City Girl Travel Guide to Tallinn
Planning a trip to Tallinn, Estonia’s capital city? This Tallinn travel guide covers everything you need to know — from the best neighbourhoods and hotels to top things to do, where to eat and drink, and when to visit. Whether you’re here for a long weekend, a stopover on the Baltic Sea, or the start of a wider Estonian adventure, this guide will help you make the most of your time in one of Northern Europe’s most charming city break destinations.
Why Visit Tallinn
Tallinn is where fairytale charm meets modern cool. Estonia’s capital blends medieval Old Town streets with cutting-edge design, buzzing creative hubs, and a foodie scene that rivals any European hotspot. Compact, safe, and full of character, it’s the perfect city for a girls’ trip, a solo adventure, or a long weekend escape.
Tallin Old Town and St Olav’s Church by Kaupo Kalda (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Tallinn’s Districts and Neighbours
Tallinn may be a small capital, but its districts each have a distinct character. From medieval charm to seaside cool, here are the neighbourhoods you won’t want to miss:
Old Town – A UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like stepping back in time. Cobblestone streets, gothic spires, colourful merchant houses, and the famous Town Hall Square make it the heart of Tallinn.
Telliskivi – Tallinn’s creative hub, packed with street art, indie boutiques, galleries, and buzzing cafés. It’s the city’s bohemian quarter and the best place to shop local designers.
Kalamaja – Known for its pastel wooden houses and chilled vibe, Kalamaja is a favourite among locals. Expect cosy cafés, craft beer bars, and plenty of spots to slow down and people-watch.
Noblessner – Once a submarine factory, this regenerated seafront is now one of the trendiest places to eat, drink, and enjoy sea views. Lore Bistro and waterfront bars are highlights.
Kopli – Raw, edgy, and up-and-coming. Once industrial, Kopli is now gaining attention thanks to creative projects, new bars, and its connection to Estonia’s most provocative artist, Tommy Cash.
Kadriorg – Elegant and leafy, home to the beautiful Kadriorg Palace, art museums, and manicured gardens. Perfect for a slower, cultural afternoon.
Pirita – Where city life meets the sea. With its sandy beach, yacht marina, and the atmospheric ruins of Pirita Convent, it’s the spot for summer days and seaside walks.
Rotermann Quarter – A sleek mix of old industrial buildings and modern glass towers. This area is now full of stylish restaurants, shops, and design spaces just steps from the city centre.
City Centre (Kesklinn) – Modern Tallinn with big hotels, shopping malls, and transport links. A practical base for those who want everything on their doorstep.
Lasnamäe – The largest residential district, filled with Soviet-era apartment blocks and local markets. A glimpse into the everyday life of many Tallinners.
Õismäe – Known for its unusual circular street layout and nearby Lake Harku. A quieter district that offers a slice of local living.
Mustamäe – A green, residential area with a youthful vibe thanks to Tallinn University of Technology. Great for those wanting to see Tallinn’s student side.
What to Do in Tallinn
Tallinn Town Hall Square by Kadi-Liis Koppel (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Explore the Old Town
Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and feels like stepping straight into a fairytale. Wander the cobblestone streets, admire gothic churches like St Olaf’s, and climb up to Kohtuotsa or Patkuli viewing platforms for sweeping city views. Don’t miss Town Hall Square and the medieval city walls. If you want a taste of history, head to the Kiek in de Kök Fortifications Museum or step inside the Town Hall Pharmacy, one of Europe’s oldest still operating.
Telleviski Creative City by Rasmus Jukatam (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Discover Tallinn’s Creative Side
Tallinn has reinvented itself as a hub of creativity. Telliskivi Creative City is the beating heart, full of street art, independent boutiques, and lively cafés. Nearby Kalamaja charms with colourful wooden houses and a laid-back vibe. Both neighbourhoods are perfect for wandering without an agenda, browsing local designers, and stopping for coffee.
Noblessner by Kaupo Kalda (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Experience the Seafront
The Noblessner Seafront Quarter is one of Tallinn’s trendiest new districts. Once a submarine factory, it’s now packed with restaurants, galleries, and cocktail bars. This is where we dined at Lore Bistro on our press trip, enjoying hearty plates with sea views. For a more relaxed seaside vibe, head out to Pirita. With its sandy beach, yacht marina, and the atmospheric ruins of Pirita Convent, it’s the place to combine culture and coastline.
Kumu Art Museum by Kaupo Kaldo (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Immerse Yourself in Culture and History
For a dose of elegance, spend an afternoon at Kadriorg. The baroque Kadriorg Palace, built by Peter the Great, houses the Estonian Art Museum, while the surrounding park is a leafy escape from the city centre. The Kumu Art Museum nearby is Estonia’s largest and most impressive, spanning classical to contemporary. Don’t skip the Rotermann Quarter either — a striking mix of glass-fronted modernism and restored industrial buildings, now home to some of Tallinn’s best restaurants and shops.
✦ City Girl Highlight ✦
5 Museums You Have to Visit in Tallinn
If you only have time for a handful of museums, make it these:
Kumu Art Museum (Kadriorg) – The largest art museum in Estonia, with everything from classical masterpieces to bold contemporary exhibitions.
Estonian Open Air Museum (Haabersti) – An outdoor collection of windmills, farmhouses, and village buildings that bring Estonia’s rural past vividly to life.
Seaplane Harbour – Lennusadam (Kalamaja/Seafront) – A striking seaplane hangar full of maritime history, complete with a real submarine and interactive displays.
Kiek in de Kök Fortifications Museum (Old Town) – A medieval tower with access to underground tunnels, telling stories of Tallinn’s wars and defences.
Fotografiska Tallinn (Telliskivi/Kalamaja) – A world-class photography centre with cutting-edge exhibitions, a rooftop café with city views, and a focus on art that sparks conversation.
Hotel Telegraaf Spa by Anu Vahtra (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Relax and Rejuvenate
Wellness is part of Estonian culture, and Tallinn is a great place to experience it. Many hotels, like the Mövenpick Hotel Tallinn and Hotel Telegraaf, feature spas and saunas. You can also book a traditional Estonian smoke sauna experience or try out one of the city’s boutique wellness spaces for massages, floating, or yoga.
REaD bookshop and cafe by Rasmus Jurkatam (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Enjoy Tallinn’s Food and Drink Scene
Beyond restaurants, Tallinn’s cafés and bars are an attraction in themselves. Seek out independent coffee roasters in Kalamaja, craft beer breweries around Telliskivi, and natural wine bars in Noblessner. Markets are also worth exploring — Balti Jaama Turg is a local favourite with food stalls, vintage finds, and local produce, as is Nomme Market.
Folk dancing at the Estonian Open Air Museum by Toomas Tuul (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Step Into Local Life
If you want to experience Tallinn beyond the tourist trail, explore residential areas like Lasnamäe, Õismäe, or Mustamäe. You’ll see Soviet-era architecture, local markets, and green spaces that are part of everyday life. Haabersti district is also home to Tallinn Zoo and the Estonian Open Air Museum, where you can wander through traditional farmhouses and learn about rural life.
Jägala Waterfall by Long-Nog Huang (Visit Estonia)
Escape Into Nature
Tallinn is one of Europe’s greenest capitals. Kadriorg Park and Harku Lake are easy options within the city, while a short bus ride takes you to forests, bogs, and nature reserves. Viimsi Peninsula and Jägala Waterfall make great half-day trips, and Lahemaa National Park is just an hour away for those craving a full nature escape.
✦ City Girl Highlight ✦
Best Viewing Platforms in Tallinn
Tallinn’s medieval spires and red rooftops are best admired from above. For the perfect panorama (and a very Instagrammable moment), head to:
Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform (Toompea) – The most iconic viewpoint, with sweeping views over the Old Town. Best at sunrise or sunset.
Patkuli Viewing Platform (Toompea) – Overlooks the city walls, St Olaf’s Church, and out to the harbour. A classic postcard view.
St Olaf’s Church Tower (Old Town) – Open in summer, this spire climb gives unbeatable 360° views of the city and coastline.
Tallinn TV Tower (Pirita) – Estonia’s tallest building, with panoramic city-to-sea views and even a “Walk on the Edge” for thrill-seekers.
Sky Lounge at Radisson Collection Hotel (City Centre) – Swap the crowds for cocktails and skyline views at golden hour.
✨ Pro Tip: Tallinn is most magical from above at sunset, when the rooftops glow and the church towers stand tall against the Baltic sky.
Where to Eat and Drink in Tallinn
Tallinn’s food scene is vibrant, seasonal, and full of surprises. Whether you’re after a Michelin-starred tasting menu, a casual market snack, or a cocktail with a view, here’s where to eat and drink across the city.
Lee Restaurant (Tried, Tested and Loved by us) photographed by Lauri Laan (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Michelin-Starred & Fine Dining
180° by Matthias Diether (Noblessner) – Tallinn’s most celebrated fine dining restaurant with two Michelin stars. Expect stunning marina views and inventive tasting menus that showcase Estonia’s best ingredients.
Noa Chef’s Hall (Pirita) – Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the Baltics, this seaside spot combines refined dining with panoramic views across Tallinn Bay.
Lee Restaurant (Old Town) – Michelin-recognised but more relaxed, Lee is all about sharing plates and “new Estonian cuisine” with global influences. Tried, tested and loved by us!
Lore Bistro (Tried, Tested and Loved by us) photographed by Lauri Laan (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Modern Estonian Restaurants
Peet Ruut (City Centre) – A highlight from our press trip. Stylish and intimate, with seasonal menus that balance creativity with comfort.
Lore Bistro (Noblessner) – Another press trip favourite. Warm, hearty dishes and sharing plates served right on the waterfront.
Rataskaevu 16 (Old Town) – A legendary restaurant loved for its cosy atmosphere, local flavours, and famously friendly service.
Farm Restaurant (Old Town) – Rustic interiors and inventive twists on Estonian classics make this a great option for those wanting a modern take on tradition.
F-Hoone (Telliskivi) – A Telliskivi institution, this converted factory serves generous comfort food and has become a symbol of Tallinn’s foodie revival.
Kõrb (Telliskivi) – A smaller, creative dining spot in the Kalamaja/Telliskivi area, known for inventive dishes and laid-back vibes.
Fika Café (Oat Cappuccinos tried, tested and loved by us) photographed by Rasmus Jurkatam (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Cafés & Brunch Spots
RØST Bakery (City Centre) – Sourdough bread, pastries, and cardamom buns — perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
NOP Café (Kadriorg) – An organic, locally focused café with a leafy terrace ideal for brunch or lunch.
Kohvik Must Puudel (Old Town) – Retro-inspired café with a cult following, equally good for coffee by day or cocktails by night.
Maiasmokk Café (Old Town) – Estonia’s oldest café, dating back to 1864, famous for its marzipan room and nostalgic charm.
Fika Café (Telliskivi) – Scandinavian-inspired café with excellent coffee and pastries. Oat Cappucinos have been tried, tested and loved by us.
Värav Café (Telliskivi) – A cosy, creative café perfect for slowing down with a book or laptop.
Bekker Café (Kalamaja) – A charming bakery-café popular for cakes, coffee, and friendly service.
REaD Bookshop & Café (Telliskivi) – A must for book lovers. Browse shelves of Estonian and international titles while enjoying a coffee in this creative district hangout.
Kivi Paber Käärid by Rasmus Jurkatam (Visit Estonia)
Bars & Nightlife
Botaanik Cocktail Bar (Old Town) – Intimate, botanical-inspired cocktails in a chic, small-space setting.
Põhjala Brewery & Tap Room (Noblessner) – A craft beer hub offering bold, experimental brews and a relaxed taproom vibe. A must-visit for beer lovers.
Whisper Sister (Old Town) – A hidden speakeasy cocktail bar; look for the unmarked door and ring the bell for entry.
Frank (Old Town) – Stylish bar-restaurant with New York vibes, great for cocktails and people-watching.
Kivi Paber Käärid (Telliskivi) – A popular pub-style spot with hearty food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
Suhe (Telliskivi) – A bar, club, and event space rolled into one; known for good music and late nights.
KaiF (Telliskivi) – Street-art vibes, DJs, and cocktails, popular with Tallinn’s young creative crowd.
Peatus by Rasmus Jurkatam (Visit Estonia)
Unique & Quirky Places to Eat
F-Hoone (Telliskivi) – Industrial-chic comfort food (worth mentioning twice, as it straddles “restaurant” and “quirky Tallinn institution”).
Peatus (Telliskivi) – Dine in two converted Soviet train carriages for a quirky, casual meal.
II Gallo Nero (Old Town) – An Italian-Estonian hybrid restaurant hidden in medieval vaulted cellars — full of atmosphere.
Balti Jaama Turg by Rasmus Jurkatam (Visit Estonia)
Cheap Eats & Street Food
Balti Jaama Turg (Kalamaja) – A market perfect for cheap eats: international street food, Estonian produce, and local snacks.
Lido (City Centre) – A cafeteria-style spot with homely, affordable Estonian comfort food — quick, filling, and budget-friendly.
Vegan Restoran V (Old Town) – Affordable, plant-based favourite that’s a Tallinn institution.
Kompressor (Old Town) – A cult-favourite pancake house serving enormous savoury and sweet pancakes at student-friendly prices.
✦ City Girl Highlight ✦
5 Estonian Foods You Must Try in Tallinn
Estonian cuisine is hearty, seasonal, and full of surprises. While you’re eating your way around Tallinn, don’t miss these traditional favourites:
Kama – A nutty flour blend stirred into yoghurt or kefir, often served at breakfast.
Black Bread (Leib) – The dark rye bread that’s at the heart of every Estonian meal.
Pickled Cucumbers – A tangy snack and side dish you’ll find everywhere.
Verivorst (Blood Sausage) – Estonia’s national dish, especially popular in winter.
Kohuke – A sweet curd snack coated in chocolate, loved by Estonians of all ages.
👉 Want the full foodie rundown? Check out our Foodie Guide to Estonian Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes for the complete list.
Where to Stay in Tallinn
Tallinn has stays to suit every style, from luxury spa hotels to quirky neighbourhood guesthouses. Here’s our guide to the best places to check in across the city.
Central Tallinn by Kaupo Kalda (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
✦ City Girl Tip ✦
Luxury vs Boutique Hotels in Tallinn: What’s the Difference?
Not sure whether to book a luxury or boutique stay in Tallinn? Here’s how to decide:
Luxury Hotels with Spas – Full-service five-star properties with everything you could want under one roof: spa, pool, gym, concierge, fine dining, and sweeping city views. Think indulgence, comfort, and plenty of facilities.
Boutique Hotels – Smaller, more intimate stays with a unique style or design twist. They may not have the huge spa facilities, but what they offer instead is character, charm, and personalised service. Perfect if you want a stylish, one-of-a-kind base in a creative neighbourhood or historic building.
✨ Both are wonderful options in Tallinn — it just depends whether you’d prefer big and indulgent or small and stylish.
Our Top Recommendation: Hotel Telegraaf
Luxury Hotels
Hotel Telegraaf, Autograph Collection (5★, Old Town) – Our top City Girl pick. A beautifully restored telegraph building with elegant interiors, fine dining, and a full spa. The perfect blend of history and five-star comfort in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town.
Swissôtel Tallinn (5★, City Centre) – Estonia’s tallest hotel, offering panoramic city and sea views. Its Pürovel Spa & Sport includes an indoor pool, saunas, and a fitness club, making it one of Tallinn’s most complete wellness hotels.
Hilton Tallinn Park (4★, City Centre) – Stylish and modern, overlooking Politsei Park. Features include a full-service spa, indoor pool, and spacious contemporary rooms.
Mövenpick Hotel Tallinn (4★, City Centre) – Our base on the press trip. A boutique-feel hotel with sleek design, an indoor pool, and wellness facilities. A great balance of comfort and style, just steps from both the business district and the Old Town. Read our review.
Nordic Hotel Forum (4★, City Centre) – Rotermann/City Centre) – A reliable upscale favourite that blends modern comfort with wellness facilities. With an indoor pool, spa, and central location on the edge of the Rotermann Quarter, it’s popular with both business and leisure travellers.
Schlössle Hotel (5★, Old Town) – A historic luxury boutique in 13th–14th century merchant houses. Cozy, wood-beamed rooms with fireplaces, combined with five-star service.
Radisson Collection Hotel, Tallinn (5★, City Centre) – A sleek, glass-fronted landmark in the Maakri business district. Recently refurbished, it offers panoramic views, elegant rooms, and full wellness facilities including a spa, pool, and fitness centre. A strong choice for those who want modern five-star comfort just a short walk from the Old Town.
Boutique & Design Hotels
Hotel St. Petersbourg (4★, Old Town) – Tallinn’s oldest operating hotel. It’s boutique in scale but full of history and charm. Great for travellers who love character.
Nunne Boutique Hotel (4★, Old Town) – A great new addition to Tallinn’s hotel scene (opened 2023). Modern design and boutique flair, located right on the edge of the Old Town for instant medieval access without the crowds.
Hektor Container Hotel (3★, Telliskivi) – A creative, design-forward stay built from shipping containers, right in Tallinn’s creative quarter. Perfect for foodies and art lovers.
Oru Hub Hotel (4★, Kadriorg/City Centre) – A hybrid hotel blending boutique rooms with co-working and social spaces. Great for digital nomads.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Zinc Old Town Hostel (2★, Old Town) – A simple, centrally located hostel just steps from the city’s main squares. Offers both dorms and private rooms, making it a flexible, affordable option for groups or solo travellers.
Citybox Tallinn (3★, Rotermann Quarter) – A stylish, minimalist budget hotel in the trendy Rotermann district. With self-check-in, clean design, and an unbeatable location, it’s ideal for budget-conscious travellers who still want comfort and modern style.
Tallink Express Hotel (3★, Harbour/City Centre) – A no-frills but practical choice close to the port and just a short walk from the Old Town. Great value for money if you want private rooms and easy ferry access.
Hestia Hotel Seaport (3★, Harbour/City Centre) – A functional, reliable hotel right by the passenger ferry terminals. Simple and affordable, it’s ideal for travellers coming in or out by sea.
Quirky & Alternative Stays
The Von Stackelberg Hotel (4★, Edge of Old Town) – A quirky boutique set in a renovated 19th-century manor house. With rustic stone walls, characterful interiors, and a spa tucked into vaulted cellars, it’s perfect if you want a stay that’s both unusual and indulgent.
Savoy Boutique Hotel (5★, Old Town) – A small but stylish art-deco-inspired hotel with bold interiors and an intimate feel. Quirky in its design, but still offering five-star service right in the Old Town.
Paivilla Boutique Hotel (3★, Kadriorg) – A family-run villa hotel with a homely, slightly eccentric feel. Tucked near Kadriorg Park, it’s perfect for those who want something more personal than a city centre high-rise.
✦ City Girl Highlight ✦
Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Tallinn
Choosing the right neighbourhood is just as important as picking the right hotel. Here’s where to stay depending on your travel style:
Old Town – Best for first-time visitors who want to be in the middle of the medieval magic.
Telliskivi & Kalamaja – Ideal for creatives, foodies, and those who want indie cafés and nightlife on their doorstep.
Noblessner – Perfect for a trendy, waterfront stay with restaurants and galleries nearby.
Kadriorg – Leafy, elegant, and cultural — great for couples or slower city breaks.
City Centre (Kesklinn) – The most practical choice for business travellers, shoppers, and those who want easy transport links.
✨ Whichever neighbourhood you choose, Tallinn’s compact size means you’re never far from the action.
When to Visit Tallinn
Tallinn is a year-round destination, but each season brings its own flavour. Whether you’re here for long summer nights, cosy winter markets, or spring blossoms, there’s no bad time to visit.
Japanese Garden in Kadriorg Park by Maret Põldveer-Turay (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Spring (March–May)
As Tallinn shakes off winter, the city blooms with cherry blossoms in Kadriorg Park and fewer crowds in the Old Town. March can still feel wintry (0–5°C, with the chance of snow), but days are longer and prices are lower, making it a good shoulder-season pick. By April and May, temperatures rise (10–15°C), and it’s perfect for sightseeing on foot.
Don’t miss: Tallinn Music Week (April) — the city’s biggest creative festival with music, art, and talks.
Editor’s Note: We travelled in mid-May, where we were met with a mixture of blue and cloudy skies, a temperature of around 15 degrees, and a cooler wind than us brits are used to this time of year. It’s great weather to walk thousands of steps a day! Our top tip is to bring a windbreaker coat, sunnies and some comfy boots.
Ingli Beach by Kaupo Kalda
Summer (June–August)
This is peak season in Tallinn, when daylight stretches past 18 hours and the city buzzes with festivals, open-air dining, and rooftop bars. Expect 20–25°C temperatures, a lively seaside scene at Pirita, and long days for exploring.
Don’t miss: Tallinn Medieval Days (July), when the Old Town transforms into a medieval fair.
Autumn in Tallinn from the Patkuli Viewing Platform by Kadi-Liis Kopel (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Autumn (September–October)
Autumn brings crisp air, colourful foliage, and a slower pace. It’s the perfect season for foodies, as restaurants highlight seasonal mushrooms, berries, and game.
Don’t miss: Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (November), one of Europe’s leading film festivals, drawing filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world.
Tallinn Christmas Market by Kaupo Kalda
Winter (November–February)
Winter in Tallinn is pure fairytale. Snow dusts the Old Town rooftops, cafés glow with candlelight, and Christmas markets take over Town Hall Square. Expect below-zero temperatures (–5°C to 0°C), but the atmosphere is worth it.
Don’t miss: Tallinn Christmas Market (late November – December), one of Europe’s most magical festive markets.
✦ City Girl Highlight ✦
Tallinn’s Top Annual Events You Can’t Miss
Tallinn Music Week (April) – A city-wide creative festival of music, art, and ideas across venues from Old Town to Telliskivi.
Tallinn Medieval Days (July) – A 4-day summer celebration when the Old Town becomes a medieval marketplace.
Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival – PÖFF (November) – Estonia’s biggest film event, mid-November to early December, showcasing international cinema.
Tallinn Christmas Market (late November - December) – Fairy lights, mulled wine, and one of Europe’s most charming Christmas trees in Town Hall Square.
Practical Travel Tips for Tallinn
Beautiful Tallinn Old Town in the snow by Kaupo Kaldo (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Tallinn is a safe, walkable, and well-connected city — but a few insider tips will help you make the most of your trip.
Currency – Estonia uses the Euro (€). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, and contactless is the norm. Cash is rarely needed.
Language – Estonian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in Tallinn. A friendly “Tere” (hello) and “Aitäh” (thank you) will always be appreciated.
Transport – Tallinn is compact, and most exploring can be done on foot. Public transport (trams, buses, trolleybuses) is reliable and affordable. For taxis, locals use the Bolt app rather than hailing on the street.
Safety – Tallinn is very safe, including for solo female travellers. Just take the usual city precautions at night.
Connectivity – Estonia has some of the fastest internet in the world, with free Wi-Fi in most public spaces. Great news if you’re working remotely or sharing your adventures online.
Wellness culture – Don’t forget your swimwear! Saunas and spas are a way of life here, and even city hotels often have wellness facilities.
👉 For more essential tips, check out our full guide: City Girl Travel Tips for Visiting Estonia.
Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Tallinn
Whether you’re here for a long weekend or a short city break, this sample itinerary will help you make the most of your time in Estonia’s capital.
Old Town Ice Rink (Vanalinna Uisupark), December - March, photographed by Kaupo Kalda
Day 1 – Old Town Charm & Evening Cocktails
Morning – Arrive and check into your hotel (Hotel Telegraaf or Mövenpick is our recommendation). Start with a walking tour of the Old Town, including Town Hall Square, St Olaf’s Church, and the medieval city walls. Make sure you book a tour with Heli Likes To Talk as she’s the best!
Afternoon – Lunch at Rataskaevu 16, then explore Kiek in de Kök Fortifications Museum for underground tunnels and city views.
Evening – Dinner at Lee Restaurant (Old Town), followed by cocktails at Whisper Sister, Tallinn’s hidden speakeasy.
Telliskivi Creative City by Karl Markus Antson
Day 2 – Creative Tallinn & Seafront Dining
Morning – Head to Telliskivi Creative City to browse boutiques, cafés, and street art. Pop into Fotografiska for world-class photography and a delicious coffee.
Afternoon – Wander into Kalamaja to see colourful wooden houses and stop at Balti Jaama Turg for cheap eats or foodie souvenirs.
Evening – Dinner at Lore Bistro in Noblessner, with drinks by the waterfront. If you’re up for nightlife, continue to Suhe or KaiF in Telliskivi.
Iglupark by Rasmus Jurkatam (Tallinn City Tourist Office & Convention Bureau)
Day 3 – Parks, Palaces & Wellness
Morning – Explore Kadriorg Park and visit Kadriorg Palace or the Kumu Art Museum.
Afternoon – Relax with a sauna or spa session. For the ultimate wellness experience, visit Iglupark (Noblessner). For a hotel experience, Hotel Telegraaf offers day passes. Or for a livelier experience, head to Põhjala Brewery & Tap Room (Noblessner) for a mix of sauna sessions and craft beer drinking.
Evening – For your final night, enjoy a farewell dinner at Peet Ruut, a chic restaurant with seasonal Estonian flavours.
✨ Short on time? If you only have 24 hours in Tallinn, focus on:
Morning: Old Town walk + lunch at Rataskaevu 16
Afternoon: Telliskivi & Fotografiska
Evening: Dinner at Lore Bistro in Noblessner
✦ City Girl Highlight ✦
Best Day Trips from Tallinn
If you’ve got extra time in your schedule, Tallinn makes a great base for exploring northern Estonia. Here are the top day trips to add to your list:
Lahemaa National Park – Just an hour from Tallinn, this is Estonia’s largest national park. Explore sandy beaches, bog trails, pine forests, and historic manor houses. A must for nature lovers.
Jägala Waterfall – The largest natural waterfall in Estonia, about 30 km east of Tallinn. Beautiful year-round, especially dramatic in spring thaw or frozen in winter.
Viimsi Peninsula – A short drive or bus ride away, with a mix of seaside villages, spas, and the Estonian War Museum. Perfect for a half-day escape.
Naissaar Island – Reachable by ferry in summer, this former military island offers untouched nature, sandy beaches, and a quirky Soviet history.
✨ All are reachable within 1–1.5 hours from Tallinn, making them easy add-ons to a city break.
Final Thoughts
Tallinn is one of those cities that surprises you. It’s small enough to feel manageable but big enough to keep you exploring — whether you’re wandering medieval streets, sipping coffee in Telliskivi, or watching the sunset from Noblessner’s waterfront.
What we loved most on our City Girl press trip was how Tallinn blends old-world charm with modern creativity. One moment you’re stepping into a centuries-old tower, the next you’re clinking glasses in a design-led cocktail bar. Add in the wellness culture, foodie scene, and easy access to nature, and Tallinn makes the perfect long weekend escape.
✨ Our advice? Bookmark this guide, pack your comfiest shoes, and don’t forget your swimwear for the sauna. And if you’re extending your trip, check out the rest of our City Girl Guide to Estonia — with island escapes, wellness retreats, foodie adventures, and more.
Tallinn might just be your new favourite city break. 💫
This guide was created on a press trip with Visit Estonia. It also includes affiliate links.