Tallinn in One Day: Best Itinerary, Guide, Map & Tips

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How to spend one perfect day in Tallinn

Tallinn, Estonia’s capital city, is where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy. With its well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tallinn offers a glimpse into the past with cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and historic city walls.

Yet, it also embraces the present with a thriving tech scene, trendy cafés, and lively markets. Overlooking the Baltic Sea, Tallinn is a city of contrasts where history and innovation coexist, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity.

In this Tallinn travel guide, you’ll find a complete itinerary of all the most important must-see attractions, with an interactive map organized to make the most of your time. We also share recommendations for central places to stay, ideas about where to eat local food, and tips about making the most of your perfect day in Tallinn.

Things to See & Do in Tallinn

Interactive Map

ROUTE: Freedom Square – KGB Museum – Town Hall Square – Toompea Castle – Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – City Walls – Linnahall – Kalamaja – Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour – Noblessner – Telliskivi Creative City

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map

Tallinn Itinerary Notes

Morning

Start in the Old Town

The cobblestoned Old Town of Tallinn, known as Vanalinn, is full of twisting alleys and historic architecture. It has been around for over 5,000 years and is one of the oldest cities in Northern Europe.

It’s also one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, full of medieval churches and buildings that will take your breath away. It’s no surprise that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the top must-see in Tallinn.  

Visit Freedom Square

Freedom Square is a great place to start exploring the Old Town. There, you can see the correlation between the modern city and the medieval part of Tallinn. The square also plays an important role in Estonia’s story. There is a War of Independence Victory Column, or Vabaduse, where you can read about Estonian history. 

Climb up to the Harjumäe Hill, right behind the monument. From there, you have fantastic views of Freedom Square and the tallest buildings in Tallinn.

Explore Soviet History

Estonia was granted independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and the buildings and key places from that time in the country’s history have been gradually transformed into tourist attractions.

You can visit the KGB Museum on the 23rd floor of the Hotel Viru to see the former headquarters of the KGB. North of here, the KGB Prison Cells Museum displays the written and recorded testimonials of the interrogated.

There’s even a KGB rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and harbor. Book your tour in advacnce, especially if you want an English speaking guide.

Admire Town Hall Square (Raekoja Plats)

Town Hall Square (sometimes called the “square of five spires”) has been a marketplace and the center of Hanseatic Tallinn since the Middle Ages. At the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries, it became the center of the Lower Town, and nowadays, it’s the starting point for exploring the magical, medieval Old Town.  

Several colorful buildings surround the town square, including the Gothic Tallinn Town Hall and the 15th-century Tallinn Town Hall Pharmacy, Europe’s oldest continuously running pharmacy, where you can still buy medicines today. 

If you’re feeling agile, find the circular stone marked with a compass rose in the center of the square, stretch back, and look up to see the magnificent sight of the tops of five of the Old Town’s church spires – not many people can actually see all five spires, four is a much more common sight, unless you’re really, really tall.

Look out for the hole that’s been cut in a nearby house roof to enable the fifth spire to be seen! If you want to do a sort of reverse viewing, head for St Olav’s (sometimes St Olaf’s) church and climb the 124 meters (407 feet) to what was once Europe’s tallest spire – you’ll be able to see many more than five spires from the top!

Town Hall Square is the social hub of the city. It hosts open-air concerts, fairs, and markets and is packed with restaurants and pubs. It’s one of the most popular Tallinn tourist attractions.

Visit Toompea Castle

From the Old Town, take Pikk Jalg, or Long Leg, a steep cobbled path, to the Upper Town and Toompea Hill, which sits 20-30 meters (65 feet-98 feet) higher than the rest of the city. You’ll pass the Kiek in de Kok tower on the way, a restored cannon tower from the 15th-century that now houses a museum and gives tours of secret tunnels.

The jewel in Tallinn’s crown, Toompea Castle, is perched on a limestone cliff at the southwestern corner of the hill and towers over the rest of the city. The castle has always been the seat of power in Estonia. Ever since the German Knights of the Sword first built a stone fortress here in 1227, every foreign empire that ruled Estonia has used the castle as their base. Today, it’s home to Riigikogu, Estonia’s Parliament.

The castle has been renovated many times over the years but still retains its basic shape from the 13th and 14th centuries. From the front, visitors can see the distinctive pink Baroque palace, an addition dating from the 18th century and the time of Catherine the Great. For a more castle-like view of this building, head behind it, down the opposite side of the hill – from here, you get the medieval perspective. 

The 46-meter Pikk Hermann tower can be seen from the Governor’s Garden at the castle’s southern edge. The tower is an important national symbol, and tradition dictates that whichever nation flies its flag over Pikk Hermann also rules Estonia. 

Be Wowed by Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The spectacular Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Tallinn, standing in front of Toompea Castle. 

Built in the Russian Revival style at the end of the 19th century, when Estonia was still part of the Czarist Empire, the much-photographed Russian Orthodox church has distinctive onion domes, which are typical of Russian buildings.

After Estonia gained its freedom, there was discussion of destroying the cathedral, a symbol of Russia’s occupation. Inside, it is richly decorated with icons and mosaics lining the walls, and in the towers, an enormous and powerful church bell that weighs 15 tonnes!

Stroll the City Walls

Visit the ancient city walls, where you can walk sections connecting Nunna, Sauna, and Kuldjala towers and Hellemann Tower, four of the remaining 46 watch towers that surround the Old Town of Tallinn.

A huge project started in the 14th century to build a fortified wall around the entire city to protect Tallinn and its occupants from invaders. By the 16th century, the 4 km-long city wall had been built to 16 meters high and 3-4 meters (9-13 feet) wide, making Tallinn the most fortified city in the world. 

These four towers are unique today because they are among the few still open to the general public and one of Tallinn’s best free things to do. Tourists can walk through these historic towers, following the paths that connect them.

Capture Panoramic Photos from Old Town Viewpoints

If you’ve ever wondered how people capture wonderful elevated shots of the city, it’s because of the viewing platforms. Two of the main viewpoints over Old Town are close to each other on Toompea Hill.

The first is the Kohtuotsa viewing platform (Kohtu 12). From there you have panoramic views to the one side of the Old Town with a backdrop of the tallest buildings of Tallinn.

The other, slightly further from the Old Town, is the Patkuli viewing platform (Rahukohtu), which offers views of the other side of the Old Town and the Baltic Sea.

Afternoon

Admire the Sea Views from the Top of Linnahall

Tallinn City Hall (Tallinna Linnahall) is located next to the sea. It was constructed in 1980 for the Summer Olympics, when Estonia was part of the Soviet Union, to host the sailing competition. After the Olympics, the unique building has been the venue for many big concerts and events over the years. 

Since 2010, the massive building has been abandoned, and no use has been found for it. Visitors can still walk up to the top of the building, where they can enjoy views of the Gulf of Finland and some parts of Tallinn.

Visit the Kalamaja District

Next, set your sights on the Kalamaja (meaning fish house) district, which historically served as the city’s main harbor before evolving into a manufacturing hub during the occupation.

Today, it is undergoing gentrification, with many of the Soviet industrial buildings being converted into restaurants, galleries, and shops. It is now one of the most dynamic and interesting neighborhoods in the Estonian capital. 

It requires some walking, especially if you want to explore the street art around the district, so it would be a perfect place to get to and explore on electric scooters or e-bikes.

Explore Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour

Seaplane Harbour got its name from its vast hangar, which was constructed for seaplanes in the Russian era. Inside, there is now a sea museum, which claims to be the largest maritime museum in Europe. It includes a harbor with ships, submarines, cannons, sea mines, and a one-hundred-year-old steam-powered ice breaker.  

Even if you are not into architecture, you will still appreciate the hangar’s design. It was the first dome of its size built with a thin concrete shell and without supporting columns. 

Chill at Noblessner

Port Noblessner was an old industrial area and submarine shipyard that has recently been renovated. Now, it’s a beautiful area with apartments, cafés, restaurants, and parks. Overall, it’s a quiet neighborhood where you can escape from the city noise, walk with your friends, or watch the sunset. 

If you are a big fan of craft beer, Estonia’s most famous craft brewery, Põhjala Brewery, is here. The taproom has an excellent selection of brews, which you can enjoy with live music or take to the balcony as the sun sets. You need to book a tour around the brewery in advance.

Wander Around Telliskivi Creative City

The Telliskivi Creative City (Telliskivi Loomelinnak) is a complex of disused factories that now houses more than 200 independent businesses and Fotografiska Tallinn, the contemporary museum of photograpgy, art and culture. The area isn’t that fancy or well-renovated, but it has maintained a unique vibe.

It’s also a popular place for different events (over 500 cultural events a year) and indie shops with Estonian design, crafts, and art. Thanks to the creative atmosphere, it’s also home to a couple of start-up companies offering local products you won’t find anywhere else.

Evening

After a long day of walking, it’s time to cool down and enjoy the local culture, cuisine, and nightlife.

Taste Craft Beer in St. Vitus

Estonia has a wide range of craft beer producers and many pubs or even brewery factors where you can taste local beer production. One of the coolest places to taste local craft beer is in St. Vitus, between the Telliskivi Creative City and Balti Jaam. There, you can try over 100 different beers, like Põhjala, Tanker, Nudist, Pihtla, Pöide, and many more. 

Enjoy the Sunset

Take a harbor boat tour on the old cruiser Katharina, one of the best ways to admire the wonderful panorama of the Old Town of Tallinn and its towers. On this highly-rated dinner cruise, you will learn about Tallinn’s maritime history, admire the historic shoreline, and visit the bridge.

If you prefer to stay on dry land, the Tallinn TV Tower is one of the tallest structures in Estonia, at 314 meters (1,030 feet) high. Built in 1980 for the Moscow Olympics, it was designed to showcase Estonia’s technological advancements.

Dinner in the TV Tower’s iconic restaurant offers panoramic views of Tallinn and its surroundings from the 22nd floor. You’ll need to book early, though, as this is one of Tallinn’s most popular attractions.

Explore the Tallinn Nightlife

Tallinn’s old town is a hub of pubs and nightclubs, with the highest traffic during the night around Suur-Karja Street, where there are several pubs and clubs. There is also the most popular nightclub in Tallinn – Club Hollywood. Another great nightclub is Studio. Parties last ’till the early morning.

Where to Eat in Tallinn

Estonian food is a hearty and wholesome blend of Baltic, Scandinavian, and Russian influences, rooted in seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes. Rye bread, potatoes, dairy products, and meats like pork and fish are staples and emphasize comfort and simplicity. Fresh, local ingredients and natural flavors reflect the country’s rustic heritage.

Rataskaevu 16

According to Tripadvisor, Rataskaevu 16 is Tallin’s top-rated restaurant. It serves delicious Estonian food in a cozy wooden and exposed brick dining room in the Old Town. The menu is influenced by traditional Estonian ingredients and dishes and modern European dining. Service is warm and friendly, and there are some interesting vegetarian options.

Restoran Olde Hansa

The Old Hansa Restaurant is a well-known spot for medieval-themed dining. Located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, the restaurant offers a historical ambiance and a menu inspired by traditional medieval Estonian cuisine.

The décor and staff attire are designed to transport guests back to the Middle Ages, making it a unique and immersive dining experience – and we promise it is less of a tourist trap than it looks!

Lee

Lee Restoran is based around lee, an Estonian term closely associated with rural life and Estonian cultural heritage. Historically, the lee was the center of the household, where meals were prepared and family gatherings took place.

The best way to discover Lee Restoran’s delicious take on Estonian cuisine is to enjoy their shared menu of six courses made with local, seasonal ingredients.

Balti Jaama Turg

Balti Jaama Turg in Tallinn is a bustling market offering a vibrant mix of street food, from traditional Estonian favorites like käsitöö sausages and smoked fish to international flavors such as sushi, tacos, and kebabs.

You’ll also find freshly baked goods, sweet treats, craft beverages, and vegan and healthy options. The market’s lively atmosphere and diverse food choices make it a top spot for food lovers exploring Tallinn.

Top Five Tallinn Travel Tips

Do you have just a little longer to spend in Tallinn?

If you have more time in Tallinn, add these attractions to your itinerary:

Visit Finland

See more of Northern Europe and take a day cruise from Tallinn to Helsinki, a two-hour ferry ride across the Gulf of Finland. A day trip to Helsinki will give you ten hours to explore the modern and dynamic Scandinavian capital.

Discover Viru Bog

Bogs are important in Estonian folklore, and they are seen as places of mystery and peace. Bogs cover a fifth of Estonia’s mainland area, and some of them are over 10,000 years old.

The most popular bog is Viru in the Lahemaa National Park. It’s about 50km from Tallinn, but there isn’t an excellent public transportation connection, so I recommend renting a car or taking a Lahemaa day trip. There are marked wooden trails to see different small lakes, waterfalls, unique landscapes, and a viewing point for panoramic vistas.

Discover Rummu Quarry

Take our recommended Rummu Quarry day trip and explore the old limestone quarry and abandoned prison, about 45km (28 miles) from Tallinn. The quarry has recently been reopened as a leisure attraction. There, you can canoe on the lake, paddle on SUP boards, or snorkel and dive.  

Hit at Beach at Võsu

Enjoy a chill beach day in Võsu, a seaside village 80km (50 miles) from Tallinn. During the summertime, there are several events and festivals. It’s also a great place to have a lazy, quiet beach day.

Stroll the Pirita Promenade

Walk or cycle along with the sea and watch the sunset at Pirita Promenade, twenty minutes outside the city by public transport. There is a long promenade along the ocean with stunning city skyline views. It’s also the best place to watch a sunset in Tallinn.

Unwind in Kadriorg Park

Have a break from the city in Kadriorg Park, where you’ll find the beautiful Petrine Baroque Kadriorg Palace, built for Catherine I of Russia by Peter the Great, now home to the Kadriorg Art Museum, dedicated to early European and Russian art.

A short five-minute walk through the beautiful park brings you to the Kumu Art Museum, which showcases some of the best works by Estonian artists. Socialist Realism paintings are displayed alongside more modern and contemporary pieces.  

Tallinn Practicalities

When to Visit Tallinn

The peak season in Tallinn is from June to August when the weather is warmer and the days are longer. The sun rises at 5am and does not set until 10pm. The city is busier during these peak months, pushing up the cost of flights and hotels.

Consider visiting Tallinn in May or September, when there will be fewer crowds and prices will be cheaper. You’ll still have good weather to enjoy the city. Keep in mind that the weather in Estonia in the summer isn’t pleasingly warm all the time; it can be unpredictable, and there will be some days when it’s windy or even cold.

Traveling in Estonia during winter time, you’ll find the weather is typical for Northern Europe. It will be much colder, the days will be much shorter, and there may be snow. The main sights are still open, but you’ll have less daytime in which to visit them.

The bonus of visiting in winter is the Tallinn Christmas Market, held annually in Town Hal Square since 1441 and one of the most charming in Europe.

Getting to Tallinn

Tallinn Lennart Meri Airport is located just 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) southeast of the city center, making it easily accessible. The airport is the main international gateway to Estonia and offers a variety of flights to major European destinations. We recommend using Skyscanner to book your flights for the best deals and the largest selection of airlines.

You have several options to get into downtown Tallinn from Tallinn Airport airport:

Where to Stay in Tallinn

Luxury: Book Hotel Telegraaf for a luxurious stay in the heart of Tallinn Old Town. It’s in the perfect location, with various sights, bars, restaurants, clubs, and other attractions close by. It’s a five-star hotel in a historical building with a spa and exclusive à la carte restaurant and is one of the city’s best-rated hotels, perfect for your Tallinn visit.

Mid-Range: Swissotel Tallinn is a modern hotel in the center of Tallinn. It’s in the highest building in Estonia, with fantastic views of the old town, the surrounding city, and the nearby sea. Swissotel is a big hotel with a variety of rooms and a gym and spa, ideal for relaxing after a busy day in Tallinn.

Budget: Citybox Tallinn City Center is a modern, budget-friendly hotel known for its sleek, minimalist design and convenient location. The hotel is near key attractions such as the Old Town, shopping areas, and public transport links.

Hostel: Fat Margaret’s is a well-regarded budget accommodation option in Tallinn. Situated close to the historic Old Town and Paks Margareeta (Fat Margaret’s Tower), the hostel offers dormitories and private rooms in a central location convenient for exploring the city’s attractions.

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