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The Port of Tallinn

Welcome to Tallinn

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a beautiful blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication. Located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is known for its well-preserved old town, cobblestone streets, and gothic spires. Cruise passengers visiting Tallinn will be transported back in time as they explore the city’s historic architecture, vibrant culture, and unique local flavors. With 6-10 hours to explore, you can discover Tallinn’s fascinating history, enjoy its thriving café culture, and admire stunning views from Toompea Hill.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships in Tallinn dock at the Old City Harbor (Vanasadam), which is located about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) from the historic city center. The port is well-organized, offering shuttle services, taxis, and walking paths into the city. During the summer months, Tallinn is a busy port, welcoming thousands of cruise passengers eager to explore its medieval streets and local attractions. From the port, it’s a pleasant 15-20 minute walk to the Old Town, or you can opt for public transport or a short taxi ride.

Transportation Options

Tallinn is a compact city, making it easy to get around on foot or with local transportation. Here are some options:

  • Walking: The Old Town is easily walkable, with most attractions located within a 15-20 minute walk from the cruise port.
  • Public Transport: Tallinn has a convenient bus, tram, and trolleybus network. Single tickets cost around €2, and the local transport hub is located near the harbor.
  • Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal, and a ride to the city center costs around €5-10 depending on the distance.
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: This sightseeing bus is a popular way to explore Tallinn’s highlights. A day pass costs around €25 per person and covers key sights like Kadriorg Palace and the TV Tower.
  • Bike Rentals: For a fun way to explore the city, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops for around €10 per day.

Nearby Towns and Cities

While Tallinn offers plenty to explore, there are nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Pirita Beach: 7 km (4.3 miles) away, about 15 minutes by car. This popular beach area is perfect for relaxing by the Baltic Sea and offers beautiful views of Tallinn’s skyline.
  • Rocca al Mare: 8 km (5 miles) away, about 20 minutes by car. Home to the Estonian Open Air Museum, where you can learn about Estonia’s rural life through traditional farmhouses and windmills.
  • Lahemaa National Park: 70 km (43 miles) away, about 1 hour by car. Estonia’s largest national park, featuring stunning forests, bogs, and manor houses, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.

 

Local Foods

Tallinn’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Estonian dishes and modern European cuisine. Be sure to try these local specialties:

  • Kama: A traditional Estonian dessert made from roasted barley, oats, and rye, often served with yogurt or sour milk.
  • Black Bread: A staple in Estonian cuisine, this hearty, dark rye bread is a must-try, often served with butter and pickles.
  • Pirukad: Small, savory pastries filled with meat, cabbage, or carrots, often enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal.
  • Mulgipuder: A hearty dish made from mashed potatoes and barley, often served with bacon and onions.
  • Vana Tallinn: A local liqueur made from rum, citrus, and spices, usually enjoyed after a meal or as part of a dessert.

 

Top 5 Attractions

Tallinn is full of fascinating sights and cultural landmarks. Here are the top five must-see attractions during your visit:

  • Old Town (Vanalinn): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tallinn’s Old Town is famous for its medieval buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautiful squares. Free to explore.
  • Toompea Castle: Situated on Toompea Hill, this historic castle is home to the Estonian Parliament. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the nearby viewing platforms. Free to visit.
  • Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: This stunning Russian Orthodox cathedral, with its onion domes and rich decorations, is one of Tallinn’s most iconic landmarks. Free to enter.
  • Kadriorg Palace: Built by Peter the Great in the early 18th century, this baroque palace now houses the Art Museum of Estonia. Entry costs around €6 per person.
  • St. Olaf’s Church: Once the tallest building in the world, St. Olaf’s Church offers a climb to the top of its tower for breathtaking views of the city. Entry costs around €3 per person.

 

Interesting Facts

Tallinn is steeped in history and full of interesting stories. Here are a few fun facts about this charming city:

  • Tallinn’s Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, with many buildings dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries.
  • The city was originally called “Reval” until 1918, when it was renamed Tallinn, meaning "Danish Castle" in Estonian.
  • St. Olaf’s Church was the tallest building in the world between 1549 and 1625, standing at 159 meters (522 feet) tall.

 

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Tallinn is located on the northern coast of Estonia, along the Gulf of Finland. The city’s medieval Old Town sits on Toompea Hill, overlooking the modern city and the Baltic Sea. Tallinn is surrounded by lush green parks, serene beaches, and dense forests, making it an ideal destination for both history buffs and nature lovers. The city’s proximity to Helsinki (a 2-hour ferry ride away) and the Estonian countryside offers additional exploration opportunities. Tallinn experiences a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters.

Local Customs and Culture

Estonians are known for their reserved but friendly demeanor, and Tallinn’s culture reflects the country’s connection to both nature and history. English is widely spoken, especially in the tourist areas, and tipping is appreciated but not mandatory, with 5-10% being common for good service. Estonia is a highly digital society, with free Wi-Fi available throughout Tallinn, and locals take pride in their tech-savvy reputation. Festivals celebrating medieval history, such as Tallinn Old Town Days, are popular, and visitors may also encounter traditional folk music and dance performances in the summer months.

Family-Friendly Activities

Tallinn offers plenty of activities for families with children of all ages:

  • Children up to 6 years old: Visit the Seaplane Harbour Museum, where young children can explore interactive exhibits and learn about Estonia’s maritime history. Entry is around €15 per person.
  • Children 7-12 years old: Explore the Tallinn Zoo, home to over 10,000 animals, including rare species from around the world. Entry is around €6 per child.
  • Teenagers 13-18 years old: Take a walk along the old city walls or visit the Tallinn TV Tower for incredible views of the city and surrounding countryside. Entry to the TV Tower costs around €13 per person.

 

Google Maps

Tallinn

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.*