FAQ: frequently asked questions about Tallinn
Can I use English in Tallinn?
English is the most widely known foreign language in Tallinn, although older people are more likely to speak German. In most establishments in the tourist industry it is possible to use English, Finnish, Russian and German.
Which currency and bank cards are used in Tallinn/Estonia?
The national currency in Estonia is the Euro. Larger hotels, stores and restaurants accept Visa, MasterCard, Eurocard and American Express debit and credit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some cash with you.
What travel documents do I need to enter Estonia?
Since Estonia is a member of the European Union, citizens of EU member states can enter Estonia without a visa, or even a passport, as long as they have a valid ID card. For further information about visas visit the Estonian Foreign Ministry home page.
When are shops and shopping centres open in Tallinn?
The major shopping centres are generally open from 10 am until 9 pm daily. Smaller shops are open on weekdays 10 am – 7 pm, Saturdays 10 am – 5 pm and are closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Can I shop tax free in Tallinn?
Visitors from countries outside of the EU can purchase items without paying the VAT from stores that offer tax free shopping. Please look for a Global Blue Tax Free Shopping signage in the window. The minimum purchase amount is 38.01€. When purchasing tax free, a special form will be given in the shop and must be filled out by the customer. This form, along with purchase receipts and the unused purchases, must later be presented at the airport, at the border, on the ferry or the cruise-ship, where it will be stamped. When the forms are stamped, present them at a Global Blue refund desk to receive a tax refund.
For more information on tax free shopping and getting a tax refund, please visit: www.globalblue.com
For more information on tax free shopping and getting a tax refund, please visit: www.globalblue.com
How much do taxis cost?
There are maximum fares set for taxi companies, but fares can vary widely in allowed range, therefore the total cost will depend upon the taxi company you choose and the distance and time travelled. A taxi ride from the harbour to the centre of town costs about 6 EUR and from the airport, about 7 EUR. A more detailed overview of information about Tallinn taxis can be found here.
Where can I purchase public transport tickets?
Tallinn uses plastic smartcard and QR ticket system. The plastic smartcard allows you to top up credit or buy tickets valid for different lengths of time. Read more...
What are the usual lunch and dinner times in Tallinn?
Lunch is usually served between 12PM-3PM and many restaurants have special lunch offers during this time (weekdays only).
Dinner is usually served between 6-8PM.
How do I pay for parking in Tallinn?
Parking on streets in the city centre, Old Town and Pirita requires payment. Parking vouchers can be bought from street-side vending machines or from newsstands. In some areas, vouchers are sold by parking guards.
Visitors with a foreign SIM card can also use a mobile parking app for smartphones.
Download the free application for Android or for iPhone.
Visitors with a foreign SIM card can also use a mobile parking app for smartphones.
Download the free application for Android or for iPhone.
Where can I exchange money? Do I have to pay a service fee?
Money can be exchanged at currency exchanges (Tavid, Monex, Eurex) and banks (Swedbank, SEB, Luminor). Service fees are charged both by currency exchanges and banks.
How much should I tip?
Tipping is not compulsory in Tallinn, but if the service or food is exceptionally good, then it is common to leave a tip of about 5 to 10% of the bill.
How can I get from the airport to the city centre?
Bus no. 2 leaves from the airport to the city centre every 20-30 minutes, and operates from 6:30 AM until 11:30 PM. Single journey tickets can be bought from the driver and cost €2. The airport bus stop is on the level 0 down the escalator. The downtown bus stop is located on Laikmaa Street, between the Tallink Hotel and the Viru Centre, attached to the Sokos Hotel Viru.
A Taxi stand is also just outside the departure hall. The fare from the airport to the city centre is around 10€.
How can I get from the harbour to the city centre?
Tram no. 2 connects the harbour to the city centre. Get the tram from the stop "Vanasadama" in front of Terminal A, make sure the tram is heading towards Suur-Paala, as indicated at the front of the tram. Exit the tram at stop A. Laikmaa and you'll be in the city centre.
What is the Tallinn Card?
Tallinn Card is the city's all-in-one discount card for visitors, entitling them to dozens of fantastic free offers, discounts and gifts. Here's what comes with the Tallinn Card:
- Free admission to over 40 museums and sights, including Tallinn's top 10 attractions
- One free sightseeing tour of your choice from among two options
- Unlimited, free use of Tallinn's public transport
- Free Tallinn Card Map