Tallinn 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary for Exploring Tallinn, Estonia

Day 1: Old Town Exploration

Places to Go:

  1. Tallinn’s Medieval Old Town - Start your journey by exploring the charming, well-preserved medieval old town. Walk along the cobblestone streets, admiring the colorful buildings and Gothic spires.

  2. Toompea Hill - Reach the top of Toompea Hill, where you’ll find key attractions like Toomkirik, or Dome Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and Parliament of Estonia.

  3. Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) - This historic square is lined with beautiful medieval houses and the majestic Town Hall. It’s a great spot for lunch at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Estonian cuisine.

  4. St. Olav’s Church Tower - For panoramic views over Tallinn, climb the tower of St. Olav’s Church (admission fee).

  5. Kiek in de Kok - This medieval cannon tower houses a museum about the history of Tallinn’s defenses.

Activities:

  1. Visit a Traditional Apothecary Museum - Step back in time at the Pharmacy Museum to learn about Estonian medicine through the ages.

  2. Explore St. Catherine’s Passage (Viru väljak) - This picturesque passageway is filled with charming shops and eateries.

Where to Eat:

  1. Pähviliid - Traditional Estonian dishes in a cozy setting.
  2. Restoran Maikro - Located in Town Hall Square, this restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Estonian cuisine.
  3. Kohvik Aed - Stop by this charming café for a coffee break and a piece of kringle (Estonian pastry).

Where to Stay:

  1. Hotel Telegraaf - This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Old Town, with stylish rooms and an on-site restaurant.
  2. Schlossle Hotel - A charming, family-run hotel with a focus on eco-friendly practices.
  3. Park Inn by Radisson Tallinn - Modern accommodation with great city views, located near the Old Town.

Things to Know:

  1. Currency - Estonia uses the Euro (€).
  2. Language - The official language is Estonian, but English is widely spoken.
  3. Electricity - Estonia uses Type F power sockets and the standard voltage is 230V.

Day 2: Modern Tallinn & Green Spaces

Places to Go:

  1. Kumu Art Museum - Start your day at this contemporary art museum, showcasing Estonian art from the 18th century to the present.

  2. Kadriorg Park - Stroll through this beautiful park, which houses Kadriorg Palace and an impressive collection of sculptures.

  3. Tallinn Botanic Garden - Spend some time in nature at this extensive garden with a variety of plants from around the world.

  4. Telliskivi Creative City - Explore this vibrant area filled with trendy eateries, bars, shops, and galleries.

  5. Patarei Sea Fortress - Visit this historic sea fortress, now housing an art gallery and events space.

Where to Eat:

  1. Leib Resto ja Aed - Modern Estonian cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients.
  2. Farm - Located in Telliskivi Creative City, this restaurant offers creative vegetarian and vegan dishes.
  3. Rootslost - Traditional Estonian dishes in a cozy setting, located near Telliskivi.

Day 3: Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park

Places to Go:

Take a day trip to stunning Lahemaa National Park, just an hour’s drive east of Tallinn. Here you can explore forests, bogs, coastal cliffs, and charming villages. Some highlights include:

  1. Palace of Pedasmäe - Visit this beautiful 18th-century manor house and park.
  2. Jägala Waterfall - See one of Estonia’s most impressive waterfalls.
  3. Nõmme Village - Wander through the picturesque streets of this traditional fishing village.
  4. Sagadi Manor - Explore the gardens, manor house, and museum at this historic estate.

Where to Eat:

  1. Muusa - Located in Lahemaa National Park, this restaurant offers delicious Estonian dishes made with local ingredients.

Transportation:

  1. Tallinn Airport (Lennart Meri Tallinna Lennujaam) - The primary international airport serving Tallinn.
  2. Tallinn Bus Station - The main hub for long-distance bus travel, with connections to Lahemaa National Park and other destinations.
  3. Tallinn City Passenger Port - The city’s passenger port, served by numerous ferries connecting Tallinn to Helsinki, Stockholm, and other destinations.
  4. Public Transportation (TLÜ) - A comprehensive network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses that cover the entire city. Purchase a travel card for unlimited rides during your stay.

Tips:

  1. Visit During Spring or Autumn - To enjoy the best weather and avoid crowds.
  2. Stroll Along Narva Road (Narva maantee) - This pedestrian street is filled with unique shops, galleries, and cafés.
  3. Take a Traditional Sauna Experience - Relax in a traditional Estonian sauna, either at a spa or at a public sauna like the Kalmistu Sauna near Lahemaa National Park.