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Plan Tallinn

Estonia · Europe

3 days in Tallinn

Tallinn is Estonia's capital and largest city, renowned for its astonishingly well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. It also serves as an important Baltic Sea port, with its busy passenger section reaching the foothills of this picturesque historic core.

Plan this trip, free

Tallinn is Estonia's capital and largest city, renowned for its astonishingly well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

When you plan it, day 1 and the last day fit your journey from home: a long flight keeps them light.

3 days5 days

Day 1 · Medieval Majesty & City Views

10 stops 2.8 km

MorningBegin with the heart of the Old Town, climbing two iconic towers for unparalleled views.

AfternoonExplore Toompea Hill's historical and religious sites, then delve into the city's defensive past.

EveningBrowse artisan workshops, then enjoy a highly-rated modern Estonian dinner.

All Day 1 attractions are easily walkable within the Old Town.

Make this trip yours

A free account opens every day of this guide and copies it into your own trip on your dates.

  • All 3 days, 22 stops
  • Route map and walking times
  • Edit, reorder, share with friends
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Must-see in Tallinn

Save money shopping

Shop smarter in Tallinn

Where prices are lower than at home, the outlets within reach, and how to get the tax back. Editorial picks; check hours and prices on the official sites before you go.

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Tax-free

VAT refund for non-EU residents

Non-EU residents can reclaim VAT on purchases above about €38 in one shop; ask for the form and validate it at the airport.

How it works, officially

Where locals shop

  • Selversupermarket

    Widespread Estonian supermarket chain known for reliable quality and local products.

  • Nõmme Turgmarket

    Traditional suburban open-air market favored by locals for fresh seasonal Estonian food.

  • Tallinn Christmas Marketseasonal market

    Held annually in Town Hall Square, this enchanting Christmas market is consistently ranked among Europe's best. Enjoy festive lights, local crafts, traditional food, and mulled wine.

  • Balti Jaama Turg (Baltic Station Market)food and flea market

    A modern and vibrant market near the Baltic Station, offering fresh produce, street food, antique shops, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience local life and find unique souvenirs.

Know before you goVisa, safety, money and getting around in Tallinn
  • Visa: Estonia is part of the Schengen Area, allowing most international travelers visa-free entry for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Safety: Safe for most travellers · 8/10
  • A day: about $170 mid-range
  • Best months: May – Sep
Read it

Know before you go

  • Money€ EUR · about US$170 a day
  • LanguageEstonian
  • Local timeEurope/Tallinn
  • Best monthsMay · Jun · Jul · Aug · Sep
  • SafetySafe · 8/10
  • CrowdsModerate crowds

Safety is Travlyo’s own reading, not an official figure. Official advice: US State Department ↗ · UK Foreign Office ↗

Visa

Estonia is part of the Schengen Area, allowing most international travelers visa-free entry for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Read moreShow less

Always verify specific visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

Rules change: check for your passport before you book.

Getting around

Tallinn boasts an efficient public transport system of buses, trams, and trolleys, which is free for registered residents. Visitors can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from drivers, while the Old Town is easily navigable on foot.

What a day costs

Per person, for food, getting around and tickets. Stays and getting there come on top.

See the three stylesShow less
  • Budget: about US$90
  • Mid-range: about US$170
  • Comfort: about US$300

Good to know

Consider purchasing a Tallinn Card for free public transport and museum entry, especially if planning extensive sightseeing.

4 more tipsShow less
  • Explore the Old Town on foot; it's compact and best appreciated by wandering its cobblestone streets.
  • Try local Estonian cuisine like black bread, sprats, and kama, often found in traditional Old Town restaurants.
  • Learn a few basic Estonian phrases like 'Tere' (Hello) and 'Aitäh' (Thank you) – locals appreciate the effort.
  • Visit during the shoulder seasons (May or September) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to peak summer.

Stories

All
  • TTallinnCuriousThree Days in Tallinn Old TownMira Kostova · 3 days · 2 min read
  • RRomeRomanticEchoes Beneath the CobblestonesElena Marsh · 12 days · 2 min read
  • PPragueNostalgicGold Leaf and Bitter FoamAisha Rahman · 10 days · 3 min read

Book for Tallinn

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Cover: Hongbin on Unsplash · Photos via Wikimedia Commons · Map © OpenStreetMap contributors