So, you’ve booked your trip to Tallinn (or you’re at least daydreaming about it while procrastinating at work). First off—good choice. This little Baltic gem mixes medieval fairy-tale vibes with modern European efficiency. But let’s be real: once you land, the big question isn’t what to do (because there’s plenty), it’s how to actually get around Tallinn without pulling your hair out.
Spoiler alert: it’s actually pretty easy, but each option has its quirks. Grab a coffee (or let’s be honest, maybe a cheeky beer), and let’s break down the best ways to move around Tallinn like a pro.
Walking Around the Old Town
Tallinn’s Old Town is straight out of a Disney movie. Cobblestone streets, medieval walls, towers that look like Rapunzel should be hanging out the window—it’s ridiculously walkable.
- Pros:
- Totally free.
- You’ll stumble upon little cafés and hidden courtyards that no guidebook could ever properly describe.
- Great for working off all the Estonian pastries you’ll probably inhale.
- Cons:
- Cobblestones + heels = nope.
- If you’re carrying luggage, your arms will get a workout you didn’t sign up for.
IMO, walking is hands-down the best way to explore Old Town. Just wear comfy shoes unless you enjoy twisted ankles.
Public Transport: Buses, Trams, and Trolleys
Tallinn has a solid public transport system—buses, trams, and trolleybuses cover most of the city. The good news? It’s cheap and straightforward.
Tickets and Payments
Here’s the fun part: Tallinn residents ride for free. Yes, you read that right. But unless you plan on moving there before your trip (a bit extreme, don’t you think?), you’ll need a ticket.
- Buy a QR ticket on your phone.
- Or grab a Smartcard (Ühiskaart) from R-kiosk shops. Load it with credit and tap in/out like a local.
- A single ride costs around €1.50. Day passes are available if you’re doing lots of hopping around.
Why use public transport?
- It’s reliable—rarely do you wait long.
- It’s affordable—cheaper than taxis, obviously.
- It’s easy—the routes are simple, and Google Maps works like a charm.
Rhetorical question time: if the locals are using it, why shouldn’t you? :)
Biking Through Tallinn
Tallinn might not scream “cycling capital” like Amsterdam, but it’s surprisingly bike-friendly, especially in summer.
- City bike rentals and e-scooters are everywhere. Bolt (the local Uber, more on that in a sec) has e-scooters scattered all over the city.
- Dedicated bike paths connect Old Town with trendy areas like Telliskivi and Kalamaja.
Pro tip: Rent a bike if you want to explore the seaside promenade. Cycling along Pirita beach while watching locals picnic is pure Baltic bliss.
Downside? In winter, biking = ice-skating with handlebars. So maybe not.
Bolt: Tallinn’s Favorite Ride-Hailing App
Forget Uber. Bolt was born in Tallinn, and it rules the streets here. Locals use it constantly—it’s cheaper than taxis, super reliable, and the app is slick.
- Bolt Cars: Quick rides across the city, usually cheaper than a standard taxi.
- Bolt Scooters: Perfect for zipping around neighborhoods.
- Bolt Food: Totally irrelevant if you’re just getting around, but hey, you’ll probably use it when you’re too lazy to leave your Airbnb.
Why I love Bolt in Tallinn: You don’t need to worry about drivers scamming tourists (looking at you, some European cities 👀). Prices are upfront, and rides are usually just a few euros.
Taxis in Tallinn (a Love-Hate Relationship)
Taxis still exist, obviously. And while some are decent, others… let’s just say they see a tourist and start rubbing their hands together.
If you really want to use a taxi:
- Stick with reliable companies like Tulika Takso.
- Avoid random cabs parked at the ferry terminal or train station.
But honestly? Just download Bolt and save yourself the headache.
Car Rentals: Do You Need One?
Here’s the thing—you don’t need a car to explore Tallinn itself. The city is compact and connected. However, if you’re planning day trips (like to Lahemaa National Park or Pärnu), renting a car makes sense.
- Pros: Freedom to explore Estonia’s stunning countryside.
- Cons: Parking in Old Town is limited and pricey. Plus, driving cobblestone streets = stress.
My hot take: Skip the car if you’re staying in Tallinn only. Rent one for a day or two if you’re road-tripping.
Trains: Not for Tallinn, But for Beyond
Tallinn’s train station (Balti Jaam) isn’t for getting around the city—it’s for day trips. Think Tartu, Narva, or Pärnu. If you’re sticking within the city, don’t bother. But if you’re itching to see more of Estonia, trains are comfy and affordable.
Ferries: For When Tallinn Isn’t Enough
Okay, technically ferries aren’t for getting around Tallinn, but hear me out. From Tallinn, you can hop a ferry to:
- Helsinki, Finland (2 hours)
- Stockholm, Sweden (overnight)
If you’ve got time, why not make it a two-country trip? Just don’t blame me if you come back broke from Helsinki prices.
Accessibility in Tallinn
If you’re traveling with mobility concerns, Tallinn has a mixed bag:
- Old Town = beautiful but bumpy (cobblestones, narrow alleys).
- Modern areas and public transport = much more accessible.
Many trams and buses are wheelchair-friendly, but navigating medieval streets takes patience.
So, What’s the Best Way to Get Around Tallinn?
Honestly, mix it up:
- Walk Old Town.
- Hop on public transport for longer distances.
- Use Bolt when you’re tired or carrying too many souvenirs.
- Rent a bike/scooter if the weather’s nice.
Tallinn isn’t a city where you stress about transportation—it’s one where getting around feels like part of the adventure.
Quick Tips Before You Go
- Download Bolt before you arrive.
- Grab a Smartcard for trams/buses.
- Bring comfy shoes—cobblestones don’t forgive.
- Check the weather before planning to bike. Winter in Tallinn is gorgeous, but it’s not exactly scooter-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Getting around Tallinn is easy, fun, and often part of the experience. Whether you’re strolling the fairy-tale streets of Old Town, catching a tram like a local, or zipping along the Baltic coastline on a scooter, you’ll never feel stuck.
And the best part? You don’t need a fat wallet or a degree in map-reading to figure it out. So relax, enjoy, and maybe even get lost on purpose—you’ll probably find a cute café or street musician you wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.
After all, isn’t that what travel’s really about?
