10145 Tallinn, Estonia
Step into a world of nautical marvels and quirky history at Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour in Tallinn. Get ready to 'harbour' some laughter as you explore this museum that boasts not only ships but also an actual seaplane suspended from the ceiling, giving a whole new meaning to the term 'hanging in the air.' Whether you're a boat enthusiast or simply have an insatiable curiosity for peculiar attractions, Lennusadam will surely float your boat.
Learn more11. Walk along the Pirita Promenade
Reidi tee, 10159 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the Pirita Promenade in charming Tallinn, where you can stroll along the picturesque coast while avoiding exercising - it's a win-win! Take in the stunning views of the Baltic Sea, where you might catch a glimpse of a fearless Estonian swimmer defying the chilly waters. Be sure to keep an eye out for the eccentric local artist who has adorned the trees with colorful birdhouses, creating a small avian metropolis that even Hitchcock would envy.
Learn more12. Discover Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Lossi plats 10, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, where Estonia's chilly weather will make you appreciate the cozy warmth inside! This striking onion-domed masterpiece will leave you in awe of its beauty, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the ghosts of Russian czars floating around. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture a selfie with the cathedral's famous black doors, just try not to confuse them with the entrance to an alternate dimension!
Learn more13. Explore Kadriorg Palace
A. Weizenbergi 37, 10127 Tallinn, Estonia
Once upon a time, in the charming land of Tallinn, lies the magnificent Kadriorg Palace, a place fit for royalty and commoners alike. Step into a world where opulence meets nature, as you embark on a journey through its majestic grounds. Marvel at its grand architecture, and remember to bring your selfie stick to capture all those Instagram-worthy moments, because let's face it, if you don't post it, did you even explore it?
Learn more14. Visit Niguliste Museum-Concert Hall
Niguliste 3, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the Niguliste Museum-Concert Hall in Tallinn, where centuries of cultural wonders and roof-raising melodies await! Brace yourself for a dose of Tallinn's rich history and unexpectedly toe-tapping experiences. Get ready to step into a time machine disguised as a museum, where ancient medieval art and unexpected concert surprises will leave you humming tunes and desperately trying to suppress your urge to bust a move.
Learn more15. Climb Tallinn TV Tower
Kloostrimetsa tee 58a, 11913 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the Climb Tallinn TV Tower, where you can literally tower over Tallinn! Get ready to kiss the clouds as you ascend to a height that will make even birds envious. With its stunning panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, this tower is the perfect spot to reach new heights both figuratively and literally – just don't forget to bring your fear of heights along for the ride!
Learn more16. Discover Tallinn City Walls
Väike-Kloostri 1, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to Tallinn, where you can discover the slightly quirky and definitely charming City Walls! Marvel at these centuries-old fortifications, standing tall and proud like a medieval bodybuilder trying to impress the tourists. Climb up the ancient steps and let the walls reveal the secrets of the city's past, just don't forget your imaginary knight's armor for the full immersive experience. So, put on your best "I'm a fearless explorer" face, and brace yourself to be enchanted by these magnificent walls that make you feel like you've stepped right into a history book... or a Monty Python sketch.
Learn more17. Explore Kumu Art Museum
Valge 1, 10127 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the Kumu Art Museum in Tallinn, where you can indulge in artistic wonders and unleash your inner sophisticate. Marvel at masterpieces that will make your eyebrows raise higher than a tourist in high heels. With its contemporary architecture, this museum is a must-visit spot that will make you go "Damn, I didn't expect Tallinn to be so edgy!"
Learn more18. Discover Tallinn Town Hall Square
Raekoja plats 1, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to Tallinn's charming Town Hall Square, where history and hilarity collide! Nestled in the heart of the city, this vibrant square will transport you back in time faster than you can say "medieval madness." Gaze upon the enchanting Town Hall, a majestic masterpiece that's been standing tall since the time when ordering pizza was more likely to summon a unicorn than a delivery guy.
Learn more19. Visit Museum of Occupation
Toompea 8b, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to the Museum of Occupation in the vibrant city of Tallinn, where history meets sarcasm! As you step into this unique museum, prepare to embark on a journey through the not-so-sunny side of Estonia's past. Get ready to laugh awkwardly and feel slightly uncomfortable, as this museum presents a thought-provoking mix of exhibitions, preserving the memory of the country's unfortunate history under occupation.
Learn more20. Enjoy panoramic views from Patkuli Viewing Platform
Rahukohtu 5, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia
Welcome to Patkuli Viewing Platform in Tallinn, where your selfie stick will finally get a real workout! Get ready to test your balance as you navigate the hordes of tourists, all attempting to capture that perfect Instagram-worthy shot. Brace yourself for panoramic views that will leave you in awe, just make sure you don't accidentally photobomb someone's vacation album – they may not appreciate your sultry smize!
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Tallinn, Estonia by plane would be to fly into Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport. Major airlines such as Ryanair, Finnair, and Norwegian have direct flights from various European cities.
Car
You can drive to Tallinn, Estonia by crossing the Baltic Sea via ferry from Helsinki, Finland or Stockholm, Sweden. Alternatively, you can drive through Latvia and enter Estonia via the A1 highway.
Train
There are no direct trains to Tallinn, Estonia as it is not connected by rail to other European cities. However, you can take a train to a nearby city such as Riga, Latvia or Helsinki, Finland and then take a bus or ferry to Tallinn.
Boat
Taking a ferry is a popular way to get to Tallinn, Estonia. Viking Line, Tallink, and Eckerö Line offer daily ferry services from Helsinki, Finland and Stockholm, Sweden.
Bus
Taking a bus is an affordable way to get to Tallinn, Estonia. Eurolines and Lux Express offer daily bus services to Tallinn from various major cities in Europe.