Summer in Tallinn
A gentle sea breeze, warm sun on your skin, and an ice latte in hand as you stroll through cobbled streets – this is what summer in Tallinn feels like. Ready to discover it for yourself?
Book a trip to TallinnPhoto: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Tips for things to do in Tallinn this summer
Tallinn in summer is pure magic. Stroll along beautiful promenades, dine with a view of sailboats, or escape to nearby islands where time slows down. From local festivals to lazy beach days, here’s how to experience the very best of Estonia’s sunny season.
4 reasons why summer in Tallinn is a great idea
Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam / visittallinn.ee
It’s light outside until late
In Tallinn, summer evenings seem to last forever. With the sun hanging low in the sky well past bedtime, there’s more time to explore, relax, and soak in the golden glow.
Festivals everywhere
Summer in Tallinn is one big celebration. From music and food festivals to open-air cinema and medieval fairs, the city comes alive with energy, colour, and culture.
Sauna by the sea
Where else can you hop from a hot sauna straight into the Baltic Sea? Rent a seaside sauna pod, take the plunge, then relax with a drink as you watch the skyline shimmer in the evening light.
Beaches in the city
Pirita Beach is a local favourite, and it’s easy to see why. Play volleyball, paddle in the sea, or just lie back and let the summer breeze carry your worries away.
Take a walk in parks and on promenades
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Kadriorg park
Kadriorg is Tallinn’s most elegant park and the perfect place to slow down and soak up some summer sun. Explore the city’s largest rose garden, wander through the peaceful Japanese Garden, or visit the stunning Kadriorg Art Museum and contemporary KUMU. Families will love the Miiamilla Children’s Museum, which also has a playground just outside. Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Pirita promenade & Reidi road
Walk or cycle along the seaside path from the city centre to Pirita and enjoy sweeping views of the sea, harbour and Tallinn’s skyline. In summer, the area comes to life with food trucks and ice cream stands – perfect for a refreshing treat on the go. Whether it’s a morning jog or an evening stroll, this is one of the best spots to enjoy coastal Tallinn.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Cruise terminal promenade
The promenade at the cruise ship terminal in the Old Port is a great starting point for a longer seaside walk. From here, you can follow a fascinating route past some of the city’s most iconic spots: the massive Linnahall, the creative hub of Kultuurikatel, the historic Patarei Prison and the Seaplane Harbour museum.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Noblessner seafront quarter
Trendy and full of life, Noblessner is a must-visit for its mix of culture, food and sea views. Dive into history at the Seaplane Harbour and explore the world of invention at the PROTO Invention Factory. Art lovers will enjoy the Kai Art Centre, while foodies can choose from top spots like 180° Restaurant, Lore Bistroo and Põhjala Tap Room. Grab a seat at an outdoor café and watch the sun set over the marina.
Enjoy outdoor dining and great views
Participate in summer events
Õllesummer
One of Estonia’s biggest summer festivals, Õllesummer is all about cold drinks and great music. Enjoy performances by top local artists like Tommy Cash, alongside international legends such as The Jacksons, all on vibrant outdoor stages.
Find tickets
Tallinn Fringe Festival
This offbeat and creative festival fills the city with bold performances, experimental theatre, comedy, and live music in unexpected venues throughout late summer.
More about the Fringe Festival
Celebrate Midsummer in Tallinn
Midsummer, or St John’s Eve, is one of the most magical nights of the year in Estonia. It’s a time when the sun barely sets, bonfires light up the countryside, and ancient traditions come to life.
Visit summer islands off the coast of Tallinn
Photo: Simo Sepp / visittallinn.ee
Aegna
Just a short boat ride from Tallinn, Aegna offers untouched nature and a calm, car-free atmosphere. Wander through quiet pine forests, relax on soft sandy beaches and seek out the island’s ancient stone labyrinth hidden deep in the woods.
Tallinn to Aegna boat
Photo: Simo Sepp / visittallinn.ee
Prangli
Prangli is rich in local character and long-standing traditions. Hop on a vintage truck tour, visit the quaint village chapel, and taste fresh fish caught by the islanders. With its mix of history, folklore and rugged coastline, it’s full of authentic charm.
Tallinn to Prangli boat
Photo: Simo Sepp / visittallinn.ee
Naissaar
Naissaar combines natural beauty with fascinating history. Hike through forest trails dotted with old military ruins, climb the lighthouse for panoramic views, and enjoy the wild beaches that stretch for miles. The island’s quiet remoteness makes it feel like a world of its own.
Tallinn to Naissaar boatWhat else to explore?
Photo: Robert Lindström / visitestonia.ee
Estonia’s biggest island Saaremaa
Saaremaa is Estonia’s biggest island, but it feels like a secret. You drive a few hours from Tallinn, take a short ferry to Muhu, cross a long causeway over the sea, and suddenly, the world changes.
The air smells like pine and salt. Wind whispers through the juniper bushes. People slow down. Days stretch longer. It’s the kind of place where you bike for hours without seeing a car, stumble upon a lighthouse, or find a beach all to yourself.
Whether you’re chasing the wind on a kiteboard or just watching it move through the grass, Saaremaa quietly reminds you how good it feels to be a little off the map.
Photo: Priit Loog / visitparnu.com
Beautiful beaches in Pärnu
Pärnu is where Estonians go when they want to feel summer in full. The beach is wide and golden, the sea warm and shallow. It’s perfect for long swims, paddleboarding, or simply wading in with the sun on your shoulders. In the parks and along the promenade, people cycle, jog, or linger over coffee in open-air cafés.
There’s energy in the air too: beach volleyball games, sailing, and windsurfing draw locals and visitors alike. For a change of scene, head to Jõulumäe forest for hiking or orienteering, or try your swing at the seaside golf course. Whether you’re chasing adventure or just watching the sky change colours over the bay, Pärnu makes it easy to forget the rush and enjoy the moment.