Day Trips from Tallinn Old Town. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is approximately 80 km (50 miles) across the Inlet of Finland.

Frequent ferry services are available from operators like Tallink Silja Line, Viking Line, and Eckerö Line. The journey lasts about 2-2.5 hours. Ferries include various amenities.

Highlights

Easy ferry connection for an international day trip.
Explore Senate Square and its symbolic cathedral.
Visit Suomenlinna fortress, an UNESCO World Heritage site.
Discover local markets and design shops.

Natural Escapes

Estonia's diverse landscapes offer ample opportunities for nature lovers to check out unique ecosystems.

Lahemaa National Park

Approximately 70 km (43 miles) east of Tallinn, this national park features extensive forests, wetlands, and dramatic coastline.

Park Features

Ideal for hiking and nature walks.
Explore historic manors like Palmse and Sagadi.
Visit charming fishing villages along the coast.

Waterfalls & Cliffs

Discover Estonia's largest natural waterfall plus striking coastal landscapes.

Scenic Spots

Jägala Waterfall, impressive after heavy rain or in winter.
Pakri Peninsula offers rough shoreline and karst cliffs.
Visit Estonia's highest lighthouse at Pakri.

Bog Walks

Experience Unique Ecosystems

Unique bog ecosystems feature wooden boardwalks.
Explore Viru Bog trail in Lahemaa National Park.
Cold weather tours may require extra preparation.
Wet conditions are common; suitable footwear is advisable.

Tranquil & Distinct Views

Enjoy tranquil and distinct natural experiences.
Excellent opportunities for nature photography.
Mosquitoes can be present, especially in summer.
Some remote bogs are harder to access without a guide.

Estonian Nature Facts

Forest Coverage:Over 50%
National Parks:6
Islands:Over 2,200
Total Coastline:Over 3,700 km

Largest Lake:Peipus
Highest Point:Suur Munamägi (318m)
Wetlands Coverage:Over 20%
Average Summer Temp:16-20°C (61-68°F)

Booking Day Trips

For organized day trips and day trips from Tallinn, explore options and reserve activities at GetYourGuide Day Trips.

Cultural Excursions

Explore Estonia's broader cultural heritage beyond the Old Town walls with these enriching day trips.

Open Air Museum

Located in Rocca al Mare, this institution recreates rural Estonian village life with historic farmsteads. Easily accessible by bus from Tallinn city center.

Palmse & Sagadi Manor

These historic manors within Lahemaa National Park offer insight into Estonian noble life, architecture, and historical estates.

Rakvere Castle

Medieval the ruins of a castle with interactive exhibits and a medieval theme park, located an hour's go east of Tallinn.

Estonian History & Art

Explore Estonia's past and artistic expressions including visits to institutions.

Museum Highlights

KUMU Art Museum, Estonia's largest art museum.
Estonian History Museum, documenting national heritage.
Explore the Kiek in de Kök Fortifications Museum.

Beyond Tallinn's Walls

Venture outside the capital for regional cultural experiences.

Regional Cultural Sites

Tartu, Estonia's intellectual and cultural capital.
Pärnu, a summer capital known for the coast and spas.
Saaremaa, an isle with unique nature and windmills.

Cultural Tips

Historical Sites:Check opening hours for public holidays.

Museum Access:Many museums close on Mondays.

Local Guides:Consider a guided tour for insights.

Estonian Crafts:Look for "Eesti Käsitöö" certification.

Cultural Events:Local tourism boards list events.

Advance Tickets:Booking ahead for popular venues.

Support Local Artisans

Purchase authentic Estonian handicraft to back local craftspeople.
Many small shops in the Old Town offer unique, locally made souvenirs.
This contributes directly to preserving cultural traditions.
Seek out things with the "Eesti Käsitöö" label.
Your choices help preserve the unique character of Tallinn.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider extending your trip to explore more of the Baltic region or Estonian islands for a broader experience.

Extend Your Baltic Adventure

1

Baltic Capitals Tour

Combine Tallinn with Riga (Latvia) and Vilnius (Lithuania) for a comprehensive journey through the Baltic states.

2

Saaremaa Island Getaway

Discover Estonia's the largest landmass, known for untouched nature, windmills, and meteorite craters.

3

Nordic Exploration

Keep going on your journey by taking an overnight ferry to Helsinki (Finland) or Stockholm (Sweden).

Baltic Capitals Travel Logistics

Comfortable Lux Express buses connect the three Baltic capitals.
A typical itinerary for all three cities spans 5-7 days.
This travel method offers efficient movement from one point to another.
Consider booking bus tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
Each capital offers distinct cultural and historical attractions.
Explore local food scenes and city life.

Saaremaa Island Access

Access Saaremaa by ferry from Virtsu (mainland) to Kuivastu (Muhu island).
Muhu island connects to Saaremaa by a causeway.
A 2-3 a visit for the day allows thorough exploration.
Discover Kaali meteorite craters, unique windmills, and spa resorts.
Experience a slow and steady pace and rural Estonian island life.
Booking boat tickets ahead is advisable.

Travel Tips for Extended Trips

Transportation Planning

Research bus and ferry schedules, especially for international connections. Consider booking tickets early for popular routes.

Accommodation Booking

Secure lodging in advance for each destination, specifically during high season, to ensure preferred options.

Currency Considerations

Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Finland use the Euro. Sweden uses Swedish Krona. Plan for currency exchange or card use.

Plan Ahead for Seamless Journeys

For multi-day trips, booking getting around and accommodation well in advance secures preferred choices and can offer better value.

Day Trips from Tallinn Old Town