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    How to pack for Tallinn, Estonia

    Practical tips
    21.09.2020 Noora Karppi
    Packing for a trip that takes you several latitudes or longitudes away from home is challenging. Estonians are used to the tricky weather and four seasons, but how should visitors pack for their vacation in Tallinn? 
    Read our guide on what to pack and wear in Tallinn in the spring, summer, autumn and winter. 

    Winter

    Winter comes usually with wind and snow. The streets can be slippery and the frost will try to take a bite of your nose. But, you don’t need to worry, if you are properly prepared and wear lots of layers. The temperatures usually vary between +5 and –25 °C. If it’s warmer, there’s no point in suffocating yourself with too many layers. Check the temperature and dress according to weather.

    Here’s what you should pack for winter vacation in Tallinn:
    Base layer
    • T-shirt or top
    • Tights or long johns
    Middle layer
    • Blouse or shirt
    • Jeans or trousers
    • Sweater or warm cardigan
    • Woollen socks
    Outer layer
    • Overcoat
    • Woolly hat
    • Mittens
    • Scarf
    • Snow boots or trekking boots
    Accessories
    • Umbrella
    Layers in total: 3-4

    For tips about winter activities, take a look at our article Christmas in Tallinn.

    Winter in the Open Air museum in Tallinn, Estonia Photo: Simon Snopek
    Photo: Simon Snopek

    Spring

    During springtime, you can feel the warmth of the sun, but the temperatures can be anything between -10 °C and 25 °C. The weather in the spring is changeable with a chilly breeze from the sea. It’s good to be prepared for cold and warm temperatures. Wear layers that are easy to add or take off.

    Here’s what you should pack for spring vacation in Tallinn:
    Base layer
    • T-shirt or top
    • Tights
    Middle layer
    • Blouse or shirt
    • Jeans or trousers
    • Dress or skirt
    • Cardigan or hoodie
    Outer layer
    • Coat
    • Scarf
    • Boots, rain boots
    Accessories
    • Umbrella
    • Sunglasses
    Layers in total: 2-3

    A woman on a romantic street in the medieval Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia Photo: Kadi-Liis Koppel

    Summer

    The temperature in the summer usually stays somewhere between 15-20 °C. Some days and months might be warmer, but the temperature rarely exceeds 30 °C. Sea breeze may bring chilly air to the city, so it’s nice to have something to throw over your shoulders every now and then.

    Here’s what you should pack for summer vacation in Tallinn:
    Base layer
    • T-shirt or top
    • Swimsuit
    Middle layer
    • Blouse or shirt
    • Jeans or trousers
    • Shorts
    • Summer dress or skirt
    • Hoodie or light cardigan
    Outer layer
    • Jacket
    • Cap or summer hat
    • Sneakers, sandals, loafers, flat shoes…
    Accessories
    • Umbrella
    • Sunglasses
    • Sunscreen
    Layers in total: 1-2

    Couple enjoying summer in the Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia Photo: Alexandr Snitovskii
    Photo: Alexandr Snitovskii

    Autumn

    Autumns are colourful and pretty, but also cloudy and rainy. So take your raincoat with you if you have one. We usually get the last sunny and warm days in the beginning of autumn, and the temperature might climb up to 20 °C. The last months of autumn will be colder. It might even snow.

    Here’s what you should pack for autumn vacation in Tallinn:
    Base layer
    • T-shirt or top
    • Tights
    Middle layer
    • Blouse or shirt
    • Jeans or trousers
    • Dress or skirt
    • Cardigan or hoodie
    Outer layer
    • (Rain)coat
    • Scarf
    • Gloves
    • Hat
    • Boots, sneakers, loafers, rain boots…
    Accessories
    • Umbrella
    Layers in total: 2-3

    Woman at the Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia, looking at a map of the city. Photo: Kadi-Liis Koppel
    Photo: Kadi-Liis Koppel

    Tips on what to wear in Tallinn

    • Ladies, you might see local women tiptoeing on the cobblestone streets in high heels. There’s no dress code in Tallinn that requires you to do the same. Keep in mind that the local ladies have had years of practise and even for most of them it is still painful. Wear shoes that are comfortable – it is the most important rule you should remember.
    • If you forgot your umbrella and it’s raining cats and dogs, ask your hotel reception for an umbrella or buy one from the nearest store. Even more practical is a raincoat. Don’t let rain ruin your holiday. With proper equipment, you don’t even notice it’s raining.
    • Don’t pack too much stuff, because Tallinn is a modern city and has everything you need. If you forgot your toothbrush or shampoo, these items are available in every grocery store in Tallinn. There are also nice shopping malls if you are looking for a new summer dress or hoodie.
    • For evenings out and to make you feel extra special on your vacation, bring some of your favourite items with you. In Tallinn, you are allowed to dress up. It’s your holiday. And if you feel more relaxed with no makeup on sporting a messy bun, go ahead! Just keep in mind to dress respectfully when visiting churches or going to the theatre or fancier restaurants.