Neighbourhoods in Tallinn
Each district in Tallinn has its own unique character. Some take you back to medieval times, while others are full of modern art, street food and hipster vibes. Are you ready to explore them all?
Visit TallinnPhoto: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn Old Town is one of the most fun neighbourhoods to explore on foot. With cobbled streets, medieval buildings and hidden corners, it is the kind of place where you will want to stop for a photo or even ten.
Niguliste Museum
Visiting the Niguliste Museum in Tallinn is like stepping into the Middle Ages. Inside the old church, you’ll find spooky art like the famous Dance of Death, and you can also climb to a viewing platform for amazing views of the city.
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Photo: Kadi-Liis Koppel / visittallinn.ee
Town Hall Square
Town Hall Square is the lively heart of the old town. On sunny days, you can relax at one of the many cafés and listen to live music. In winter, the square hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
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Photo: Toomas Tuul / visittallinn.ee
Town Hall Pharmacy
Ever wondered what a 15th-century pharmacy looks like? Step into the Town Hall Pharmacy, the oldest still-working one in Europe. Right next door, a small museum shows how people once used herbs, leeches, and even mummy dust to heal!
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Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam / visittallinn.ee
Toompea Hill
Toompea Hill rises above Tallinn like a quiet lookout spot. Climb to the top and you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the old city, red rooftops, and the harbor beyond. It’s a bit of a hike, but totally worth it to see the city from above.
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St Catherine’s Passage
St Catherine’s Passage is the kind of place you stumble into and instantly reach for your camera. It’s named after St Catherine’s Church, believed to have stood here for over 700 years.
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Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam / visittallinn.ee
Masters’ Courtyard
The Masters’ Courtyard is a quiet corner where local artists and craftspeople sell unique gifts like jewellery and ceramics. With its timeless feel and a cosy café, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a taste of old Tallinn.
Vene tn 6Rotermann Quarter
Photo: Karel Koplimets / visittallinn.ee
Modern neighbourhood
Rotermann is a vibrant neighbourhood between the harbour, Viru Square and Tallinn’s Old Town. Once a 19th-century factory district, its old industrial buildings have been beautifully restored and now stand alongside striking modern architecture. Today, it is home to trendy restaurants, stylish shops and cosy cafés.
How to get there: close to the harbor, perfect as a first or last stop during the day in Tallinn.
Museum of Estonian Architecture
At the museum, you can explore the development of professional architecture and spatial culture in Estonia. The new exhibition “Sailing forward” shows how the 1980 Olympic regatta brought significant changes to the city.
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PoCo art museum
PoCo Art Museum is a must-visit for fans of pop and contemporary art. It features street art, digital works and creative takes on icons and world leaders. A bold and quirky snapshot of today’s art scene.
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Levier
Levier is all about macarons, cakes, coffee, smoothies and a cute, cosy atmosphere. On weekdays, they offer lunch deals, but their full menu is also worth exploring for some real treats.
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RØST Bakery
RØST Bakery is known by locals for having some of the best coffee in town, made with top-quality beans from local and other micro roasters. It is also a sourdough bakery, so you can enjoy fresh bread and pastries with your cup.
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Flamm
Craving a glass of wine? Head to Flamm, a cosy wine bar serving Flammkuchen – the delicious flame-baked flatbreads from Alsace. Pair your drink with tasty snacks made to match their carefully selected wines.
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Gallery Cafe
Gallery Café is the perfect spot for brunch lovers. They serve all-day breakfast with everything from pancakes to croissants and omelettes. In winter, you can warm up with a cup of glögg. It is also an art gallery.
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Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam / visittallinn.ee
Full of greenery
Kadriorg is one of Tallinn’s most picturesque districts, known for its grand park and elegant architecture. The area is home to the Presidential Palaceand three major art museums. Strolling through the park, you will see charming wooden villas, fountains and cafés. It’s an amazing area to have a picnic and just enjoy the greenery.
How to get there: It’s a 15-minute walk from the city centre, or a short bus or tram ride. Hop off at the stop Kadriorg Park.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Estonian Art Museum
KUMU is Estonia’s largest art museum, and the building alone is worth the visit. Inside, you’ll find everything from classic Estonian art to bold contemporary works. It even caught Hollywood’s eye – part of the film Tenet was shot here.
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Kadriorg park
Kadriorg Park is where locals go to breathe, picnic and stroll among fountains and flower beds. With a castle, art museums, ponds and even a Japanese garden, there’s something stunning around every corner.
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Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Tallinn Song Festival Grounds
Want to see where 15,000 singers raise their voices together? The Tallinn Song Festival Grounds is the city’s largest open-air venue, with space for up to 100,000 people. It’s a powerful place, full of music, history and national pride.
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Katharinenthal
Katharinenthal is one of the cutest cafés in Kadriorg. Set among gardens and tree-lined paths, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee, enjoy a cake, watch the swans on the pond and do a bit of people-watching as park-goers stroll by.
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Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Pirita Promenade and Reidi Road
If you love sea views and fresh air, the walk from the city centre to Pirita along Reidi Road is a must. Watch sailboats glide across the water, rent a bike, or just take in the skyline and sunsets.
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Housed in a stunning Baroque palace built by Peter the Great, Kadriorg Art Museum is a treat for fans of elegance and classic European art. You can stroll through rooms filled with centuries-old paintings and decor.
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Children’s Museum Miiamilla
Miiamilla is a wonderland for little explorers. Set in a fairytale-like house in Kadriorg Park, this museum is all about fun and learning through play. Kids can dress up, run around themed rooms, and let their imaginations lead the way.
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Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Sea breeze and city views
This coastal district is known for its sandy beach, peaceful pine forests and the scenic promenade that stretches from the city centre. It’s perfect for a bike ride, a sunset walk or a lazy day by the water. You can also visit the ruins of the 15th-century Pirita Convent or climb the nearby TV Tower for stunning views.
How to get there: Take a bus from the city centre and hop off at the stop Pirita. The ride takes around 20 minutes.
Estonian History Museum
The exhibitions take you from early folk life to Soviet times. Explore the beautiful park dotted with monuments and a grand war memorial on the hillside. It’s a peaceful place to learn and reflect on Estonia’s journey.
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Estonian Film museum
Step into the world of movies at the Estonian Film Museum. You can see old film props, sit in a director’s chair, and learn how movies are made. It is fun, hands-on, and perfect for all ages.
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Tallinn TV tower
The Tallinn TV Tower is the tallest building in Estonia. You can ride a lift up to a viewing platform at 170 metres. The 360° views stretch over the city, the bay, and even the forests beyond. In summer, dare to walk on the glass floor or take a swing above the skyline!
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Photo: Maret Põldveer-Turay / visittallinn.ee
Tallinn Botanic Garden
Need a break from the city? Head to Tallinn Botanic Garden. Stroll through greenhouses and outdoor paths filled with over 8,000 plant species. It is a peaceful spot for a walk, a breath of fresh air or a great photo.
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Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Hipster area
Kalamaja has transformed from a fishing village into Tallinn’s trendiest district. Its colourful wooden houses, street art and Soviet-era buildings create a unique mix. At the heart is Telliskivi Creative City, packed with galleries, bars, cafés and boutiques. In summer, the lively outdoor spots and artsy vibe make it one of the best places to hang out in Tallinn.
How to get there: A 20-minute walk from the Old Town or hop on a tram to Telliskivi.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Fotografiska
Fotografiska is a photo museum in Telliskivi with powerful exhibitions and a rooftop café. You can see great art, eat tasty food and enjoy the view. It’s a fun mix of culture and cool.
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Literaat Café
Literaat is a cosy café inside a bookshop, perfect for brunch, reading or getting some work done. The food is fresh and the atmosphere is calm and creative. In summer, you can enjoy it all on their sunny terrace.
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Photo: Paul Kuimet / visittallinn.ee
Telliskivi shopping street
Telliskivi is full of small shops with big personality. You will find local fashion, handmade gifts and eco-friendly products. It is a great place to explore and pick up something special, either as a gift or for yourself.
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Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam / visittallinn.ee
F-Hoone
F-Hoone is a popular restaurant in an old factory. The food is fresh and fun, with something for everyone. Locals love it for its style, friendly vibe, summer terrace, and great cocktails.
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Photo: Sam McAllister / visittallinn.ee
Balti Jaam Market
The famous Balti Jaam Market has it all: fresh food, vintage finds and local design. Make sure to stop at Muhu Pagarid for their fresh bread and pastries. It is a favourite with locals.
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Photo: Peeter Langovits / visittallinn.ee
Boheem
Boheem is a cosy café in Kalamaja, perfect for breakfast, lunch or a relaxed coffee with friends. In summer, sit outside and watch the world go by. In winter, warm up with mulled wine or a cup of cocoa.
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Photo: La Muu
La Muu
La Muu makes plant-based and lactose-free ice cream that tastes amazing. Their café in Telliskivi offers a wide range of flavours, including creamy ice cream, fruity sorbets and options without milk or cream.
Telliskivi tn 60a-5Depoo food street
Depoo comes alive in summer. It is more than just a street food spot – think tasty bites, live DJs, pop-up concerts and a younger crowd that stays out late. If you want to eat, chill and soak up Tallinn’s cool, urban vibe, this is the place.
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Photo: Kaupo Kalda /visittallinn.ee
Lively seaside district
Noblessner was once a submarine shipyard. Today, it is one of Tallinn’s trendiest seaside areas. The waterfront is full of cafés, restaurants, museums and galleries. In summer, locals come here to eat, drink, dance, watch sunsets and unwind. You can go sailing, take a swim at Iglupark or enjoy a sauna with a sea view.
How to get there: Walk from the Old Town in about 20 minutes, grab a scooter, or take a bus to Lennusadam.
PROTO Invention Factory
PROTO is a place where you can touch, try and discover. Ride a hot air balloon in VR, play with wild inventions and feel like a kid again. It is fun, a bit quirky and full of surprises for all ages.
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Photo: Thomas Lotter / visittallinn.ee
Kai Art Center
Kai Art Center is a hidden gem by the sea. It showcases bold, contemporary art in a cool, converted industrial space. Expect exhibitions that surprise, provoke and inspire. It’s perfect option for a slow afternoon filled with art.
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Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum is one of Tallinn’s most exciting museums. Housed in a huge seaplane hangar, it features historic ships, a real submarine you can climb into. Kids can run wild, adults can learn something new and everyone leaves a little more curious.
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Iglupark
Set right on the water in Noblessner, it’s a row of stylish igloos where you can sauna, swim or even sleep. Whether it’s sunny or snowing, jumping into the sea after a hot sauna is an experience you’ll never forget.
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Põhjala Tap Room
At Põhjala Tap Room, you can try 24 beers on tap, including their own brews and guest favourites. Pair your pint with tasty Texas-style BBQ and enjoy the industrial vibe. There’s also a shop, brewery tours and even a rooftop sauna you can rent with friends.
Peetri tn 5ShiShi shop
ShiShi is a wonderland for design lovers. This elegant shop is filled with beautiful home décor, bold ornaments and luxurious details for every season. ShiShi makes everyday spaces feel a bit more magical.
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Photo: Kairi Tähe / visittallinn.ee
Perfect for a day outside
Rocca al Mare is a quiet area just outside the city centre, perfect for a full day out. It is home to the Estonian Open Air Museum, where you can explore old farmhouses and windmills by the sea. Right nearby is Tallinn Zoo, great for families and animal lovers. You will also find a large shopping centre and plenty of green space to walk or cycle. A great place for dining or a drink is the Kakumäe Haven.
How to get there: Take a bus from the city centre. The ride takes about 25 minutes.
Estonian Open Air Museum
The Estonian Open Air Museum feels like a step back in time. Set in a forest by the sea, it has old farmhouses, windmills and traditional village life on display. You can walk, bike or ride a horse carriage, and even try old-fashioned games.
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Tallinn Zoo
Say hello to elephants, leopards, polar bears and hundreds of other animals at Tallinn Zoo. It has one of Europe’s best collections of mountain goats and sheep, plus large green areas and fun play zones. A great spot for families, where you can easily spend the whole day.
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