18 Best Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia (+ 2 You Can Skip)
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Tallinn is one of those places that instantly feels like a real-life fairytale. When it comes to the best things to do in Tallinn, Estonia, you can expect cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, medieval towers, and viewpoints that make you stop in your tracks. It has this storybook charm that’s hard to explain until you’re actually wandering through it.
We visited as part of a two-week trip through Prague, Poland, and the Baltics, and Tallinn easily stood out as one of the most unique stops. It feels smaller and more intimate than a lot of European cities, which makes it really easy to explore at your own pace, but there’s still so much to see!
One thing I didn’t fully expect though… how cold it was. We visited at the end of April, and it actually snowed a little at night, which felt wild considering everywhere else on our trip. So definitely keep that in mind, depending on when you go.
Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia
If You’re Short on Time…
1. St. Catherine’s Passage
This was one of my favorite spots in Tallinn and easily one of the most picturesque places in the city. St. Catherine’s Passage is a narrow, cobblestone alley tucked right in Old Town that dates back over 700 years, connecting Vene Street to Müürivahe Street.
Walking through here genuinely feels like stepping back in time. You’ll pass under old stone archways with uneven walls, medieval details, and little artisan workshops built into the passage. It’s very much giving Game of Thrones vibes.
It’s one of those places that makes Tallinn feel as magical as everyone says it is.
2. Town Hall Pharmacy (Raeapteek)
One of the coolest and most unexpected stops in Tallinn is the Town Hall Pharmacy. It’s been operating since 1422, which makes it the oldest continuously running pharmacy in Europe—and that alone makes it worth popping into.
Inside is a mix between a pharmacy and a tiny museum. You’ll find displays of old remedies and ingredients that were once used for healing, like “mummy juice,” dried herbs, and even something labeled as unicorn horn powder. It’s such a fun and slightly bizarre look into medieval medicine and how different things were back then.
It’s free to enter, making it an easy addition to your day, and it’s located right in Town Hall Square, so you’ll naturally pass by it while exploring Old Town.
It’s closed on Sundays, but is open every other day from 10 AM to 6 PM.
3. Wander Old Town
As much as I love a good itinerary, one of the best things to do in Tallinn is honestly just to wander Old Town with no real plan. It’s so easy to get caught up in checking off a list of landmarks, but this is one of those places where the magic is in slowing down and just taking everything in.
The streets are filled with cobblestones, colorful buildings, little courtyards, and random corners that end up being some of your favorite moments. You’ll naturally come across some of the city’s most iconic spots just by walking, like Tallinn Town Hall, which is actually the oldest town hall in Northern Europe. It dates back to the 13th century and sits right in the main square, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.
There are also so many churches, hidden alleys, and small shops that you’d probably miss if you were rushing from one place to the next. So yes, see the viewpoints, go to the restaurants, hit the highlights—but also give yourself time to just wander.
4. Try Local Sweet Treats
One of the most delicious things to do in Tallinn is indulge in the sweet side of the city! For this, I have two personal recommendations.
First, PullaBakery. This place is very well-known for its cinnamon rolls, and I can confirm they live up to the hype. They’re made with sourdough and don’t have icing, which I was unsure about at first, but they genuinely didn’t need it! They were soft, flavorful, and one of my favorite things I had in Tallinn. It’s a great stop earlier in the day since they’re freshest in the morning and can sell out.
Then, for something a little more cozy and unique, stop by Kehrwieder Saiakang Chocolaterie. The vibe in here is so cool, and it’s right in the Old Town Square. They’re known for their handmade chocolates and sweets, and it’s the perfect place to slow down for a bit. Rem got a beer, I went for the chocolates, and it was such a nice little break in the day. There’s even a resident black cat that just adds to the whole atmosphere.
5. Kiek in de Kök Fortification Museum
If you’re even a little bit into history, this is one of the most interesting things to do in Tallinn. Kiek in de Kök is part of the city’s medieval defense system, and the name actually means “peek into the kitchen” because guards could supposedly see into nearby homes from the tower.
It dates back to the 15th century and was originally built to protect the city from attacks. Today, it’s been turned into a museum that gives you access to the tower itself, parts of the old city walls, and even underground tunnels known as the Bastion passages. It’s a really cool way to understand how Tallinn was defended back in the day and adds a whole different layer to what you’re seeing above ground.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits that walk you through different time periods—from medieval warfare to more modern history—and you can climb up through the tower for views along the way.
It is closed on Mondays, but is open every other day from 11 AM–6 PM, and costs around 12 euros. This is a great Tallinn activity option if you want something more educational and immersive beyond just wandering Old Town.
6. Walk the Medieval Towers (Hellemann Tower + Munkadetagune Torn)
One of the coolest ways to experience Tallinn is by getting up on the medieval towers and walking along parts of the original city walls. It gives you a completely different perspective of Old Town and really brings the history to life.
If you’re already planning to visit Kiek in de Kök, your ticket includes access to some of the towers and wall sections. But if you’re not doing the museum, I still think it’s 100% worth picking at least one tower to climb.
Two popular options are Hellemann Tower and Munkadetagune Torn. Both give you beautiful views over Old Town and let you walk along sections of the historic wall, which is such a unique experience.
The main difference is just logistics: Hellemann Tower is cash only, which is something to keep in mind. Munkadetagune Torn takes card, which is why I personally chose that one.
They cost 4 euros each and are open daily, 11 AM–5 PM (Hellemann Tower is closed Tuesdays). It’s a quick activity, but one that really adds to your understanding of Tallinn’s medieval layout, and the views are so worth it.
7. Kadriorg Art Museum
If you don’t mind stepping a little outside of Old Town, the Kadriorg Art Museum is one of the most beautiful cultural things to do in Tallinn. It’s located inside a stunning baroque palace that was originally built by Peter the Great for Catherine I, which already makes it feel a little more special than your typical museum visit.
Inside, you’ll find a collection of European and Russian art, mainly from the 16th to 19th centuries. Even if you’re not a huge museum person, the building itself and the surrounding Kadriorg Park make it worth visiting. It’s a really peaceful area and feels completely different from the medieval vibe of Old Town.
The museum is typically open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM (with extended hours until 8 PM on Wednesdays), and it’s closed on Mondays. Tickets are usually around €15 for adults.
8. Eat Local
One thing that really stood out to me in Tallinn was the food! I didn’t fully know what to expect going in, but we ended up having some of our favorite meals of the entire trip here.
If you’re looking for something a little more elevated, Lore Bistroo was incredible. It’s a bit outside of Old Town, but so worth the short Bolt ride. The whole experience felt very thoughtful—from the service to every single dish we ordered.
We did the focaccia, fried scallops, a fresh salad with house dressing (I’m still thinking about it), and the pan-fried Peipsi pike-perch, which is a local fish from the largest transboundary lake in Europe. Everything was so good and felt like a more modern take on local ingredients.
Back in Old Town, Rataskaevu 16 is another must. This spot came highly recommended both online and by locals, and it completely lived up to it. It’s known for taking traditional Estonian flavors and elevating them in a really approachable way. We shared the beef tenderloin and the chef’s pan-fried white fish (same local fish we had earlier and loved), and both were done so well. Even the bread they bring out feels like part of the experience. We had to end with dessert and got the bread pudding, which was the perfect finish.
Tip: This place is very popular, so try to make a reservation in advance if you can.
9. Sip Local Beers
If you enjoy trying local beer when you travel, this is definitely something to add to your list. Estonia has a really strong craft beer scene, and one of the most well-known spots is Põhjala Brewery.
It’s a little outside of Old Town, but especially if you do Lore Bistroo for a meal, it’s just a 5-minute walk from there! They’re known for brewing beers inspired by local nature, seasonal ingredients, and Nordic flavors, which makes everything feel a little more unique than your typical brewery.
They offer beer flights, which are really popular and a great way to try a few different styles without committing to just one. The space itself is really cool too—more modern and industrial, with a relaxed vibe that feels very local. They also have a sauna you can rent if you’re with a crew!
10. Join a Free Walking Tour
If you want to really understand Tallinn beyond just how pretty it is, a free walking tour is such a good way to do it. You’ll walk through Old Town with a local guide who explains the history, the meaning behind different landmarks, and little details you’d definitely miss on your own.
Tallinn has such a layered past, from medieval trade routes to Soviet occupation, and having someone connect all those pieces while you’re standing in the actual places makes a big difference. It turns what you’re seeing into something that actually sticks.
Tours are usually around 2–2.5 hours and run daily, and there are even different types and area focuses! They’re technically free, but it’s expected to tip your guide at the end.
Booking in advance is required; check out free tour options here.
11. Lennusadam
If you’re into interesting museums or anything maritime, Lennusadam is one of the more unique things to do in Tallinn. It’s set inside these massive historic seaplane hangars right on the water, and the space itself is just as impressive as what’s inside.
The museum focuses on Estonia’s maritime history, but it’s done in a really interactive, modern way. You can actually walk through a real submarine, explore old ships, and see everything from seaplanes to icebreakers. Even if you’re not usually a “museum person,” this one feels a lot more engaging than your typical museum.
Open hours vary by season, and tickets are usually around €22 for adults. It’s a bit outside of Old Town, so you’ll need to walk, take public transport, or grab a quick Bolt, but if you have the time, it’s a really fun and different experience to add to your Tallinn itinerary.
12. Visit a Speakeasy
Tallinn has a really fun little speakeasy scene, and it’s such a good way to switch up your evening after a day of exploring. Whisper Sister was my favorite and one I’d absolutely recommend. It’s a hidden cocktail bar with a really intimate feel, and what I loved most is that they have multiple rooms, each with a different vibe. The drinks were great, and the whole experience just felt a little more elevated.
Tip: Try to make a reservation if you can, or go shortly after they open.
We also checked out Sessel Speakeasy, which had a really cool atmosphere, even though the drinks weren’t my personal favorite. Still worth mentioning if you’re into trying different spots and seeing what you like.
13. Tallinn TV Tower
If you want one of the best views over Tallinn (and beyond), the Tallinn TV Tower is the tallest building in Estonia and gives you just that. It sits a bit outside the city center, so it gives you a completely different perspective compared to the Old Town viewpoints.
At the top, you’ll find an observation deck with panoramic views over the city, coastline, and surrounding forests. There’s even a glass floor section if you’re feeling brave, which makes it a little more interactive than your typical viewpoint.
It’s open daily from around 10 AM to 6 PM, and tickets are typically around €18 for adults.
14. Tallinn Botanic Garden
Right near the TV Tower, the Tallinn Botanic Garden is a really peaceful spot if you’re looking to slow things down a bit. It’s a large garden space with a mix of outdoor areas and greenhouses, showcasing plants from all over the world.
It’s typically open daily (hours vary slightly depending on the season), and tickets are usually around €5–€7 for adults. If you’re already heading out to the TV Tower, it’s an easy add-on and a nice way to experience a quieter side of Tallinn.
15. Patkuli Viewing Platform
If you want that classic, postcard view of Tallinn, this is the spot. Patkuli Viewing Platform looks out over the red rooftops of Old Town with all the towers and spires, and it’s one of the best views in the city.
It’s completely free and open all day, which makes it an easy addition to your itinerary. You can come up here in the morning, during the day, or for sunset. Just a heads up though—it gets very windy up here. We went in April, and it was freezing, so depending on the time of year, dress accordingly.
It’s also right near Toompea Hill, so you’ll naturally pass a few other landmarks on your way up or down, making it a really easy stop to work in.
16. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Right near Patkuli, you’ll find Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and it’s one of the most striking buildings in Tallinn. It’s a Russian Orthodox cathedral with those iconic onion domes, and it stands out so much compared to the rest of the city’s architecture.
It was built in the early 1900s during the Russian Empire, and it still functions as an active place of worship today. When I walked by, there was a service happening, so I didn’t go inside, but even just seeing it from the outside is worth the stop.
If you do go in, it’s free to enter, just be mindful of services and dress respectfully.
17. Toompea Castle
Sitting up on Toompea Hill, Toompea Castle is an important historic site in Estonia. It dates all the way back to the 9th century and has been rebuilt and expanded over time, which is why you’ll notice a mix of architectural styles—from medieval stone walls to the more colorful baroque sections.
Today, it houses Estonia’s parliament (the Riigikogu), so it’s still a very active and significant building. The tall tower you’ll see, called Pikk Hermann, is where the Estonian flag flies—something that symbolizes the country’s independence and identity.
While you can admire the castle from the outside anytime (and you’ll likely pass it while exploring Toompea Hill), the interior is only open for guided tours, and those need to be booked in advance. I personally just admired it from the outside as I was wandering the city.
18. Day Trip to Helsinki
If you have more than just a day or two in Tallinn, one of the coolest things you can do is take a day trip to Helsinki, Finland! It’s super easy—Tallinn and Helsinki are only about 2 hours apart by ferry, which makes this one of the most unique quick international trips you can do.
Ferries run multiple times a day, and the ride itself is really smooth and comfortable. You can book with companies like Tallink or Viking Line, and prices can vary depending on the time and how early you book, but it’s usually pretty reasonable. Check here to compare prices for your dates.
Once you get to Helsinki, you can spend the day exploring another Nordic capital before heading back to Tallinn in the evening.
Things I Feel Like You Can Skip
Not everything that’s popular is going to be everyone’s favorite, and that’s okay. Also, I totally get wanting to try things for yourself (I’m the same way), so take this as my personal experience, not a hard rule.
Cafe Maiasmokk
This is the oldest cafe in Tallinn, which is why it gets recommended everywhere—especially for coffee and marzipan. I was excited to try it, but if I’m being honest, it just didn’t do it for me. The marzipan is a big part of the experience and something Tallinn is known for, so I can still see the appeal if you’re curious. But for me, it wasn’t anything I’d go out of my way for again.
Restaurant Olde Hansa
This is one of those very well-known medieval-style restaurants in Old Town. It’s definitely a whole experience, and I can see why people are drawn to it. That said, it does lean a little gimmicky, and while the vibe is fun, the food itself was just okay compared to other places we ate in Tallinn.
If the medieval theme really interests you, it could still be fun to stop in—maybe just for a drink instead of committing to a full meal.
Where to Stay in Tallinn
We stayed at Taanilinna Hotell and absolutely loved it. It has so much charm, the staff were incredibly sweet, and they have an earlier check-in and later check-out than I’m used to, which made such a difference with our travel schedule. The location is right in Old Town, which is where most of the best things to do in Tallinn are! Plus, the price was super reasonable (less than $80/night typically).
If you want that cozy, storybook feel, I definitely recommend staying in Old Town—it puts you right in the middle of everything and makes exploring so easy.
A couple of other great options to look into are Nunne Boutique Hotel and these Old Town Suites!
Check out all available options in Old Town for your dates here!
Tips for Visiting Tallinn
- Use Bolt to get around efficiently: You can walk most places, but for places a little further out we loved using Bolt. It’s cheap, reliable, and perfect for getting to places a little outside walking distance.
- They use euros (€): Cards are widely accepted, but it’s still good to have a little cash just in case.
- Get an eSIM before your trip: We used Airalo, and it made everything seamless—from navigation to ordering rides.
- Take Lux Express between Baltic cities: It’s a little more than FlixBus, but way more comfortable with better WiFi and usually only a few dollars more. You can use Omio to compare options and prices for your dates.
- Dress warmer than you think you need to: Even in spring, it can be so cold and windy—we definitely underestimated this. It snowed at the end of April, so keep an eye on the weather when you’re packing.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The cobblestone streets are everywhere. If you like fun colors, these were my go-to for our trip! But if you like ones that go with everything, these are my travel staples.
- Don’t overplan every second: Tallinn is one of those places that’s best enjoyed by wandering and taking it all in.
Are you ready to experience the best things to do in Tallinn?!
Tallinn is so charming with its cobblestone streets, medieval details, and cozy corners, and it’s a city that really rewards slowing down. While it’s always helpful to have a few spots saved, some of my favorite moments here (and honestly across the Baltic cities) came from just wandering.
I hope this guide to the best things to do in Tallinn gave you a good mix of inspiration and direction, but don’t forget to leave space for the unplanned moments too!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Europe blog posts:
1-Day Warsaw, Poland Itinerary
