Estonia’s medieval capital, Tallinn, is a stunning city that remains a hidden gem among the world’s most beautiful destinations. For travelers in Europe, a city break in Tallinn offers the ideal opportunity for a short yet unforgettable getaway.
In this Tallinn travel guide, we’ll take you on a Tallinn walking tour, highlight the best things to do in Tallinn, lead you through the enchanting Tallinn Old Town, and provide tips on getting around. We’re excited to share with you all the reasons we fell in love with this beautiful city.
*We particularly love the final bonus tip in this Tallinn guide—it might just surprise you!
Why Visit Tallinn, Estonia?
Let’s get straight to the important question “Is Tallinn worth Visiting?”
Put simply, the capital of Estonia, Tallinn is unbelievably beautiful!! Of all the great Tallinn things to do, a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage –The Old Town of Tallinn is like stepping back in time and into a real-life Game of Thrones film set.
Our passion for travel gives us a strong sense of the best places to visit, but we were both surprised by how little we knew about this hidden gem in Europe. To be honest, we completely underestimated just how stunning Tallinn’s Old Town would turn out to be.
As soon as you pass through the gates of Tallinn’s Old Town, you’ll be transported to another era—a medieval fantasy come to life. Every corner of the cobblestone streets and narrow lanes reveals another captivating sight to discover. Let’s just say, we hope you have enough photo storage!
With dark age castles, city walls topped with wooden walkways, towers rising above the skyline, and medieval pubs and restaurants lining the town square, it all felt like a scene straight out of a romantic fantasy tale.
In our view, if you’re seeking a unique European getaway, a city break in Tallinn is the perfect choice. Not only can you find affordable flights from within Europe, but the accommodation options are also excellent, with some truly spectacular apartments and hotel rooms available.
Combine this with affordable dining options, inexpensive drinks (the Irish pub we visited was the cheapest we’ve ever been to!), free Wi-Fi throughout the city, English-speaking locals, and the fact that Tallinn is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and you’ve got a truly unbeatable experience!
So, in answering the question “Is Tallinn worth visiting?”, we are sure you have already guessed that our answer is a whooping yes, 100% Tallinn is worth visiting!
To find out what to do and see in nearby states Lithuania/Vilnius and Latvia/Riga check out the following links.
- Vilnius Things to Do – Top 10 Attractions
- The Best Riga City Break Guide – The Stunning Latvian Capital
- Baltic States – The Best 10-Day Affordable Itinerary
What’s the Best Way to Get Around Tallinn?
Now that you have decided on a Tallinn city break let’s figure out how to get around when you get there.
When arriving on your Tallinn city break, more than likely you will fly into Tallinn Airport. Getting to the city centre from Tallinn Airport is very straightforward.
Tram number 4 leaves from outside and takes you directly to the old town of Tallinn in approximately 15 minutes.
This daily ride runs from 5:30 AM until 00:45 AM, that includes weekends and public holidays. Tickets can be bought at the widely available machines for only 1.50 euros!
There are no cars allowed within the old town walls, so if you are staying in the old town area of Tallinn you will have to walk a small bit from the stop (Hobujaama and Viru are the closest stops to the Old Town).
If you were to arrive by bus then your short trip from the bus station to the Old Town is just as easy. Located only 100 meters away from the bus station is the same number 4 tram line that leaves from the airport.
- Alternatively, you can book tickets for an Hop on Hop Off Bus that will bring you to all the main sights and attractions of the city.
Tallinn: A Real-Life Fairy-Tale
Before you arrive for your Tallinn holiday, here’s a little background knowledge to keep you in the know!
The origins of Tallinn date back to the 13th century when a castle was built there by knights.
These days the original layout is pretty much the same as it was back then. Dozens of commanding towers on top of the near-perfect, city walls still surround the old town. Inside the walls, you will find many buildings from the Middle Ages.
They are now converted to shops, pubs, and restaurants and all are connected by cobblestone streets and hidden lanes. Sounds pretty cool right?!
FREE Tallinn Walking Tour: Best Tallinn Attractions
Now that you’re familiar with Tallinn’s history, know how to navigate the city, and are convinced that Tallinn is worth visiting, let’s explore the specific activities and attractions you can enjoy during your Tallinn city break.
Let us persuade you that a Tallinn city break is an ideal choice for your next European weekend getaway. Most of the top attractions in Tallinn are located within the Old Town, so we’ve organized a guide from 1 to 10 that offers a self-guided walking tour. Aren’t we lovely?!
To truly appreciate the Old Town, we recommend exploring it both during the day and at night to experience its unique atmosphere at different times.
1 – Viru Gate
Start your Tallinn City Break by walking through a stunning piece of architecture. There are many entries into the Old Town of Tallinn. However, the most famous and best-looking is The Viru Gate.
This entrance is an imposing gateway with towers on both sides. Built around 1345 it is still remarkably preserved and an iconic sight of Tallinn.
Here we will begin the Tallinn walking tour. Once you have walked through the twin gate towers you will realize that you have now stepped back in time!
2. St. Catherine’s Passage
Around the corner from Viru Gate, you will walk along the city walls towards St. Catherine’s Passage.
Just like Viru Gate being the most famous gateway, this alley is the most famous and picturesque of all laneways in the old town of Tallinn.
Along the very short walk you can see the wooden walkways built on the side of the city walls, rebuilt the same way they were built all those centuries ago.
Take a left turn onto this gorgeous and historic cobbled passageway with old-fashioned arches overhead, ancient tombstone covers, and quaint little handicraft workshops.
3. Freedom Square
Only 5 minutes of a walk away is Tallinn’s Freedom Square.
You will get a glimpse of Town Square and all its stunning dwellings on your way, but don’t worry you will be back there to take it all in at a later stage of your Tallinn walking tour.
Tallinn’s Freedom Square is a plaza with two distinct structures – St Johns Church and the impressive Cross of Liberty and the Monument to the War of Independence.
It is a memorial for those who died during the Estonian War of Independence. The memorial is a large replica of The Cross of Liberty, a military medal that is Estonia’s most distinguished award that can be given.
If time allows, consider including Tallinn as part of a perfect 10-day Baltic States trip.
4. Kiek in de Kök
If you are a male English speaker and reading this, then it may sound like the worst attraction in the world you would want to visit!
Yet, this is a must-see on a Tallinn city break.
Built in the year 1475, Kiek in de Kök is a former medieval defensive fortification that is still in remarkable order. These days it is a museum which consists of 4 towers and an underground passage that goes on for nearly 500 meters.
This is a must-visit on your Tallinn city break, not only for its history and very cool memorabilia on display. But also for the breathtaking views you can see from the tower.
The museum is divided into two parts (the towers & wall, and the bastion passages) that can be visited with a combination ticket which will cost you 12 Euro.
You should allow yourself 2 – 3 hours to take it all in. You can also buy separate tickets for the towers or the bastion passages, this ticket will cost you 8 Euro.
We think you should visit both, it is worth the money and you will be impressed!
Once you have explored the towers and chambers then there is one free place that you would have sighted from the towers – The Danish King’s Garden.
The Danes controlled the area for only a century yet the name stayed around forever. According to an old legend, this is the spot where a red flag with a white cross fell from the sky during the Danish invasion.
After this happened the luck changed, the battle went in favor of the Danish troops and the Danish army won. As a result, the flag became the national flag of Denmark
5. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
You would have sighted the next attraction from the tower in Kiek in de Kök.
Only 200 meters away is the stunning Orthodox Cathedral with the famous onion domes – Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Free to visit, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was built in 1900 when Estonia was part of the Russian Empire.
6. Toompea Castle
Right across from the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, you will see Toompea Castle.
These days the Estonian parliament is based here. There are two very different sides to this building,
One side is pink and the building could be mistaken for a hotel. But only two minutes of a walk to the other side you will see a fortress castle that was built in the 13th century.
Free excursions take place inside every day, just make sure to book in advance.
7. Viewing Platforms
By now you will have realized that the old town of Tallinn truly is a hidden gem in Europe and are feeling pretty happy with yourself for choosing a Tallinn city break.
To take in the best views of Tallinn, there are two separate viewing platforms that guarantee unforgettable views all year round, day or night, and, in all weather (as seen in our photos below).
First up is the Kohtuotsa viewing platform. Here you will have excellent views over the red roofs and towering spires of the Old Town. As well as the glowing highrise buildings in the new part of the city in the background.
A very short walk away is the Patkuli viewing platform. More magnificent views show even more of the city walls and the impressive towers.
We have yet to agree which one is the better view, both are spectacular! Once you have embraced this panoramic view then walk down Patkuli Stairs with its 157 steps to the second last stop.
8. Sauna Tower Gate
Greeting you back into the old town of Tallinn is another spectacular part of the city wall – The Sauna Tower Gate.
The three towers standing here can be visited for only 3 Euro. There are no items on display in the tower, but there are views.
To be honest the views were nicer from the ground looking up. Maybe for only 3 euros, you can go discover and judge for yourself!
9. Town Hall Square
We are back in the Old Town of Tallinn, and heading towards the Town Hall Square for our last stop on our Tallinn walking tour.
The Town Hall Square is the heart of the old town and is packed with shops, bars, and restaurants.
Surrounded by pastel-colored houses is Tallinn Town Hall built in fairytale-style architecture, also known as Hansel and Gretel style!
Relax after your walk in one of the many pubs for a beer before tucking into a meal in one of the medieval diners!
For the winter months, the square transforms into one of Europe’s best Christmas markets.
According to legend, the very first Christmas tree was erected here.
In the summer months, beer gardens, concerts, and fairs fill up the square. All the more reason to return for another Tallinn city break!
Tallinn City Break Bonus Attractions
Before discovering the two amazing bonus attractions in Tallinn listed below, check out the free links to see the cost of a weekend getaway to Tallinn.
10. The Soviet Statue Graveyard in Tallinn
After Estonia got its independence in 1991 there were many Soviet artefacts left in the country.
Initially, they were all torn down and discarded. Then somebody came up with the idea to add them to the Estonian History Museum which is around 15 minutes away from the city centre.
You will need a ticket to visit the museum, but the collection of discarded Soviet statues sits behind the museum and is free of charge to view.
On display are Soviet figures such as Joseph Stalin and a giant head of Vladimir Lenin.
Included among the statues is information on who they were, where the statue was displayed, and why they were removed. Numerous buses can take you there and the bus stop is called Maarjamagi.
*Tip – On Google Maps you can see the routes and stops of buses, trams, and metro lines. 1 – Firstly, find the blue bus icon (which is a bus stop) and tap on it. 2 – Then you should be able to see the route and upcoming departures. 3 – Finally, tap on the departure you want and it will show you all stops and estimated time of arrival.
11. Tallinn to Helsinki Day Trip
Would you like to visit another country on your Tallinn city break?
A trip to Finland perhaps? I bet you thought that your Tallinn city break couldn’t get any better. Well it just did! It is possible to take a ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki in Finland for a day trip from Tallinn.
Find all the information you need by clicking on our Tallinn to Helsinki day-trip article.
Enjoy Your Tallinn City Break!
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We absolutely adored our Tallinn city break, and now the Estonian capital ranks among our favorite cities we’ve ever visited.
We recommend spending at least three days in Tallinn, especially if you’re considering a day trip to Helsinki. If you’re arriving on a late-night flight, giving yourself four days would be ideal.
So there you have it! Have you visited Tallinn or Estonia before? Is it now one of your favorite cities in Europe?
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the city and whether we missed any hidden gems
If you have any questions then leave us a comment below, and don’t forget to check out our socials for our latest adventures.
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Super comprehensive guys. Full of useful info and we will be going, when it’s a bit warmer. Safe travels.
Thank you Dave! that’s great feedback, much appreciated! Ye will love it there, brilliant city!
Fabulous! I started w your Irish series. So happy you have found a way to successfully wander! Bravo!
It is comments like this that make us Happy! Thank you and lots more to come 🙂