Travel Packages to Tallinn Estonia | Keytours Vacations

Discover Tallinn's Wonders

On the northern coast of Estonia lies Tallinn. This UNESCO World Heritage Site city is beautifully preserved with historic churches, museums, and fortress walls. Stroll on cobblestone streets in the walkable Old Town to the modern restaurants and theaters of the New City, or simply lounge on one of the many public beaches.

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Description

Tallinn's pride and joy is its historic Old Town, an enchanting neighbourhood of centuries-old streets, houses, towers and squares that looks like it was torn right from the pages of a storybook. On the other hand, threaded through that same Old Town and its environs are cutting-edge restaurants, cafes and clubs that give Tallinn its energy and buzz.

Useful information

Population:

453,864 Tallinners (2023)

Currency:

Euro, €1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

112

Opening Hours:

The shops in Tallinn are usually open from 10 am to 7 pm. Banks are open from 9 am to 6 pm on weekdays (some are also open on Saturday morning) and the post office from 9 am to 6 pm on weekdays and from 9 am to 3 pm on Saturdays.

Top 10

Cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin & its Tower

The Medieval church that stands at the centre of Toompea hill is one of the county’s most fascinating historical attractions. Traditionally catering to the nobility, it is filled with spectacular, wood-carved artwork and elaborate coats of arms. Visitors can climb the 69-metre baroque bell-tower, added in 1779, for amazing views of the city.

Estonian History Museum — Great Guild Hall

This extensive museum presents Estonia's history from prehistoric times right up to the end of the 20th century. Films and interactive displays show how people here lived, fought and survived over the last 11,000 years. Children can look for the museum’s very own dragon, displayed for centuries on the building’s pillar.

Estonian Open Air Museum

This museum lets you travel back in time to the rural Estonia of old. The vast, forested park is filled with thatched, 18-20th-century farm buildings, windmills, a wooden chapel and a village school, with staff demonstrating how people lived and worked in times past. An ideal place for families to take a picnic and escape from city life.

Kadriorg Art Museum

A trip to Tallinn isn’t complete without a visit to this magnificent northern Baroque palace, built by Peter the Great for his wife, Catherine I, in the early 18th century. Designed by Italian architect Niccolo Michetti, the grandiose palace and surrounding manicured gardens are a humbling example of Tsarist extravagance, but just as important a reason to visit is that this is also home to the foreign art collection of the Art Museum of Estonia.

Kiek in de Kök

The name of this massive, 38-metre-high cannon tower and museum of the town’s defences literally means “peek into the Kitchen". It was so high that Medieval guards joked they could see right down the chimneys and into the kitchens of the houses below. Make sure to pay a visit to the top floor cafe for beautiful Old Town views.

Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform

On the east corner of Toompea hill sits quite a spacious viewing platform with unforgettable views to the medieval neighbourhood against the backdrop of its more modern district. From here you can see most of the Tallinn's spires, even the highest of them, the Tallinn TV Tower in the distance. During the summer season outdoor cafe and dance evenings take over the space.

Kumu Art Museum

The Kumu Art Museum is a modern architectural masterpiece. Curves and sharp edges mark out the copper and limestone structure, which is built into the side of a limestone cliff. The museum program features art from the 18th century until today, Estonian art until the II World War, art of the Soviet era and a temporary exhibition program of contemporary art.

Seaplane Harbour

With the help of modern multimedia, the Seaplane Harbour in the wooden architecture suburb Kalamaja tells exciting stories about the Estonian maritime and military history promising a "sea full of excitement" for the whole family in an area that would take nearly 2 million A4 paper sheets laid down side by side. The museum’s display that comprises of more than a couple of hundred large exhibits revitalizes the colourful history of Estonia. In the outdoor area, visitors can tour a collection of historic ships, including the Suur Tõll, Europe's largest steam-powered icebreaker.

Do & See

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This spectacular, onion-domed structure perched atop Toompea Hill is Estonia's main Russian Orthodox cathedral. Built in 1900, when Estonia was part of the tsarist Russian empire, the cathedral was originally intended as a symbol of the empire's dominance. The church towers hold Tallinn's most powerful bell ensemble, consisting of 11 bells, including the largest in Tallinn.

Bank of Estonia Museum

It's all about the money — and the finance — at the Estonian central bank museum. Here, games, interactive machines and video exhibitions tell the complex story of money, aiming to pique the interest of all visitors, even those who don't know much about finance. Guests will learn the role of money in society, have the arcane mysteries of central bank policy explained and get an overview of how the financial system operates. You will leave with a better grasp of how the euro works as well as how the central bank manages its external assets, payment methods and payment environment. The museum has a shop and a currency exchange point — the only place where Estonian kroon can still be converted into euros.

Danish King's Garden

This open, garden-like area on the slopes of Toompea Hill happens to be the legendary birthplace of the Danish flag, according to a well-known legend. According to the story, Valdemar's forces were losing their battle with the Estonians when suddenly the skies opened and a red flag with a white cross floated down from the heavens. Taking this as a holy sign, the Danes were spurred on to victory. Today the garden remains a place where locals honor the role Denmark played in Estonia's history. Halfway down the steps towards Rüütli street you can see an iron sword and shield with a Danish cross, and each summer, Dannebrog Day is celebrated here.

Energy Discovery Centre

With over 130 interactive, hands-on exhibits, this museum is a mad scientist's dream come true. The family-oriented centre, housed in a unique industrial heritage site, focuses mainly on natural, technical and physical sciences. The main hall with its "island of lightning" is devoted to everything related to electricity, while the planetarium with its 10-metre dome introduces astronomy and space projects created by Estonia's own scientists. Another exhibition allows visitors to see and feel the sounds. With over 3,000 square metres of space, the centre has seven permanent exhibitions in fields such as energy, classical physics, sound and optics, as well as temporary exhibitions. It also has a birthday room, a teachers’ room, a physics classroom and a seminar area.

Estonian Maritime Museum — Fat Margaret's Tower

This museum dedicated to all sea-faring aspects of Estonia’s history is housed in one of Tallinn's fattest cannon towers. Fat Margaret Tower (Paks Margareeta) and the attached Great Coastal Gate (Suur Rannavärav), two of Tallinn's most impressive defensive structures, stand guard at the north end of Pikk street. They were built not only to defend the city from the seaward side of town, but also to impress any visitors arriving via the harbour. These days Fat Margaret’s cannon tower is home to the Estonian Maritime Museum, which provides a detailed look at the nation's seafaring past by displaying such things as Neolithic fishing gear, antique diving equipment, and even the entire wheelhouse from a 1950s-era trawler. The extensive museum covers four floors of the historic tower.

Estonian Museum of Natural History

The Estonian Museum of Natural History tells stories about the nature of Estonia and helps you to make sense of its secrets. The museum offers a fascinating look at the creatures and habitats of Estonia, as well as wildlife from around the world. There are several seasonal, temporary themed exhibitions every year from alive spiders, edible and poisonous mushrooms to minerals.

Freedom Square

From the last days of the Tsars and through Estonia's first period of independence, this open area at the edge of Old Town had been a place of national symbolism and civic pride, as well as a favourite public gathering spot. The Monument to the War of Independence is commemorating Estonia's hard-fought struggle in 1918–1920 to free itself of foreign rule.

Hotel Viru & KGB Museum

Those intrigued by the city's secret history can take the guided tour of the KGB Museum on the 23rd floor of Sokos Hotel Viru. In Soviet times it was rumoured that the KGB had files on everyone and that they operated in the Viru Hotel. The latter rumour turned out to be true, as you will see on this fascinating tour. Not only will you get an inkling of what the operatives were up to, you'll also get some great insights into the history of the hotel, which was designated exclusively for foreign guests visiting the USSR. To continue the 1980s throwback theme, you can pay a visit to the hotel's second floor Currency Bar.

Dining

Argentiina

Meat and seafood grilled Latin-American style are the specialty at this long-time Tallinn favourite, which makes its home in a warmly-decorated locale just a little ways from Old Town. Guests can watch as the chef prepares their cuts over the flaming coals, and on Friday and Saturday evenings be dazzled by a hot dance revue.

Chedi

Run by the same group that created the illustrious Bocca, Tchaikovsky and other award winners, Chedi offers Asian-style creations such as Singapore roast chicken and Mongolian-style venison stir fry. The grilled lamb chop with chocolate sauce is a favorite.

Dominic

Top-notch European dining and a superbly-restored Medieval interior make this Old Town establishment an excellent option for those searching for something a cut above the ordinary. Dominic also bills itself as a 'wine restaurant' and indeed its knowledgeable sommelier stocks among the best vintages in town.

Elevant

Head up the iron spiral staircase and then settle into a wicker chair to enjoy Elevant’s peaceful, sophisticated ambiance. Here you'll find a selection of tasty Indian standards, along with daring dishes like wild boar kebab and moose curry, all served up by friendly staff. For a dessert with a difference, try the fritter banana in crunchy chickpea dough.

Hermitage

A cozy restaurant in the boutique hotel St Petersbourg in the heart of the Old Town, the oldest hotel in Estonia, opened in 1850. The restaurant's menu follows the traditions of Russian cuisine, but the dishes are served with a modern twist. Examples of the menu of Hermitage include a selection of handmade pelmeni or slow-roasted duck hearts. The legendary chicken Kiev and boeuf a la tartar are also available. There is just one selection that you can never know what it will contain - a six-course surprise menu created for the customer by the chef personally.

Kaerajaan

An off-beat interior and inventive dishes make Kaerajaan a great place to experience a modern take on Estonian folk cuisine. Located right on the Town Hall Square, this comfortable restaurant takes its name from an old folk song and dance, and both the decor and the food resonate with the echoes of the nation's ethnic heritage.

Maikrahv

Right in the heart of Old Town you’ll find a fine restaurant known for serving exceptional food in distinctive surroundings. Maikrahv, built in a 15th-century town house, offers an inviting, medieval atmosphere and a selective array of international cuisine. For a unique drink experience, try the house shot or the kir royal.

Mix Fusion

Restaurant Mix Fusion is a place, where European dishes are served with an Oriental flourish. Fusion cuisine is a surprising and harmonious mix of tastes, styles, with ingredients taken from the culinary traditions of Japan, France, Italy and Russia.

Cafes

Bogapott

A popular destination for the discerning tourist, Bogapott is an intriguing pottery studio, shop and cosy café all rolled into one. This is a unique family-run set-up, where there are many creations on sale that can't be found anywhere else in town. In summer, visitors can relax in the cafe's courtyard, sipping coffee from cups that were made right on the spot.

Boheem

This unpretentious venue just past the train station is a favourite haunt of local young, artsy crowd. Wood floors and old-style furniture give it a timeless feel. In addition to the usual drinks, light meals are available.

C'est la vie

This inviting, Old Town venue is where the charm, romance and atmosphere of the French café scene meet the peak of 1930s art. The menu is inspired by French cuisine, while the selection of wines and Champagnes will satisfy even the most demanding of palates. Head downstairs to find more formal dining in the elegant, medieval cellar.

Kloostri Ait

This cafe of the Theatrum theatre in the Old Town is a cosy meeting place with that will make you feel at home. The café serves simple foods and tasty coffee. In the winter it is nice to warm up in front of the fireplace, in the summer you can spend time on the terrace in the café's courtyard. Kloostri Ait is also a meeting place for music, words, dance, song, ideas and people who are young at heart. Kloostri Ait's Facebook page will give you an overview of the evening cultural program.

Kohvik Komeet

Komeet is a simple, cosy café on the 4th floor of the Solaris Centre, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding neighbourhood while sipping a cup of coffee and eating a slice of delicious chocolate cake. Various cakes, pies, salads, snacks and hot dishes are on offer. In summer, its rooftop terrace is one of downtown Tallinn's most attractive destinations.

Maiasmokk

Tallinn’s oldest café still retains its amazing, pre-war interior and offers a variety of tempting cakes and pastries, as well as fresh coffee and other treats. This old charmer lives up to its name (Estonian for 'sweet tooth') by serving up a variety of baked goods – all made right on the spot – as well as hot drinks and other snacks. Children will appreciate the adjacent Kalev Marzipan Room with its display of artistic marzipan creations.

Maiden Tower Museum-Cafe

The interaction of museal elements with modern Estonian design has contributed to the birth of a unique restaurant-café situated on three floors of a fourteenth-century defence tower. Through the large floor to ceiling windows, the Old Town can be overlooked while enjoying delicious dishes.

Mmuah

This smart, downtown café has become a popular stopping place both for those shopping in the nearby Kaubamaja department store and for nearby office workers looking for a decent lunch option. The extensive menu includes wraps, warm salads, quiches and savoury pancakes.

Bars & Nightlife

Beer House

Nothing goes with good food like good beer, and at Beer House, you can enjoy both! This spacious restaurant-brewery just off Town Hall Square produces seven tasty varieties of natural, live beer, which visitors can enjoy with a hearty meal or buy in a bottle to take away. Live music plays every Thursday to Saturday.

Breweryclub

Brewery beer club is located in Tallinn's Old Town in the old Pearl complex. But now it has been going through a renovation in which there are side by side ancient architecture and modern design. Brewery offers 47 different types of beer, seven of them are draft beers and five of them are brewed in our own house's brewing factory. Our cuisine is a combination of different meals and food cultures all over the world. All foods are made to go together with offered beers and also with wines for our wine friends.

Chicago 1933

Chicago 1933 is an elegant and sophisticated bar-restaurant on the edge of Tallinn Old Town inspired of 1930s America. It offers an international kitchen, a bounty of drinks and a wide variety of wine. The Live music on every evening is inspired by the legendary jazz and swing era. Tobacco lovers can enjoy the luxury cigar room.

Club Hollywood

One of the hottest nightclubs in Tallinn, Hollywood is always popular, packed and pulsing with energy. The club’s large dance floor and heart-of-Old-Town location makes it a great place to drop in with friends at the end of a night of pub hopping. Expect different music and crowds depending on what events are on, including everything from Hip Hop Café to Latin Lust to Retro Night. Minimum age: 18 years.

Club Münt

Münt, which means both mint and coin in Estonian, is a small establishment on a narrow, Old Town street. Despite its intimate size, it still aims to pack a full-fledged club experience, complete with go-go dancers on some evenings. Münt is also noted for offering a range of inexpensive drinks, most of them costing just one euro.

Deja Vu Lounge

One of the city's trendiest lounges, this intimate venue keeps its regulars entertained with a venerable schedule of guest artists. Performances can range from jazz singers and trumpet players to dance beat DJs. The extensive food menu, which includes nachos, club sandwiches and Thai soup, is also worth note.

Depeche Mode

There's only one band you'll hear on the sound system at this unusual bar. Started years ago by the Estonian Depeche Mode fan club, it has remained a staple of the town's alternative bar scene and is a particular favourite of foreign students. Those who want to avoid the bustle of front bar area can find a table in the spacious side room.

Drink Bar & Grill

Owned and run by an English beer connoisseur, Drink specialises in offering brews that aren't available in most other Tallinn establishments. Though not aiming to be a typical English pub, it nevertheless offers English visitors what they may be missing from home, namely fish and chips, pub quizzes and comedy nights.

Shopping

A-Galerii

One of the most unique jewellery galleries in the Nordic countries, A-Galerii offers Estonian contemporary jewellery art of the highest quality. Exhibitions and sales are taking place in parallel: the works of around 70 jewellery artists are showcased and sold here.

Asuur Ceramics Studio

This ceramics studio inside the historic Löewenschede Tower is a place where you can watch artists at work, buy or order their creations, and see exhibitions. The studio organises regular ceramics courses that are suitable for drop-ins. Booking by phone, it's also possible to organise your own group event for your colleagues, friends or family.

Balti Jaam Market

Balti Jaam Market takes you back to a different time. It offers is a wide selection of foods, clothes, bric-a-brac and Soviet-era antiques. It's also home to numerous hip eateries.

Blacksmiths of Saaremaa

In this shop, you'll find unique items crafted by Estonian "sepad", namely blacksmiths, who painstakingly follow the old traditions. There are over 300 different ironwork items available here, including furniture, interior design accessories, chimney and grill utensils, souvenirs and more.

Draakoni Gallery

Draakoni Gallery primarily shows works by young Estonian artists, with foreign art exhibitions a few times a year. The "inside of the Dragon" can contain pictures in various techniques as well as 3D objects, while performance art events are organised from time to time in the cellar room. The gallery's salesroom has a large selection of contemporary Estonian prints, paintings and photographs. The gallery, founded in 1983, is located in the Old Town in an Art Nouveau building featuring dragons on the facade. It is run by the Estonian Artists' Association.

Estonian House

This shop gathers together local craftsmen, small businesses and farm food producers. There is a fun mix of modern and traditional handicraft or design items, which make perfect gifts buy.

Foorum

Numerous shops offering fashion and footwear, for adults and children alike, play a starring role in this modern, downtown shopping centre. It's also home to popular dining spots such as Bonaparte Bistroo and the Cuban restaurant Cubanita.

Gowri Style House

Gowri is a family business focusing on men's clothing. The brand brings ageless British style together with brave colours. Custom-made shirts, waistcoats, ties and tailored suits are all created by the hands of dedicated tailors.

Tourist Information

Passport/Visa

Estonia can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.

Tallinn Airport (TLL)

The city's international airport, Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport, provides excellent facilities and a wide variety of services. Its convenient location — just 4 km from the city centre — means transport to most destinations takes surprisingly little time. You can get to and from the airport with tram #4 or busses #2 and #15. You can pay the fare with both the Ühiskaart (Tallinn’s public transport card), or by tapping your contactless payment card against the card reader. In the latter case, a single ticket is €2.

Public Transport

Central Tallinn is very compact and easy to get around, and reaching farther out destinations is simple thanks to the city's network of buses, trolleybusses and trams. The public transport network operates from 6 am to 11 pm (some lines until midnight). The ticket system works on a random-inspection basis, so you can board via any door and don't have to show anything to the driver. You must, however, have a validated ticket or you risk a €40 fine. When planning no more than 3 journeys on public transport use the single journey tickets costing €2. This ticket is valid for 60 minutes, and you must re-scan it at each entry during your travel period. You can purchase the tickets by tapping your contactless payment card against the terminal. If you plan more than 3 journeys on public transport, it is cheaper for you to get the plastic (non-registered) smart card. This smart card is easy to top up with money or travel cards and then to validate your e-ticket(s) at the start of each journey. One smart card can be used by different people (family members, colleagues, etc.). Tallinn Card holders travel free on public transport. Validate your Tallinn Card by touching the orange card readers (at all entrances) at the start of each journey.

Taxi

Taxis can be hailed on the street, ordered by phone or ordered via the Taxify app. They can also be found queued up at taxi stands in front of larger hotels and at some major intersections. You also can order a ride using Bolt, Forus and Uber apps. Rates are not uniform — they are set by the taxi company or operator, and can vary widely. Each taxi's rates are posted on a yellow sticker on the car's right rear window. The cost usually consists of a base fare (starting fare) plus a per-kilometre fare. Above is an example of the typical fare range. If you want to avoid misunderstandings, you can ask the driver to approximate the cost of the trip in advance.

Buses

International connections are provided by Lux Express and Ecolines. Regular routes connecting Tallinn with Riga, Vilnius and St Petersburg operate several times a day. International and intercity buses arrive and depart via the Tallinn Central Bus Station (Tallinna Bussijaam).

Electricity

The electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz, European-style plugs with two round pins are used.

Ferries

Ferries cross the Gulf of Finland between Tallinn and Helsinki several times a day, covering the distance in roughly 2 to 3 hours. From late spring to late autumn, high-speed vessels also operate on the route, reducing travel time to just 1.5 hours. Ferries between Tallinn and Stockholm depart every evening, with the trip taking approximately 15 hours. All St Peter Line's cruise ships make a Baltic Sea circuit twice per week and can be used for one-way overnight travel from Tallinn to St Petersburg. A return trip is possible by bus or train. In some cases, continuing cruise passengers can stay in St Petersburg visa-free. The world's largest cruise agencies have included Tallinn in their itineraries — the city receives over 300 calls per season, making it the third busiest cruise destination in the Baltic Sea region. Passenger terminals are located within walking distance of the medieval Old Town.

Pharmacy

Pharmacies are usually open from 10 am to 7 pm. Two Südameapteek pharmacies stay open all night: one at Tõnismägi 5 (+372 644 2282) and the other one at Vikerlase 16 (+372 638 4338). Pharmacies in shopping centres are usually open from 9 am to 9 pm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Tallinn?

The best time to visit Tallinn is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm, and the city is vibrant with festivals and events. The long daylight hours allow for extended exploration of the city's medieval architecture and outdoor activities. However, if you enjoy winter sports and Christmas markets, visiting in December can be magical, with snow-covered streets and festive decorations.

How many days should I spend in Tallinn?

A stay of 3 to 4 days in Tallinn is ideal to explore its main attractions. This allows time to wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visit the Kadriorg Palace, and enjoy the vibrant Telliskivi Creative City. Additionally, you can take a day trip to nearby Lahemaa National Park or the island of Naissaar for a taste of Estonia's natural beauty.

What are the must-see attractions in Tallinn?

Tallinn's must-see attractions include the medieval Old Town with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings like the Town Hall and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Kadriorg Palace and its surrounding park offer a glimpse into Estonia's royal past. For a modern twist, explore the Telliskivi Creative City, a hub for art and culture. Don't miss the panoramic views from Toompea Hill.

What is the best way to get around Tallinn?

Tallinn's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, especially in the Old Town. For longer distances, the city's efficient public transport system includes buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Consider purchasing a Tallinn Card for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available for convenience.

Are there any local dishes I should try in Tallinn?

While in Tallinn, be sure to try traditional Estonian dishes such as "verivorst" (blood sausage), "mulgi kapsad" (pork with sauerkraut), and "kama" (a dessert made from grains). For a unique culinary experience, visit a local restaurant to sample modern Estonian cuisine, which often incorporates seasonal and foraged ingredients.

What cultural events or festivals are unique to Tallinn?

Tallinn hosts several unique cultural events throughout the year. The Tallinn Old Town Days in late May or early June celebrate the city's medieval heritage with parades and performances. In July, the Tallinn Maritime Days offer maritime-themed activities and concerts. For music lovers, the Tallinn Music Week in spring showcases a variety of genres and artists from around the world.

What are some recommended day trips from Tallinn?

From Tallinn, consider a day trip to Lahemaa National Park, Estonia's largest national park, known for its diverse landscapes and historic manor houses. Another option is the island of Naissaar, accessible by ferry, offering hiking trails and sandy beaches. Alternatively, visit the town of Rakvere to explore its medieval castle and the nearby spa facilities.

Trips

Tallinn Discovery

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