10 places to visit in tallinn

11 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

With surprises around every corner, Tallinn bursts with charm like no other European city. The capital of Estonia is steeped in history, yet has all the modern offerings tourists expect from a destination in the 21st century.

The city is exceptionally photogenic, especially during the midnight sunsets in the summer. And if you want to see the city at its very best, plan your visit during the Estonian Song Festival. It brings together 30,000 of the best singers in Estonia onto one stage every five years to create music that vibrates throughout the city. The next festival is scheduled for July 3-6, 2025.

Tallinn's Old Town has managed to preserve its medieval heritage throughout centuries of domination by foreign rulers, rightfully earning a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. You can still strut through the ivy-covered Viru Gate, explore the gothic Town Hall, and walk along the town walls like others have done for hundreds of years.

But you should spend equal time exploring Tallinn's modern-day offerings, as well. The city boasts Scandinavian-inspired restaurants, viewing platforms, lush parks, and sweets shop s.

Plan your sightseeing around this alluring city with our list of the things to do in Tallinn.

1. Tallinn's Old Town

2. estonian maritime museum, 3. tallinn tv tower, 4. toompea castle, 5. aleksander nevski katedraali, 6. kadriorg park, 7. kumu art museum, 8. estonian open air museum, 9. kalev chocolate shop and workshop, 10. st. olaf's church, 11. telliskivi creative city, where to stay in tallinn for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in tallinn, estonia, tallinn, estonia - climate chart.

Tallinn's Old Town encompasses endless treasures for history buffs and culture hounds alike. Known for being one of the world's best-preserved Hanseatic town centers , the vibrant village-like area features cobblestone streets , lively cafés , and architecture from long-ago centuries.

Start your experience at the Town Hall Square. While you might be tempted to keep your eyes cast up at the colorful buildings, look down until you find the distinctive circular stone marked with a compass. Standing atop it gives you the unique vantage point to see the steeples of five historic churches around Tallinn. Then, make your way inside the church-like Town Hall. Erected in 1404, the oldest town hall in Northern Europe boasts magnificent Gothic arches and precious artworks .

Then, head across the square to one of Europe's oldest continually running pharmacies, Raeapteek. The establishment celebrates its history with a mini museum focusing on antique medical tools and early healthcare techniques. You can also sample herbal tea blends created from local ingredients in the pharmacy's basement.

Another prominent spot in Tallinn's Old Town is the Viru Gate. Once part of the city wall's defense system, this 14th-century structure features fairy-tale-esque, round towers topped with coned roofs fit for a princess. Nearly two kilometers of the original city wall is still standing. You can get a good look at this historic structure from the Patkuli viewing platform on Toompea Hill.

With more than 2,300 islands in its territory, Estonia has developed a strong maritime culture, and there's no better place to visit to experience it than at the Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour exhibit at the Estonian Maritime Museum.

This fascinating museum exhibit invites tourists to step inside Submarine EML Lembit , a 1930s-era vessel that is one of the few remaining submarines of its time. You can also hop aboard the Suur Tõll icebreaker and explore the powerful steamer's captain's cabin, crew rooms, and officers' mess hall. Hundreds of other artifacts displayed throughout the museum continue to tell the story of maritime history in Estonia.

The structure of the museum itself is just as interesting as its contents. Originally built to house seaplanes in Peter the Great's Naval Fortress, the hangar features "the world's first columnless thin-shell concrete domes of such volume." It remained in use until World War II. It's amazing that the cavernous space requires no vertical supports to hold its weight.

Address: Vesilennuki tänav 6, Põhja-Tallinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: http://meremuuseum.ee/lennusadam/en/

Proudly standing 314 meters in the clouds, the Tallinn TV Tower is a must-visit attraction in Estonia. A visit to the observation deck on the 21st floor –the highest open viewing platform in Northern Europe–is one of the most popular things to do. Tourists can get panoramic views of Tallinn and the Gulf of Finland. You won't want to forget your camera when sightseeing here.

Craving an adrenaline rush? Check out the Tallinn TV Tower's Walk on the Edge experience. It will strap you into a harness and let you walk along the ledge of the tower's outdoor terrace. You can even dangle your feet over the 175-meter drop. Don't look down!

This Tallinn attraction also features a number of other less fear-inducing attractions that prove fun for every type of traveler. There's a high-speed elevator that whisks tourists to the observation deck in just 49 seconds. Try out a career in broadcast journalism and record your very own news clip at the TV studio on the first floor. Enjoy multi-course meals in the clouds at the TV Tower Restaurant. And learn more about the history of Estonia's tallest building , including its construction for the 1980 Summer Olympics, at the TV Tower history exhibition.

Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid wasting time in a long line.

Address: Kloostrimetsa tee 58a, Pirita linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://www.teletorn.ee/en/

Toompea Hill has always been the core of power in Estonia. Various rulers of Estonia have changed the Toompea Castle to their liking over the last 800 years, starting with the initial stone structure built by the German Knights of the Sword in the 13th century and eventually turning into a tickle-me-pink Baroque palace, courtesy of Catherine the Great. It's now home to the Riigikogu (Estonian parliament), which commemorates the country's independence by raising the national flag atop the 14th-century Tall Hermann tower every morning.

Tourists can take free guided tours of the Toompea Castle in English, Russian, or Estonian on weekdays, with advance reservations. You'll get to explore the inside of the rosy building, hear about its storied past, and learn about the structure of the Riigikolu.

After your tour, walk 500 meters northeast to the Patkuli viewing platform for an epic panoramic vista of Tallinn. From here, you can see straight down to the port .

Address: Lossi plats 1a, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://www.riigikogu.ee/en/visit-us/toompea-castle/

Take one look at the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, and you might think you've somehow stumbled into St. Petersburg. The 120-year-old cathedral, located directly across from the Toompea Castle , exudes sacred Russian Orthodox style, with five bulbous onion domes crowned by gilded iron crosses and an ornate brown and white exterior. It also houses 11 bells, including the largest one in Tallinn, which clocks in at a whopping 15 tons. You can hear their sounds ringing through the city throughout the day.

While beautiful and well-maintained, the cathedral hasn't always received a warm welcome from Tallinn. Many Estonians saw it as an oppressive symbol from Russia in the early- to mid-20th century and demanded it be demolished. However, that proposal didn't move forward, and the cathedral still stands today.

Address: Lossi plats 10, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Aleksander Nevski Katedraali isn't the only remaining artifact of Russian influence in Tallinn. You can also see it at Kadriorg Park and the palace within it, both commissioned by Czar Peter the Great for his wife Catherine, in 1718.

About four kilometers east of Tallinn's Old Town , the lush 70-hectare expanse is the go-to place for a heavy dose of nature therapy in the city. Tourists will see blooming flower beds laid out in geometric patterns , a luxurious swan pond, a serene Japanese garden , and an English landscape park with an oak grove.

More than just nature, the park is also home to a few impressive structures, the most notable of which is the Kadriorg Palace. Built as an imperial summer palace in the early 18th century, the elegant three-level building was inspired by Italian palaces of the time and now houses the Estonian Art Museum 's collection of foreign works from the 16th to the 20th centuries. North of the palace, you can see the Office of the President of the Republic , a salmon-pink, Neo-Baroque building where the Estonian president works.

Address: August Weizenbergi tänav 10, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: http://www.kadriorupark.ee/park-eng/areas-of-the-park

After you've had your fill of Kadriorg Park, stroll over to the Kumu Art Museum, an award-winning institution that serves as the headquarters of the Estonian Art Museum. It houses a vast collection of contemporary art and serves as a multifunctional space for educational programs and events.

The main permanent exhibition on the third floor offers tourists the opportunity to see Estonian art classics from the 18th century to the conclusion of World War II. Featured artists include Johann Köler, Kristjan Raud, and Konrad Mägi . The works are laid out in such a way that tourists can see how local art styles changed in parallel with the Estonian mentality.

On the fourth floor, a more recently opened part of the permanent exhibition focuses on Estonian Art during the Soviet Era . The collection dives into the many complexities of producing creative works under the strict rules of the Communist Party, as well as the changes that occurred as restrictions on art eased toward the 1980s.

You can also see how Estonian art evolved in the 1990s after the fall of the Soviet Union in another permanent exhibition on that floor.

The permanent collections give tourists plenty to ponder, but should you want an even deeper immersion in local art, check out the museum's fascinating temporary exhibits, which explore a variety of mediums and expressions.

Address: August Weizenbergi tänav 34, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://kumu.ekm.ee/en/

Experience the lifestyles of Estonians from hundreds of years ago at the Estonian Open Air Museum. Located in the seaside area Rocca al Mare , a 20-minute drive from the heart of Tallinn, this year-round, outdoor, educational attraction includes 14 farms that recreate the way rural Estonian villagers and fishing communities lived from the 18th century to the 20th century.

Tourists can wander through many of the 74 buildings scattered around the 72-hectare property. You'll see a traditional school house, seaside fishing sheds, historic homes, a fire station, and windmills, many of which were plucked from their original villages and brought to Tallinn.

When you work up an appetite, head to the authentic inn to refuel with heritage dishes, like wild mushroom soup, rye bread with salted herring and cottage cheese, and mashed potatoes with pan-fried meat and groat (hulled kernels of cereal grains). Tourists can also take part in fun activities from yesteryear, including folk dances, midsummer bonfires, and horse and cart rides.

Address: Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 12, Haabersti linnaosa, Tallinn

Marzipan, as with many traditional foods, has a disputed history. While some point to Germany as the birthplace of the almond sweet, others believe it was invented in Tallinn by a man who worked at the Raeapteek pharmacy.

What's not up for debate, however, is the best place to try marzipan in Estonia today: Kalev Chocolate Shop and Workshop. Located in the historic Rotermann Quarter , this sweets shop puts together tempting gift boxes of marzipan and handmade chocolates, along with quirky marzipan figures in animal shapes.

The shop also invites tourists to strap on an apron and try their hand at making their own treats in the workshop. This is a fun thing to do in Tallin if you have the time. The two-hour hands-on classes are guided by a master confectioner who will show you how to make chocolate truffles and mold and paint marzipan using centuries-old techniques. Don't be surprised if you eat as many sweets as you end up taking home at the end of this creative experience.

The Kalev Chocolate Shop and Workshop is just a short walk from the Port of Tallinn. If you're just visiting the Estonian capital on a cruise or day trip from Helsinki , you can easily squeeze in a class at the sweets shop, making your short experience even sweeter.

Address: Roseni tänav 7, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

Official site: https://kalev.eu/#73382

With its 124-meter steeple, St. Olaf's Church is Tallinn's tallest medieval structure . But more than just an eye-catching site, the attraction also has a fascinating history. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century as the center for the city's Scandinavian community before Denmark took control of Tallinn around 1219.

Fast forward a few centuries to the Cold War, and the church took on a new purpose as a radio and surveillance center for the Soviet KGB . Historical records also note that the church has been struck by lightning a whopping 10 times, three of which set the structure ablaze. A Baptist congregation now uses the church for regular services.

Tourists are welcome to visit the modest Gothic interiors and get great views of the city from its observation platform. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes to climb the 232 steps to the top of the steeple!

A 15-minute walk northwest of Tallinn's Old City brings you to one of the coolest places to visit in Estonia: Telliskivi Creative City. Located in what used to be Tallinn's industrial area, this "town within a town" brims with more than 200 businesses across its 10 buildings .

The Creative City's indie shops offer something for just about everyone, including sustainably-made leather bags, locally thrown ceramics, chic homewares, and vinyl records. You can also visit popular cultural attractions, including the Fotografiska photography museum; Sõltumatu Tantsu Lava contemporary dance theater; and the Juhan Kuus Documentary Photo Centre , which focuses on Estonian documentary film and photography.

Before leaving, be sure to grab a scoop or two from La Muu Ice Cream Shop. It offers more than 20 flavors of organic ice cream, including cookies and cream, peppermint stracciatella, and vegan brownie.

Address: Telliskivi 60a, 10412 Tallinn

Luxury Hotels:

• Right in the heart of Tallinn, where the downtown meets the medieval old town, the Savoy Boutique Hotel by TallinnHotels is a great 5-star pick if you're looking for an intimate boutique sleep. The hotel has an elegant vibe throughout, and the rooms are comfortable and spacious. Staff is very attentive. Amenities include a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, airport transport, and a concierge.
• At one time serving as an Estonian Telegraph Company exchange station, today the Hotel Telegraaf is a charming 5-star hotel. The building dates back to 1878, and the ambience is old-world European. Rooms and suites have plush furnishings and high ceilings with chandeliers and crown molding. Amenities here include a day spa and a restaurant serving Russian fare. The location in the heart of Old Town is also excellent, and this is the only property in this area to have an underground parking lot for guests.
• The Schlössle Hotel is another luxury option. On cobbled Holy Spirit Street between the old harbor and Old Town Square, the hotel has a historic ambience and features elegantly outfitted rooms and suites. Breakfast is included in the rate, and there is an on-site restaurant. In the summer there is live music in the courtyard terrace area. This property is also pet-friendly should you be traveling with a dog, but you must pay a pet fee and a deposit.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Centennial Hotel Tallinn is an excellent mid-priced option. The hotel is located about seven minutes by foot from Old Town and is a new property. The rooms and suites are decorated in Nordic minimalist style and have mural accent walls. Amenities here include a free breakfast, sauna, and 100-seat restaurant. The Centennial Hotel is also kid-friendly.
• Next to Freedom Square, the 4-star Palace Hotel dates back to 1937. Designed by a famous Estonian architect, today it has a historic facade and a modern interior design. On-site amenities include a restaurant, steam bath and sauna center, and a fitness center. There is also an indoor swimming pool.
• Hilton Tallinn Park is another mid-range choice. It is located at the edge of Politseiaia Park and has great views of the Old Town and harbor from its modern rooms and suites. The property is family-friendly, and amenities include a restaurant, indoor swimming pool, and workout room. There is also a spa on-site and a sauna and steam room.

Budget Hotels :

• With a very affordable price point, the Hestia Hotel Seaport is a popular budget choice. Located next to the Port of Tallinn and not far from Old Town, it has cozy rooms with eco-friendly cork floors. Breakfast is included, and there is a restaurant and sauna on-site. Car hire can also be arranged here.
• Also try the Dorell Hotel for a budget option. The hotel has tidy rooms with blackout curtains. It is also kid-friendly with family rooms. Amenities include free breakfast, an outdoor swimming pool, sauna, and free Wi-Fi.

33 Amazing Things To Do in Tallinn: The Ultimate Tallinn Bucket List

There are so many things to do in Tallinn, it can be hard to know where to start! So we’ve put together the ultimate Tallinn bucket list.

Whether you’re planning a short break to the Estonian capital, or passing through on an extended trip, there are plenty of things to do in this old-meets-new city.

The great news is that the city is relatively compact so you’ll be able to camp in plenty to your Tallinn itinerary.

If you were wondering what to do in Tallinn here are 33 unmissable experiences. From its rich medieval charm, interesting history and Scandinavian-influenced hipster districts, Tallinn has something for everyone.

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Top Tips for Visiting Tallinn

Check out some of the museums in tallinn, see the quirky medicine at town hall pharmacy (raeapteek), get a head for heights at the tallinn television tower, eat your way through balti jamma turg, check out the traditional colourful wooden houses around kalamaja, discover the kgb radio centre on the 23rd floor of hotel viru, explore the great outdoors at lahemaa national park, budget accommodation – fat margaret’s, what are the best organised tallinn tours, save it for later, tallinn bucket list – overview.

Tallinn is arguably THE most beautiful city in the Baltic States of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. I visited Tallinn as part of a month-long trip around the Baltics. Originally, I had planned on staying for 2 days in Tallinn, but I loved it so much that I tagged on more time.

This Tallinn city guide is divided into sections. The first part covers the practicalities and essential information about visiting the city. The second section goes into detail about what to do in Tallinn and information about the must-visit places as well as some handy tips so you can get the most out of your visit.

The last section has FAQs and answers any other questions you may have. For quick reference, you can also download this free checklist of the best things to see in Tallinn straight to your inbox.

10 Best Things to Do in Tallinn

Walk around the walls of tallinn.

• Explore the UNESCO-listed historical centre
• Visit Seaplane Harbour – The Lennusadam

Explore the Underground World at the Bastion Passages

• See The Stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Walk Down St Catherines Passage
• Climb A Tower or Visit the Panoramic Views of Tallinn Old Town
• Discover Tallinns Harrowing Past at the KGB Prison and Headquarters
• Eat Your Way Around Balti Jamma Turg
• Immerse Yourself In The Hipster Vibe At Telliskivi Creative City

Your download is on its way to your inbox 🙂

What to Do in Tallinn, Estonia – Know Before You Go

If you’re in the planning stages of your Tallinn itinerary, this section gives some handy things to know before you go. If you’re reading this and you’re already in Tallinn, then skip to the next section of this Tallinn travel guide.

Getting to Estonia

The main way international visitors arrive in Estonia is by air. Tallinn Airport is the largest in the country. It’s also known as Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL). It’s located only 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) from Tallinn city centre.

You can also arrive in Estonia by boat, train or bus from other destinations in Europe.

Estonia shared borders with Latvia to the south (you can easily tag on a weekend in Riga , the capital of Latvia), and Russia to the east. It’s well connected by sea with Finland.

Getting to Tallinn From Tallinn Airport

Tallinn airport is well connected to the city centre. One of the best ways to get from the airport to the city centre is by tram or bus.

Option one is to go by tram. Tram tram number 4, the Lennujaam – Tondi line. Trams run from 05.00hrs – 00.45 approx and depart approximately every 7 to 10 minutes from Monday to Saturday and slightly less on Sundays. The journey takes about 20 minutes.

You could also catch Bus number 2, which departs every 20 minutes.

If you don’t want the hassle of using public transport, are in a group, or have lots of luggage, then it’s the alternative and more convenient way is by taxi. The journey should take just 10 minutes. If you plan to go via tax, book your transfer in advance this saves queuing when you arrive in Tallinn.

Book Here: Tallinn Airport Transfer Service

Getting Around Tallinn

The easiest way to get around Tallinn is to use public transportation. The city has an extensive network of buses and trams that can take you across town quickly. An alternative option is the Tallinn hop-on hop-off bus which visits all the highlights.

For the majority of my time in Tallinn, I opted to walk. The historic centre is particularly pedestrian-friendly, and part of the fun is getting lost and exploring the pretty cobblestone streets. Tallinn does have some steep hills, sometimes it’s a slope, and other times its steps. You might want to take a taxi up there and walk back down.

Best Small Group Tours of Tallinn

• Tallinn is a fairly compact city and the main highlights are all fairly central. Make the most of the efficient and affordable public transport system for getting about as well as the Tallinn Hop-on Hop-off Bus .
• In this Tallinn guide, I suggest 33 fabulous things to see in the city. I spread these out over my 4-day visit to the city. It would be possible to see all these things if you only have 2 days in Tallinn. However, for a more leisurely Tallinn city break I recommend stretching these ideas out to fit in with your own Tallinn itinerary.
• Tallinn is an incredibly photogenic city. If you’re after those stunning Instagram photos, on a honeymoon or special occasion, then take advantage of hiring a local private professional photographer , they’ll know where to find all the best spots and capture everything on camera for you.
• Make sure you’re wearing a comfortable pair of shoes with grippy soles. Although you’re in the city, the pavements are often made of polished cobbles which can get super slippery underfoot. Also, Tallinn has a few inclines so be prepared for some serious leg work at times.
• If you want the easy option to see the main highlights while getting some insights into the history of Tallinn, then make the most of one of the numerous Tallinn city walking tours .
• If you are planning on staying a bit longer, then it might be worthwhile taking advantage of the Tallinn Card which gives you unlimited use of public transport and entry to loads of the city’s top attractions.

Relate Article: 23 Unmissable Things To Do In The Baltic States

33 Unmissable Things to Do in Tallinn

The city has so much to offer and I can guarantee that you’ll love your trip to Tallinn. Here are 33 outstanding things to tick off your Tallinn bucket list.

If you’re short on time, and wondering what to see in Tallinn, then I recommend sticking in the historic centre and exploring the iconic UNESCO world heritage listed Old Town, and the ancient city walls, then head to the quirky hipster district to grab food before visiting some of the dark tourism attractions and learning about the days of KGB and Soviet era.

Top Things for Your Tallinn Bucket List

This first part covers the best things to do in Tallinn and is perfect if you’re short on time.

Visiting the Tallinn City Wall is probably one of the top things to do if you only have one day in Tallinn. Tallinn’s defence wall would once have encompassed the whole of the city, it even used to have a moat around it.

Today, around half of the City Wall, 1.85km remains intact and has been preserved and parts are open to walk along. Parts called the Nunne, Sauna and Kuldjala towers are connected.

The city’s defence walls date back to 1265, standing around 5 metres high and 1.5 metres in thickness. There are 26 defence towers, 2 complete gates, as well as fragments of another two gates.

Book Here: Tallinn Medieval Walking Tour

Marvel at Seaplane Harbour – The Lennusadam

If you’re wondering what to do with kids in Tallinn, or even have an interest in nautical, then this

is arguably the most modern and interactive maritime museum in Europe if not the World.

Situated in Seaplane Harbour , the Estonian maritime museum features over 200 original items on display, including a 100-year-old submarine, seaplanes hanging from the ceiling and parts of the oldest ship found in Estonia. As you enter the museum, you’ll walk over a suspended walkway looking out over the museum. 

The museum has a real focus on interactive exhibits. With an abundance of things to climb inside of, simulators, dress-up, hands-on activities and cinematic experiences.

Book Here: Tour of Tallinn Old Town and visit to The Seaplane Harbour

Get Some Retail Therapy at Rotermann Quarter

A few years back, the Rotermann Quarter was an industrial wasteland, left abandoned and filled with unoccupied and crumbling buildings. The buildings are situated between the Old Town of Tallinn and the Port were factories built in the 1900s. 

The area has been given a massive overhaul and is now one of the trendiest places to go. It’s filled with stylish apartments, restaurants, cafes and shops. The quirky modern-looking architecture in the area still features many of the old factories.  

Kiek in de Kok!

The child in me can’t say this without a little smirk across my face. The translation of Kiek in de Kok is actually German for ‘peek in the kitchen’. The building got this name from the soldiers who were stationed here peeking into the kitchens in the towns below.

The rotund building contains the Kiek in de Kok Fortification Museum. The giant cannon tower is filled with several floors of armour, weapons and artefacts covering war events from the 13th-18th centuries. This is one of the top historical Tallinn things to do and it documents quite a bit of the medieval history of the city .

The entrance to the Bastion Passages is at Kiek in de Kok. You can buy a separate ticket or a combined one which will get you into both attractions.

The Bastion Passages were originally built in the 17th and 18th centuries to hide the movements of Tallinn’s soldiers from the enemy. They were also used as air-raid shelters during the Second World War. 

The Bastion Passages take you on a journey through time, with various mock-up exhibits showing what life would have been like when they were in use. The use of multimedia, including projected images, eerie sound effects, models and videos brings the Bastion Passages alive and was one of my highlights in Tallinn.

Book Here: Tour of Tallinn Old Town and Bastion Tunnels

Visit The Stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This building is one of the most famous places in Tallinn; the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (Aleksander Nevski Katedraal).

Before arriving in Tallinn, you will probably have seen this cathedral donning any sort of advertisement for the city. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn is stunning.

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral is situated on top of Toompea Hill, opposite the Government Buildings. It was built in 1900 Estonia was part of the Russian Empire. During the Soviet era, the cathedral was left to decline due to the USSR being a non-religious state. There was even talk of demolishing it at one point!

Despite the interior being lavishly decorated with mosaics, for me, the outside was more impressive. The Cathedral with its onion-shaped dome has been beautifully restored and maintained since Estonia’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Make sure this is on your Tallinn to do list.

Book Here: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Entry and Guided Tour

Get Lost Wandering About the Pretty Cobbled Streets of the Old Town

The best way to explore is by foot. Inside the UNESCO World Heritage site of the historical centre, it’s pretty much traffic-free and perfect for aimlessly wandering.

You could spend hours wandering about the maze of cobbled streets, through alleys and passages. It’s a picturesque city, so wherever you wander, you’ll find plenty of photogenic places. Alternatively, book a guided tour of the old town to see all the highlights.

Don’t forget to look up – some of the architecture is stunning!

Learn About the History of the City on a Walking Tour of Tallinn

If you’re wanting to combine learning about the history of the city, and fast-track visits to all the top sights in Tallinn, one of the best ways to do this is on a city walking tou r .

These are a great way to see the city and get your bearings if you’ve just arrived

Book a Tallinn walking tour with your own personal local guide who will be able to point out all the best places to visit in Tallinn and will have tons of insider knowledge.

If you’re wondering what to visit in Tallinn on a rainy day, then head to some of the museums.

There are SO MANY MUSEUMS in Tallinn that even if you aren’t usually a museum type of person, you will find something to interest you here. Here are some of the more popular ones;

• Tallinn City Museum – housed in a 14th-century merchant house, this museum tells the story of Tallinn’s history
• NAKU Museum of Puppet Arts – featuring puppets used in theatre all over the world, showing how they work and create fire and water on stage. There are also gore puppets in this slightly creepy museum
• Luscher & Matiesen Museum of Estonian Drink Culture – A museum dedicated to the Luscher & Matiesen Distillery. In the 1930s it was the nation’s leading winery which is now making a comeback……this is my kinda museum
• Kumu Art Museum – Estonia’s most cutting-edge museum showcasing Estonian art from the 18th-21st century. The building was opened in 2006 and is one of Tallinn’s most prized modern architectural masterpieces
• Estonian Open Air Museum – A living museum set in recreated 18th – 20th century Estonia. This one is great for families, situated in a forested park with actors dressed showing what life was like in historic Estonia

What to Do in Tallinn Old Town

Tallinn Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. It is full of winding cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and monuments from as far back as the 11th century.

People Watch in the Bustle of the Town Square

There’s nearly always something happening in the Old Town Square in Tallinn. Buskers, singers, musicians, magicians, re-enactments, market stalls and so on; there is usually something happening.

The Town Square is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, so it’s the perfect place to grab something to eat and drink and take in the vibe.

The Artisan Quarter and St Catherine’s Passage

If you’re wondering what to see in Tallinn’s old town, this is it. This was one of the most beautiful places in Tallinn, thanks to the cute archways spanning between the narrow lane. Katariina kaik (St Catherine’s Passage) connects Vene street with Muurivahne street and is home to St Catherine’s Guild. 

This bucket list worthy street is home to a variety of craft workshops, where artists and designers use traditional methods to produce glassware, ceramics, jewellery, quilts and hand-painted items.

Be sure to wander in and around all the little workshops and studios here. If you are looking for authentic Estonian hand-crafted souvenirs, this is the place to come. You WILL NOT find a ‘made in China’ sticker on any of the items around here.

The Hidden Gallery Under the Dominican Monastery

If you’re looking for Tallinn hidden gems, I ended up stumbling upon this place just on an afternoon wander.

The hidden gallery is down a steep little flight of stairs and a wooden door in the little courtyard of St Catherine’s Dominican Monastery. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Tallinn and the gallery honestly looks like it hasn’t changed much since that time.

Inside, it’s dark and smoky from the candles which light it. Complete with eerie chant music playing quietly the place is jam-packed with religious artworks, books and scriptures by the artist that rents the space. Quite often he will be down there at work. 

Visit the Danish King’s Garden

Situated next to Toompea and the Kiek in de Kok you’ll find the Danish Garden. An old local legend, states that this is where a flag fell from the sky in this exact spot during the Danish invasion. 

The flag gave hope to King Valdemar II (1170 -1241, he was King from 1202) when the battle turned in his favour. The Danish reign lasted over a century in Tallinn and it was this, that gave the Danish King’s Garden its name.

Today, three slightly creepy monks stand around the gardens. are just plain weird. Their names are; Ambrosius, Bartholomeus, and Claudius. Although I can’t tell the difference between them they are a homage to the numerous ghost stories of hauntings in the city and the old Toompea Castle. 

Have a ‘Dance With the Death’

If you’re even the teeniest slightest bit interested in artwork, then it’s worth checking out the painting ‘Danse Macabre’ by Bermt Notke at the Niguliste Museum at St Nicholas Church.

The only part on display is a small fragment from an original 30-metre-long piece of work. Dated from the late fifteenth century it’s listed as one of the most valuable pieces of medieval artwork in Estonia. 

This building looks relatively understated from the outside, apart from the giveaway hanging sign, is the Town Hall Pharmacy.

The old apothecary is filled with cabinets of medical bits-n-bobs from a bygone era. It dates back to 1422. Today it sells modern medicine (thankfully!) but the side room houses collections of medicine and related artefacts dating from the 17th right up to the 20th centuries.  

Best City Views for Your Tallinn Itinerary

Like I said at the start, Tallinn has hills, and hills usually mean some decent vista points. So what are the top sites in Tallinn for city views?

Panoramic Views of Tallinn Old Town

Discover some of the most Instagrammable places in Tallinn . There are various viewing platforms dotted around the city. Toompea Hill gives views of the lower part of the Old Town, whereas, the Kohtuotsa viewing platform will give you views of the east. The Patkuli viewing platform will give views of the west of the Old City.

Look out for ‘Steven’ the resident seagull (a play on words for actor Steven Seagal) at the Kohtuotsa platform. 

Book Here: Self-Guided Tour to the Most Instagrammable Spots in Tallinn

Tower of St Olav’s Church for Views of Old Tallinn and the Port

It’s a steep and narrow climb, but the iconic white and teal spire of St Olav’s church can be seen from most elevated places around Tallinn. The Gothic steeple is also one of the buildings that feature on any skyline photo of Tallinn and is synonymous with the Old Town of Tallinn.

It was built during the 16th century, and at the time it was one of the tallest buildings in the world. It’s only natural, that going up the tower, will reward you with great views of the city and the Port of Tallinn. To get the views, it’s a 232-step climb.

Tallinn Town Hall Tower For City Centre Views

This is one of the top tourist attractions in Tallinn. If you’ve been to the Town Hall Square, you will have noticed the Tallinn Town Hall and its Tower (Tallinna Raekoja Torn).

True, it’s not the tallest tower in Tallinn, however, it is in a great location. The Town Hall & Tower was built between 1402 and 1040 and is the oldest in northern Europe.

It’s a tight squeeze going up the spiralling 64-metre tower with a cramped viewing platform at the top. It’s comfortable for about 6 people to move about up there, any more than that and you’ll have to squish into the archways of the windows to let people manoeuvre.

This Tallinn view looks down over the Town Square and if you get the angle right, there are some great framed shot opportunities of rooftops and the spires of several of the iconic landmarks . 

If you’re looking for crazy things to do in Tallinn and to get the adrenaline pumping, then you’ll love the Tallinn Television Tower .

Measuring 314 meters, the Tallinn Television Tower just outside of the Old Town is not only the tallest building in Tallinn but also in Estonia. It boasts panoramic views of the surrounding area, as well as an outdoor terrace on the 21st floor and the adrenaline-filled edge walk. 

Best Places to Eat In Tallinn

Tallinn has a wide range of culinary offerings, from traditional Estonian cuisine including soups, stews and hearty rye bread. There’s also a bustling coffee culture happening here too with plenty of artisan cafes and patisseries in the city not to mention their excellent beer!

Work Your Way Through the Craft Beer Selection

If Disneyland made a beerhouse in the style of Medieval Europe, this would be it. The Beer House is a little bit kitsch, with its movie-set-like mock-up of a medieval courtyard and costume-wearing waitresses but it’s fun and light-hearted. Plus the beer is good! 

The beer is brewed on-site. There are 7 craft beers to choose from. They refer to the beers as ‘living’ meaning that they are non-filtered and unpasteurised. 

If you want to try out different Estonian beers, then a great way to do it is on a craft beer tasting tour in Tallinn .

Book Here: Estonian Craft Beer Tasting in Tallinn

Try Delicious Cakes the Oldest Café in Tallinn

You can’t help but miss the huge turning Ferris wheel in the shop window of the oldest café in Estonia . There’s usually a large crowd of people standing in the street outside Café Maiasmokk, taking photos of the window display.

If you head to Café Maiasmokk at peak time (late morning until early afternoon) you will most likely have to wait for a table. It gets busy but it’s a must do in Tallinn. It’s worth the wait.

The interior of the café is pretty much unchanged since its opening in 1864, with its cute tiled floor and traditional wooden counter. It’s worth the queues just to have look inside. The pastries are delicious too, I can certainly vouch for the apple Danish pasty, it was one of the best I’ve ever eaten!

Visit Cafe Maiasmokk as part of this 3-Hour Tallinn Food Tour

Immerse Yourself In The Coffee Culture

Kehrwieder Chocolaterie and Rotisarery boast some of the best coffee and chocolate in the city.

From the outside, the café looks small. Head inside and it’s a rabbit warren of cave-like rooms. Super cosy and jammed-packed with mismatched furniture, it’s got a great atmosphere.

The coffee is roasted on-site, so they have a decent selection on offer along with a wonderful selection of handmade chocolate truffles.  

Watch Artists at Work in the Marzipan Room

Just a single room plays host to the Marzipan Room. It’s actually next door to Café Maiasmokk. In cabinets dotted around the room, you can see the back catalogue of cute little marzipan figures, over 200 of them in this museum come café.

The Marzipan Room is over 100 years old, you can read about its history of it on the information boards on the walls.

On the counter, at the back, you can watch the artists carefully shaping, decorating and painting the Marzipan figures. If you’re lucky, you might even get to have a taste of their marzipan – yum!

Wondering where to go in Tallinn for the freshest artisan food? Located outside of Tallinn Old Town to the northeast of the city, you’ll find Tallinn’s main train station: Balti Jamma. This translates to Baltic Station. Here is also where you’ll find the local artisan market; Balti Jaama Turg.

Tallinn is a great destination for foodies . You’ll find fresh fruit, vegetables as well as baked goods on sale here alongside small eateries catering for every type of cuisine possible. There are so many options, you could eat somewhere different for a good few weeks. The market attracts hipster locals as well as tourists and is reasonably priced.

Next to the artisan market, and inside the large building, you’ll find all sorts of other market-type stalls and a good proportion of vintage fashion and bespoke clothing. This would be a fashionista’s heaven! 

Book Here: Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour

Hipster Places in Tallinn

There’s been an abundance of rejuvenation in recent years in some of the more round own areas of Tallinn. They’ve been given a new lease of life, combining the original buildings with street art, social areas, live music and small independently owned shops.

Wander About Ultra-Hipster Telliskivi Creative City

Not only famed for its street art scene; street art and murals adorn nearly every wall around here, Telliskivi Creative City is also a hub for everything cultured.

The former industrial complex situated next to Balti Jamma Turg and Kalamaja is home to several design studios, quirky creative companies and shops selling unique items, and cool eating and drinking venues including one inside an old train! You’ll also find galleries, theatres, clubs and more.

Hundreds of events happen at the Telliskivi Creative Centre annually including concerts, and exhibits as well as the weekly flea market every Saturday.

BookHere: Street Art Tour in Telliskivi Creative City

Related Article: Visiting Estonia’s Street Art Capital, Tartu

This is one of the most popular residential areas in Tallinn and is certainly worth heading here to take a look at. Despite Kalamaja being part of the nation’s capital, the roads are quiet and it’s free from the bustle of the tourist hub in the Old Town. Kalamaja is the polar opposite of Tallinn Old Town.

The whole area is incredibly photogenic, this is down to the myriad of colourful wooden houses which line the streets, lime green dusty pink, sky blue and any other colour you can possibly think of. Despite it being just a stones-throw from the Old Town of Tallinn , the vibe here is relaxed

To get here, continue heading north from Telliskivi Creative City (it’s 5 minutes from here) if you end up at the Baltic Sea, you’ve gone too far!

Book Here: Tallinn Old Town and Kalamaja Private Walking Tour

Soviet Tallinn & KGB Sites in Tallinn

It wasn’t until 1991 that Estonia gained its independence from the horrors of the Soviet regime. Learn about the harrowing past that plagued the Baltic States for nearly 50 years.

If you want to learn more about this era, then check out this ‘ Behind the Iron Curtain of Tallin n ’ tour where you’ll get to visit an abandoned Soviet air defence base, visit the Soviet Olympic Stadium and learn about life behind the Iron Curtain.

Book Here: Secrets of the Soviets Tour

See Where Soviet Estonia Began at KGB Headquarters & Prison Cells

From the outside, this building is visually stunning. However, the Art Nouveau façade of this building hides a sinister tale. The KGB Prison Cells and Headquarters are situated in the heart of Old Town Tallinn at Pagari 1. 

Before becoming the KGB headquarters, this building was residential. Regular families lived here. It was in 1941 that the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic Commissariat for Internal Affairs converted the basement level of the building into prison cells.

The cellar windows were bricked in and suspected enemies of the state were held here, interrogated and tortured. They were then either moved on to concentration camps or shot. It was used as a prison until 1950.

If walls could talk, I would hate to hear what they witnessed. 

Original fittings such as cell doors, and wall partitions are still intact. The basement of Pagari 1 is now open as a museum displaying images and information about the prisoners who were held there. If you only visit one piece of Soviet history, put this at the top of your Tallinn must see list.

Get Spooked Out at Patarei Prison

Even on the sunniest day, this building would be creepy. However, the day I visited happened to be one of those stormy summer days, angry dark skies, lashing with rain and complete with flashes of lightning and the rumble of thunder in the background.

I arrived here soaking wet and the weather outside just enhanced the spine-chilling atmosphere inside. In a nutshell, the minute you step foot inside Patarei Prison you’ll notice that it feels oppressing and certainly ticks the boxes for anyone interested in dark tourism sites in Tallinn. 

The Patarei Sea Fortress was initially built during the 19th century. It was during Soviet rule that the fortress was made into a prison. Patarei Prison gained notoriety as one of the worst prisons within the Soviet Union and was used for the internment of Political Prisoners.

An exhibition titled ‘Communism is a Prison’ is located inside Patarei Prison, covering nearly 1,200 square metres along the east wing. The original fittings and prison yard are still there, pretty much untouched since its abandonment.

Around the museum, informative boards stated who various prisoners were, what they did as well as their fate. There is a very sinister feeling room downstairs where prisoners would have been executed. I won’t spoil what happens inside the room, but it’s truly haunting!

Visit the Crumbling Ruins of the Ill-Fated Linnahall

I can’t resist a crumbling abandoned building. Built during the Soviet era for the 1980 Moscow Olympics for the Regatta, the Linnahall is a massive monster of a 4000-seater stadium. It’s situated right on the port of Tallinn, so it’s pretty hard to miss it. 

From the early 2000s up to 2009, it was converted and used as an ice skating rink however since then it’s been left to the elements to take over. The inside of the building is closed off currently, but you can wander around the outside of it.

To date, no investor has come forward to convert the dilapidated building, so it’s just sitting and waiting until that day comes. The Linnahall does seem to be a hub for young couples to hang out, sitting arm-in-arm on the many stairs leading up and enjoying the views. Head up the stairs to check out the panoramic views for yourself. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset from. 

The ugly 1970s block building of Hotel Viru located just outside the Old Town of Tallinn hides a secret. To general visitors, there are just 22 floors to the hotel. Floor 23 was a secret floor which housed the KGB Radio Centre.

The hotel was the KGB espionage base, where everything in the hotel was bugged with microphones hidden in every possible location to listen to guests for potential information. 60 rooms in the hotel were fitted with listening devices.

There were even what was called ‘special rooms’ for certain ‘special guests’ who the KGB may have been trying to dig some dirt on. This is also where radio communication signals were intercepted and information was passed back to the Soviet government. 

At the collapse of the Soviet Union, the 23rd floor was suddenly abandoned. The top floor is now open as a museum and is pretty much how it was on that August night in 1991. 

Best Day Trips From Tallinn

If you’ve got some extra time on your itinerary, and feel the need to explore the areas around Tammlin, then here are some great day trips.

Marvel at the Grandeur of Kadriorg Palace & Kadriorg Art Museum

A short tram ride out of the main Old Town of Tallinn and you’ll find the stunning estate of Kadriorg Palace.

The pink and red baroque-style palace was a gift from Tsar Peter 1sr to his wife Catherine. Building work for this grand palace started in 1718 and was named Kadriorg (in German, Catharinenthal) after his wife. Not a bad gift if you ask me?

Kadriorg Park features lavish grounds complete with manicured flowerbeds and fountains. There is a museum attached which houses the Kadriorg Art Museum featuring both Estonian and foreign pieces of work. 

Find Sun, Sea and Sand at Pirita Beach

Depending on what time of year you are visiting Tallinn, you may not find the sun here. Pirita is only a short tram ride from the capital, the sandy beach is situated next to pine forests, so it’s a great chance to escape the city and get back to nature if the crowds get a bit too much.

This is the biggest beach in Estonia so is well-equipped with beach lockers, changing cabins and kiosks selling basic supplies. Spending a day at Pirita Beach is one of the best things to do in Estonia during the short summer season. It can get busy in July and August, but outside of this, it’s a perfect escape from the bustle of the capital if you have more than 48 hours in Tallinn in the summer. 

Naissaar Island

If you like soviet history and prefer to stick with dark tourism, then head out to Naissaar Island with its famous lighthouse. Take a military truck ride to the overgrown fortress ruins and discover secret underground tunnels.

This is a must for anyone wanting to delve more into Estonia’s storied past.

Book Here: Naissaar Island Lighthouse and Underground Tunnel Tour

Catch the Ferry Across to Helsinki

If you’re done with sightseeing in Tallinn and you have a day spare, then it’s really easy to pop over to the Finnish capital of Helsinki.

The ferry takes just 2 hours. Several companies are offering the Tallinn – Helsinki – Tallinn journey , so you’ll find a variety of departure times throughout the day.

Book Here: Return Day Trip Ferry Ticket from Tallinn to Helsinki

If you’re looking to escape the city and you’re more interested in enjoying nature, then you’ll love Lahemaa National Park . This park is rated as one of the best things to see in Estonia.

It’s an easy day trip from Tallinn, where you can breathe the fresh Baltic air of the National Park. Spend time exploring miles of the untouched natural beauty of the peninsulas, bays, forests, beaches, waterfalls and bogs.

Book Here: Full Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park FromTallinn

Where to Stay In Tallinn

Boutique accommodation – schlössle hotel.

• Centrally located in a 13th-century building
• 5-star boutique hotel
• Decorated with antiques
• On-site sauna

Check Availability via Booking

Check Availability via Agoda

• Central location
• Lots of social areas
• Swimming pool

Tallinn Itinerary FAQs

Now you’ve discovered some of the best places to see Tallinn, here are answers to questions you might have about your trip.

Where Is Tallinn?

Three countries make up the Baltic States; Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Estonia is the most northern of these. Tallinn sits right on the north coast of Estonia. The city was declared UNESCO Heritage status in 1997 and named as European Capital of Culture in 2011.

Is Tallinn Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Tallinn is a beautiful and vibrant city with plenty of things to do and see. It’s one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe with an abundance of history, balance out by Scandinavian-influenced and hipster vibes.

How Many Days in Tallinn?

If you only had one day in Tallinn, you’d be able to see the highlights in and around the city centre. It’s doable but you’d miss out on so much.

Ideally, Tallinn can be explored in a few days, although depending on your interests and preferences, you could easily spend a week or more in the city. I’d suggest two or three days to explore the city. That way you can make sure that you get to experience the best of what Tallinn has to offer at a relaxed pace.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Tallinn?

The best time to visit Tallinn is during the summer months of June through August when temperatures are mild and the days are long. Tallinn weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer!

If you want to avoid the peak summer holidays, then go in May, September or October.

Winters in Tallinn can be chilly, although heading there in late November and December, you’ll get to experience the Christmas Markets popping up around the Old Town. If you love traditional Christmas markets, then December is a great month to visit Tallinn, however, wrap up warm!

Is the Tallinn Card Worth It?

If you are planning on seeing more than a few attractions on this list or using public transport like it’s certainly worthwhile investing in a Tallinn card . They are sold at official Tallinn tourism shops.

Work out what you want to see first, as it might be cheaper just to pay for attractions as you go. I planned what I wanted to see in advance, and I saved a fortune, but I crammed in attractions like crazy to make the price of the card financially beneficial.

Find Out More About The Tallinn Card

Check out these small group tours of the top things to do in Tallinn.

How’s Your Trip to Tallinn Shaping Up?

So, how many of these things are going on your Tallinn bucket list?

It’s easy to tell why people fall in love with the Estonian capital. It’s incredibly quaint, with pretty cobblestoned alleyways, wonky houses and tons of history. It’s also small enough that it’s easy to see everything in a 2 or 3 day trip to Tallinn, making it an ideal weekend city break.

If you enjoyed this What to do in Tallinn travel guide, you might also like…

• 21 Unmissable Things To See in The Baltic States
• Discover Estonia’s Street Art Capital of Tartu
• Riga, Latvia 3 Days Itinerary

If you found this Tallinn trip itinerary useful, then save this post for future reference. Know someone else who will find this helpful, then why not share it with them?

Have a question about planning your Tallinn itinerary? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

Similar Posts

6 Cultural Tourism Destinations You Must Visit in 2023

FacebookTweetPin Are you looking for a travel experience that is more than just sightseeing? Do you want to immerse…

Taking the Transfăgărășan Road Trip, Romania

FacebookTweetPin For most people, Romania is associated with one of the most popular dark characters in the world –…

Madrid In Winter 2023/24: Over 30 Things to Do In Winter in Madrid

FacebookTweetPin Heading to Madrid in winter offers a unique experience with its crisp blue skies, enjoyable winter sun and…

A Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid

FacebookTweetPin Few people know that Madrid, Spain´s capital, is one of the few places in the world (or maybe…

6 Of the Best Small Group Tours to Croatia, Even for Solo Travellers!

FacebookTweetPin Croatia is a phenomenal country with no less than 21 national parks and nature reserves that equate to…

Ultimate 10 Days In Spain Itinerary (Guide for First-Timers)

FacebookTweetPin Planning your first trip to Spain? You’re in the right place, this Spain in 10 days itinerary covers…

The 21 Very Best Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

• Post author By thebumpercrew
• Post date April 7, 2024
• Categories In City Breaks , Europe , Things to Do , Travel
• No Comments on The 21 Very Best Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Tallinn, you’re in the right place! Tallinn is a superb mix of old and new, where medieval meets trendy. Tallinn reminded me (Joel) of several other European cities. It is a hybrid of cities and has the essence of other towns and cities from across the continent. Tallinn shares some architectural details with Tirana, the Albanian capital, and other European cities, such as Munich , with an ever-slightly Bavarian feel. Tallinn has something to offer everyone and should be on your list of places to visit!

Things to Do in Tallinn

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, which lies in the Baltic Sea region of eastern Europe. It’s the country’s beating heart with its fantastic art scene and unique medieval centre, and is packed to the brim with history, culture and things to see and do. Tallinn is relatively small for a capital city and is the perfect size to explore over a weekend, meaning most things to do in Tallinn are in the city centre or within walking distance. Without further ado, here’s our list of the best things to do in Tallinn, Estonia.

Old Town District

1 | Walk Through Viru Gate

First up on our things to do in Tallinn is to walk through Viru Gate. Viru Gate is synonymous with many medieval towns. Viru Gate was built in the 14th century as a former barbican – the outer defence of a walled city – but now marks the entrance to Tallinn’s Old Town. Lining the route to Viru Gate are a series of florists, so if flowers are your thing, Viru Gate is the place to buy them!

📍 Viru Gate, Viru tänav, 10140, Tallinn

2 | Wander Old Town

Once you step through Viru Gate, you’re in the beating heart of Tallinn, known as Old Town (Tallinna vanalinn, in Estonian). Old Town is the oldest part of Tallinn and has wholly preserved its medieval origins, boasting Gothic spires, endless cobbled streets and charming architecture. Because of this, Tallinn Old Town is now the best preserved medieval city in Northern Europe, and thanks to its 13th-century city plan (which is still intact), Old Town was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Step inside Old Town, and you’ll realise it lives up to its reputation.

3 | Take a Free Walking Tour

Something we always aim to do in a new city is a walking tour. We usually Google’ free walking tour’ to see what’s on offer. If you’ve never done one before, understand they are free because you don’t formally pay for the tour but give tips at the end based on what you think it was worth. We’ve done them all over the place, including in Athens , and they are always fun, energetic and filled with great information about the city you might not otherwise find out about. You can find free walking tours on Google or head on our recommended walk at traveller.ee to uncover Tallinn’s local life and history. Details below!

📍 Tourist Information Centre, Niguliste 2, 10146, Tallinn

4 | Explore With the Tallinn Card

Tallinn has an abundance of museums and attractions to get stuck into, from the KGB museum to the maritime museum, which we’ll discuss later on our list of things to do in Tallinn. If museums are your thing, consider buying the Tallinn Card . It gives you access to over 50 museums and attractions around the city, including a few things on this list, and makes visiting all these wonderful places a little lighter on your wallet.

5 | Wander Down Katariina käik

Katariina käik, also known as St. Catherine’s Passage, is one of Tallinn Old Town’s most famous and picturesque lanes. The lane itself doesn’t offer much other than an opportunity for a picture. Still, a lovely restaurant named Restoran Controvento lines Katariina käik, where you can take a few minutes out of your day to enjoy the lane’s ambience over coffee.

📍 Katariina käik, 10140, Tallinn

6 | Get Your Hangover Cure at Europe’s Oldest Pharmacy

So, I’d heard that Tallinn is popular for stag and hen parties, and I can confirm this is true. I saw no fewer than half a dozen hen parties in one evening. And with a heavy night out often comes a heavy hangover. With said hangover may come a headache and if you’re in search of some painkillers, look no further than Raeapteek, Town Hall Pharmacy.

The significance? Town Hall Pharmacy is the oldest pharmacy in Europe that has continuously been in business in the same building. Although the exact opening date is unknown, the pharmacy has been operating since at least 1422! Inside, you’ll find a museum with artefacts of a bygone era of medicine, full of weird and wonderful things once used for medicine.

📍 Raeapteek, Raekoja plats 11, 10146 Tallinn

7 | Have Coffee at Master’s Courtyard

Master’s Courtyard ( Meistrite Hoov in Estonian) is one of the cutest courtyards in Tallinn. And if you didn’t know it was there, you’d walk right on past and be none the wiser. Master’s Courtyard is home to a cute cafe, and arts and crafts workshops, and worth popping in for coffee or a wander. While you’re there, look at the picture on the wall on the left-hand side as you walk in – it shows how Master’s Courtyard used to look.

📍 Master’s Courtyard, Vene 6, 10123, Tallinn

8 | Visit Tallinn Town Hall

Built in 1322, Tallinn Town Hall is the oldest surviving town hall in Northern Europe and the only one preserved in the Gothic style. Once inside, you can explore four floors of history and even climb the 115 steps up the tower to the belfry. Access to Tallinn Town Hall is available with the Tallinn Card but only during selected dates. Check out the Tallinn Town Hall website for up-to-date information.

📍 Raekoja plats 1, Old Town, 10146, Tallinn

💶 €5, free with Tallinn Card

9 | Enjoy a Drink in the Town Square

A town square is the undisputed hub of many European towns and cities, and it’s no different in Tallinn Old Town. Tallinn Town Hall Square is the centrepiece of the city and a magnet for tourists. Why? Because it’s vibrant, it offers a place to sit, relax, grab a drink and a bite to eat and watch the world go round in one of the most beautiful settings in Tallinn.

Be aware that restaurants around Town Square can be a bit pricey. It may be worth avoiding here if you’re on a budget. However, if you’re not, it’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the ambience of Old Town.

📍 Town Hall Square, Raekoja plats 1, 10114, Tallinn

10 | Visit Freedom Square

Freedom Square is a representation of national symbolism and civic pride within Tallinn. During Estonia’s first period of independence, Freedom Square was a location for parades and fanfare. Once the country fell back into Soviet rule, the square fell into neglect. Freedom Square has returned to its former glory and features cafes, art galleries and places to sit and enjoy the atmosphere. Freedom Square is a stark contrast to Tallinn Old Town – it’s a vast, open space with a different feel to the cobbled streets of Old Town and is also home to St. John’s Church – an unmissable, dominating bright-yellow church that sits on the edge of the square.

📍 Freedom Square, Vabaduse väljak 9, 10142, Tallinn

Toompea Hill District

11 | Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was built in 1900 when Estonia was part of the tsarist Russian empire and is the most lavish Orthodox church in Tallinn. It is Estonia’s main Russian Orthodox cathedral and resembles the Kremlin with its onion-domed structures. You can wander inside, where you’ll find a little gift shop. Be aware – the inside isn’t as remarkable as the outside, so don’t be disappointed!

📍 Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Lossi plats 10, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tallinn

12 | Visit the Domed Church

Not far from Alexander Nevsky Cathedral on Toompea Hill sits St Mary’s Cathedral, which was constructed sometime before 1233. Access is through a small, unassuming door which takes you into a church dressed unlike any other I’ve ever seen. There are tons of coats of armour on the walls and some strange wooden structures towards the altar, which offer an alternative, interesting church interior you wouldn’t usually see. Inside, you can also climb the 69-metre climb the 69-metre Baroque bell tower for some decent views over Tallinn.

📍 St Mary’s Cathedral, Toom-Kooli 6, 10130, Tallinn

13 | Admire the Views From the Viewing Platforms

If you venture outside Tallinn, you will notice Estonia is a flat country. The highest point in the country is just over 300 metres. That’s pretty small compared to the mountains back in the UK, like Ben Nevis. Anyway, the point I am making is that it’s hard to get good views, so head up to Toompea Hill for some of the best views of Tallinn. The Patkuli viewing platform offers views north, towards the sea, and the Kohtuotsa viewing platform offers views into Tallinn Old Town.

📍 Patkuli viewing platform, Rahukohtu, 10130, Tallinn

📍 Kohtuotsa viewing platform, Kohtu 12, 10130, Tallinn

14 | Visit Kiek in de Kök

Built in 1470, Kiek in de Kök was the mightiest artillery tower in the Baltics. Today, Kiek in de Kök serves as a museum for Tallinn’s fortifications. It’s split into three parts – the Kiek in de Kök artillery tower, Maiden’s Tower, the underground passages, and the Carved Stone Museum.

If you’re not interested in going inside Kiek in de Kök, visit the grounds on either side of the wall. There is a beautiful garden named Komandandi Garden on the western side of the big round tower. On the opposite side of the main wall, you’ll find the Danish King’s Garden , which was the birthday of the Danish flag. Access to Kiek in de Kök is available with the Tallinn Card.

📍 Kiek in de Kök, Komandandi tee 2, 10130, Tallinn

Telliskivi District

15 | Explore Balti Jaama Turg Market

It’s time to step outside Tallinn Old Town and into the hip Telliskivi District, also known as the Cultural Kilometer. The first stop on our journey outside Old Town is Balti Jaama Turg Market. If vintage is your thing, Balti Jaama Turg Market is the place to go! It’s full of vintage clothes shops and antique centres where you can get lost for hours in the treasure trove of items on offer. You’ll also find food stalls selling groceries and hot food, and if organic is your thing, head to Biomarket – it sells only organic food, cosmetics and natural cleaning products.

📍 Balti Jaama Turg Market, Kopli 1, 10412, Tallinn

16 | Get Hipster at Creative City

Before I visited Tallinn, I’d read a little bit about Creative City. I wasn’t particularly sold but decided to take a punt and visit the place, and I’m glad I did. Creative City is a vibrant part of Tallinn that’s home to some hipster stuff, like bars and restaurants and the fine-art photography centre, Fotografiska . If you’re looking for a trendy place to visit for a drink, consider heading to Nudist Winery . A creative location wouldn’t be complete without the next thing on our list of things to do in Tallinn – street art.

📍 Telliskivi Creative City, Telliskivi 60a, 10412, Tallinn

17 | Wonder at Tallinn’s Art Scene

Street art is a growing part of Tallinn and Estonia’s identity and is a world away from the communist era of Estonia. It’s colourful, creative and a feast for your eyes. A formal street art programme was created in Tallinn in 2016, which launched Estonia from medieval to modern on the global street art map. Street art always makes for interesting travel pictures and is one of my favourite things to photograph while travelling.

Tallinn Port District

18 | Visit Port Noblessner

Port Noblessner is a former submarine shipyard and one of the fastest-developing areas of Tallinn. It’s a trendy little spot with a mix of interesting architecture, open spaces and cafes. There’s also the former foundry, which is now home to Proto Invention Factory – a place where you can immerse yourself in a virtual reality world.

📍 Port Noblessner, Tööstuse 48, 10416, Tallinn

19 | Visit Lennusadam Maritime Museum

Lennusadam Maritime Museum is one of the most popular museums in Estonia and sits in the notable Seaplane Hangar – an impressive structure with its dominating hangar doors. For history and maritime buffs, Lennusadam Maritime Museum is the place for you. It’s a place for Estonian maritime culture’s collection, preservation and presentation, a little like the Maritiman in Gothenburg . You can get eyes on the 1930s submarine, EML Lembit, which was the pride of the Estonian Navy and one of only two submarines in Estonia’s naval history. Access to Lennusadam Maritime Museum is available with the Tallinn Card.

📍 Lennusadam, Vesilennuki 6, 10145, Tallinn

20 | Climb the Crumbling Tallinna Linnahall

Next up on our list of things to do in Tallinn is to visit Tallinna Linnahall. Built in the Soviet era for the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics, Tallinna Linnahall is a 5,000-seat concrete amphitheatre that is now just a crumbling relic of the communist era in Estonia. Located just a few hundred metres from Old Town, Tallinna Linnahall is a stark contrast to the beauty of endless cobbled streets in Tallinn and reminded me of my time in Tirana, Albania, with similar crumbling buildings such as the Pyramid of Tirana.

📍 Tallinna Linnahall, Sadama 1, 10415, Tallinn

21 | Explore Kadriorg Park

The last thing on our list of things to do in Tallinn is to explore Kadriorg Park. It’s last but certainly not least because it’s wonderful. Located just a short distance from the city centre (a 30-minute walk from Old Town), Kadriorg Park is an unmissable part of Tallinn. The park is beautifully landscaped with its expansive green lawns, winding paths, and stately trees. It’s also home to a few surprising things – the Office of the President of the Republic of Estonia , the stunning Kadriorg Palace , which now houses the Estonian Art Museum, and the wonderfully peaceful Japanese Garden , where you might even catch sight of a red squirrel!

If you’re visiting Tallinn and have the time, planning a trip to Kadriorg Park is definitely worth it. If walking isn’t your thing, you can get to the park via bus or tram from Viru Gate.

📍 Kadriorg Park, A. Weizenbergi 26, 10127 Tallinn, Estonia

Is Tallinn worth visiting?

Absolutely, yes! Tallinn is a fantastic city that is worth visiting. It’s full of history and culture and has plenty of things to see and do to keep you occupied. Tallinn is relatively small for a capital city, so you can explore the whole city in a weekend without missing too much.

Are two days in Tallinn enough?

Two days in Tallinn is a suitable length of time to visit. You’ll be able to explore the old cobbled streets and see the top attractions on your list of things to do in Tallinn. But be under no illusion – despite its size, Tallinn packs a punch with its exhaustive amount of things to do. So, allow an extra day to explore Tallinn if you want to scratch beneath the surface of what this wonderful city has to offer.

Is one day in Tallinn enough?

No. Ha. One day in Tallinn is not enough. Despite the size of the city (it’s relatively small for a European capital city!) Tallinn offers a wealth of things to do. Allow for at least two days to explore the city. If you like to scratch beneath the surface (like us!), you’ll need two nights / three days.

Things to Do in Tallinn Map

Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

• Walk Through Viru Gate
• Wander Old Town
• Take a Free Walking Tour
• Explore With the Tallinn Card
• Wander Down Katariina käik
• Get Your Hangover Cure at Europe’s Oldest Pharmacy
• Have Coffee at Master’s Courtyard
• Visit Tallinn Town Hall
• Enjoy a Drink in the Town Square
• Visit Freedom Square
• Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Visit the Domed Church
• Admire the Views From the Viewing Platforms
• Visit Kiek in de Kök
• Explore Balti Jaama Turg Market
• Get Hipster at Creative City
• Wonder at Tallinn’s Art Scene
• Visit Port Noblessner
• Visit Lennusadam Maritime Museum
• Climb the Crumbling Tallinna Linnahall
• Explore Kadriorg Park

If you want to keep up with our travels, please subscribe to our mailing list. We won’t spam you; we’ll only contact you with exciting news and new stuff! Enter your email in the box below and hit subscribe!

Type your email…

Related posts:

Share the post.

• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Tags Baltics , Estonia , Tallinn , Things to do

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

10 Incredible Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

Updated January 2021

Tallinn, Estonia is one of the must-visit cities in Northern Europe. The charm is undeniable and its location ideal for touring Europe . 

Estonia’s beloved city of Tallinn was a highlight on a day trip from Helsinki . Prior to my visit, I really had no idea of the exact location of it. I had seen it listed as one of the top cities to visit in Northern Europe, so I had to make my way over for a visit.

I loved how much charm was in Tallinn, how easy it was to walk around, and the many gems along the way. Its Scandinavian roots and proximity to Russia give Tallinn certainly a unique feel for a European destination. The highlight of a visit to Tallinn is centered around its medieval city that has been preserved just wonderfully. Once you enter into the town walls, you’ve officially entered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tallinn is quintessential Estonian. From the architecture to the food, Tallinn gives you a chance to see just why Estonia is such an incredible country to visit in Europe — it makes for a wonderful stop on an itinerary through Scandinavia.

So if you’re visiting for the day or already traveling in Estonia, here some incredible things to do in Tallinn you don’t want to miss on your visit. 

Getting to Tallinn, Estonia 

Tallinn, Estonia is easily accessed from nearby cities or if you want to pop in on a flight to the city. I personally visited from Helsinki on a day trip utilizing the 2-hour ferry ride on the Tallink Silja Line. My top recommendation is to book the earliest ferry so that you can arrive in the morning to have a full day to explore. You will sail across the Black Sea which is beautiful in itself as well. 

Since Tallinn is in the Schengen Region of Europe, you are not required extra visas if traveling with an American or European passport. 

Other ways to access Tallinn include ferries from other cities like Stockholm (overnight). You can also choose from a range of inter-Europe flights to get to Tallinn easily. 

How Much Time in Tallinn?

You could easily spend a night or two to visit the city. I chose to visit on a single day trip to Tallinn. I would have personally preferred to stay longer though circumstances had it be one day. In a single day visit to Tallinn, I was still able to see the entire city, enjoy a great meal, and soak it all in. 

1. Explore the Main Hall Square

Right in the heart of Tallinn’s old town, is the main square also known as Raekoja plats. As picturesque as it is, there are many restaurants and shops that line it. It is the heart of the city where you’ll find the annual Christmas markets, vendors selling spiced and sweet nuts (grab a bag!), and more.

Along the square, you’ll have the towering Town Hall and plenty to explore here. It’s a central point to Tallinn itself and a must-see when visiting the old town.

2. Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Above the town on Toompea Hill, the famous church of Alexander Nevsky towers over Tallinn. Take the steep stairs from the old town and work your way up to see it.

The history of the church dates back to the Neo-Byzantine era, built in 1900. It’s Tallinn’s tallest and grandest orthodox cupola cathedral, making it a must-see in the city. It has a mixed historicist style, with a monumental example of Orthodox architecture. 

3. See Tallinn From the Patkuli Viewing Platform

One of the best viewing platforms in Tallinn sits above the city. You can get a glimpse out to the water and see the medieval walls that circle around the city from Patkuli Viewing Platform. During the day, the crowds do come and go, so be patient to grab a spot to view out. 

The other option for a viewing platform is at Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform and this offers wonderful views as well. The walk to either of these platforms is beautiful alone. 

4. Explore the Telliskivi Creative City

This creative city in Tallinn is just outside the city and you can easily walk to it from the old town. This area is incredible for seeing pop-up shops, street art, local designers, and grabbing a bite from a food truck. 

It is also home to Balti Jamaa, which is an indoor market with tons of food stalls, clothing shops, and more. You can easily stroll through here and continue on to Telliskivi. 

5. Try Local Beer From a Hip Brewery

Local beer is one of the best things to try when visiting Tallinn. You’ll find beer at almost every restaurant but if you’re looking to visit something more unique, head just outside of the old town to the neighborhood of Telliskivi. 

I stopped in at St. Vitus which was pouring beer on draft. This tap house and brewery had several options to try. I’d recommend going for their flight tasting which allows you to try several of their beers. 

One other Estonian-style beer you don’t want to miss in Tallinn is honey beer. You’ll see it on menus across town, it’s a nice light and golden beer, perfect after a day of walking. 

6. Eat Traditional Estonian Food at Olde Hansa

I was amazed by how good the food is in Tallinn. Sitting down to lunch at Olde Hansa (recommended to reserve), I tried some of their classics. The restaurant came recommended as a great portrayal of local food. It was easy to know it was a favorite given there were over 6,000 reviews on Trip Advisor.

The food was delicious, hearty, and I loved the game meat they had on the menu. The decor and style are really in character and the food is just delicious. Their outdoor patio is wonderful for a summer afternoon as well.

7. Visit the Estonian History Museum

For a look into Estonian history, the Estonian History Museum is the best spot to do so. It doesn’t take long to visit but it has a lot of insight into their heritage and past.

For other museums, Kumu art museum and the Estonian Maritime Museum in Seaplane Harbour came recommended as well. 

8. Walk Through St. Catherine’s Passage

If there’s one street not to miss, it’s St. Catherine’s Passage.

The old stone arches that are nearly 700 years old, transports you to another world and it’s a sight to see. Out of all the places in Tallinn, this was one of the best-preserved medieval sights.

In the passage, you’ll find shops and restaurants you can pop into. One of the restaurants I passed by was quite lovely and had a bustling crowd that afternoon. 

9. Get Outdoors in Laheemaa National Park

The one thing I didn’t have enough time to go see was the national park of Laheema. It came recommended from the tourist office to go see for a walk in nature. If you’re looking to get outdoors, this park just outside of the city is the best place to go. 

10. Spot the Colorful Doorways of Tallinn

As part of the city, you’ll start to notice the endless colors and shapes of the doorways. In the medieval old town, this is where you’ll discover most of them. As you’re walking through, keep an eye out for them. 

There are some incredibly photogenic ones as well! Head here for the locations of the prettiest doors of Tallinn.

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

Related Posts

17 Unmissable Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii

Minneapolis Shopping: Where to Find The Best Local Shops

15 Best Things to Do in Kansas City (Essential Experiences)

Great highlights. But you missed the most important museum of all – the Occupation Museum. This is the place to understand Estonia’s 60 years behind the Iron Curtain and the movement that led to independence. Inspiring!

Write A Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Puerto Rico
• South Dakota
• Washington DC
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• French Polynesia
• Travel Tips
• Family Travel
• Accommodations
• Packing Lists
• Photography Tips
• Northern California Guide
• San Francisco
• Lightroom Presets
• Rent Our Home For Photoshoots
• California Map

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

The Top 10 Things to do in Tallinn, Estonia

Inviting and mysterious, the medieval old town of Tallinn is a welcoming balance of intrigue and a picture-perfect postcard. The old town is so well preserved that you’d be forgiven for pinching yourself and questioning reality – it really is too cute!  Whether you’re spending a few days in the city or visiting on a day trip from Helsinki , here are the absolute best 10 things to do in Tallinn!

The top 10 things to do in Tallinn

1. start in the market square (raekoja plats).

As the central point of the old town, the Market Square is a great place to commence your meanderings through the cobblestone streets. From here you can already get a great idea of the vibrancy this city offers and within a 360-degree turn you will see the set of Game of Thrones come to life (minus the tourists, of course).

2. Check out the view from Toompea

Many will tell you that the best view of Tallinn is found on top of Toompea. While this is a beautiful view, sure, it isn’t quite the best view of the city from above (read on to find out where you’ll find the very best view!) Toompea is a neighbourhood overlooking the old town and it is here where you will also find the St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

3. Step inside St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Located high on the hill of Toompea, St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a beautiful church of the traditional Orthodox faith. The cathedral was built in 1900, when Estonia was still a part of the Russian Empire. Although photographs aren’t allowed inside, you should take the time to step inside the cathedral and look around to marvel at the ornate architecture, mosaics and gold candelabras (besides, entrance is free!)

4. Take in the view from St Olav’s Church

It surprises me how many visitors to Tallinn don’t make their way up the 258 stairs to the top of St Olav’s Church, which arguably has the best view of the old town. The tower dates back to 1267 and has previously been used to beacon approaching ships and as a KGB watch tower, though nowadays it is one of the must do tourist attractions in the city. It will cost you 3 euros to enter – a small price to pay for those picture perfect photographs!

5. Stroll the cobblestone Streets 

One of Tallinn’s greatest pleasures is just to wander for hours through the winding cobblestone streets. The old streets are incredibly photogenic with their pastel coloured buildings, unique shapes and my personal favourite: the colourful doors of Tallinn! The prettiest streets I stumbled upon were Pikk (the longest street in the old town) and Katariina käik .

6. Purchase yourself some powdered unicorn horn

The beauty of Tallinn is often found in its ability to remain in another era. Located in the market square, the town hall pharmacy is where you will find powdered unicorn horn, mummy juice, and all kinds of quirkiness. The pharmacy is believed to be Europe’s longest running pharmacy and was once a favourite of the Russian tsars. Keep in mind the pharmacy is unfortunately closed on Sundays.

7. Walk the Town Walls

Another great view over the city is found when wandering along the medieval walls surrounding the old town. Once you have finished walking the walls, make your way over to kiek in de kök to learn about Tallinn’s defence history. To this day you can view the cannonballs left behind by Ivan the Terrible during the Livonian War.

8. Indulge at the cutest pastry shop in town

After a long day of wandering the streets of the old town, make your way to the cutest (and tastiest) pastry shop in town, Rukis. Located on Viru Street, this pastry shop is full of temptations and at 2 and 3 euros a piece, its difficult to say no!

9. Toompea Castle

Located opposite St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is Toompea Castle, which now houses the Parliament of Estonia but was once an ancient stronghold, used since the 9th century.

10. Take the Day Ferry to Helsinki

If you’re visiting more of Estonia and haven’t arrived by ferry from Helsinki, then be sure to make a day trip two hours north to Finland! Helsinki is the complete opposite to Tallinn and offers a more urban experience, particularly appealing to design lovers and cafe hunters.

I flew to Europe with Finnair , arriving in Helsinki (capital of Finland) at 6:00am, before taking the two hour morning ferry to Tallinn. Purchasing a ticket at the ferry port cost me 35 euros return on the Viking Line, which is the easiest/most accessible port if you are staying in the centre of Helsinki. The ferry offers free wi-fi and affordable food options (though they do leave a little to be desired!)

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Los Angeles

Plan a trip

First trip solo

Packing guide

20 Best Places for Solo Female Travel

Travel after a break up

20 Places in your 20’s

WAYS TO TRAVEL

Solo travel

Adventure travel

Luxury travel

Learn a language

Become a blogger

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

15 Best Things to do in Tallinn, Estonia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Long an important port, Tallinn in Estonia is a very pretty and picturesque place to explore, with a fascinating past for you to delve into. Located on the Baltic Sea, it lies just across the Gulf of Finland from Helsinki, with Saint Petersburg to the east of it. Its strategic position has long attracted people to its shores, and the city is now an increasingly popular tourist destination.

The capital and largest city in the country, there is a wealth of things to do in Tallinn and interesting attractions to discover, with churches, castles, and cathedrals lying alongside elegant palaces and medieval merchants’ houses. These date back to various epochs, with the city having been ruled by everyone from the Swedes and Danes to the Germans and Soviets over the centuries.

Besides its beautiful Old Town, there are lots of great restaurants and bars for you to try out, as well as some brilliant museums on offer.

15. St. Catherine’s Passage

Appearing as if it has been left untouched and unchanged for centuries, St. Catherine’s Passage is a small yet scenic alley that is magical to wander along. Named after the old church which it runs alongside, the cobbled passageway is lined by lots of marvelous medieval buildings and connects Vene to Muurivahe street.

Once home to guilds, its age-old buildings now house workshops and studios where you can watch artists make ceramics, glassware, leather products, and weave textiles. Besides buying some fine handcrafted souvenirs, there is also a little cafe where you can sit and bask in the delightful architecture and atmosphere all around you.

14. KGB Museum

As it was the only place that foreign tourists were allowed to stay at the time, it was on the 23rd floor of Hotel Viru that the KGB set up their headquarters to keep tabs on what they got up to. Opened in 1972, the hotel was the first skyscraper in the city and was used by the KGB right up until the country’s independence in 1991.

Nowadays, visitors can take a captivating tour around the headquarters to see old surveillance devices, uniforms, and artifacts from Soviet times. As well as offering up an interesting insight into the Soviet state and its security apparatus, the museum also boasts a stunning view of Tallinn below.

13. City Wall

Encircling the Old Town, the city wall was first erected in the 13th century, before later being enlarged and strengthened by subsequent rulers. Punctuated by gates and guard towers, it is among the most well-preserved city walls in Europe and certainly makes for a very impressive and imposing sight.

In addition to gazing upon the sturdy defensive fortifications, there is also a small part of the wall that you can walk along; this offers up some fantastic views over the Old Town.

12. Kumu Art Museum

Located in a magnificent modern building set within the pretty Kadriorg Park, Kumu is one of the largest art museums both in Estonia and Northern Europe at large. Spanning three floors, its vast collection showcases some of the best works by Estonian artists, with Socialist Realism paintings displayed alongside more modern and contemporary pieces.

Taking you from the beginning of the 18th century right up until the present day, the award-winning Kumu Art Museum is not to be missed out on and regularly hosts exhibitions featuring international artists.

11. Town Hall

Lying right at the heart of the city, Tallinn Town Hall was built all the way back in 1404 and is the oldest such building still surviving in not only the Baltics, but the whole of Scandinavia. Gothic in design, the town hall sports a lofty tower upon which is perched a weather vane of Old Thomas – a symbol and guardian of Tallinn.

Inside, visitors can find some fabulous architecture, as well as lots of lovely old artifacts, decorations, and finely woven tapestries. Dominating the square of the same name upon which it lies, the Town Hall is one of the most recognizable and important landmarks in Tallinn.

10. Viru Gate

The main entrance to the Old Town, Viru Gate’s twin towers were built in the 14th century and were once part of a more extensive system of gates and towers. Very well-preserved, the gate’s towers lead on to Viru Street – a very busy pedestrian street which is home to lots of little boutiques, restaurants, and street stalls.

Entering the Old Town through the ivy-covered stone towers certainly makes for a very memorable introduction to Tallinn and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

9. St. Olaf’s Church

Named after King Olaf II of Norway, this wonderful church is the largest remaining medieval building in the whole of Tallinn. Built in the 1200s, it is still in remarkably good condition despite being struck by lightning numerous times over the centuries.

Once one of the tallest structures on Earth, its lofty spire towers to a height of 123 meters. From atop of it, you can enjoy breathtaking views out over the city. While its interior is quite stark and sparsely decorated, it is still well worth venturing inside to see some of the brilliant stone carvings on show.

8. Estonian Open Air Museum

If you’re interested in learning more about the country’s rich history and heritage, then no trip to Tallinn can be complete without visiting the Estonian Open Air Museum. The sprawling collection of 80 or so reconstructed historic buildings is fascinating to wander around, and the small village is home to farms and mills, as well as a church, inn, and schoolhouse.

Besides taking in all of the marvelous architecture, you can also enjoy weaving, blacksmithing, and cooking demonstrations; these highlight what life used to be like in Estonia back in the 18th century.

7. Tallinn TV Tower

The tallest building in the country, the Tallinn TV Tower reaches a height of 314 meters and is located to the east of the city. Opened just in time for the 1980 summer Olympics in Moscow, the tall mast was erected to improve telecommunications in the region. This saw it stormed unsuccessfully by Soviet troops in 1991, when radio operators broadcasted news of Estonia’s independence.

Visible for miles, the TV Tower dominates its surroundings, with its observation deck offering up incredible views out over the country. In addition to this, it also has a great restaurant for you to try out, as well as some interesting interactive displays on the history of Tallinn and Estonia.

6. Seaplane Harbor

Now part of the Estonian Maritime Museum, Seaplane Harbor was originally built in 1916 to house Peter the Great’s seaplanes. Stretching away before you, its cavernous concrete interior makes for a majestic sight and is intriguingly lit up by lighting that wouldn’t look out of place in a nightclub.

Now home to lots of historic boats, submarines, and, of course, seaplanes, the extensive collection is magnificent to peruse, with some of them dating all the way back to WWI. Besides the hundreds of planes and boats on display, there are also some fun flight and submarine simulators for you to try out, while its outdoor harbor houses yet more ships and yachts.

5. Kadriorg Park

Located on the outskirts of the city, just a stone’s throw away from the Baltic Sea, the huge Kadriorg Park is a very pretty and picturesque place to stroll around. Commissioned by Peter the Great all the way back in 1718, the park is home to lots of lovely trees and flowerbeds, with sculptures, fountains, and ponds found dotted here and there.

Tucked away among all the delightful nature is the gorgeous Petrine Baroque Kadriorg Palace, which now houses an art museum and other fantastic institutions such as the KUMU and Mikkel Museum.

4. Toompea Hill

Despite only rising 20 or 30 meters above the rest of the Old Town, Toompea Hill’s prominent and strategic position has long connected it to power and prestige. On top of the small limestone mount, you can find a wealth of important and impressive historical sights, with Toompea Castle found alongside St. Olaf’s Church and Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral.

Reputed to be the grave of Kalev – a mythological figure in Estonia – the mound is an amazing place to wander around. Besides the many beautiful old buildings, it also offers up some great views of the city around you.

3. Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral

Only completed in 1900 when Estonia was still part of the Russian Empire, Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral looks absolutely stunning with its red walls, bright white ornamentation, and black onion domes. Set on top of Toompea Hill, the cathedral exhibits some exquisite Russian Revival architecture, with its interior boasting some wonderful wooden iconostases and marvelous mosaics.

Due to its prominent and possibly provocative position atop of the mound, the cathedral was long seen as a symbol of oppression by Estonians and was scheduled to be torn down after independence in 1924. Thankfully, these plans were never put in action, and the Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.

2. Town Hall Square

The beating heart of the city, much of life in Tallinn revolves around its bustling Town Hall Square. Lined by fantastic old medieval buildings – of which the Town Hall itself is the undoubted highlight – the large square is ringed by cafes, bars, and restaurants, and regular markets are held in its center.

Whether it’s stopping for a drink or a bite to eat at one of its establishments or buying souvenirs at the market, there is certainly a lot for you to see and do, and many of the city’s most famous sights lie just a short walk away. One of the most magical times of year to visit is during winter; the square has remarkably hosted a Christmas tree display since 1441, and its Christmas market has long been one of the best to visit in the whole of Europe.

1. Old Town

Home to lots of majestic medieval buildings that were built between the 15th and 17th centuries, Tallinn’s Old Town really is a mesmerizing place to explore. Hemmed in by the city walls that lie all around it, you will find atmospheric cobbled streets, charming churches, and historical monuments, with lots of fantastic bars, restaurants, and cafes also on offer.

Very well-preserved, its centuries-old buildings display several different architectural styles, while its fascinating museums take you through the city and country’s rich history and heritage. Although it is now quite touristy, the Old Town is not to be missed out on for the plethora of incredible sights it has to offer. Wandering around its amazing old streets will make you feel like you’ve entered a fairytale.

Best Time to Visit Tallinn

Set alongside the Baltic Sea, Estonia’s capital Tallinn enjoys a continental climate with cold, snowy winters and pretty mild, rainy summers. Its picturesque old town is very atmospheric to explore in both seasons with July, August and December the most popular times to visit.

In summer, its scenic streets can get quite crowded with lots of cruise ships also docking at its port. Temperatures of 20 to 21°C (68 to 70°F) are perfect for strolling around with some days seeing up to 18 hours of daylight.

The spring and autumn months can also be very pleasant in Tallinn. Cheaper, cooler and less crowded, they have exciting events like the Tallinn Music Week and Tallinn Old Town Days to enjoy. September and October see a lot less sunshine and daylight hours though.

From late November to early January, Tallinn looks absolutely magical as much of its center is decorated in twinkling Christmas lights. Many people visit for its fairytale-like, traditional markets with prices being higher as a result.

Whenever you visit, make sure to bring a coat as each month sees between 11 and 21 days with at least some rain. Summer and autumn are the wettest periods with snow sometimes falling in winter.

Share this post:

10 Best Places to Visit in Estonia

17 Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

6 Most Beautiful Regions of Europe

17 Most Charming Small Towns in Europe

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria

10 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

25 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Ljubljana, Slovenia

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Budapest

17 Best Things to do in Bratislava, Slovakia

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

64 Fun and Unusual Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

• 8 Pinterest

Tallinn makes a name for itself throughout Europe as one of the best-preserved Medieval towns left on the continent. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Estonian capital is welcoming approximately 4.56 million visitors each year.

With sites like the longest-running pharmacy in Europe (500 years), becoming the home of Estonia’s oldest cafe, and being recognized as Europe’s own Silicon Valley – Tallinn covers a wide range of interests and offers an incredible amount of activities.

Doused in thousands of years of history, charm, and keeping specific influences in its food, culture, and ways of life, Tallinn is a city bringing everyone back to the 13th century.

Though history plays a big role in the incredible amount of things to do in Tallinn , numerous nature day trips are also part of the fun to explore in this incredible city!

From walking the wood footpaths at Lahemaa National Park, to a peaceful day of nature and culture at Prangli Island, you’re in for a long list of nature activities near Tallinn!

Sounding great? Let’s explore more activities to do in Tallinn!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Tallinn tours

1 – Have a stroll throughout the Old Town

The 13th century Old Town of Tallinn dates is most commonly known for its well-preserved Medieval architecture decorating the city today.

Visit Tallinn Town Hall, and explore the Raekoja Plats which are the scene of various Estonian celebrations, and be immersed in the lively terrace and cafe culture all around.

Step into Towners’ Square where Medieval history meets contemporary green spaces, with over 2 kilometers of the city’s original city walls while enjoying the park’s amenities.

Commemorate your visit to Tallinn by snapping a historical Medieval photo , where you’ll get to trade your modern clothes for a Medieval outfit and accessories for a unique photo!

Walk through the Viru Gate, the old gates to the city, and gaze up at their majestic ivy-leaf layers, snaking up to the pointy roofs.

Later, join a walking tour or a fun bike tour to take you throughout the historic Old Town center  to explore the Danish King’s Garden and Freedom Square.

• city tours in Tallinn

2 – Get expansive views of Tallinn at the Hellemann Tower and Town Wall

Ready to see a great viewpoint over Tallinn? You must visit the Hellemann Tower and Town Wall, and get an expansive view of Old Town Tallinn while admiring the medieval architecture of the city from a new perspective.

Named after a local resident named Helle Holleman, the Hellemann Tower and Town Wall requires a bit of a steep climb up the steps, but with a few breaks (if needed) you’ll get up there and see that it was worth it.

Today the tower houses an art gallery and an Inn, but you can also step in to walk the defensive structure and learn more about its strategic location back in medieval times.

You can buy tickets starting at 4 euros.

3 – Spend a few hours admiring Kadriorg Palace and Kadriorg Park

The Kadrioge Palace is known to be one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Estonia and all of Northern Europe.

Built in 1718, the palace was constructed by the Russian Tsar Peter l of Russia for his wife, Catherine.

Inside, make sure to step into the Kadriorg Art Museum, housing a remarkable collection of national and international art pieces dating from the 16th-20th centuries.

Marvel at the Kadriorg Park beauty, brimming with picturesque walking paths, adorned with fountains, and serene gardens, including a prominent Japanese Garden not to be missed.

Within Kadriorg Park, check out the Children’s Museum Miiamilla for a fun, interactive museum experience for children, packed with endless activities.

Visit the Russalka Memorial built to commemorate those who lost their lives on the Russalka ship expedition.

• Kadriorg Palace tours

4 – Hop on the Skywheel of Tallinn

Want to get incredible birds-eye views of Tallinn? Consider booking a ride on the Skywheel of Tallinn , which resembles a huge, enhanced, and futuristic Ferris Wheel.

Going up 120 meters high, visitors can enjoy outstanding views of the city skyline, the Old Town, the sea, Lake Ülemiste, and beyond.

The covered pods are safely equipped to accommodate groups of up to 6 and are wheelchair and stroller friendly.

Take a sunset ride, and see as the sun paints its golden light on the city as you sip your champagne or simply just absorb the moment.

Book your ticket and the experience you’d like to have ahead of time. Tickets for adults start at 10 euros and family prices start at 28 euros.

• Skywheel of Tallin tickets

5 – Experience Tallinn’s innovations inside the Telliskivi Creative City

10-15 minutes walking distance from the Old Town is the inventive Telliskivi Creative City , an art space comprised of various art galleries, innovative start-ups, shops, cafes, small businesses, and so much more.

Housed inside an old industrial complex, walk around the buildings with shops offering a contemporary flea market vibe.

Visitors can expect to find over 25 different shops and over 200 different companies housed inside the art complex.

Check out their website to learn about upcoming cultural events that are constantly held in this space.

Situated within Tallinn’s version of Soho called Bohemian Kalamaja, (“Fish Town”), consider its history as a fishing harbor when visiting this creative hub.

The area has experienced a wave of contemporary and hipster influence, intermingling with its industrial, wooden houses appearance.

6 – Go inside one of the impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The Russian Orthodox church of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of the most beautiful in Estonia and one to explore for yourself to see the intricacy and beauty of the Russian Revival style.

Iconographies, impressive mosaics, and art adorn the inside of the cathedral, which was built to honor the Prince of Novgorod, Alexander Yaroslavich Nevsky, who fought against the German crusaders entering the territory in 1242 and during the invasion of Estonia by Russia.

Despite a bit of controversy created when it was first established on Toompea Hill, replacing a previous religious statue, today, visitors and locals see this structure for its architectural beauty.

Located in the historic Old Town, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is open Monday-Friday, 8 am – 7 pm.

• walking tours in Tallinn

7 – Take a day trip to nearby Helsinki

The advantage of traveling to Europe is the abundant opportunities for day trips even to other capital cities of other countries.

Helsinki makes its way onto travelers’ lists of things to do in Tallinn for its distance from Tallinn, only a 2-hour ferry shuttle.

With travelers and locals frequently traveling between cities, take advantage and book a day trip tour that will ease the journey from Tallinn to Helsinki, and offer a great number of activities and sights to see for the duration of your experience.

Ride comfortably on a climate control ferry, catch sight of a few of Finland’s beautiful archipelagos, get to know Helsinki’s historic center, try local foods like pickled herring with ruisleipä (rye bread), and so much more.

Tour prices start at $27 USD.

• Helsinki day trips from Tallinn

8 – Get unmatched views of Tallinn at the Kohtuotsa and Patkuli viewing platforms

Get breathtaking views of Old Town Tallinn at two of the most coveted viewpoints that draw in travelers all year round.

While both offer stunning views, the Patkuli viewpoint is known for the wall that says “The Times We Had. It’s often a selfie Mecca for those traveling to Tallinn to get their shot with the quote and gorgeous Old Town background.

The Kohtuotsa viewpoints located on the northern side of Toompea Hill boast picturesque and fairytale views of red roofs, pointy church spirals, and off onto the distance, the sight of the blueness of the sea.

Both viewpoints are free to enter, and not far from each other as they are both on Toompea Hill. Beat the crowds by going before 10 am or after 5 pm.

9 – Get a taste of the local culture on a food tour

Estonian cuisine is directly influenced by its proximity to the Baltic Sea, its frigid temperature, as well as the emphasis on quality over quantity.

Try some of Tallinn’s most iconic dishes such as Kiluvõileib (traditional open-face sandwich with marinated sprat fillet), smoked fish, Vastlakukkel (sweet rolls), and their national dish, Baltic dwarf herring.

Take a locally crafted food tour to really get a true taste of Estonian cuisine, including a variety of forest foods, fresh produce, the emphasis on farm-to-table for Estonian chefs, and the local eating culture and holiday food traditions.

Though some of the food has Scandinavian, German, and Russian influences, the Estonians have developed their own flavor, and pride themselves on their unique dishes. Learn about this and more from local Estonian food tour guides.

•  food tours in Tallinn

10 – Enjoy the Tallinn Zoo – Estonia’s only zoo

Considered to be Estonia’s only zoo, and the most visited in the Baltic region, the Tallinn Zoo is a huge space that houses over 13,000 different animals, living and coexisting from all corners of the world.

The zoo’s priority is to responsibly educate visitors on wildlife and the environment while caring for the well-being of the animals at the zoo.

Learn about the zoo’s affiliation with reproduction programs, and animal resettlement programs, designed to help conserve and save endangered species.

Take a general 2-hour tour of the zoo with one of the zoo tour guides, for an additional cost of 80 euros, or book a specialized tour focusing on a specific species of animal for the cost of 60 euros. All bookings can be made online.

11 – Plan a day trip to Lahemaa National Park

Lahemaa National Park was named 2020’s Top Ten Sustainable Destinations and is considered one of Europe’s most important forest conservation areas, offering visitors sites of rivers, limestone cliffs, forests, beautiful seashores, scenic bogs, meadows, and much more.

Lahemaa National Park is Estonia’s largest national park, covering ​​747 square kilometers, it was the first recognized national park in Estonia in 1971.

Walk through Viru Rabba, a scenic bog wooded pathway, walk 3 hours to the beautiful Käsmu Peninsula, and walk the famed Käsmu nature and cultural history trail, showcasing natural rock formations and nonstop natural beauty.

You can get to Lahemma National Park via public transportation, which may take a bit of time, or you can book a tour that includes ground transportation, a guide and departs from central Tallinn.

• Lahemaa National Park day trips from Tallinn

12 – Jam out at the Balti Jaama Turg market

The Balti Jaama Turg is a 3-floor market that houses a myriad of chic and artsy restaurants, cafes, bars, and fresh produce markets, and entertains visitors with art galleries and live music.

Spend some time exploring the more than 250 commercial hubs inside, also including some of the best hand-crafted Estonian artisan work, perfect for those souvenirs and gifts to take back to your friends.

Similarly to Telliskivi Creative City, Balti Jaama Turg received a makeover from its former less exciting appearance, check out the building itself and the transformation it has experienced, as it was awarded in 2017 The Best Construction Project of the Year.

Visiting the market is very easy, only 10 minutes walking distance from Old Town, or easily accessible via public transportation, and free to enter.

13 – Visit the statute of Estonian author A.H. Tammsaare at Tammsaare Park

Take a leisure stroll around Tammsaare Park, located a 9-minute walk from Old Town, contributing a beautiful garden escape with tree-lined paths, benches, and green open spaces perfect for an afternoon picnic.

Tammsaare Park used to be the home of a market, and then it was transformed into a theater in the early 1900s. Today, the park sits peacefully, since its opening date in 2018.

Make sure to walk past the statue of Estonian author, A. H. Tammsaare, which was built into the park on his 100th birthday in 1978.

The park is open 24 hours a day, and it is free to enjoy its stunning walkways.

14 – Try on a maritime uniform at Tallinn’s Seaplane Harbour

Situated in the hipster-influenced Bohemina Kalamaja, the Seaplane Harbour is a remnant of the area’s fishing heritage. Originally a sea fortress, today houses a compilation of maritime historical items.

Located on the northern coast of Tallinn, the Estonian Maritime Museum (Lennusdadam) accommodates a collection of naval and maritime memorabilia and historical examples of the area’s fishing and marine heritage.

Check out the aquarium, and virtual reality exhibits inside, and even get dressed in maritime uniforms.

Outside the museum, visitors can check out canons, docked ships of all sorts, as well as submarines, making this experience unique of its kind in the area, and fun for a day activity.

While walking through the area, take notice of the public mural art displayed throughout the zone, giving it a unique touch.

• Seaplane Harbour tickets and tours

15 – See multiple architectural styles in one building at St. Mary’s Cathedral

A church that dates back to 1233 is St. Mary’s Cathedral , which is either an architect fanatic’s biggest interest or biggest nightmare, as it is a hodgepodge of different architectural styles in one from Gothic to Baroque.

The interiors of the church expose the resting site of a few notable people including Swedish military officers, Swedish Royalty, and the interesting individual, Otto Johann Thuve, known by locals as a heavy drinker and womanizer, who asked to be buried in a place where people prayed so that his soul could be cleansed.

Other than stepping in to view the tall vaulted ceilings, iconography, and art, make sure to stop by on Wednesdays at 5 pm during the midweek prayer, or during their organ recital Saturdays at 12pm. Donations may be required.

16 – Listen to more city facts on a hop-on hop-off tour

Though Tallinn is a capital city that has been structured to be one of the most walkable cities in Europe, a Hop on Hop off Bus Tour is never a bad idea to indulge in after a day of museum hopping.

A Hop on Hop Off tour will take you not only to the must-see sights of Tallinn but also provides interesting, helpful to know facts while allowing you to relax and unwind in the middle of so much sightseeing on foot.

The bonus attraction of a Hop on Hop off Bus is that you’re not only buying a tour excursion for a ride along the city, but you’re getting a day-long or two-day-long pass with essentially free transportation throughout the city.

• bus tours in Tallinn

17 – Practice your snowboarding skills at Nõmme Snowpark

Nõmme Park is an outdoor winter sport slope park, offering suitable slopes for every level of expertise, located 22-minutes south of Old Town.

Whether you’re a newbie to snow sports or you’re an expert, guides are available to help perfect your stance, control, and stability as you glide through the slopes so you can smash it at snowboarding and skiing!

Seeing as this park is a snow park, the slopes are closed during the summer and only reopen in the winter months when the first snowfall hits. Make sure to watch out for their Facebook page for park updates.

For more fun all year long, check out Nõmme Adventure Park , offering a fun obstacle course on the tree tops of the forest, just outside of Tallinn!

18 – Enjoy scenic hiking on a day trip to Prangli Island

Prangli Island makes up one of the northernmost Estonian islands, situated on Kolga Bay.

It has a fascinating and unique fishing heritage and tradition merged with stunning and virtually untouched nature.

Visit the Mardi Farm and the Vanani Farm, which are a few houses that greet visitors and give a great introduction to Prangli Island life and history.

Hiking and biking are one of the best activities to take part in, to truly experience the abundance of pine trees and spruce tree forests.

Bring your binoculars to catch some truly remarkable bird watching, with nearly 40 different bird species calling Prangli Island home.

Take the frequent ferry from northern Tallinn to Prangli Island, and be sure to carry cash.

• Prangli Island day trips from Tallinn

19 – Explore the impressive Tallinn Botanic Garden

Centered in the Pirita district in Tallinn is the bountiful Tallinn Botanic Garden , Estonia’s largest botanic garden.

Situated within the old valley of the Pirita River, the park counts with beautiful pine trees from the area, intermingling with flowerbeds of gorgeous colors, ponds with whitewater lilies, and oak trees.

Step into the rich greenhouses, each showcasing a different type of flower from fragrant and beautiful to medicinal and exotic. Check out the arboretum which has some of Estonia’s unique trees including the tree aralia and the giant fir.

Check their website for unique themed tours, and consider an audio guide to go more in-depth into the flora all around.

Lastly, check out the Tallinn TV Tower nearby, towering over 314 meters into the sky, offering incredible viewpoints of the city.

20 – Walk the promenade during sunset at Stroomi Beach

Stroomi Beach is a perfect beach day getaway for families who want to enjoy a child-friendly beach with playgrounds, trampolines, ball game spaces, and of course, the local ice cream truck making its rounds.

Situated 14 minutes away from Old Town driving, or 25 minutes away on public transportation, the beach features a lifeguard on duty, changing rooms, restrooms, and picnic areas.

The beach also offers a beautiful promenade along the water, inviting visitors to take a stroll and get a lay of the land.

Do some paddling, swim out to deeper parts of the beach if weather permits, and enjoy a day in the sun amongst locals.

21 – Pedal to the main city sites on a bike tour

See Tallinn like a local when you book a thrilling bike tour! Cycle through the city’s most historic streets, including discovering a few local gems along the way, and of course, making stops continuously to capture the idyllic sites.

Enjoy a number of fun bike tours, including one for the foodies, which is a bike tour with a market stop and food tasting – the perfect mix of indulgence and exercise! Or those looking to wander along the scenic Tallinn Port, check out the bike tour through the Tallinn Cruise Port, to see numerous ships and boats disembark.

With this and more, there are plenty of ways to weave in some fun, this time, it’s exploring the best bike tours in Tallinn!

• bike tours in Tallinn

22 – Experience art come to life at the Monet2Klimt Art in Motion

Visit the multimedia display of some of Monet, Van Gogh, and Klimt’s best pieces, and watch them come to life as you quickly become immersed in the big picture like never before inside of Mone2Klimt Art in Motion Museum.

The art space where this art experience takes place is called Digitiva, and it is located 8-minutes walking from Old Town. The digital space hosts a variety of art exhibits in an innovative way in order to reduce the gap between the art observer and the piece itself.

The duration of the exhibit lasts around 45 minutes and goes on for an entire day looping the experience for anyone coming and entering.

Since 2017, the experience has gained popularity by showcasing over 130 works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Klimt.

23 – Visit the Estonian History Museum inside Maarjamäe Castle

The Maarjamäe Castle has been used in the past for many different purposes, from being a sugar factory to a famous beach resort, and a military aviation school, until finally today is known as the Estonian History Museum .

The Estonian History Museum is housed inside the famed Maarjamäe Castle and inside visitors can explore various exhibits, permanent and temporary, the Great Guild Hall, the film and theater museum, and much more.

The museum has a few notable exhibits to check out including the award-winning exhibit called My Free Country which exhibits an interactive journey for the visitor to learn and engage with a century of Estonian history.

The Children’s Republic showcases the history of Estonia in a helpful way for children to understand and enjoy.

24 – Get a unique view of Old Town on a Tallinn Bay sightseeing cruise

Be warmly welcomed aboard and enjoy the views of Tallinn and the sea on a Tallinn Bay Sightseeing Cruise.

Visitors on the cruise will be able to learn extensively about Tallinn’s maritime history and heritage while out at sea and relish the sight of Old Town and remnants of the city’s modern skyscrapers on the horizon.

The cruises typically depart from the Seaplane Harbor, and guests will be able to take their welcome pictures upon entering the ship.

Some tours may also include a stop on a nearby island, and some tours may also offer a few bonus gifts for those cruise travelers.

Sightseeing cruises typically start around $17 USD.

• boat tours in Tallinn

25 – See some of the strongest artillery towers at Kiek in de Kök and walk the Bastion Tunnels

Step back in time inside some of Tallinn’s most emblematic structures that give it its charm, inside the Kiek in de Kök Museum and Bastion Tunnels .

Kiek in de Kök Museum is a series of defense towers including Maiden’s Tower, Tallitorn Tower, and the Gate Tower of the Short Leg. The Kiek in de Kök is considered the strongest artillery tower in the Baltics.

The towers are interconnected by secret passageways, namely the Bastion Tunnels dating back to the 17th-18th centuries, where visitors can walk the ancient pathways.

Walk the town walls, check out the Carved Stone Museum, observe the stone carvings, reliefs, and fragments, completely unique on their own, as well as pass-through sections called “Garden of Eden”, “Pillar Hall”, “Death Hall” and “Sun Hall”.

26 – Stop by a few other markets in Tallinn

Other markets to consider making a stop at including the Town Hall Square Market, iconically located in the heart of Old Town.

Many times the scene of the city’s most celebrated events and holidays, the Town Hall Square Market also hosts a variety of themed markets throughout the year.

Markets like Port Market and Nomme Market are THE place to go for the ultimate food extravaganza, where local farmers meet everyday people in search of high-quality and locally produced food.

Indulge in a few local delicacies and unique yet delicious flavor combinations while at these markets in specific.

The Knit Market is renowned for its clothing selection, especially wool socks, scarves, and sweaters, which are handcrafted in unique Estonian designs.

27 – Enjoy relaxation for the whole family at Atlantis H2O Aquapark

Located 30 minutes north of Old Town, and accessible via public transportation is Atlantis H20 Aquapark , ready to welcome water and adventure lovers.

Geared more towards young children, this is a great spot to take your kids to unwind and have the best time, sliding down the multi-sized water slides, each offering a theme of their own, a wave pool, and a circulation pool.

For the parents, you can expect a relaxing sauna experience, as well as a cafe to help refuel after so much fun at the water park. Families can make it a weekend-long event, and stay for the night at the water park’s hotel, starting at 134 euros per night.

The hotel experience includes a breakfast buffet, access to the park, gym, and sauna.

28 – Walk the scenic staircase to view the Jägala Waterfall

The Jägala Waterfall is considered to be Estonia’s widest and most natural waterfall, measuring 50 meters wide and 8 meters high.

The waterfall is connected to the Gulf of Finland and hosts a great variety of fish types that are delicacies in Estonia, such as trout and salmon.

While there, make sure to walk down the scenic staircase leading people to the base of the waterfall, and enjoy an up close and personal encounter with the misty breeze of the waterfall.

The waterfall sits 35 minutes east of Old Town in Harju County, and although it can be accessed via transportation, it can take almost an hour to get there.

Consider booking a day trip excursion from Old Town to Jägala Waterfall, including other side stops to further enrich your experience.

• Jägala Waterfall day trips from Tallinn

29 – Check out a show inside the Estonian National Opera

Located only a 6-minute walk from Old Town is the Estonian National Opera House , a beautiful building showcasing a wonderful example of art-nouveau and neo-classical design, dating back to 1913.

Before the construction of the opera house, the society of music and song was established as “Estonia” and was later headquartered at the Estonian National Opera.

Though it’s had a turbulent past, surviving multiple wars, and doubling as a hospital and Orthodox Church at one point, today the opera house shines brightly as a crown jewel and must-see sight for live art.

The Estonian National Opera hosts a great variety of shows guaranteed to meet everyone’s favorite genres, from children to adults. From opera, operettas, musicals, theater, ballets, concerts, and more.

Enjoy dinner and a show with the opera house’s restaurant, “Estonia”.

30 – Visit the oldest pharmacy in Europe called Town Hall Pharmacy

Step back in time to a period in history when people relied on plant roots, herbs, and various other natural sources as a form of physical relief.

Also known as The Raeapteek, the Town Hall Pharmacy is not only the oldest pharmacy in Europe but also the longest in use as it’s still a functioning pharmacy today.

The Town Hall Pharmacy has a museum attached to the pharmacy, where visitors are able to deep dive into ancient medicinal practices used most likely during the Medieval era.

Appreciate live workshops where you can get a visual of the way that medicine was created, which ingredients were used for different ailments, and other interesting facts.

Enjoy a guided tour to explain the healing benefits of Claret Spices, Marzipan, herbal tea, and much more.

31 – Cut loose at Super Skypark

Whether you have kids or just enjoy amusement park fun yourself, consider a stop at Super Skypark , known to be the region’s largest entertainment center.

Visitors can enjoy everything from trampolines to bumper cars, a 7D cinema experience, a children’s science center, and even an adult lounge.

Enjoy the best of both worlds for families looking for an entertaining way to spend some time with each other on a rainy day during your trip to Tallinn, and interact with local families who do the same.

Part of the Super Skypark is the symbolic Skywheel of Tallinn, also accessible during your time at the Skypark.

The day pass for the amusement park starts somewhere between 10 and 12 euros, and there are additional costs depending on other activities you want to participate in.

32 – Learn about Estonia’s progress from occupation to freedom inside the Vabamu Museum

Unique and thought-provoking is the Vabamu Museum , centrally located in the heart of Old Town.

Learn about the fight for freedom that Estonians had to face, by sharing touching and personal individual stories of those who lived during the various occupations in Estonia.

Geared mostly towards adults, there is a section for children designed for them to get involved, learn and understand other children’s experiences during a trying time.

With the purchase of each ticket, visitors will be granted an e-guide to help them maneuver and absorb the stories inside the permanent exhibits.

Learn about the crimes against humanity through KGB Prison Cells , located inside Pagari 1 house, which had many uses in the past, and included housing some of the harshest prisons in Estonia.

• Vabamu Museum tickets

33 – Appreciate the tall height of St. Olaf’s Church

St. Olaf’s Church is a beautiful Gothic-style church with an interesting history involving lightning.

It’s said that due to its height and pointy spire, the church has attracted more than a few lighting strikes, 3 of which caused fires to engulf the historic church.

Today, the church has been rebuilt to appear shorter in hopes of reducing any more lightning accidents.

Though the church’s last accident was in 1830, the church seen today boasts designs dating back to this time period.

Light-colored vaulted domes overflowing with Gothic architecture, and high ceilings draw the eyes to the ornate chandeliers and the grand organ over the church entrance.

Reach the observation platform on top of the church to get incredible sights of the Old Town, and the sea, for 5 euros.

34 – Open your artistic mind at Fotografiska Tallinn

Truly a photographer’s dream is the Fotografiska Tallinn Museum , showcasing some of the best photographic pieces both internationally and nationally, combining modern art, interpretation, and an open mind.

The idea behind a museum like Fotografiska comes from Stockholm and has had more than a few locations outside of Sweden to promote this form of art flattery including now in Tallinn since 2010.

Explore some of the most interesting exhibits including the Frank Ockenfels lll exhibit Introspection a series of photographs altered from their original look to inspire personal reflection.

Tickets range from 10-17 euros, and guided photo tours are also available upon request, for an additional charge.

35 – Applaud Estonian talent at Tallinn’s best theaters

Tallinna Linnateater is a great theater for performances put on by talented actors, with interesting stories. Check out productions such as Emigrants, a story about 2 Eastern European migrants with different stories, giving light to similar yet different perspectives that took them abroad.

NUKU Theater is more than just puppetry performances, but also puppetry research, puppet-making workshops, and more. Book an unforgettable night witnessing a long-time Baltic tradition of puppet skits.

Check out the Estonian Drama Theater , created by the first graduating class of the first theater school based in Estonia in 1937. Visitors can expect classical and drama-themed plays, national and international.

The Russian Theater is the only Russian-spoken theater that showcases Russian and some western plays. The golden and red velvet interiors are enough to make anyone enter to gaze with appreciation.

36 – Indulge in a nature walk at Naissaar Island

Take the ferry to nearby Naissaar Island, which when translated literally means “women’s island” due to a long-time legend of beautiful women inhabiting the island at one point.

The Island today is known for its beautiful, lush nature, offering visitors a true city break with nature paths for walking and biking, offering multiple viewpoints along the way.

Make sure to check out the famed “Culture Trail” where visitors will stumble upon old churches, cemeteries, and farms.

Visitors can walk around or drive around via the tours they came to the island. If you want to see more of the island, consider booking a tour that will take you from Tallinn to the island, and then take you around to explore the rest of the island.

• Naissaar Island day trips from Tallinn

37 – Set foot in some of the other great art museums in Tallinn

The Kumu Art Museum is known amongst locals as Eesti Kunstimuuseum and is a museum focused on preserving and sharing Estonian art between the 18th century and today. The focus of the museum with its up to 13 exhibits is to analyze and discuss the meaning behind the art pieces in informative and educative ways.

PROTO Invention Factory is an immersive and interactive science museum, designed to experiment with things such as light, sound, space, speed, ingenuity, and more. Geared more towards children, this is such a fun and educative way to entertain your kids while in Tallinn.

The Contemporary Art Museum of Estonia (EKKM) is a uniquely artist-run and driven art space that collects contemporary art of various materials and mediums, housing around 33 different pieces.

38 – Visit the site of an ancient nunnery at Pirita Convent Ruins

The Pirita Convent Ruins used to be a previous nunnery, dating back to 1436, and running for 150 years.

Destroyed by a Russian invasion in 1575, the Pirita Convent was destroyed, and it never got back to its original use after being left abandoned, along with the nearby destroyed towns.

Currently, the previous convent is located 16 minutes north of Old Town.

Visitors can check out the grounds, and enter the remnants of the Convent ruins, consisting of all 4 walls, intricate designs still visible, a cemetery, and much more.

There is a park that visitors can also lounge in while taking in the site of the old Convent.

Tickets to enter are 2 euros.

39 – Explore the old fishing town of Viimsi

Located 20 minutes north of Old Town, is the open-air museum space of Viimsi .

This fishing town dates back to the 1820s and has been preserved to maintain its charm and local heritage to welcome families eager to learn more about the homes and buildings of this coastal town.

Children and families are able to walk into some of the houses and analyze fishing instruments, and cooking tools, which deliver an image and perception of what life must have been like during the 1800s.

Make sure to check the museum’s website to know of the upcoming events constantly held at the museum, as well as the weekly farmers market that takes place every Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm.

20 minutes from the center of Tallinn, former fishing village turned into an open air museum

40 – Learn about the stories of those who suffered inside the Patarei Prison

Located in the Bohemian Kalamaja area, the Patarei Prison invites visitors to set foot in what used to be a sea fortress and a prison for 100 years.

The Patarei Prison today serves as a living memorial for the Estonians to remember and honor those loved ones who were repressed and tortured inside the prison during the German and Russian eras from 1940-1991.

The name Patarei comes from the use it had as a canon fortress and artillery battery, and battery is Estonian is Patarei.

Inside, visitors can explore the cells, hallways, courtyards, solitary rooms, and execution rooms where the inmates were taken to.

Learn about the deep history of the prison, the daily life of an inmate, the politics during the communist era, and its connection to the Holocaust.

41 – Get golfing inside Tallinn Inside Golf

Avid golfers get excited to putt putt inside Tallinns Inside Golf course, offering golf lovers and newbies the experience of golfing indoors using simulators.

In order to have access to the facilities inside Tallinn Inside Golf, visitors must book their slot online, to make sure there is availability.

Visitors can also request to book a golf instructor, whether you’re trying to perfect your skills, or pick up golfing altogether.

Prices vary based on experience, ranging from 35-40 euros per hour for visitors.

Prices may show up differently depending on if you’re a member or a visitor, so make sure to pay attention to that when looking up prices for different amenities.

42 – See dunes, forests, bogs, and more on a hiking trip

Rocca al Mare is a beautiful 2-hour looped trail, offering incredible wildlife sightings, and views of the sea, and only 27 from Old Town.

Harku Forest Trail is a circular track that gives sight to dunes, rich pine forests, barns, bogs, and so much more. Accessible via public transportation 40 minutes away by bus, this is considered an easy trek by many.

Walk the serene Paljassaare boardwalks, located on the Paljassaare peninsula 19 minutes away from Old Town. Leisurely walk the 550 meters of forest and river beauty, no matter the climate.

Strap on some bogshoes to explore nature and enjoy Kõnnu Suursoo – one of Estonia’s distinctive bog landscapes.

Though many hiking spots may have public transportation available, one of the best ways to easily make the journey is with a hiking tour. Be guided, and driven to some of Estonia’s best-kept hiking spots that can only be accessed via cars.

• hiking in Tallinn

43 – Solve riddles throughout Tallinn on a scavenger game

Get your thinking cap on with Tallinn’s very own scavenger hunt activity, where the whole city of Tallinn becomes your playground in the effort to find and crack the code on where to find the missing piece or pieces on the list.

Solving riddles together, all you have to do is find a group of people willing to take on the challenge, purchase the online scavenger hunt game online, and you’ll get access to it on your and your teammate’s smartphones.

Somewhere between an escape room and a guided tour of the city is what these scavenger hunts feel like, except more fun, so don’t miss out!

• scavenger games in Tallinn

44 – Climb up the remarkable Medieval Towers of Tallinn

The Maiden’s Tower (Neitsitorn) is a tower that originally started as a defense tower in the 14th century, then turned into a residence, then a bar in the 80s until today, that it has settled as a museum showcasing all that it used to be at different points.

Part of a 3-tower system is the Nunna Tower is one of the towers that still stand from its original construction in 1265. Visitors can climb up Nunna Tower and get vast views of the original parts of the Medieval fortress that still stand. Check out the museum inside.

Epping Tower hosts a varied Medieval museum on its 6 floors and Hellemann Tower and City Wall which has a 200-meter walkway and shows clear views of the Medieval architecture of Old Town.

45 – Make candy at Kalev Chocolate Shop

You may have heard of a food tour, but what about a chocolate tour?

Check out Kalev Chocolate Shop , creating sweet delicacies that have been the object of every Estonian child’s sweet craving for the last couple of centuries.

Go in, try some of the chocolates and other sweet treats such as marzipan desserts, also very popular with Estonians, and other hand-made candies.

Take it a step further and join the candy-making workshop, where visitors will get the chance to learn and practice how to make certain candies, easy to make at home inspired by the creations at Kalev Chocolate Shop.

If you would like to join the candy-making workshop, make sure to register first to reserve your spot either by email or phone call.

46 – See Estonian practices in action at the Estonian Open Air Museum

Founded in 1957 after countless tries before that, and inspired by the Scandinavian concept of open-air museums operating years before that, the Estonian Open Air Museum finally opened.

The Estonian Open Air Museum is a collection of Estonian traditions and heritage, expressed in the most immersive way through architecture, food, art, dance, and animals, all showcasing a simple way of life.

Visitors can step inside the old homes, watch folklore dance performances, learn about bread-making practices inside the traditional bakeshops, enjoy art and painting workshops, and so much more.

Step back in time to the horse and buggy era, and explore for yourself how different life was back then.

Tickets can be purchased online, and they start at 12 euros for adults.

47 – Treat yourself to a fine dining experience

Tallinn takes the best of its gastronomic ingenuity and pairs it perfectly with its homegrown cuisine and food philosophies and serves it best to locals and visitors in their fine dining restaurants.

Check out the two Michelin Star restaurants in Tallinn, NOA Chef’s Hall , serving a creative 7-course meal, taking the palate on a delicate and bold culinary journey where local ingredients play a major role. Restaurant 180° by Matthias Diether is an exquisite dining experience directed by head German Chef Matthias Diether, taking dining to the next level in Tallinn.

Restaurant Fotografiska , the winner of the Michelin Green Star for its sustainability efforts, offers a unique gastronomic experience. Eat guilt-free knowing that the restaurant uses every bit of their ingredients, reducing waste astronomically in the dishes they serve.

48 – Attend an event at Glehn’s Castle

Dating back to 1886, Glehn’s Castle is a castle that was built as a residence by Nikolai von Glehn, a Baltic German landowner who founded the town of Nõmme.

The castle was revived back to its original glory in the 60s after it had been abandoned and destroyed during WWl thanks to a group of artists who took reign over its comeback.

The castle apart from its beauty, has beautiful natural viewpoints, an observation tower, and sculptures adorning the grounds.

Though the castle is not open for visitors, it does host a variety of events open to the public, so make sure to check online for events held at the castle to make your way inside. The park outside the castle is open, therefore visitors can enjoy the stunning park.

49 – Get the history behind the abandoned fortress at Pakri Coastal Cliff

Offering nature and history is the Coastal Cliffs of Northwest Estonia also known as the Pakri Coastal Cliff, which is one of the most beautiful natural sights to add to your list of things to do in Tallinn.

Only 40 minutes away from Old Town, explore and view the dramatic coastline, abandoned naval fortress, underground tunnels, and multiple waterfalls nearby.

Due to its vast views, the cliffs were a point of interest to keep guard against possible invaders, and many of those fortifications are still standing today.

On your tour, you’ll also get to stop by Paldiski , a former Soviet military base, and see Estonia’s 3rd largest waterfall plus more!

Book a tour guide who will provide ground transportation, knowledgeable facts, guidance throughout the tour, and also a few hidden stops along the way.

Explore the red lighthouse, and even climb all the way up and breathe in fresh Baltic Sea air.

• Coastal Cliffs day trips from Tallinn

50 – Visit the St. Nicholas’ Church turned museum

The St. Nicholas Church was considered one of the wealthiest churches during Medieval times in Tallinn and was named after the Saint of merchants and sailors.

Throughout its time since its founding in the middle of the 13th century, until the 1950s, the church has experienced massive transformations, due to wars, different uses, various influences, etc.

Today, the church is a branch of the Art Museum of Estonia and a concert hall, where visitors can enter and see not only the transformation of the church but also wander through and experience religious art from the Middle Ages, or listen to live music.

A piece to look out for is Danse Macabre (The Dance of Death) as well as the Gothic and Renaissance-influenced interior architecture of the church.

51 – Have fun go-karting with friends and family

Explore the fun of go-karting at Unibet Go-Kart Center , located 20 minutes south of Old Town.

Featuring a 450-meter track for avid and newbie go-kart goers, the track is situated on top of a shopping mall making it easy to find.

Everyone from children to adults, seasoned go-kart fans to absolute newbies will all find an enjoyable time choosing from a variety of go-karts, from adjustable seats and pedals to adjustable steering wheels, and all the safety precautions inside the go-kart and the facilities.

Those interested in go-karting may get on train 18A at Vabaduse väljak, get off after 25 stops at the Urda stop, and walk 2 minutes towards the go-karts.

• karting in Tallinn

52 – Plan a beach day at Pirita Beach

Considered to be Estonia’s largest beach, people from all over flock to the sandy shores of Pirita Beach, located in the neighborhood of Pirita, north of Old Town.

There is a bus that visitors can take from Old Town straight to the beach, only taking 30 minutes or so to get there via public transportation.

The beautiful beach stretches around 2 kilometers of sand, sea, beachgoers, and even views of Old Town and the boats traveling between Estonia and Finland.

The beach is free to enter and is also the host of various educational and recreational activities, so make sure to inquire about those if that is something you’re interested in.

53 – Spend hours inside Estonia’s other fascinating museums

Situated in the heart of Old Town, the Estonian Museum of Natural History is all about promoting the need for educated humans to support the well-being of the environment and nature.

Offering educative programs, a space for open discourse, and exhibits designed to question the visitor’s current mindset to better support the environment, the Estonian Museum of Natural History is an eye-opening place to visit.

KGB Museum offers a unique double perspective of what life was like during the Soviet Union era in Estonia, the ideal and the questionable. Situated inside the Viro hotel, which holds a lot of history of this time in Estonia.

The Estonian Health Museum showcases in its 15 exhibits and classes about human physiology, how the human body works, how to be healthy, and how healthcare has morphed throughout the years.

For architecture lovers, the Museum of Estonian Architecture is the perfect place to visit. And if you are a science explorer, you should check out the Energy Discovery Centre which also has a planetarium.

54 – Snap a photo of the Soviet-style Tallinn City Hall

Not to be confused with the administrative Town Hall building, Tallinn City Hall , also known as Linnahall, is a cultural venue that is currently in talks of beginning renovation to make it a better-suited space for gatherings of all sorts, especially taking advantage of its port location.

The Tallinn City Hall was first inaugurated for the Moscow 1980 Olympics and is an example of Soviet-style architecture. At first glance, the building may look like an ancient Pyramid, but it was designed to seat 4,200 people back then.

Today, it is a remnant of the 80s and the Olympics taking place at the time, and a great place to check out golden hour while sitting on the steps where many excited fans once sat.

55 – Live the magic of christmas in Tallinn

Without a doubt, Tallinn is one of the most magical places in Europe to experience Christmas, so if you’re planning to visit Tallinn, consider the amazing things to do in December!

Visit the charming Christmas markets, selling everything from locally baked goods, and beverages to warm you up, as well as beautifully crafted Christmas ornaments and decor.

No Christmas in Tallinn experience is complete without planning to skate at the ice rink on Harju Street! Surrounded by historic buildings including churches, you’ll certainly fall in love with the season even more, whether you do it during the day or night.

Visit the main attractions, as they offer seasonal experiences from learning traditional Estonian Christmas practices to seeing a frozen waterfall!

56 – Step onto the tallest observation tower in the Nordic Countries at the Tallinn TV Tower

Harness and climb up to hover 314 meters over the city, and walk on the edge of the tower as you look below 22 floors of the Tallinn TV Tower .

Check out the exhibition inside the tower called ”GENE-IUS” – an exhibit showcasing the amazing world of genes and their influence on human life.

Have kids? They’ll love the activities set out for them from the day in the life of a TV anchor to watching a film.

Adults and children will both love the excellent 360 views of all of Tallinn from the comfort of their dinner table while relishing their meal high in the sky inside the tower’s restaurant.

Make sure to buy your entrance tickets online, where you can select which activities you’re interested in to avoid lines.

• TV Tower tickets and tours

57 – Solve riddles to flee an escape room

Do you think you have what it takes to escape an escape room?

Try your luck and your friends as you put your heads together to solve the hidden mysteries and unsolved riddles in order to escape the room you’re in, under a certain time limit.

With a variety of themed rooms including insane asylum, a haunted home, a medical lab gone wrong, claustrophobia, and many more, you and your friends are guaranteed a memorable evening of fun, laughter, and bonding.

Check out the many escape rooms open throughout Tallin, some of which have European influence such as escape rooms set on Baker Street in London, and many other interesting situations.

Some escape rooms are designed for children as well, featuring brighter colors and cute characters.

• escape rooms in Tallinn

58 – Watch the Estonian Parliament meet inside Toompea Castle

Toompea Castle is a light pink colored Baroque-style home, brimming with beauty on the inside and the outside, and dates back to 1767-1773.

Built on top of what used to be a 14th-century portion of a fortress building, the Toompea Castle today is home to the Estonian Parliament. Sessions of the Parliament meetings can be tuned into via the TVs outside the meeting room, inside the castle.

The castle also hosts a variety of events and art exhibitions, which are open to the public to see, as well as the Parliament Reading Room.

Tours are available every day, and it is strongly recommended to book your tour slot ahead of time.

59 – Shoot your best shot at a shooting experience

Looking for something unique to do in Tallinn? Check out the best shooting experiences in Tallinn , and learn everything from the basics of how to hold a rifle, all the way to multiple opportunities to practice your aim and shooting technique.

Lasting anywhere from 2-2.5 hours long, a shooting experience is the perfect activity to practice, and blow off steam, or simply learn a new skill for the fun of it! In some tours, you’ll be able to use a variety of guns and practice a few rounds as you learn details on how each one works.

Worried you don’t know enough to get started? Check out a beginner’s course, ready to take you from newbie to knowledgeable within 1 session!

60 – Visit Estonia’s largest arena, A. Le Coq Arena

Built in 2001, holding a capacity of about 14,336 people, and inaugurated with a World Cup Qualifier Game between Estonia and the Netherlands, the A. Le Coq Arena is today the home of the country’s national soccer team.

Located around 30 minutes from Old Town, and perfectly accessible via public transportation, consider booking a ticket to a soccer game while there and feel the energy of the passionate soccer lovers in the stands.

The arena also hosts a variety of concerts and other events, so make sure to check out the arena’s website to see the different events taking place, and how to buy tickets online.

61 – Go bowling at the best spots in town

Hit the bowling lanes at the best spots in town, starting with Bowling KUUSAAL , where you’ll go for the bowling, and stay for the food, drinks, and good vibes! If you’re traveling with kids, this space offers bowling alleys specific for kids, teens, and adults!

Work on your lucky strike at AMB Akadeemia Bowling , open daily until midnight! Enjoy their recently renovated space, with modern amenities and a fun vibe! See if you can break the national record of 12 strikes in a row, which was witnessed at AMB Akadeemia Bowling!

O’Leary Kristiine offers an abundance of activities to enjoy, from VR games to basketball, air hockey, table tennis, and more including bowling. Located only 9 minutes away from the city center!

62 – Explore Estonia’s beer culture on a beer tasting tour

Get out on the town on a fun beer tasting tour, enjoy the best of Tallinn’s beer culture, learning about local and beloved beer brands like Pohjala, Õllenaut, Saku Hele, and other incredible beers.

Book a beer tasting tour to give you an extensive and refreshing run down of all the must-try craft beers to try in Tallinn, as you step inside some of the most beautiful, antique, and unique bars in Old Town, and a little beyond.

Along with your beers, you’ll also get complimentary snacks and be taught more about the craft beer process in Tallinn, its popularity amongst Estonians, and more about its interesting history in this part of the world.

The tours usually last 1.5 hours and start at $30 USD.

• beer tastings in Tallinn

63 – Go out and experience nightlife in Tallinn

After a day of history lessons, continue into the evening immersing yourself in modern culture as you take on the vibrant nightlife scene in Tallinn.

One of the most popular spots in Tallinn is Club Hollywood, where you can enjoy techno music and a rotating roster of Estonian and international DJs.

For sports lovers, consider an evening at Nimeta, where big screens and soccer games dominate, along with the rounds of drinks, creating a lively and fun ambiance.

Finalize your evening at Club Privé, the coolest club in Tallinn to dance the night away in the up-scale, ambient club.

• pub crawls in Tallinn

64 – Get the best views and drinks at the best rooftop bars in Tallinn

Sights of red-tiled roofs, church spires, and the glittering sea are seen at Lounge24, located on the rooftop of the Radisson Hotel. Enjoy an excellent list of cocktails and quick bites, in a space where you’re able to engage in great conversations.

Feel like royalty at Horisont, Restaurant & Bar , where elegance, stunning city views from the 30th floor, and an exquisite selection of food, especially vegan food, are possible.

Whatever Ltd Rooftop Bar is perhaps the most popular rooftop offering not only vibrant city views but vibes and ambiance as well. With dance floors, karaoke, great hospitality, and amazing drinks, you can’t miss this Tallinn hot spot.

How to get to Tallinn?

The best way to get to Tallinn is to book your flight to arrive at Tallinn’s main airport: Tallinn Airport or Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport.

From there, you can either take public transportation, which will take you 30 minutes or opt for a 10-minute airport transfer.

Look through our list of the best airport transfers in Tallinn , and effortlessly reserver yours online. Arriving on a boat? Check out a shore excursion in Tallinn !

Where to stay in Tallinn?

The Raddison Hotel is situated only a few feet away from the National Estonian Opera House and provides guests with a wide range of breakfast options in their continental or breakfast buffet. Enjoy the rooftop view on their 24th floor.

Spend an evening or two at the Hotel Telegraaf , boasting chic and stylish hotel decor in each room, and offering French and Russian cuisines in their on-site restaurants, while located in the heart of Old Town.

Consider Hotel Regent , a beautiful ambiance of new and old, equipped with a great fitness center and welcoming spa, including a sauna and pool. Guests loved the proximity to some of Tallinn’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Check out Schlössle Hotel , offering beautiful 5-star services and hospitality, high-quality amenities, and a stunning a la carte breakfast with sauna access included in the room rate. It’s a perfect hotel for those traveling via train, as the city’s main railway station is feet away.

• best hotels in Tallinn

Visiting Tallinn on a budget?

Consider a free walking tour in Tallinn , taking you to all the best and must-see sights in Old Town and learning recommendations on where to eat, what to do, and how to experience Tallinn.

Best of all, the tours are free of charge, not including gratuity, so it’s a no-brainer activity to engage with, especially at first arrival, in order to get an understanding of the area and where things are right away.

Check out the free street art tour as well, and consider purchasing a Tallinn Card , which opens up accessibility to museums across Tallinn, free of charge with the card.

Where to go next?

Enjoy more ways to discover Tallinn with our list of the best multi-day trips from Tallinn , including visiting the interesting Women’s Island, also known as Naissaar, to enjoying a multi-day experience cruising to Stockholm with breakfast on the scenic ship included, and more!

While planning your trip to Tallinn, make sure to consider exploring all the wonderful things to do in Stockholm known for its famous open-air museums and music scene. Speaking of music, check out the amazing ABBA museum, and come out an even bigger fan of the Swedish group!

Next, see what the hype is around the things to do in Helsinki known for modern art and culture. Then visit the uniquely designed Temppeliaukio Church, in the middle of the city!

Lastly, get to know what’s on the list of things to do in Riga known for its 18th-century wooden architecture dotting the city, and its historic Old Town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After walking the historic center, make it to the Riga Central Market to sample local snacks!

All are accessible within hours from Tallinn via plane, train, or ferry.

Final thoughts

From its gorgeous, untouched Medieval buildings adorning the city and giving its unique charm, to its incredible walkability and well-connected public transportation ready to move you across the city’s main points, Tallinn is a city ready to welcome you to enjoy its unique beauty and gems.

We hope you enjoyed this comprehensive list of 59 things to do in Tallinn, and that you grabbed a few new places to add to your itinerary.

Happy travels!

• The Top 10 Things To...

The Top 10 Things To Do And See In Tallinn's Old Town

With narrow cobbled alleys, tall spires, and beautiful Hanseatic architecture, it’s no wonder that Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It concentrates many of the Estonian capital’s bars and cafés, making it a vibrant and active area, a mixture of local and touristic life. All this means that there’s plenty to see and do but that it can be hard to choose.

Raekoja Plats (Town Hall Square)

Raekoja Plats, or Town Hall Square in English, has been the heart of the Old Town for almost a millennium. Unsurprisingly, this is where visitors will find the Town Hall, a Gothic building with a tall spire dominating the square. The spire’s vane, depicting a soldier, is known as ‘Old Thomas’ and is one of the most important symbols of the city. Life bustles around this impressive building, with cafés and restaurants taking over the square as soon as the weather allows it, alongside occasional festivals and outdoor markets.

Admire the views from Toompea Hill

Toompea Hill is at the heart of Estonian history and legend but as far as we’re concerned one thing’s for sure: no visitor should leave Tallinn without making the climb from the lower Old Town. There, Tallinn’s most beautiful 18th- and 19th-century buildings overlook the rest, making for breath-taking panoramas stretching as far back as the sea. In particular, Toompea Castle, whose walls seem to be an extension of the hill, makes for an impressive sight from any angle. There are also viewing platforms here and there, from which visitors can admire the views and take pictures.

2. Danish King's Garden

Danish king’s garden.

Legend says that in 1219, at the location of this lovely garden, as the Danes were losing a battle, the heavens gave them their flag and the battle then turned in their favor. And that is how Denmark got its flag. Whatever the truth about this story—we suspect a flagmaker’s involved, not God—it makes for a charming anecdote about one of the Old Town’s most quiet, secluded corners. The park itself is popular with locals as a place to hang out, with its benches and grassy areas. It’s bordered by the old town walls on one side and a panorama of Old Town rooftops on the other. All in all, it’s a charming place to relax in after or during a long day of sightseeing.

Address: Lühike jalg 9, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 645 7777

3. Cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin

Cathedral of saint mary the virgin.

Located on Toompea Hill, continental Estonia’s oldest church was established in the 13th century but has undergone so many modifications throughout the centuries that it is now an intriguing blend of architectural styles. Indeed, it was consecrated in 1240, enlarged in the 14th century, partly rebuilt after a fire in the late 17th century and given a Baroque spire in the 18th century. The interior is just as eclectic. From that Baroque 69-meter spire visitors can admire Toompea Hill and the Old Town, especially the Orthodox cathedral.

Address: Toom-Kooli 6, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 644 4140

4. Saint Olaf's Church

Saint olaf’s church.

The tallest building in Europe between 1549 and 1625, Saint Olaf’s Church is one of Tallinn’s most recognizable landmarks thanks to its tall spire dominating the rest of the city (it’s even been struck by lighting about ten times). Legend says it was built by a mysterious craftsman who promised to work for free if the townspeople could guess his name—Olev. Charming though this story may be, the truth is that the church was named after the canonized the Norwegian king Olav II Haraldsson. Saint Olaf’s Church was probably built in the 12th century but it was extensively rebuilt in the 14th century and the current interior is typically 18th-century.

Address: Lai 50, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 641 2241

5. Kiek in de Kök

Kiek in de kök.

Now a museum, this six-story artillery tower was built in the late 15th century. Its odd name has fluctuated over the years but the current one, from the 17th century, is Low German for ‘peek into the kitchen’, possibly meaning that from the tower’s 38 meters it was possible to everything down below, including the surrounding house’s kitchens. It actually played an important role in wars and has the ‘scars’ to prove it: nine cannonballs from 1577 are still embedded in its walls. The museum it houses today explores the building’s history, as well as that of the surrounding tunnels through a multimedia exhibition.

Address: Komandandi 2, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 644 66 86

Saint Nicholas’ Church

The 13th-century St. Nicholas’ Church now houses a branch of the Art Museum of Estonia. It features an enticing collection of medieval religious art, including Renaissance altars and chandeliers. It is also known for its excellent acoustics—there are organ concerts every Saturday and Sunday. But, more importantly, the church is also home to one of Tallinn’s most famous works of art, a large fragment of Bernt Notke’s masterpiece Danse Macabre . The whole artwork used to be found in St Mary’s Church in Lubeck but it was unfortunately destroyed during World War II, and even then it was only a copy of the original, also destroyed. Though the origin of the Tallinn fragment is unclear, it’s the last remaining copy of this masterpiece so don’t miss it.

Enjoy Tallinn’s nightlife

Tallinn has beautiful architecture and culture but it’s also an active city with many bars and clubs. Most of the nightlife is concentrated in the Old Town, though the district of Kalamaja is gaining traction. For a city of its size, Tallinn has a lot to offer in terms of going out. Good bars include Labor, where drinks are served in test tubes and beakers, and trendy Red Emperor, but there are many, so don’t hesitate to explore. For clubbing, there’s everything from mainstream to underground. Check out, for instance, the iconic Club Studio .

Address: Laabor, Suur-Karja 10, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 5699 4160; Red Emperor Bar, Aia 10, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 608 7387; Club Studio, Sauna 1, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 5894 3261

Explore Estonian cuisine

The Old Town is full of great restaurants for all budgets—why not take advantage of a visit to discover Estonian cuisine? The popular Kuldse Notsu , or Golden Piglet in English, offers typical Estonian fare like homemade cheese and honey beer in a rustic setting. There’s also medieval Baltic cuisine at Olde Hansa and Kolmas Draakon , which both cook all their dishes according to historical recipes. Meat is a big part of Estonian cuisine but fortunately for vegetarians and vegans, the excellent Vegan Restoran V offers vegan contemporary Baltic cuisine.

Address: Golden Piglet Inn, Dunkri 8, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 628 6567; Olde Hansa, Vana Turg 1, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 627 9020; Kolmas Draakon, Raekoja Plats 1, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 627 9020; Vegan Restoran V, Rataskaevu 10, Tallinn, Estonia , +372 626 9087

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Culture Trip Spring Sale

Save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 410941
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Discover the best of Tallinn

Spring in tallinn, tallinn card app – your free city guide, a day trip from tallinn to tartu: unveiling the charms of the european capital of culture 2024, what's happening in tallinn, events in tallinn, make your trip easier – buy a tallinn card, new exhibitions in tallinn, neighbourhood guide.

• Old Town Where Tallinn's heart beats
• City centre Modern Tallinn
• Kadriorg Elegant park & fine art
• Kalamaja & Pelgulinn Bohemian & trendy
• Pirita Seaside greenery
• Rocca al Mare Lively & traditional
• Nõmme Village within the city

Tallinn Card - experience Tallinn easily with the city card!

• Free access to over 50 museums and attractions
• Free travel with public transport
• Discounts to sightseeing tours, activities, shops and restaurants

Follow us @VisitTallinn

Top Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

Places to visit in tallinn.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Solaris Centre

2. Stockmann

4. Viru Keskuse Rahva Raamat

6. T1 Mall of Tallinn

7. Norde Centrum

8. Khuul Shop

9. Lasnamae Centrum

10. Viimsi Kaubanduskeskus

11. Sikupilli Center

12. Arsenal Center

13. Hotlips

14. luxmedicus ilukliinik, what travellers are saying.

10 Most Beautiful Ecotourism Destinations To Visit In Europe (& What To Do There)

• Europe offers some of the most eco-friendly destinations in the world, making it a top choice for sustainable travelers looking for unforgettable ecotourism experiences.
• From Slovenia's Lake Bohinj to Iceland's natural wonders, there are numerous breathtaking destinations in Europe that prioritize sustainability and offer a wide range of eco-friendly activities.
• Whether it's hiking in Connemara National Park in Ireland or exploring the green-focused city of Grenoble in France, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature responsibly and make environmentally conscious choices throughout Europe.

Europe is one of the best places in the world for ecotourism , as it is home to so many incredible natural wonders and attractions. But not just that. Europe stands at the forefront of ecotourism.

Across the continent's countries and cities, travelers with sustainable minds will be delighted to find many of the most eco-friendly destinations in the world, providing greener to other destinations around the world.

From the beautiful Nordic country of Iceland to the gorgeous Italian region of Tuscany (and beyond), here are some of the most beautiful destinations in Europe to visit that are also eco-friendly for an unforgettable and sustainable ecotourism experience.

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Eco-Tourism Destinations To Visit In The U.S. (& What To Do There)

Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

Lake Bohinj is one of the most beautiful places in Europe for ecotourism; it is the largest natural lake in Slovenia, and it is located in Bohinj Valley, where it radiates incredible scenery to visitors year-round. While it may not be as popular as Lake Bled, it is far less crowded and still offers opportunities for a wide range of activities like hiking, kayaking, and sunbathing.

A visit to this lake is perhaps the best ecotourism experience in Slovenia. This is because Bohinj has introduced a sustainable tourism approach to its area - the Bohinj Green Movement , which encourages environmentally friendly practices and ecotourism awareness-raising initiatives and is thus helping in the grand-scale effort toward sustainable tourism in Europe.

• Location: Municipality of Bohinj, Triglav National Park

Sweden is a gorgeous European gem that is at the forefront of sustainable travel. The country is among the most beautiful sustainable destinations in Europe because it promotes ecotourism and conscious exploration by creating the Nature's Best label for tour operators and hotels in Sweden. This makes it easy for visitors to identify eco-certified operators in Sweden, so they can get the best of an ecotourism vacation in Europe here.

In addition, Sweden is home to many incredible natural attractions that offer opportunities for adventures like kayaking and hiking. Sweden is also one of the best places to see the northern lights, and these are just a few eco-friendly experiences Sweden has to offer.

• Top eco-friendly attractions in Sweden: Northern Lights, Sarek National Park, Lake Vanern

Iceland is among the most beautiful eco-friendly destinations in Europe; everything in the country is suited for an unforgettable, environmentally-focused experience. The country is incredibly clean and green-oriented, the air is fresh, and there are so many natural endowments begging to be explored here.

While the list is endless, some of the best ways to enjoy ecotourism in Iceland include:

• Soaking in the Blue Lagoon
• Going on a whale-watching tour with companies that respect the environment and the animals
• Visiting some of the best waterfalls in Iceland
• Exploring some of Iceland's best national parks

Lagoa De Fogo (Lake Of Fire), Azores

Tourists looking to enjoy a sustainable vacation in Europe should check out the Lake of Fire. This is a natural jewel in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores and the ideal spot to admire nature's beauty when in the country. The lake was formed more than 15,000 years ago on a volcanic crater, and today, it offers incredible scenery that changes according to the seasons.

In addition to its scenery, the lake is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life and, above all, a perfect place for ecotourism.

While swimming in the lake is not allowed to help protect the delicate natural environment and its ecosystems, hiking is an exciting and sustainable thing to do here (keeping on the trails so as not to disrupt wildlife), as it is the best way to capture the spectacular views the natural landscape kept pristine through the ages.

• Location: Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is known for many things, from being one of Italy's most renowned wine regions to being the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. It is also among the best places in Europe for ecotourism and offers incredible natural scenery.

The region is made up of rolling hills covered in vineyards, gorgeous beaches, and jaw-dropping islands. Enjoy an unforgettable ecotourism experience in this region by visiting its numerous vineyards and then proceed to visit one of its parks to spend more time in nature - but be sure to stick to paths and trails to avoid impacting the delicate environment and ecosystems.

Also, if opting for a tour with an excursion company, be sure to select a provider that showcases respect and care for the area and the environment.

• Top eco-friendly attractions in Tuscany: Poggio Neri Forest Park, Maremma Regional Park

Connemara National Park, Ireland

The Connemara National Park is an amazing place in Ireland to enjoy ecotourism. The park boasts magnificent scenery, diverse wildlife, and a wide variety of plant species. Hiking is particularly enjoyable here, but visitors can also camp.

There are so many amazing gems to be seen while engaging in some of these adventures, from gorgeous beaches to rivers, woodlands, lakes, and more. It would be a mistake not to come with a camera.

• Location: Letterfrack, Ireland

Related: The Ultimate Eco-Travel Checklist: 10 Things To Be Aware Of When Traveling Sustainably

Lahti Region, Finland

The Lahti Region of Finland may be lesser known in Europe's tourism landscape, but it is, by far, a remarkable European ecotourism destination. A former recipient of the Green Capital award in 2021, the city is earnestly working toward a carbon-neutral lifestyle by 2025, among other efforts to reduce climate change.

Lahti is also beautiful; surprisingly, it does not get all the attention among sustainable travelers. The landscape here combines lush forests and enchanting lakes waiting to be explored. Check out the lakes in the Lahti Region, including Lake Päijänne (the second-largest lake in Finland and the Asikkalanselkä section of the lake, a major clean water source for over a million Finnish people). This lake also offers plenty of activities on its shores.

Don't forget to visit Lanu Park and see gorgeous sculptures while the renovated harbor area commands a scenic stroll.

• Top attractions: Lanu Park, Lake Päijänne

Nera Gorge-Beusnita National Park, Romania

The Nera Gorge-Beusnita National Park is a place of indescribable beauty and natural splendor in Romania. The park is home to gorgeous turquoise lakes, refreshing waterfalls, and beautiful trees.

The best way to enjoy an unforgettable ecotourism adventure here is by hiking, as it takes one through all the natural gems here, including the interesting wildlife and unique plant species. As usual, stick to paths to avoid affecting the park's delicate terrain and ecosystems while trekking.

• Location: Near Anina city

Related: Eco-Tourism 101: What Is Eco-Travel, And Why Is It So Important?

Grenoble, France

Set at the foot of the towering French Alps, Grenoble is yet another one of the most sustainable vacation destinations in Europe; it's a beautiful city that offers amazing opportunities for ecotourism. It's one of the best cities in Europe for ecotourism; here, visitors will be met with so many natural attractions, from snow-capped mountains to picturesque lakes and beautiful gardens. But that's not all.

But what makes this French city stand out in terms of green labels? Well, Grenoble is committed to eco-tourism and is even one of the greenest cities in France. Visitors here can begin a fun ecotourism experience by taking a zero-carbon trip on a cable car to enjoy charming mountain views and then proceed to visit one of the city's archeological museum to learn more about its history.

• Eco-friendly attractions to visit in Grenoble: Ovalie Park, Fiancey Park, Parc Paul Mistral

Tallinn, Estonia

For quite some time, Tallinn has remained one of the greenest places in Europe to visit; it has been involved in several initiatives to promote a sustainable green environment.

To prove why it's one of the most sustainable cities in Europe to visit, know that Tallinn has undertaken profound efforts to achieve carbon neutrality, improve the sanity of its climate, sustain the health of citizens, and is still driving towards ultra-green status by 2035.

The city was even awarded the European Green Capital of 2023 as a reward for its efforts, and that's more than enough to make it perhaps the best destination for ecotourism in Europe.

There are many ways to enjoy an eco-friendly here, but one can start by visiting the Tallinn Zoo to see more than 350 species and also check out Kadriorg Park to see some beautiful flowers. Admiring its historic streets and Tallinn's old town on foot is also a fantastic experience.

• More eco-friendly attractions to visit in Tallinn: Tallinn Botanical Garden