Despite having been to Tallinn many times, I still don’t know the city well enough to make a very detailed travel guide. And my posts are always about my experiences. They’re not listicles made for SEO-only. That being said, Tallinn has become one of my favorite places to visit in Europe. I enjoy returning over and over. And there are a few things I try not to miss when I visit. Since I get asked about the city often, I thought it was about time I put together a mini guide to Tallinn that I can share when asked.
This post may contain affiliate links. No cost is passed onto you when you click on these. If you do make a purchase, it helps me keep this blog going! Thank you for your support!
This is by no means a complete guide to Tallinn. Nor is it meant to be! I hope it’s a compliment to your own plans and a starting point from which you can create your own adventures in Estonia!
Where to Dine and Drink in Tallinn
Eat at least one meal at Rataskaevu 16, which is good for lunch or dinner. Lunch is a great idea if you’re already walking around the Old Town anyway. If you use Google Maps, save the restaurant with this listing.
Enjoy dinner at Fotografiska Museum’s restaurant on the roof which is the best meal I have ever had in Tallinn. It may not always look like it based on every plate. But the flavor they manage to wring out of the most boring of vegetables is more than worthy of Michelin stars. Save it to a list on Google Maps with this link. [below, left]
Dine at Hotel Telegraaf’s Restaurant Tchaikovsky. The food is sublime, the dishes a work of art, and the setting luxurious. [above, right]
End an evening in town by getting cocktails at Botaanik. It is the best bar in all of Tallinn in my opinion and any conversation with the owner, if you’re so lucky, will be fascinating. He collects his assorted barware and glasses around the world by shopping for it in antique stores and at flea markets. If you use Google Maps, this is the bar’s listing.
What to Do in Tallinn
Do a solo, or group, sauna experience at Iglupark which is worth every single penny it costs and then some.
Visit the Fotografiska Museum. You may have also seen their location in Stockholm.
Head out of the city to the Pääsküla bog trails (Pääsküla raba matkarada). There’s an observation tower and wonderful trails for light hiking.
Find the Kohtuotsa viewing platform, on the northern side of Toompea hill, for views like this:
Climb all the steps of the tower in St. Olaf’s Church to get another great view of the city from above.
Visit museums! The interiors and art at Kadriorg Palace inspired me. [below, left] Meanwhile, Eesti Kuntsimuuseum is for more modern art but is no less enjoyable. [below, right]
You can also find activities and tours to book in advance on Viator.
Where to Stay in Tallinn
Hilton Tallinn Park is great for the spa they have on an upper floor and the size of their suites. It’s worth using points to stay at if you’re a Hilton Honors member.
Hotel Telegraaf is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. It marries traditional and modern details. The property has a wonderful restaurant on site. And the views from the rooms often include the quaint streets of Tallinn’s Old Town.
Plan your visit to Tallinn
It would help if you referenced the Visit Estonia and Visit Tallinn websites and accompanying social media for more inspiration. Estonia has hosted me for one of my visits to Tallinn but they are not sponsoring this post. I mention them because they do a great job of curating what’s “not to miss.”
Search for more places to stay using booking dot com
