A 72-Hours in Tallinn Estonia: Best Places to Eat, Stay and Things to Do
Oh, Tallinn — what a wonderful surprise!
If you love exploring new destinations full of life, charm, and atmosphere, you’re in the right place. Tallinn Estonia completely won me over, and that’s exactly why I put together this 72-hour guide — for anyone ready to fall in love with the Baltics just like I did.
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Where is Tallinn Estonia
Tallinn is the capital of Estonia. Located in the northeastern part of Europe, this country borders Russia, Latvia and the Baltic Sea, making Estonia part of the Baltic countries along with Lithuania and Latvia.
Interestingly, there are other countries that border the Baltic Sea but aren’t called “Baltic Countries” – still trying to find out why not. These are Germany, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Poland and Russia.
How to Get to Tallinn Estonia
The easiest way to get to Tallinn internationally is by plane. You can fly to Tallinn direct from London, Istanbul, Frankfurt, Dublin Barcelona and Amsterdam.
But it is not the only way. From Helsinki, the capital of Finland, you can take a ferry, it only takes 2 hours daily tickets can go for as cheap as $10 one way, making it another very easy way and common route to reach Tallinn.
You can also consider driving from neighbouring countries such as Latvia and Lithuania, or travel by train, taking advantage of the vast network of European trains.
Not time to read it now? Here are some quick tips for traveling to Estonia:
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👉🏽Activities: look in Get Your Guide for all the activities in and around every destination, including coach tours!
How to Get to Tallinn Old Town
Either from the sea or from the airport, arriving to the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town is only 30 minutes by public transport.
If you are arriving from Tallinn’s Port take the bus number 5 or tram number 2 and you will get to the Old Town in 20-30 minutes.
To get to and from Tallinn’s airport there are 2 buses that you can take to Tallinn Old Town: number 2 and 15. Both take approximately 20 to 30 minutes to reach Central Tallinn. Bus number 15 will drop you about 9 minutes’ walk from the southeast side of the Unesco Old Town, whereas bus number 2 will drop you only 2 minutes away from the southeast side of the Old Town.
Tallinn’s public transportation service is very efficient and connected with Google Maps.
Tallinn’s Old Town is a pedestrian city, so there isn’t any public transportation except taxis for drop-off and pick-up purposes. All public transport stops are located outside the city walls.
Neighbourhoods of Tallinn Estonia
Tallinn’s Old Town
During my most recent trip to Tallinn, I explored a LOT the Old Town. Something I would really recommend if you are into history is to a walking tour where I learnt that originally Tallinn Old Town was originally divided into Uptown and Lower Town.
Old Town Tallinn is a UNESCO Heritage site as it is one of the only fully functional medieval towns. When you walk through the streets of Tallinn you can witness houses still with the same façade as they had in the late 13th century — some restored, others with added features through the years, but ultimately the cute houses you see in Tallinn have been there for hundreds of years!
Historical Kick About the Upper and Lower Old Town – Tallinn’s medieval name is said to be Reval, which is the combination of Dutch words “Deer that fell down the hill”. If you want to know the reason behind Tallinn’s old name, I suggest you go on the Reval Tours. You will leave knowing so much about Medieval Tallinn!
In summary, Lower Old Town is where the merchants used to live — these are the people who made the money, traded, supplied food, animals, materials and went on voyages to get more supply. With time they got rich and started to build huge houses so they could show off their importance, but of course the nobles that watched them from above didn’t like that their houses were growing taller and taller. Throughout history, the nobles taxed the merchants, and the merchants found loopholes to continue building Old Town Tallinn.
Is Tallinn worth visiting?
A short and sweet answer: YESSS!
The history of Tallinn, Estonia spans centuries and it is fascinating how a country that was once under Russian administration and unable to explore other regions is now so advanced in technology, arts and culture.
From the medieval perspective, but also from more recent history, Estonia and its capital Tallinn have a lot to offer.
The food in Tallinn is varied, and rich. Whether you go for traditional medieval cuisine or modern Estonian dishes, one thing there is in common is how reasonable the portions are. With Tallinn being next to the sea, the region has a lot of fish in their cuisine. Even the hotels have a lot of fish options in their menus. I stayed in the Nordic Forum Hotel and had about 5 different types of fish as breakfast options – from salmon to halibut and capers, all available.
If you need another reason to visit Tallinn, then visit it for its stunning architecture preserved for centuries – from medieval houses now transformed into cafes, restaurants and museums to the newest buildings incorporating the latest technologies for the heavy winter months. Tallinn was able to preserve its old town so well that in 1997 was granted Unesco Heritage site.
If you want something more edgy, you also have Telliskivi area, which I can only compare it to Shoreditch in London or LX Factory in Lisbon. Telliskivi is the hipster part of Tallinn, located on the northwest side, just 20 minutes outside the Old Town.
Where to Stay in Tallinn
One of Europe’s lesser known destinations and yet with incredible, stylish and great value-for-money accommodation. Tallinn has an incredible choice for its size, from options in its UNESCO Medieval Old Town to the surrounding modern hotels around it. There is literally a range of options for every style, wallet and taste.
Nordic Forum Hotel
Modern and at the door of Tallinn’s Old Town, this hotel offers incredible service, stylish decoration and yet is minimalist. Great if you want to be within minutes from the heart of the Old Town without the sea of tourists. Fantastic breakfast choice. Intimate spa with privileged views of the Old Town. Great place to stay in Tallinn.
Tip: Use the spa in the morning for superb light into the historic town.
Places to stay in Tallinn Old Town
Schlössle Hotel Tallinn
5-star hotel located in Tallinn Old Town, converted from a 13th-century merchant’s house. Queen Elizabeth II stayed in this hotel back in 2007. Small and intimate, guest particularly enjoyed the private sauna, the seasonal Arctic Spa hot tub, as well as the relaxing feel of its lounge with the open fire in the centre.
Citybox Tallinn City Center
Minimalist and perfect for solo travel. Located in Porto Franco complex, it is ideal for travellers that like to be in and out without too much hassle. Offer self-checkin, comfortable beds, and modern decoration.
Radisson Collection Hotel
Located in the heart of the Old Town, it’s locally known for its affordable spa (when not included in the room rate) and fantastic restaurants – Mekk Restaurant and Bar and Issei Tallinn – where Japanese and Peruvian delicate flavours combine. Issei Tallinn is ranked among the top 4 restaurants to try in Tallinn.
Stay With Privileged View to Town Hall Square
If you are looking to be as central as possible look no further – this apartment have the views of the Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats). Perfect if you want to witness the Christmas Market from a different perspective and live the Christmas vibes of Tallinn (the home of the Christmas tree!) from your window.
Staying in Kalamaja by the Sea
Iglupark
As the name hints, this is an igloo-style hotel by the sea. Perfect if you are planning to travel to Helsinki in the upcoming days, or just getting adventurous and swimming in the Baltic. Modern and cozy, the Iglupark hotel is great if you want to experience something out of the ordinary!
Things to do in Tallinn
For a small city, Tallinn has plenty to do. From museums to workshops, historical points, medieval theatres, attractions and simply its architecture – Tallinn has you covered!
If you are planning to go to Tallinn Estonia and see its top attractions and museums, you should really get a Tallinn City Card.
The Tallinn City Card offers entrance and discounts to attractions in Tallinn’s Old Town and beyond.
Best View Points of Tallinn Old Town
- Kohtuotsa Viewpoint (the iconic “Times We Had” wall)
- Patkuli Viewpoint
- Toompea Castle & the Estonian Parliament
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Best Attractions and Museums in Tallinn (included in the Tallinn Card)
- St Olaf’s Church
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Estonian History Museum
- Tallinn TV Tower
- Town City Walls
- Kiek in de Kök & Bastion Passages Museum
- Toompea Hill and many more
What to do in Tallinn in November
PÖFF – Black Nights Film Festival
If you are visiting in November, definitely add to your list indulging yourself in the Black Nights Film Festival, PÖFF.
You have probably heard of Cannes Film Festival — if so, imagine the same calibre of films but in Tallinn. Yup, that is PÖFF.
PÖFF started in 1997 and has grown to be one of the largest film festivals in Europe, definitely the biggest in Northern Europe. For over 10 years PÖFF has been featuring A-list international films, being a festival of the same category as Cannes, Venice and Berlin. Almost a full month of top-tier films, screenings and premieres across the most modern cinemas in town.
The atmosphere around Tallinn during PÖFF is electrifying and worth witnessing even if you aren’t in the movie industry!
📌 Main Festival: November 7–23, 2025 – Save the dates for next year!
During my time in Tallinn I had the pleasure to attend PÖFF and witness the incredible atmosphere, talk with movie commissioners and watch some of the best films being presented to the public such as The Secret Agent, a Brazilian movie set in the 70s sharing how Brazil lived with corruption and involvement of political and private business powers.
Christmas Lights Switch-on – Tallinn is said to be the first city in the world to decorate a Christmas tree. So what better place to witness the beginning of Christmas if not in Tallinn?
The Christmas market and the switch-on of the Christmas lights happens every year in the penultimate weekend of November, you can count with Christmas Corals, market stalls, lots of mulled wine and amazing food.
Best places to eat in Tallinn
Tallinn has plenty of options for great food, but something I realised is that traditional cuisine is not something that you find in every corner, at least not in the Old Town. You will find a variation of Estonian traditional dishes in a mix with more modern cuisine.
The same applies when visiting neighbourhoods such as Telliskivi. If you want to fully connect with Estonian modern culture including its food, then Telliskivi is the place you need to visit.
Rataskaevu 16 – $$–$$$
Located in the historical Old Town in Tallinn, this restaurant offers great creativity in the form of dishes — delicious by the way. Easy, central and with a warm feel. Only has two rooms and in summer you can enjoy outside seating.
Favoured by locals and tourists, the pricing is not outrageous. It is a popular dining spot so I would recommend making a reservation. If you don’t believe me see the Tripadvisor reviews here.
📍Location: Rataskaevu tn 16, 10123 Tallinn, Estonia
Mekk Restaurant & Bar – $$$
Although located inside the Radisson hotel, this restaurant is a great choice if you are looking to eat Estonian modern cuisine.
Don’t underestimate the artichoke soup — it’s the best on the menu. Also, if you have a Radisson membership account, you can enjoy 10% off your final bill.
📍Location: 3 Ravala Street, Rävala pst 3, 10143 Tallinn, Estonia
Olde Hansa – $$$
If you are looking to experience the medieval culture of Tallinn fully, then you need to try this restaurant. Olde Hansa offers an authentic medieval experience of Tallinn’s Old Town — the only thing that gives it away is that you can pay with a credit card.
The owners are dressed in medieval clothing, they greet you as if you were in the 15th century, and you have an experience of eating by candlelight.
Tip: Tallinn Card holders get 10% discount when dining here.
📍Location: Vana turg 1, 10140 Tallinn, Estonia
F-hoone – $$
In Telliskivi, you must check out F-hoone. Such a vibrant place! The neighbourhood is already artistic with cool vibes and F-hoone brings these vibes straight to your plate.
The menu is diverse, and they sell glögi (correct spelling), Estonian hot wine, with and without alcohol.
📍Location: Telliskivi tn 60a, 10412 Tallinn, Estonia
Pulla Bakery – $
When you are walking and exploring the beautiful streets of Tallinn, you will want to have a piece of heaven at Pulla Bakery. The best cinnamon buns I have ever tried!
Small, cozy and run by a mother and daughter — sweet right?
Don’t be discouraged by the queue, it is worth every minute. Arrive around 9am to avoid waiting.
📍Location: Voorimehe 7, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia
Rukis Café and Bakery – $$
Located on the longest street in Tallinn’s Old Town. Offers great coffee and amazing cakes.
According to an Estonian friend, this is also one of the only places in the Old Town where you can get a Kiluvõileib, a traditional Estonian open-faced sprat sandwich.
📍Location: Viru 11, Tallinn 10140 Estonia
Final thoughts
I absolutely loved Tallinn, and I hope this comprehensive guide helps you planning your trip to Tallinn. Although locals don’t like Tallinn in November, I was very impressed how the city is catered to the cold and snow, and everything that has to offer.
I had little expectations, I read some blogs and planned my trip a few weeks before going and I am so happy that I left space to explore outside of the plan, so I urge you for you to do the same – explore your way and share some of your findings in the comments.
Something that I did that I really enjoyed was going to the cinema, of course it was part of PÖFF, but I never really been to the cinema in another country apart of Portugal and UK, so it was great to have another feel – plus the cinemas are huge in Tallinn!
I hope you enjoyed reading this guide and let me know if you need any more advice.
Safe Travels!
Miri x
