Unmissable attractions in the gem of the Baltic
Get cultured at some of the city’s top art museums
Discover the perfect activities for the whole family
Estonian
Euro (€)
+372
EET (Eastern European Time)
Getting around Tallinn isn't as difficult as you might think. The central part of the city is easy to explore on foot, although some attractions are located a bit further away. Luckily, buses, trolleys and trams are available to take you there, and hop-on hop-off buses will take visitors to the majority of tourist attractions.
Tallinn has a fascinating mix of architectural styles. From the medieval old town to the baroque elegance of Kadriorg Palace, the city's long history is reflected in its buildings. Don't miss the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral! Built under Russian rule, it's reminiscent of Moscow's many colorful cupolas, and is now an iconic part of the city.
Due to its location near the Baltic Sea, the weather in Tallinn can be unpredictable. The May-September period tends to have more rain than usual, especially in August. The city looks incredibly scenic in snowy weather, usually between December and March. It's also possible to see the northern lights from the area, depending on conditions.
This tall landmark is hard to ignore. Pointing directly up to the sky, it reflects the ambition and technological aspirations of the Soviet Union, which unofficially ruled over Estonia between 1940 and 1991. The top of the tower offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, and you can even see the shores of Finland on a clear day. There's also a glass floor, 170 meters above the ground. How brave do you feel?
Estonia's capital has recently become a bit of a mecca for hipsters, with thriving artistic and cultural scenes. Modern coffee shops and restaurants are mixed with vintage stores and creative boutiques. One of the trendiest areas in Tallinn is Kalamaja, formerly a hub for the local fishing industry. It's full of cafes, bars, markets, and old wooden houses that serve as a reminder of the area's history. Make sure you visit some of the local bakeries – you won't regret it.
Tallinn remains a bit of a hidden gem, and not many people know it has some of the best art experiences around. 'MONET2KLIMT' is a great example, with amazing technology that really brings art to life. This multimedia exhibition has a curated collection of works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Klimt, with spectacular high-res projections that flood the walls all around you. You can also get a real glimpse into Baltic art at the excellent Tallinn Art Hall and Kumu Museum.
While the city is beautiful, there's nothing like getting out into nature – and Tallinn's location makes it the perfect departure point for some stunning day trips. Wander through pristine pine forests, many of which lead right up to the coastline, or visit the tranquil Viru bog. Much nicer than the name suggests, Viru is located in Lahemaa National Park, one of the biggest national parks in Europe. Don't miss the Jägala Waterfall, which is spectacular in all seasons, but especially when frozen in winter.
