Top five activities in Tallinn in the summer

Tallinn is a paradise for pedestrians. It's compact and flat and has several areas dedicated to car-free travel. The centre of Tallinn – the medieval Old Town – is the ideal place for pedestrians. There, you can take in the historical heritage of the city at your own pace. In the city centre, you can easily walk from one end to the other, strolling along beautiful seaside promenades and footpaths. Tallinn's numerous parks and green areas offer a respite from the hubbub of the city. Walk down to Kadriorg or Pirita or even to the other side of the city to Nõmme. There, the shady pine forest will make you forget that you are just half an hour away from the centre of the city. 

Every district in Tallinn offers great views. Why not combine that with an amazing meal? For example, in the City Centre, you can enjoy the sea view at the cruise-themed restaurant Ocean 11. In Noblessner, you can visit the first restaurant in the Baltic states to be awarded two Michelin Stars – 180° by Matthias Diether. Lore Bistroo and Japanese restaurant Kampai also offer excellent dishes on seaside terraces. In Kadriorg, Pirita and Viimsi districts, you can enjoy a seaside view at the Tuljak, Mon Repos and NOA restaurants. All of them have been noted in the Michelin Guide.

If you enjoy heights, it's worth checking out the Tallinn TV Tower restaurant. You can't find any higher view of Tallinn. Closer to the City Centre, you can enjoy exciting meals at restaurant Horisont, located on the 30th floor of Swissôtel Tallinn, and the Nikkei cuisine restaurant Issei on the top floor of the Radisson Collection hotel.

This summer, visitors will have the chance to experience the spectacular maritime celebration of The Tall Ships Races in Tallinn from July 11-14. Over 60 majestic sailing ships will dock at Tallinn's harbors, transforming the city into a vibrant festival ground. Visitors can explore the ships, enjoy performances by Estonia's finest artists, and engage in a plethora of land and sea activities. This event is not just a feast for the eyes but a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Tallinn's rich cultural and historical heritage, making it a must-visit for those exploring Estonia this summer. 

But don't worry if you aren't in Tallinn for the Tall Ships Races. Tallinn's cultural calendar is full of events this summer. There's always something fun happening in the city.

Why is Tallinn named Tallinn? How did Estonians live one hundred or two hundred years ago? If you want to learn more about the history of Tallinn and Estonia and its people, be sure to visit some museums while visiting. The Estonian Open Air Museum shows how people in Estonia used to live in ancient and not-so-ancient times. The Viimsi Open Air Museum brings to life the lives of the coastal people throughout the ages. The Tallinn City Life Museum introduces the life of the people of Tallinn throughout the centuries. The Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom gives context to the recent history of Estonia.

You can enjoy the beauty, greenery and historic vibe of Tallinn while staying active and taking part in exciting activities. Embark on a fun city tour and pass through Tallinn's districts on foot or by bicycle. Test yourself at the Pirita or Nõmme Adventure Parks. Go on a yacht trip on Tallinn Bay or visit one of the islands near Tallinn for a few days. The options are endless.

Extra tip: Did you know that the Tallinn Card provides free access to all the best museums? You can also use public transport for free with the Tallinn Card and get discounts in various shops, restaurants and attractions. One adult card will allow you to take two children under the age of seven with you for free. 

You can purchase tickets on your smart device using the Tallinn Card app and activate them whenever you wish – the tickets will become active from the first time you use them, whether in a museum or on public transport.

The app allows you to keep the whole family’s tickets on one device. You will also receive notifications for special events, offers or changes in opening times through the app. The map function of the Tallinn Card app allows you to always reach your destination without hassle. It also makes it easy to find places to visit based on your interests.

Download the app from the Play Store or the App Store.