Tallinn
Tallinn is Estonia’s capital, sitting right on the edge of the Baltic Sea in northern Europe. Cold but full of charm.
It’s home to around 440,000 people, so it’s big enough to explore but never overwhelming. Super walkable, too.
The average yearly temperature is about 6°C, so pack layers — summers are light and winters get icy.
Tallinn welcomes over 2 million tourists a year, drawn by its mix of history, culture, nature, and easygoing pace.
People come to experience something real, from medieval streets to local art scenes and cozy cafés tucked in old corners.
It’s a city that blends old and new, with a calm energy that lets you slow down.
The best time to visit? Late spring through early autumn — long days, mild weather, and everything open.
Tallinn doesn’t shout — it whispers cool stories if you take time to listen and explore.
The famous Viru Gate, an iconic landmark, illuminated by street lighting. A
Light salted herring lunch with boiled potatoes and black bread
Arriving to Tallinn
Tallinn is Estonia’s capital, right by the Baltic Sea, and it’s honestly one of Europe’s coolest hidden gems.
You can fly into Tallinn’s airport, which is super close to the city center — only 15 minutes away.
There are also ferries from Helsinki and overnight buses from Riga or St. Petersburg if you’re already in the region.
Once you’re in the city, everything feels close — Tallinn is compact and super easy to get around.
If you’re looking for that classic medieval charm, staying in Old Town is a great option.
Want something more local and artistic? Kalamaja is the trendy neighborhood full of wooden houses and indie cafés.
Rotermann Quarter is where old warehouses meet modern design — great food, nice stays, and a central location.
You can walk most places, but the public transport system is solid — buses, trams, and trolleys everywhere.
Tallinn also has Bolt scooters and e-bikes if you’re feeling a little more adventurous.
The food scene mixes traditional Baltic flavors with modern European twists — super comforting and surprisingly creative.
Expect hearty dishes like rye bread, roasted meats, smoked fish, potatoes, and lots of seasonal veggies.
Local desserts often include berries, requesón (kama), and interesting twists on classic pastries.
The medieval city walls and towers are a must-see, especially when the light hits them at sunset.
Telliskivi Creative City is perfect if you’re into art, design, and laid-back cafés with personality.
Kadriorg Palace adds a touch of elegance, surrounded by peaceful gardens and a few museums.
Head to the Seaplane Harbour if you’re into cool museums with old submarines and interactive exhibits.
Take a walk along the seaside promenade — perfect for sunsets, fresh air, and people-watching.
If you’re into wellness, try an Estonian sauna — it’s a whole cultural experience, not just a spa thing.
Local markets like Balti Jaama Turg are perfect for grabbing snacks and checking out local life.
Tallinn has a unique way of balancing old stories with new ideas — it’s calm but full of character.
So if you’re looking for a city that’s got history, creativity, and a laid-back vibe — Tallinn’s waiting.
Accomodation
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Currency: The official currency of Tallinn is the Euro (EUR) 1 € is equivalent to 1.10 USD.
Keep in mind before travelling to Tallinn
Tallinn might look like a medieval fairytale from the outside, but this city knows how to throw a party. All year round, the streets, squares, and even forests around town come alive with festivals that mix old traditions with a modern twist. It’s that perfect balance between quirky and cool.
Some of the biggest festivals you’ll want to catch include the Tallinn Old Town Days, full of music and medieval vibes, and the Tallinn Music Week, which brings together artists from all over Europe. Then there’s the Tallinn Medieval Days, super fun if you’re into history with costumes, markets, and shows. You’ve also got St. Martin’s Day Fair and the Christmas Market, both great for local food and crafts. In summer, don’t miss the Tallinn Maritime Days and the Song Festival, a huge cultural event that’s super important to Estonians.
If you’re up for a quick day trip, you’ve got some sweet spots nearby. Check out Lahemaa National Park, Paldiski, Kadriorg, Jägala Waterfall, Keila-Joa, and Viimsi — all easy to reach and packed with nature, history, or seaside chill. They’re perfect escapes when you want to breathe a bit outside the city without going too far.
Tips to visit Tallinn
People from Tallinn are called Tallinners, and they might seem a little quiet at first, but they’re super polite and chill once you talk to them. A simple “Tere!” (hi) or a friendly smile goes a long way. No need for cheek kisses here — just keep it relaxed.
The two main languages spoken are Estonian and Russian, but you’ll find that many young people speak English pretty well too. So no stress if you’re visiting and don’t know the local lingo.
Locals usually eat lunch around 12–1 PM and dinner after 6 PM. Most shops are open from 10 AM to 7 PM, and cafés and bars often stay open later. Sundays can be slower, so check before heading out.
Tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants. Estonia has a public healthcare system, and services are generally good. Dress code? Think simple, casual, and weather-ready. And if someone says “aitäh”, just know they’re saying “thank you.”
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