Arriving in Tallinn: Your First 24 Hours

Arriving in a new city is easier when the first decisions are already made. Use this checklist for your first day in Tallinn, whether you arrive by air, ferry, bus or train. Check current routes and opening times before travelling.

Before you leave the terminal

• Save your accommodation address and check-in instructions offline. If you will arrive early, ask where your luggage can be stored.
• Make sure your phone can receive messages and open a map. Our Estonia eSIM and internet guide explains the main options.
• Keep your passport or ID, payment card, medicine and essentials in hand luggage. Photograph baggage tags until your checked bag has arrived.

Getting into the city

From Tallinn Airport: public transport and taxis connect the terminal with central Tallinn. Follow the signs to the airport public transport centre or official taxi stand. Check the current route and stop for your address on the official Visit Tallinn arrival guide and the airport transport page. Routes can change during works.

By public transport: a contactless bank card can buy a one-hour ticket at the marked validator at the front of a Tallinn bus, tram or trolleybus. Validate on every boarding. Drivers do not sell tickets and you cannot pay cash on board. For ticket types and the latest fares, use the Tallinn city ticket guide.

By taxi: check the price estimate, vehicle and pickup point before you get in. If you book in an app, match the plate and driver shown there. See our Tallinn taxis and rides guide. If you arrive at the harbour or bus station, check the address and walking distance first; the best connection depends on the terminal and your hotel.

A gentle first-day plan

1. Settle in: check in or drop your bags, charge your phone and take a short break.
2. Walk at your own pace: begin near the Old Town, Town Hall Square or a viewpoint if the weather and your energy allow. Leave time for cobbled streets and uneven surfaces.
3. Eat and reset: choose a nearby café or restaurant, then plan just one more activity. For ideas beyond the centre, browse things to do in Estonia and the official Visit Tallinn itinerary.

If you need a map, local advice or help choosing an attraction, the Tallinn Tourist Information Centre is at Niguliste 2. Check its opening hours before setting off.

If the day does not go to plan

If your bag is missing or damaged, report it to the airline or its baggage desk before leaving the airport and keep your paperwork and photos. For a delayed or cancelled flight, save notices and receipts and contact the operating airline. Our baggage, flight disruption and emergency guide has a practical checklist. For an immediate threat to life, health or safety in Estonia, call 112.

Planning the rest of your stay? Compare travel insurance providers and read the policy details before buying. NORQENTA provides travel information; transport operators, insurers and booking providers set their own terms and provide their services.

Checked 26 September 2026. Routes, ticket rules and opening hours may change; confirm with the linked official sources before travel.