3 days in Tallinn
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3 days in Tallinn: what to see and do in the capital of Estonia.

How to spend 3 days in Tallinn: a perfect city break in Estonia’s fairytale capital

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a storybook filled with medieval towers, cobbled lanes, and Baltic sea breezes, then Tallinn is your next city break destination. It was such a surprise for me when I stayed in Tallinn for three days (definitely it was too short despite its compact size). I arrived in Tallin by ferry from Helsinki and, despite having some ideas and expectations, I could not imagine that this city is that beautiful!
Spending 3 days in Tallinn gives you some time to soak up the magic of this UNESCO-listed Old Town, uncover hip neighbourhoods like Kalamaja, and even take a breath of fresh sea air along the coast. It’s true that you can see all the highlights of Tallinn in just 3 days, but it is such a cool city that you might want to stay longer.

What to do in Tallinn in 3 days: my top recommended activities

Tallinn is small, but has so many hidden gems and interesting things to do. I mentioning below possible itinerary for 3 days in Tallinn, but here are my top things to do in Tallinn:

  • A walking tour (walk through one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval old towns)
  • A day trip to Helsinki (it’s so easy and cheap by ferry)
  • Tallinn’s Soviet past tour (learn about Estonia’s time behind the Iron Curtain, visit Soviet-style architecture, and explore alternative neighborhoods)
  • Tallinn Medieval legends tour with a dress up guide (storytelling tour with a local guide dressed in medieval costume. Learn about ancient ghosts, knights, and Tallinn’s darker legends)
  • Tallinn food and drink tour (sample Estonian cuisine, including black bread, local cheeses, cured meats, and traditional sweets. Many tours also include local beers or craft cider).
  • Cook and share traditional food in Estonian home (experience authentic Estonian culture by cooking and sharing a traditional meal in a local home- a warm, personal way to connect with local life).
  • Lahemaa National Park day tour (escape the city and explore forests, bogs, waterfalls, and charming manors. This is one of the most popular nature day trips from Tallinn)
  • Day trip to Prangli island (escape the city with a refreshing day trip to Prangli Island, where quiet beaches, pine forests, and authentic village life offer a peaceful Baltic retreat).

What to see and do in 3 days in Tallinn: itinerary

You might think that 3 days in Tallinn might be too long. I would strongly disagree with you, although I get your point. I stayed in Tallin 3 nights and feel like I could have seen more. In Fact, Tallinn is on my travel list to revisit. My top tip for Tallinn is: it’s a hilly city with lots of cobbled streets, so plan to wear comfortable shoes- heels are not the best idea.

Day 1: fall in love with old town

Start your trip where Tallinn’s heart beats strongest: the Old Town. It is a small area and you’ll be able to see it within a short time, but it’s very pretty, so do not rush.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval centers. It really feels like a movie set- I can assure jaw-dropping moments. What to see in the Old Town:

  • Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats): The perfect place to begin. Admire the 13th-century Town Hall and grab a coffee at one of the many outdoor cafés. During the Medieval Festival, this is the most bustling part where all the action happens. I loved it!
  • St. Olaf’s Church: Once the tallest building in the world, this church offers one of the best views in Tallinn. Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the tower for sweeping views of the red-tiled roofs and the Baltic Sea- totally worth the effort. Well, it’s not even that much effort, so make sure to put it on your list.
  • Toompea Hill: Walk up to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Toompea Castle. The viewing platforms like Kohtuotsa and Patkuli offer the best classic postcard shots of Tallinn’s red rooftops. I had a rather dramatic sky that afternoon, but still love how my pictures turned out.

  • Viru Gate: These photogenic twin towers once guarded the entrance to the city and now welcome you into the Old Town. With flower stalls lining the walkway and medieval walls in the background, it’s one of Tallinn’s most Instagrammable corners. My only regret was that I couldn’t get any of these beautiful flowers- what’s the point when travelling?

3 days in Tallinn

In the evening, dine at Olde Hansa, a medieval-themed restaurant offering hearty traditional Estonian dishes by candlelight. It’s touristy, yes- but in the best possible way. The medieval restaurants in Tallinn are so much fun!

Day 2: explore neighborhoods beyond the walls

After getting your fill of medieval romance, explore Tallinn’s creative and modern side. It’s going to be an interesting day, however, I must be totally honest with you: for me Tallinn is all about Medieval ages.

  • Telliskivi Creative City: Just a short walk (around 10–15 minutes) from the Old Town, Telliskivi is a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary Estonian culture. Once an industrial complex, it has transformed into a buzzing cultural hub packed with independent boutiques, designer stores, art galleries, street murals, and stylish cafés. It’s the perfect spot to hunt for unique souvenirs, sip Estonian craft coffee, or catch a photography or art exhibit. The area is also home to Fotografiska, a world-renowned photography museum with a rooftop restaurant with great views and a seasonal, sustainable menu (I had some tasty food there for reasonable price, but it can get very busy).
  • Kalamaja District: Known as the “hipster neighborhood,” this area features colorful wooden houses, quiet parks, and relaxed vibes. Right next to Telliskivi, the laid-back Kalamaja neighborhood feels like a world apart from the city center’s cobbled streets. This former fishing district is now a charming blend of bohemian vibes and local life, known for its colorful 19th-century wooden houses, leafy streets, and quiet parks.
  • Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour: A fascinating maritime museum housed in a giant seaplane hangar. A short walk or bike ride from Kalamaja takes you to this impressive maritime museum set in a massive seaplane hangar. It’s one of the most interactive museums in Estonia, featuring full-size ships and submarines, flight simulators, and immersive exhibits that are fun for all ages. You can even climb aboard a real Cold War-era submarine. The harbor views are stunning, especially around sunset, and there’s a nice waterfront café on site. Bus number 73 also stops nearby if you prefer not to walk.

For dinner, try F-Hoone in Telliskivi-a trendy restaurant known for its inventive Estonian dishes at reasonable prices.

3 days in Tallinn

Day 3: seaside strolls and secret gardens

Spend your last day by the water or in Tallinn’s lesser-known green spaces.

  • Kadriorg Palace and park: Kadriorg is a magnificent baroque palace built by Russian Tsar Peter the Great for his wife, Catherine I. The surrounding park is equally stunning. It’s a favorite weekend escape for locals and ideal for a relaxed morning stroll or even a picnic. The palace also houses the Kadriorg Art Museum, which focuses on European and Russian art. You can easily reach Kadriorg from the Old Town via tram number 1 or 3, with a stop right outside the park entrance (get your Tallinn card that includes public transportation and some entrances).

  • Pirita beach: If it’s sunny, head to this nearby beach for a refreshing swim or a walk along the coast. If you’re lucky enough to visit Tallinn in summer, especially in July or August, Pirita Beach is the place to be. Just a 15-minute drive or bus ride (bus number 1A or 8) from the city center, this long stretch of sandy beach offers lovely views of the Tallinn skyline across the water, as well as calm waves perfect for a swim.

  • Botanic garden: Nearby Pirita, the Tallinn Botanic Garden is one of the city’s hidden gems. It’s a massive garden with an impressive variety of plant collections from around the world, including tropical greenhouses, alpine gardens, and medicinal herb sections. It’s especially beautiful from late spring through early autumn. The garden is also connected by a forest trail to the Tallinn TV Tower, which offers panoramic views from its observation deck. To get here, take bus number 34A or 38 from the city center and get off at the “Kloostrimetsa” stop. Admission is affordable, and it’s a tranquil place to reflect on your Tallinn adventure.

Finish your trip with a sunset cocktail at the Radisson Blu Sky Bar, which offers sweeping views of the city.

Tallinn food guide: what to eat

Estonian cuisine blends Nordic, Russian, and German influences, creating hearty and comforting dishes. I really enjoyed the food in Estonia and possibly ate way too much.

Must-try foods in Tallinn:

  • Verivorst: blood sausage, usually served with lingonberry jam (a Christmas dish)
  • Kama: a traditional dessert made of mixed grain flour.
  • Mulgipuder (mashed potatoes with barley and bacon) – a comforting mash of potatoes and barley topped with crispy bacon bits.
  • Vürtsikilu (spiced Baltic sprats) – pickled or spiced sprats used in various traditional dishes or eaten as snacks.
  • Smoked fish: especially at seaside restaurants.
  • Sült – a traditional cold meat jelly usually made from pork, common during holidays.
  • Rosolje – a bright pink beetroot and potato salad, often mixed with herring and mayonnaise.
  • Leib (dark rye bread) – no Estonian meal is complete without this dense, slightly sour black bread.
  • Kiluvõileib: an open-faced sprat sandwich beloved by locals.
  • Hapukapsas (Sauerkraut) – typically served warm alongside pork or sausages.

A few favourite places to eat in Tallinn: 

  • III Draakon: A tiny medieval tavern in the Town Hall where you can try elk soup and meat pies for just a few euros. Dining in this place is a real show where women in traditional Medieval clothes rule. Men, be aware that the women are the bosses there; they will let you know very clearly.
  • Rataskaevu 16: A cozy spot in Old Town serving Estonian favorites with a modern twist.
  • Røst Bakery: Perfect for artisan coffee and cinnamon buns.
  • F-Hoone in Telliskivi-a trendy restaurant known for its inventive Estonian dishes at reasonable prices.
  • Olde Hansa, a medieval-themed restaurant offering hearty traditional Estonian dishes by candlelight.
  • Maiasmokk Café – The oldest operating café in Estonia (since 1864), this charming spot near the Town Hall Square is famous for its classic décor, marzipan museum, and timeless pastries.

Useful Estonian phrases for travelers

While many Estonians speak excellent English, locals always appreciate when you try a few words in their language. Unlike in Latvia or Lithuania, I could not understand anything in Estonian. Being from Poland means that I can somehow understand the languages of Slovakia, Latvia and a few others. And Estonia is just right there, part of the Baltics- and I could not communicate.

The Estonian language, known as eesti keel, is one of the few languages in Europe that isn’t part of the Indo-European family. Instead, it belongs to the Finno-Ugric group, making it closely related to Finnish and, more distantly, Hungarian.

Estonian is known for its musical quality, rich with vowel sounds and a melodic rhythm that can sound almost like singing. Interestingly, despite being neighbors, Estonian is quite different from the languages of Latvia and Lithuania, which are Baltic languages. Most young Estonians speak excellent English, especially in Tallinn, but learning a few basic phrases is a great way to connect with locals and show appreciation for their unique culture.

Here are a few Estonian phrases that are nice to know:

  • Tere! – Hello!
  • Aitäh! – Thank you!
  • Palun. – Please / You’re welcome.
  • Nägemist! – Goodbye!
  • Kas te räägite inglise keelt? – Do you speak English?

(Pro tip: just smiling warmly already gets you a long way in Estonia!)

3 days in Tallinn

Money tips for Tallinn

  • Estonia uses the Euro (EUR).
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, even in taxis and small cafés.
  • Tipping isn’t obligatory but rounding up the bill or leaving about 10% is appreciated.
  • Public transport is affordable and efficient; taxis can be pricey, so use apps like Bolt for better rates.
  • The prices in Tallinn are not as low as in other Eastern European countries, but lower than in Scandinavia.

Medical care and insurance

Access to medical care in Estonia for tourists is generally good, especially in larger cities like Tallinn and Tartu. Estonia has a modern healthcare system, and most medical staff in urban areas speak English.
If you’re a citizen of an EU country, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access public healthcare services at a reduced cost or sometimes for free. For non-EU travelers, it’s strongly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage.

How to get to Tallinn

Getting to Tallinn is easy and convenient, whether you’re arriving by air, sea, or land. I arrived in Tallinn from Helsinki by ferry but took a bus onwards to Latvia. For best connections and prices I usually use Skyscanner to search flights.
If you’re not coming from a neighboring country, the easiest way it is to fly into Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL), located just 4 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take tram number 4, which takes about 15–20 minutes to reach the Old Town, or grab a taxi or ride-share for a quick and affordable ride.
If you’re coming from nearby cities like Helsinki, ferries run frequently between the two capitals, taking around 2 hours and arriving at Tallinn’s passenger port- just a short walk from the center. But make sure to book it some time in advance.
There are also buses connecting Tallinn to other parts of Estonia and nearby Baltic countries, making it a great hub for regional travel.

How to move around Tallin

Getting around Tallinn is easy, especially in the compact Old Town where most attractions are within walking distance. The city also has an efficient and affordable public transport system that includes buses, trams, and trolleybuses- perfect for reaching farther neighborhoods or areas like Kadriorg or Telliskivi.
Tickets can be bought via the mobile app or with a contactless bank card directly on board. If you’re staying longer, consider purchasing a Tallinn Card, which includes unlimited public transport and access to many museums. Taxis are available but can be expensive compared to public transport. Another option is renting a bike or electric scooter.
Top tip: if you are in Tallin just for a day, do not take your luggage with you as the cobbled streets of Tallin are difficult for that. Consider leaving your things in a storage (they have good service at the train station and the port).

Where to stay in Tallinn

Since Tallinn is not big, you can easily expand your range of hotel options. Nonetheless, staying within the Old Town is magical, especially during the Medieval Festival and Christmas time. I had my whole stay booked just round the corner from the main square- I would stay there again. I only had a 2-minute walk to the centre of all attractions, many cafes and restaurants as well.

  • Hotel Telegraaf, Autograph Collection. Located in the heart of Old Town, this 5-star hotel is set in a historic 19th-century building with luxurious rooms, a top-rated spa, and an indoor pool.
  • Schlössle Hotel. One of Tallinn’s most charming boutique hotels, offering an old-world feel with antique decor, attentive service, and excellent breakfast in a stone cellar. It’s a perfect romantic luxury getaway.
  • Savoy Boutique Hotel. Chic and stylish, this 5-star option is just a few steps from Town Hall Square and offers sleek modern rooms in a quiet yet central location.
  • Hotel Palace by Tallinn Hotels. Located just outside the Old Town gates, this modern and comfortable hotel offers easy access to the city centre, a great breakfast, and spa facilities. Great value without compromising comfort.
  • CRU Hotel. Situated on the cobbled Viru Street, this small boutique hotel offers individually designed rooms and a well-reviewed in-house restaurant.
  • Hestia Hotel Barons Old Town. good mid-range option located right in the Old Town with classic decor and convenient proximity to Tallinn’s major sights. Budget-conscious travellers who still want location.

When to visit Tallinn

The best time to visit Tallinn weather-wise depends on the type of experience you’re seeking. Here’s an overview of what to expect by season:

Summer (June to August): best time for outdoors

  • Weather: This is the most popular time to visit Tallinn. The temperatures are mild and pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with July being the warmest month.

  • Activities: You can enjoy long, sun-filled days (up to 18 hours of daylight in June) perfect for strolling through Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, visiting parks, and enjoying outdoor cafes and festivals. If you want to experience Tallinn’s cultural vibrancy, this is the ideal season, especially for the Tallinn Medieval Days Festival in July.

  • Tip: If you enjoy warm weather but prefer fewer crowds, early June or late August are great options.

Autumn (September to November): best time for fewer crowds and fall foliage

  • Weather: Fall brings cooler temperatures with highs ranging from 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F) in September and dropping further as you move into October and November. There might also be occasional rain, making it feel chillier.

  • Activities: If you’re a fan of picturesque fall foliage, autumn is a wonderful time to visit as the parks and surrounding nature turn golden and red. It’s also a good time to enjoy Tallinn’s cafes and cozy indoor activities without the summer crowds.

  • Tip: Bring layers and a rain jacket to stay comfortable.

Winter (December to February): best for a winter wonderland experience

  • Weather: Winters in Tallinn are cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 2°C (23°F to 36°F). It can feel colder with the wind chill, and snowfall is common, which creates a magical winter atmosphere.

  • Activities: Tallinn becomes especially charming in winter, with the medieval Old Town looking like something out of a Christmas fairy tale, and festive Christmas markets in Town Hall Square. This season is perfect if you’re looking for a cozy winter getaway with a beautiful winter landscape.

  • Tip: Pack warm clothing, including gloves, a scarf, and a good coat, to fully enjoy the outdoor sights without getting too cold.

Spring (March to May): best time for peace and quiet

  • Weather: Spring temperatures start at 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) in March, rising to 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) by May. It’s a transition period, with some chilly days and occasional rain.

  • Activities: Spring is a quieter time in Tallinn, so you can explore the city at a slower pace. The parks and gardens begin to bloom in May, which makes it a great time to see Tallinn come alive after the cold winter months.

  • Tip: Since the weather can be unpredictable, it’s a good idea to pack a mix of warm clothes and lighter layers for spring.

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3 days in tallinn

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Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips

  • Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
  • Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
  • Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
  • Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
  • World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
  • WeGoTrip sends you audio guides to your mobile, so you can visit places while learning history and interesting facts easily and for little money.
  • Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
  • Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
  • Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.

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3 days in Tallinn

Ania is a founder of Postcards from the World, a place where she wants you to be inspired to travel and visit new places This is also a place where you can find tips and honest travel guides to help you with you plan your dream trips with ease.

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