Only have three days to explore Tallinn? No problem! Disembark from the ferry and you will instantly be enchanted by the charms of Tallinn‘s Old Town. The city, with its cobblestone streets, fairy-tale towers, and cozy cafes, is a treasure trove of wonders to discover.
Want some advice? Start your adventure from Toompea, the city’s highest point, for a breathtaking view and a clear idea of what lies ahead.
In this article, we reveal the 10 best things to do in Tallinn over the course of three days. This itinerary combines the best of history, culture, and modernity, helping you plan a stress-free trip full of surprises.
Follow our suggestions and discover everything Tallinn has to offer, from the beginning to the end of your adventure!
Day 1: Exploring Tallinn’s Old Town
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1. Visit Toompea Castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Your first day in Tallinn begins with an immersion in the city’s medieval history. Your exploration begins at Toompea Castle, an imposing fortress that dominates the city and offers a glimpse into Estonian political history. A short walk away, you’ll find the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a masterpiece of Orthodox architecture with its onion domes and richly decorated interior.
2. Lose yourself in the cobblestone streets of the Old Town (Vanalinn)
After visiting Toompea, venture into the cobblestone streets of the Old Town (Vanalinn). Here, you can lose yourself in the charming medieval streets, discover craft stores, and stop at the many quaint cafes. Don’t forget to explore Raekoja Plats, the bustling Town Hall Square, a perfect place to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
3. Admire the view from the Kohtuotsa and Patkuli lookouts
To end the day, climb to Kohtuotsa and Patkuli lookouts for spectacular views of the city. From these vantage points, Tallinn’s red rooftops stretch all the way to the Baltic Sea, creating a picture-postcard view. It’s the perfect way to end your first day, capturing the essence of Tallinn from above.
Day 2: Discovering Tallinn’s culture and cuisine
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4. Visit the Kumu Art Museum and Kadriorg Park
Day two in Tallinn takes you on a discovery of Estonian culture and art, among the best things to do in Tallinn. Start the day by visiting the Kumu Art Museum, the largest art museum in the Baltics, where you can explore collections ranging from classical to contemporary art. After savoring Estonia‘s rich artistic history, head to nearby Kadriorg Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Here you can relax among manicured gardens, tranquil ponds, and charming fountains, while also admiring the Kadriorg Palace, a Baroque-style architectural gem.
5. Savor local cuisine in a traditional restaurant
After a morning full of culture, it’s time to enjoy local cuisine at one of the traditional restaurants in the old town. Try typical dishes such as kama, a mixture of local grains, and kiluvõileib, the famous Baltic herring sandwich. The authentic atmosphere of Tallinn’s historic restaurants, with their rustic decor and warm hospitality, will give you a taste of Estonian culinary traditions.
6. Explore the neighborhood of Telliskivi Creative City
In the afternoon, head to Telliskivi Creative City, Tallinn’s vibrant creative district. This former industrial complex is now the beating heart of the city’s arts and culture scene, famous for its colorful murals, independent stores, hipster cafes, and live music venues. Stroll through art galleries, discover street artwork, and be inspired by the creative energy of this unique neighborhood, perfect for ending your second day in Tallinn.
Day 3: Immersion in nature and local traditions
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7. Discover the Puppet Museum and the Museum of Photography
Day three is dedicated to discovering hidden treasures and unique adventures perfect for those looking for things to do in Tallinn. Start the day by exploring the Puppet Museum, a charming place that celebrates the art of puppetry and children’s theater, offering a glimpse into local creativity and folklore. Then continue to the Museum of Photography, located in a historic building that once housed a medieval prison. Here you can discover a fascinating collection of photographs that tell the story of Tallinn’s history and daily life through the centuries.
8. Visit the ruins of the Monastery of Pirita and the Convent of St. Brigid
After exploring the museums, head to the ruins of Pirita Monastery and St. Brigid’s Convent, located just outside the city center. These atmospheric sites are among the things to do in Tallinn to immerse yourself in Estonia’s medieval history, walking among ancient stones and imagining the monastic life of yesteryear. The peaceful atmosphere and surrounding landscape make this visit a memorable experience for history and nature lovers.
9. Take a walk in Lahemaa National Park
In the afternoon, venture into Lahemaa National Park, one of Estonia’s natural jewels. This national park, a short distance from Tallinn, offers an extensive network of hiking trails through lush forests, picturesque waterfalls, and pristine coastal landscapes. It is an ideal place to relax and reconnect with nature, while also discovering the traditional fishing villages and historic aristocratic estates that dot the park.
10. Relaxation in a traditional Estonian sauna
After a busy day exploring Tallinn, treat yourself to some relaxation in a traditional Estonian sauna. This is a traditional experience that is not to be missed. Saunas are a fundamental part of Estonian culture, and many of them include the chance to take a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea, perfect for those who want to have an authentic experience. It is the best way to end your trip to Tallinn – rejuvenating body and mind after three days of adventure and discovery.
Bonus idea: Take a day trip from Tallinn to Helsinki
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If you have a few extra days or would like to add another stop to your trip, consider taking a day trip from Tallinn to Helsinki. The two capitals are separated only by the Gulf of Finland, and ferries regularly connect Tallinn to Helsinki in just over two hours. This is a great opportunity to explore another fascinating Nordic city, famous for its modern architecture, lively markets, and public saunas. You can easily find and book your ferry crossing on Ferryscanner, where you’ll find several schedule and company options to best suit your itinerary. It’s the perfect extension of your trip to discover even more of the Baltic’s beauty!
Tallinn to Helsinki Ferries
Ferries from Tallinn to Helsinki operate several times a day, with a travel time of about 2-2.5 hours. One-way ticket prices typically start at €19, depending on the season. This option is perfect for a day trip, allowing you to easily visit both Baltic capitals.
Ferry Companies Sailing from Tallinn to Helsinki
Three major ferry companies operate the route between Tallinn and Helsinki: Tallink Silja, Viking Line, and Eckerö Line.
Tallink Silja offers a modern travel experience with frequent departures and several comfort options, including restaurants, bars, and onboard entertainment.
Viking Line is known for its competitive fares and family-friendly services, with numerous restaurants and duty-free stores. Check out Viking Line’s itineraries to better plan your trip to discover the wonders of the Baltic.
Eckerö Line stands out for its economical offerings and punctuality, ensuring efficient travel between the two capitals.
All three companies offer numerous daily departures, from early morning until evening, allowing you to choose the most suitable time for a day trip or a longer stay.
The best experiences in Tallinn are waiting for you!
Over the course of three days in Tallinn, you can discover the best of what this fascinating city has to offer. From the narrow streets of the Old Town to modern creative areas to the natural wonders just outside the city. There are so many things to do in Tallinn, and this itinerary is designed to give you a complete experience filled with culture, flavor, and adventure.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss our article on the best places to visit in Tallinn for a detailed guide to the city’s must-see attractions.
Planning to explore the Baltic capitals by sea? Book your ferry on Ferryscanner and have an unforgettable adventure between Tallinn, Helsinki, and other wonderful Baltic destinations!