🏰 A Perfect Day Trip from Helsinki to Tallinn: History, Views, and Hidden Gems

If you’re visiting Helsinki and have a free day, why not take a short cruise across the Gulf of Finland to explore Tallinn, the charming capital of Estonia? Just 2 hours away by ferry, this medieval city blends fairy-tale architecture with fascinating Soviet history — and it’s perfectly doable in a day with the Tallinn Card (€43), which offers access to top attractions and unlimited public transport.

Here’s how we spent our unforgettable one-day adventure in Tallinn:
🛳 Morning: Ferry to Tallinn
Departure: 07:30 from Helsinki (Tallink Silja Line)
Arrival: 09:30 in Tallinn

Tip: Check-in online the day before, and don’t forget your passport!

🥐 Breakfast at RØST Bakery
📍 Rotermanni tn 14, 10111 Tallinn
🕒 Mon–Fri: 8:30–18:00, Sat: 9:30–17:00
Start your day with fresh buns and coffee at this cosy local favorite area. The warm pastries and modern atmosphere offer the perfect energy boost for a day of exploring.

🌳 Kadriorg Park & Palace
Kadriorg Park is Tallinn’s most beautiful park — complete with tree-lined paths, flower gardens, and baroque elegance.

🏰 Explore Tallinn’s Old Town via Viru Gate
Step into a real-life medieval postcard! Stroll through Viru Gate, the symbolic entrance to Tallinn’s Old Town, and wander through Tallinn Town Hall Square, filled with colourful houses and the iconic Town Hall.

🧱 Hellemann Tower and Town Wall Walkway
Climb the preserved medieval tower and walk along the ancient town wall for sweeping views of the red rooftops and winding streets.

🕍 St. Catherine’s Passage & St. Olaf’s Church
St. Catherine’s Passage is a hidden gem with craft shops and cobbled charm. Then visit St. Olaf’s Church — once the tallest building in the world. The panoramic city view from the top is worth the climb!

⚓ Fat Margaret & Estonian Maritime Museum
Housed in a 16th-century cannon tower, this museum showcases Estonia’s seafaring history — and offers fantastic harbor views from the rooftop terrace.

🕵️ KGB Prison Cells
A sobering but important visit, these former Soviet prison cells tell stories of political repression under the KGB regime.

🏰 Toompea Castle & Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
This is the heart of Estonian political power, with panoramic views of the city. Across the street stands the Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, famous for its onion domes a

🍽 Dinner at Restoran Pull (Michelin Guide)
📍 Rotermanni 2 Hobujaama ja Ahtri tn nurgal, 10111 Tallinn
End your day with a premium grilled meal in Tallinn. Highly recommended — we booked in advance and it was worth it!

⛴ Return Ferry to Helsinki
Departure: 22:30 Tallinn
Arrival: 00:30 Helsinki
Grab a warm tea on board, relax, and reflect on a day full of beauty, culture, and history
#travel
#estonia
#tallinn
#helsinki