10 Things to do in Tallinn in Winter
With a baby on the way, we wanted to take one last trip, just the two of us. We had a long debate on where to go and in the end, Tallinn’s snowy charm won us over, and looking back, we couldn’t imagine a better choice.
Tallinn in winter is straight out of a fairy tale. The snow-covered Old Town, warm candle-lit cafés, the smell of mulled wine on the Christmas market in the air… just like stepping into a medieval winter wonderland, but with a cool, modern twist.
Beyond history, Tallinn is also one of Europe’s most innovative cities, often called the digital capital thanks to its cutting-edge tech scene, free public Wi-Fi everywhere, and a thriving startup culture.
We visited Tallinn in winter and absolutely fell in love with the city. If you’re wondering what to do here during the colder months, and if it’s worth it, I’ve got you covered.
Here’s my ultimate winter guide to Tallinn.
1. Take a free Walking Tour
One of the best ways to truly understand Tallinn’s history is by taking a free walking tour with EstAdventures. While the city’s beauty speaks for itself, learning about its medieval past and influences gives you a deeper appreciation of what makes Tallinn so unique.
Our guide, Marko, was both warm and incredibly knowledgeable. With his background as a teacher and historian. He made Tallinn’s history come alive with engaging storytelling, fascinating insights, and a great sense of humor.
2. Explore the Old Town
The Lower Old Town
Begin at Viru Gate, the grand medieval entrance to the Old Town. Covered in a blanket of snow, the narrow streets really felt untouched by time.
Continued through St. Catherine’s Passage, one of the most picturesque alleyways in the Old Town, lined with artisan workshops and medieval stone walls.
Next, explore the Hellemann Tower and Town Wall, where, for a small fee, you can climb the medieval fortifications for a bird’s-eye view of the snow-capped rooftops below. From here you can truly see just how well-preserved Tallinn’s Old Town is.
Arrive at Town Hall Square, the heart of the Old Town, framed by pastel-colored merchant houses. Towering above it is the Tallinn Town Hall, a striking Gothic building dating back to the 1400s. The 64-meter tower adds to its impressive stature, and during the winter months, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree stands proudly in the square, an annual tradition said to have started right here in 1441.
Just across from the Town Hall is Raeapteek, Europe’s oldest continuously operating pharmacy. Inside, we got a glimpse of medieval remedies—from powdered unicorn horn to dried hedgehogs and mummy juice!
Toompea
Make your way up Toompea Hill. Our guide explained how medieval Tallinn was once divided in two, the Lower Town, home to merchants and craftsmen, and Toompea, the fortress of nobility and rulers.
At the top stands Toompea Castle, originally built in 1229 by the Knights of the Sword. Over the centuries, it has served as the seat of power for various rulers, and today, it houses the Estonian Parliament.
Facing the castle is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an ornate Orthodox church built in 1900 during the Russian Empire’s rule. It was meant to symbolize Russian dominance over Estonia, and while its history is complicated, the architectural beauty of its onion-domed towers can’t be denied. It was salvation to step inside and warm ourselves up after a long walk in the cold city.
For the best panoramic views of Tallinn, stop at Patkuli Viewing Platform, where the snow-covered Old Town stretches before you, with its medieval towers and city walls leading down to the harbor. A short walk away, you can find Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform which will give you an even broader perspective. It was so cold that my hands nearly froze while I was trying to take a picture!
3. Visit the Museums
When it’s too cold to stay outside, Tallinn has some seriously cool museums and cultural spaces worth exploring.
Seaplane Harbour Museum
One of Tallinn’s most impressive museums, the Seaplane Harbour Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history, military technology, or just really cool ships and submarines. Housed in a massive seaplane hangar from the early 20th century, the museum’s highlight is the Lembit submarine, which you can actually go inside!
Even if you’re not a huge maritime fan, the sheer scale of the exhibits and the incredible architecture of the hangar make it worth a visit. You can find lots of interactive displays, like a flight simulator and hands-on exhibits for kids (and curious adults).
After your visit, take a short walk to the outdoor harbor area, where you can explore additional ships and enjoy great sea views, or even try a hot sauna with a plunge into the sea after!
For more info about the Maritime Museum, click HERE.
KGB museum
If you’re into spy stories, Cold War history, or just want to see a different side of Tallinn, the KGB Museum is an eye-opening experience. Located on the top floor of the Viru Hotel, this small but powerful museum tells the story of how the KGB monitored and controlled people in Soviet Estonia.
The Viru Hotel was once one of the only hotels foreigners could stay in during Soviet times, and the KGB had an entire hidden surveillance center inside, eavesdropping on guests.
For more info about the KGB Museum, click HERE.
Kiek in de Kök
For a deep dive into Tallinn’s medieval and underground history, the Kiek in de Kök Fortifications Museum is a must. The name Kiek in de Kök (which literally means “peek into the kitchen” in Low German) comes from the time when soldiers could look down into townspeople’s homes from the tower. Today, this massive 15th-century artillery tower is part of a 500-meter-long museum complex, featuring:
- The Kiek in de Kök Tower, filled with exhibits on medieval warfare and Tallinn’s fortifications.
- The Bastion Passages, a network of underground tunnels originally built in the 1600s. These tunnels have been used for war, smuggling, and even as bomb shelters during WWII.
- The Carved Stone Museum, displaying medieval tombstones and architectural fragments.
Walking through the dimly lit Bastion Passages is a chilly experience. The tunnels have seen everything from soldiers and merchants to Soviet-era squatters and Cold War bunkers.
For more info about the KGB Museum, click HERE.
Proto Invention Factory
For something completely different, PROTO Invention Factory takes you out of history and into a mind-blowing world of virtual reality and futuristic inventions. Located in a former submarine factory, PROTO combines interactive VR experiences, physics experiments, and hands-on science exhibits.
Step into a VR-powered airship, race a steam-powered car, or explore deep-sea worlds. Try hands-on experiments that blend history, science, and technology.
It is great for families, science lovers, and anyone who enjoys immersive experiences.
For more info about the KGB Museum, click HERE.
4. Telliskivi Creative City
After immersing ourselves in Tallinn’s rich history, it is time to explore its modern, creative side at Telliskivi Creative City, a hub of art, culture, and innovation.
Once an industrial complex, Telliskivi has been transformed into a vibrant arts district, packed with street art, indie boutiques, and cozy cafés. You could easily spent hours wandering through unique shops, checking out Fotografiska, a world-class photography museum with a rooftop café and stunning city views, and soaking up the creative energy of the area. Telliskivi also features a theater and a contemporary dance platform, making it a true cultural hotspot.
With over 800 cultural events held year-round, this district is always buzzing with creative energy. And, of course, the eye-catching street art adds the perfect finishing touch to the neighborhood’s cool, urban vibe.
If you will be hungry, try the F-Hoone, a local favorite restaurant, where I suggest you order the dumplings in creamy mushroom sauce. They were absolutely delicious!
5. Take a hot Sauna
I quickly learned that Estonians take their sauna culture seriously, and for good reason. After a cold day exploring, nothing feels better than stepping into a steaming hot sauna, followed (if you dare) by a plunge into freezing water.
Kalma Saun
If you want to experience a truly authentic Estonian sauna, Kalma Saun is the place to go. Dating back to 1928, it’s one of Tallinn’s oldest public saunas, and stepping inside feels like it. You can find traditional wood-heated saunas that have been in use for almost a century, separate areas for men and women, each with its own hot and steam rooms.
It is a social experience where locals come to chat, relax, and even “beat” each other with birch branches for better circulation.
After your sauna session, you can cool down by stepping outside into the crisp winter air, some locals even take a cold water plunge!
Iglupark Saunas
For a completely different vibe, Iglupark Saunas offers a modern, luxury experience right by the sea. Imagine sitting in a steaming hot sauna inside a stylish wooden igloo, gazing out at the icy Baltic waters, it’s the ultimate relaxation with a view. You can book a private igloo sauna for a more exclusive experience.
It is a perfect mix of tradition and modern comfort, with sleek wooden interiors and cozy vibes. The best part? You can jump straight into the Baltic Sea from a designated area outside.
For more info about the Iglupark Sauna, click HERE.
6. Visit the Christmas Market
If you’re visiting between late November and early January, the Tallinn Christmas Market in Town Hall Square is an absolute must-see. Stroll through the enchanting market, surrounded by centuries-old buildings adorned with festive lights. Explore over 50 stalls offering handmade crafts, local treats, and traditional Estonian delights.
The centerpiece, a majestic Christmas tree, adds to the market’s allure. Tallinn claims to have hosted the world’s first Christmas tree right here in 1441! Bring your Wishlist for Santa and drop it off at his mailbox. And while you are wandering through the magical market scented with gingerbread, enjoy some hot glögi (mulled wine) with almonds and raisins, and a plate of verivorst (Estonian blood sausage) with sauerkraut. It’s a classic winter combo and very delicious!
7. Go Ice Skating
Ice skating in Tallinn is one of the best ways to embrace the winter season, whether you’re gliding through a charming Old Town rink or enjoying a larger, modern ice arena. The city has several great spots for skating, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater looking for a fun winter experience.
If you’re looking for a magical winter atmosphere, the Harju Street Ice Rink is the perfect place. Nestled right in the Old Town, near St. Nicholas’ Church, this outdoor rink is surrounded by historic buildings, twinkling lights, and a festive winter vibe.
You can rent skates on-site, so no need to bring your own, and after skating, warm up with a cup of hot glögi from a nearby café.
8. Balti Jaama Turg
If you’re looking for a market that has it all, Balti Jaama Turg is the place to go. Located just outside Tallinn’s Old Town, next to Balti Jaam train station, this modern yet authentic market blends traditional Estonian flavors with a trendy, urban atmosphere. It’s a food lover’s paradise, a treasure trove of antiques, and a great place to experience local life. It is divided into:
The Food Hall
Where you can find fresh Estonian produce, freshly baked bread and pastries from local bakeries, smoked and marinated fish, including Baltic herring, butcher stalls selling Estonian meats and wild game, cheese counters featuring local dairy products, seasonal fruits and vegetables straight from Estonian farms.
You can explore various street food stalls offering everything from dumplings to gourmet burgers. A favorite one is PELMEN, a stall, that offers many types of tasty dumplings with various fillings. It is perfect for a quick lunch.
Antiques, Vintage Finds & Local Crafts
Beyond the food, Balti Jaama Turg is also a treasure trove for vintage lovers. On the second floor, you’ll find stalls selling Soviet-era memorabilia, Vintage clothing & accessories, Old books, vinyl records & quirky collectibles, and Handmade crafts & souvenirs.
So if you want to bring home something unique from Tallinn, this is the place to go. And if you’re in Telliskivi Creative City, Balti Jaama Turg is just a short walk away, perfect for combining both in one visit!
9. Catch a Stand-Up Comedy Show
If you’re looking for something fun to do at night, Tallinn has some cool underground venues offering live performances. Our favorite was Heldeke! A unique bar + comedy + cabaret venue in one!
Heldeke! is an underground bar that regulary hosts stand-up comedy shows, (also in English), concerts, magic shows, and theatrical performances. But if you’re looking for something really different, they even have sauna sessions and pizza nights!
Check out their schedule HERE.
10. Take a Day trip to Helsinki
A day trip to Helsinki from Tallinn is an easy and rewarding Nordic getaway. Several ferry options are available, but Tallink Silja offers the most frequent departures, with a smooth two-hour journey across the gulf. You can book a breakfast onboard to start your day right (as we did), or upgrade to business class for access to an exclusive buffet with unlimited drinks.
Once in Helsinki, start your day by exploring the city on foot or joining a free walking tour to learn about its history, architecture, and unique landmarks. Visit the Oodi Library, a masterpiece of modern design, and stop by Senate Square to admire the iconic Helsinki Cathedral.
For lunch, head to the Old Market Hall to sample local Finnish flavors like salmon soup or reindeer meat. Afterward, stroll along the waterfront, where you’ll find public saunas, a key part of Finnish culture.
In the evening, take the ferry back to Tallinn. While you won’t be able to enjoy the sea views, as it gets dark pretty fast in the North, enjoy a relaxing meal on board, a perfect way to end your Nordic adventure.
If you want to get the most out of your Helsinki experience, check out A Perfect Day-trip to Helsinki!
Want to cozy up in a nice cafe? We got you. If you want to read about amazing dishes to try in Tallinn, and our restaurant recommendations, check out 10 Must-try Dishes in Tallinn + food guide.
Breakfast places and pastry shops in Tallinn
Kohvik Must Puudel
A quirky, retro-style café in the Old Town, Must Puudel serves delicious breakfasts and pastries in a cozy setting. Their homemade granola, pancakes, and hearty omelets are perfect for a slow morning and their flat white is also no shame.
Värav Coffee and toast
A small yet charming breakfast place, Värav is known for its tasty toasts and healthy acai bowls. It is located in the middle of a parking place just outside the medieval walls in the northern part of the city and is a great place to start your day.
5 Senses
5 Senses is a café, restaurant, and concept store combining brunch, specialty coffee, cocktails, and sustainable lifestyle products from across Europe.
The brunch menu features global favorites like Eggs Benedict, Fried Chicken Waffles, Shakshouka, and Japanese Pancakes, paired with coffee, kombucha, or a Mimosa. You can stop by also for weekly lunch selection offers.
RØST Bakery
One of Tallinn’s most famous bakeries, RØST specializes in sourdough bread and buttery cinnamon & cardamom buns, that are to die for. Their pastries are legendary, and the café has a warm, Scandinavian feel. The bakery is located in the modern Rotermann district.
Pulla Bakery
If you love Finnish style baked goods, Pulla Bakery is the place to go. Their soft, spiced pulla (cardamom buns) and fresh-baked pastries are simply irresistible.
La Boulangerie
For a true Parisian experience, head to La Boulangerie, where you’ll find authentic French croissants, éclairs, and pain au chocolat, all made with the finest ingredients. The quality is exceptional, and my only regret is that I was able to visit just once.
