Capital of 🇪🇪Estonia

Tallinn

Up and coming home for startups and culture.

Explore Tallinn's old city walls, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Toompea Castle, and lively Town Hall Square on foot.

4.4
out of 5

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, stands out with its well-preserved medieval architecture and cobbled streets of its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city skyline is marked by church spires, the most notable being St. Olaf's Church, once the tallest structure in the world. Tallinn also embraces modernity with its thriving technology sector, earning it the nickname "the Silicon Valley of Europe." Visitors can explore the Seaplane Harbour museum to learn about Estonia's maritime past, or enjoy the contemporary arts scene at Telliskivi Creative City.

Old Town: A Walk Through History

The heart of Tallinn is its medieval Old Town, where history seems to stand still amid the ancient walls and narrow alleyways. Visiting the Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) provides a sense of the bustling market place it once was, particularly during the annual Christmas market. A climb up the tower of St. Olaf's Church offers panoramic views across the rooftops, while the cobblestone streets lead you to hidden courtyards and historic homes.

Museum of Occupations and Freedom

The Museum of Occupations and Freedom, also known as Vabamu, takes visitors on an impactful journey through Estonia’s recent past. It provides insight into Estonia's struggles under Soviet and Nazi rule, and its path to regaining independence in 1991. The exhibits showcase personal stories and artifacts that illustrate the resilience of the Estonian people.

Kadriorg Park and Palace

Kadriorg Park, a short distance from the city center, is an expansive green space perfect for a leisurely stroll. At its heart lies Kadriorg Palace, built by Peter the Great for his wife, Catherine. The palace is now home to the Art Museum of Estonia's foreign collection and is surrounded by carefully manicured gardens and several smaller museums, including the KUMU modern art museum.

Telliskivi Creative City

For a taste of contemporary Tallinn, a visit to Telliskivi Creative City is essential. This repurposed industrial complex has become a lively district full of studios, workshops, galleries, and eateries. It's a vibrant spot to experience Estonia's creative pulse and perhaps pick up unique gifts at one of the local design stores.

Estonian Cuisine at Local Restaurants

Estonian cuisine combines traditional flavors with modern culinary trends. Restaurants like Rataskaevu16 or Olde Hansa provide an authentic taste of local dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby forests and waters. From hearty stews to delicate pastries, the food scene in Tallinn is inviting and varied.

Day Trips from Tallinn

Tallinn’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. A short ferry ride will take you to Aegna Island for nature walks and beaches, while a drive to Lahemaa National Park reveals manor houses and pristine landscapes. Jägala Waterfall and the seaside town of Pärnu are also within a day's trip, offering a glimpse into Estonia’s natural beauty.

Safety and Accessibility for Tourists

Tallinn is recognized as a safe destination for travelers. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate on foot, but there is also a reliable network of trams and buses operated by Tallinn Public Transport for longer journeys or when weary legs need a rest.

Public Transportation in Tallinn

Tallinn's well-organized public transportation system includes buses, trolleys, and trams that connect all parts of the city. For ease of travel, visitors can use a Tallinn Card that offers unlimited use of public transport along with free or discounted entry to many attractions. The card can be purchased at tourist information centers and at some hotels.

Seasonal Festivities and Events

Depending on when you visit, Tallinn offers a variety of festivals and events. The Old Town Days festival brings medieval culture back to life with markets, workshops, and performances. Summer brings outdoor concerts at the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds, while winter is marked by the enchanting Christmas market in Town Hall Square.

Getting Around

Navigating Tallinn is straightforward with its extensive public transportation options. The city is also very walkable, especially in the Old Town area where many attractions are concentrated. For destinations further out, such as Kadriorg Palace or Telliskivi Creative City, trams provide a convenient and scenic option. Rental bicycles are available for those who wish to explore on two wheels.

Average temperatures during the day in Tallinn.
December
-3°
Jan
-6°
Feb
-6°
Mar
-2°
Apr
3°
May
10°
Jun
15°
Jul
16°
Aug
15°
Sep
11°
Oct
6°
Nov
1°

What people say about Tallinn

4.4
People
4
Food
4
Spaces
5
Value
4
Safety
5

What to do in Tallinn

The 3 best workation destinations in Europe

Article from December 2023 with 3 places

Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, has rapidly emerged as one of the top workation destinations in Europe, offering a compelling mix of modern conveniences, cultural richness, and digital infrastructure.

  1. Good weather: Tallinn experiences a temperate maritime climate. While winters can be cold and snowy, they are picturesque and perfect for those who enjoy the coziness of indoor cafes or the beauty of a winter landscape. Summers are mild and pleasant, with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F), conducive to outdoor workspaces and leisure after work.
  2. Internet connectivity: Estonia is known for its digital advancements and is often referred to as "e-Estonia". It's not uncommon to find free Wi-Fi in public places, and the widespread broadband access ensures that working from a café or a park is as seamless as from a dedicated office.
  3. Digital Nomad community: Tallinn has a vibrant community of digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers. Co-working spaces are abundant and provide workstations, networking opportunities, and a sense of community. Plenty of meetups, events, and workshops are designed for the digital workforce.
  4. Cost of accommodation and living: Generally, short-term rentals could range from approximately €800 to €1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in Tallinn city center. Prices may fluctuate based on factors like the neighborhood, the apartment's quality, and the stay's duration. Tallinn offers a more affordable cost of living compared to many other European capitals. Daily expenses, groceries, and entertainment activities are reasonably priced.
  5. City vibe: Tallinn is a city steeped in history, known for its medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Yet, it also pulses with contemporary life, cultural events, and a youthful energy. This blend of old and new creates a unique vibe that can be stimulating and conducive to creative work.
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Bucket list-worthy places in the Baltics

Article from August 2023 with 6 places

Estonia's top city

Tallinn is the capital and largest city of Estonia. It is situated on the country's northern coast, on the banks of the Gulf of Finland, just 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of Helsinki in Finland. The city has a rich history, with evidence of settlement dating back to the 13th century. Nowadays, Tallinn is a modern and vibrant city, with a variety of attractions, including beautiful medieval churches, a picturesque old town, and a wealth of cultural activities.

What to do in Tallinn

  1. Explore the Old Town: Stroll the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and admire the historic architecture, from the iconic Town Hall Square to the medieval St. Olaf's Church. The Old Town is full of charming cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings.
  2. Visit the Town Hall Pharmacy: Established in 1422, it is one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe.
  3. Visit Kadriorg Palace: The Kadriorg Palace is a majestic Baroque palace built by Peter the Great in 1718. It is now a museum and houses an extensive collection of European art.
  4. Visit the Estonian Open Air Museum: The museum features a collection of traditional buildings and artifacts from all over Estonia. The Estonian Open Air Museum is a living history museum that preserves and showcases the traditional lifestyle of the Estonian people. The museum offers visitors the chance to learn about the country's culture and heritage.
  5. Take a Boat Tour: Enjoy the views of the city from the sea and its many islands.
  6. Take a Tour of the Bastion Tunnels - The Bastion Tunnels are a network of tunnels built in the 16th century to protect the city from invaders. Today, the tunnels are open for tourists to explore and learn about the city's history.
  7. Enjoy the Views from Toompea Hill - Toompea Hill is the highest point in Tallinn and offers stunning city views. Climb the hill and take in the scenery.
  8. Go to the Beach: Take a trip to the beach and spend the day relaxing on the sand.

Tallinn is also easily combined with Helsinki as the cities are just separated by a two-hour ferry ride.

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Articles about Estonia

Image of Bucket list-worthy places in the Baltics
Image of Bucket list-worthy places in the Baltics

Bucket list-worthy places in the Baltics

August 2023,
The Baltic region is located in Northern Europe and includes the countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The three countries are fairly small, making it possible to visit them all on the same tri
Image of The 3 best workation destinations in Europe
Image of The 3 best workation destinations in Europe

The 3 best workation destinations in Europe

December 2023,
Workation meaning The definition of workation is working while travelling. Workation is a portmanteau of the words "work" and "vacation," reflecting the concept of combining work responsibilities with
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