Top 11 Things To Do In Tallinn, Estonia

things to do in estonia tallinn
Samia
Samia 
Updated
| 4 min read

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is located on the Baltic Sea. With historical monuments dating back to the 13th century and sometimes even more, it is a great place to explore. Apart from its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tallinn also offers spectacular views, rich history, profuse greenery, and delectable treats. There are also hotels to stay in Tallinn, not to mention homey Airbnb vacation rentals if you’re wondering where to stay. Moreover, the city is the perfect cocktail of contemporary and ancient architecture. In fact, it has everything that you’d desire from a perfect holiday; old, rustic winding streets, museums, churches, beaches, eateries, and whatnot. There are so many things to see and do in this city of Estonia that you are spoiled for choice. Here is a list of things to do in Tallinn, Estonia.

1. Lennusadam

Mare ashore in Lennusadam Tallinn 2 May 2021
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Pjotr Mahhonin used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Lennusadam, known as the Seaplane Harbor, is a maritime museum in Tallinn, Estonia. The museum is housed in an old seaplane hangar and features exhibits showcasing Estonia’s rich maritime history, including an extensive collection of historic ships and submarines. Visitors can explore the decks of the museum’s impressive collection of vessels, including the 1930s submarine Lembit and the icebreaker Suur Tõll.

The museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience life on board a ship and learn about the science of the ocean. One of the museum’s highlights is the flight simulator, which allows visitors to experience what it’s like to fly a seaplane.

Lennusadam

Address: Vesilennuki 6, 10145 Tallinn, Estonia

Opening hours: Tues - Sun: 10am - 6pm. (closed on Mon)

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2. Toompea Castle

Toompea loss 2014
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Abrget47j used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Toompea Castle, located in the heart of Tallinn’s old town, is a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The castle has been the seat of power for Estonia’s ruling elite since the Middle Ages and features a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Classicism.

Visitors to Toompea Castle can explore the castle grounds, including the imposing Tall Hermann Tower and the Estonian Parliament building. The castle also offers breathtaking views of Tallinn’s old town and the surrounding countryside.

Inside the castle are various halls and rooms used for official receptions and ceremonies throughout history. The castle’s museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Estonia’s rich cultural heritage.

Toompea Castle

Address: Lossi plats 1a, 10137 Tallinn, Estonia

Opening hours: Mon - Thurs: 8:30am - 5:15pm, Fri: 8:30am - 4pm. (closed on Sat & Sun)

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3. Pass through the picturesque Viru Gate

Viru Gate 1
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user kallerna used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Built in the 14th century, the Viru Gate is a beautiful example of Tallinn’s architecture. Even after several decades, the gate stands in perfect shape. The gate is an entrance to the Old Town. Entering the town through this gate would allow you to explore some of the most enchanting places. This particular area is famous for having flower shops lined on the front. These make the entire place look like it came out of a child’s picture book.

Viru Gate

Address: Viru, 10140 Tallinn, Estonia

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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4. Tour the beautiful Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

AlexanderNevskyCathedral-Sofia-6
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user user:MrPanyGoff used under CC BY-SA 4.0

What looks like a castle is actually Estonia’s main Russian Orthodox cathedral. The church is a memorial commemorating the sacrifice of over 200,000 Russian soldiers who lost their lives in the Russo-Turkish Liberation War. This beautiful onion-domed church has beautiful interiors decorated with chandeliers and murals. The neo-byzantine architecture of the church is an eyesore. The atmosphere around the church is serene and calm and offers an enriching experience.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Address: Lossi plats 10, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia

Website: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

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5. Wander around Tallinn Town Hall

Tallinn Town Hall edit
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Tallinn_Town_Hall... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Tallinn Town Hall is located in the heart of the city and remains bustling with the crowd at all times. It is a quaint square with eateries, cafes, and boutiques around. Being the oldest town hall in the entire Baltic region, it offers views of one of the most splendid architecture. It is an ideal spot to grab a cup of coffee and just to enjoy the countrified feel of the atmosphere. The square must be visited in winter to explore the beautiful Christmas market.

Tallinn Town Hall

Address: Raekoja plats 1, 10114 Tallinn, Estonia

Website: Tallinn Town Hall

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)

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6. Relive medieval history at Nun's Tower and Town Wall Walkway


Surrounded by towers, the walkway would make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. The city wall has 20 defensive towers, which used to protect the town against ancient invaders during medieval times. The surrounding area has a rustic feel to it. Those who enjoy looking at ancient architectural marvels will definitely find this one amusing. Climb up the tower to see a breathtakingly beautiful, panoramic view of the entire city.

Nun's Tower and Town Wall Walkway

Address: Väike-Kloostri 1, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia

Website: Nun’s Tower and Town Wall Walkway

Opening hours: 11am - 7pm (daily)

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7. Get a bird's eye view from the Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform

The Lower Town as seen from the Kohtuotsa viewing platform. Tallin, Estonia, Northern Europe
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mstyslav Chernov used under CC BY-SA 3.0

One of the best activities in Tallinn is visiting the Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform. Located on the northern side of Toompea Hill, it provides stunning views of the entire city. One can easily see the red-tiled roofs, gates as well as the five towering spires of the Old Town. Sometimes, there are street musicians performing in the vicinity and you can hear the music from up top. Regardless of when you visit, this observation deck surely offers a memorable experience.

Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform

Address: Kohtu 12, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia

Website: Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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8. Check out nautical artifacts at the Estonian Maritime Museum

EML Lembit as Displayed in the Estonian Maritime Museum
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user TenthEagle used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Estonian Maritime Museum is one of the largest museums in the country. Founded in 1935 by a couple of former captains and sailors, the museum aims to present the rich history of ships, navigation instruments, lighthouses and marine education in Estonia and other parts of Europe. Located in the Fat Margeret tower, the museum exhibits over 7000 nautical artifacts and several other documents. Set over six floors, there is plenty to see at the museum.

Estonian Maritime Museum

Address: Pikk 70, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia

Website: Estonian Maritime Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

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9. Watch the sunrise from Patkuli viewing platform

View from Patkuli viewing platform
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Sami C used under CC BY 2.0

Patkuli viewing platform is an observation deck where you can enjoy the picture-perfect views of the entire city. The stairway which leads to the deck was built in 1903. The location is perfect for those who want to indulge in photography or simply enjoy the stunning views of the town. The climb up to the top is definitely challenging but the entire experience is truly rewarding, The Baltic Sea can be seen from this spot as well. Make sure that you reach extremely early and watch the sun rays hit every roof of the town. It is the most beautiful sight to behold!

Patkuli viewing platform

Address: Rahukohtu, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia

Website: Patkuli viewing platform

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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10. Explore the ancient Raeapteek pharmacy

things to do in estonia tallinn | explore the ancient raeapteek pharmacy
Source: instagram

Raeapteek pharmacy, which is popularly known as the Town Hall Pharmacy, is the oldest pharmacy in Europe. Dating back to the 15th century, the pharmacy has a cozy museum inside. To add to that, the entrance to the pharmacy is free. Age-old instruments can be seen here apart from exhibits of old glass bottles of medicines. Besides medication, they also sell high-end wine made according to ancient recipes.

Raeapteek

Address: Raekoja plats 11, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia

Website: Raeapteek

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun)

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11. Admire the towering spire of St. Olav’s Church and Tower


St. Olav’s Church is a magnificent gothic church, which, once used to be the tallest building in the entire world. The 159-meter (521.7 feet) spire was used as a guide during ancient times by approaching ships. Unfortunately, the height of the spire also turned out to be an extremely efficient lightning rod. It has been hit by lightning three times in the past, burning down the entire building. Currently rebuilt to a height of 124 meters (about 407 feet), the tower is a great place to admire the bewitching views of the city. The church, on the other hand, has ravishing interiors as well as exquisite exteriors which make it ones of the most popular churches in the city. Make sure to spend some time here to relax and unwind!

St. Olav’s Church and Tower

Address: Lai 50, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia

Website: St. Olav’s Church and Tower

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The hidden gem of Europe

The city is definitely one of the most magical places in Europe. There are many things that Tallinn, Estonia, is known for. The dreamy medieval architecture, historical bylanes, beautiful flower markets, the rustic atmosphere along with the most spectacular views epitomize Tallinn and make it a destination that you should tick off your bucket list right away.

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Frequently asked questions about things to do in Tallinn, Estonia

1. What are the top attractions to visit in Tallinn?

Tallinn has plenty to offer for all kinds of travelers. Some of the top attractions are the Seaplane Harbor for maritime enthusiasts, the Toompea Castle for history buffs, the Tallinn Town Hall for foodies, and the ancient Raeapteek pharmacy for wine aficionados.

2. What are the most popular things to do in Tallinn with kids?

Some of the popular things to do in Tallinn with kids are checking out the maritime exhibits in Lennusadam, touring the Toompea Castle grounds in Old Town, and marveling at the nautical artifacts in the Estonian Maritime Museum.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Samia Arshan is a Delhi-based content writer and undergraduate English Major who turned her dream to write into a reality. She's 20 years old and has been writing for over 4 years now. She has a...Read more

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