7 days in Tallinn, Estonia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Tallinn, Estonia, is a shining gem of the Baltic. This captivating city, with its stunning medieval old town and vibrant urban atmosphere, truly offers something for everyone. Wander through the cobblestone streets, take in the breathtaking views from Toompea Hill, or get a taste of Estonia’s vibrant art, music, and food scenes. Tallinn is a dazzling fusion of history, culture, and modernity that you won’t soon forget.
Things to consider before arriving in Tallinn
Affordable: Tallinn has a relatively low cost of living compared to other European cities, making it a budget-friendly destination.
Tech-savvy: The city is famous for its thriving tech scene, with companies like Skype and TransferWise originating here.
Language barrier: While many Estonians speak English, it might be useful to learn a few phrases in the local language, Estonian.
Tallinn is perfect for history buffs, foodies, and lovers of art and culture.
What to bring with you
When packing for Tallinn, consider the season, as the weather can be quite unpredictable. Bring warm clothing for colder months, a raincoat or umbrella for possible showers, comfortable shoes for exploring, and an EU power adapter. Don’t forget your camera to capture the city’s enchanting beauty!
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Tallinn is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warmest and outdoor cafes and festivals come to life. However, if you enjoy a winter wonderland, December is also a great option, as the city is adorned with festive decorations and hosts a delightful Christmas market.
How to get into Tallinn
1. By plane: Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport, located just 4 km from the city center, has direct connections to many European cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or public transport to reach your destination.
2. By ferry: There are regular ferry connections between Tallinn and Helsinki, Finland, as well as Stockholm, Sweden, making it easy to include Tallinn in your Baltic itinerary. The ferry terminal is just a short walk or tram ride from the old town.
3. By bus: Tallinn can be reached by bus from other European cities, with several operators offering routes that connect Tallinn to destinations like Riga, Saint Petersburg, and Warsaw. The Tallinn Bus Station is located about 2 km from the city center.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Tallinn, Estonia
Day 1 – Arrival and Old Town
After arriving in Tallinn, take a stroll around the beautiful Old Town, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the cobblestone streets and admire the medieval architecture, including the Town Hall Square, St. Olaf’s Church, and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. For lunch, head to Rataskaevu 16, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Estonian cuisine.
Day 2 – Kadriorg Park and KUMU Art Museum
Spend the morning exploring Kadriorg Park, which is a stunningly beautiful park that features a palace and several museums. Visit the KUMU Art Museum in the afternoon to see a vast collection of Estonian art spanning centuries.
Day 3 – Tallinn Zoo and Seaplane Harbour Museum
Take a trip to Tallinn Zoo in the morning, which is home to more than 13,000 animals and is a favorite among families. Later in the afternoon, visit the Seaplane Harbour Museum to learn about the maritime history of Estonia.
Day 4 – Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park
Take a day trip to Lahemaa National Park, which is the largest national park in Estonia. Here, you can explore the beautiful forests, hike along the coastline, visit an old manor house, and see the magnificent Jägala Waterfall.
Day 5 – Beach Day in Pirita
Spend the day relaxing on Pirita Beach, which is a beautiful sandy beach located just outside the city. Take a swim, play some beach volleyball, or simply enjoy the sun.
Day 6 – Day Trip to Helsinki, Finland
Take a ferry to Helsinki, Finland, which is just a two-hour journey from Tallinn. Here, you can explore the city’s numerous museums, art galleries, and parks. Make sure to visit the iconic Helsinki Cathedral and the Temppeliaukion Church, which is carved into the rock.
Day 7 – Food Tour and Rooftop View
Take a food tour of Tallinn, which will allow you to taste some of the city’s best traditional dishes. Later, head to the Radisson Blu Sky Hotel to enjoy a drink and an incredible view of the city from their rooftop bar.
How to Continue Your Travel After You Have Spent 7 Days in Tallinn
If you want to continue exploring Estonia, head to Tartu, which is a university town located in the southern part of the country. Here, you can visit the beautiful Toome Hill Park, the Estonian National Museum, and the quirky Aparaaditehas creative hub.
Another great option is to visit Riga, the capital of Latvia, which is a short trip from Tallinn. Here, you can explore the city’s Old Town, the Art Nouveau district, and the iconic Riga Central Market.
