Best Places to Stay in Tallinn Estonia

Where to Stay in Tallinn: A Guide for Travelers

Tallinn, the charming capital of Estonia, offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler and budget. Here’s a breakdown of some popular areas and types of lodging:

Where to Stay Based on Your Interests:

  • Old Town (Vanalinn): For history buffs and those seeking a medieval experience, stay in the heart of Old Town.

    • Pros: Authentic atmosphere, walking distance to all attractions, charming cafes and restaurants
    • Cons: Can be noisy due to tourism, generally more expensive than other areas

  • Kalamaja: This trendy neighborhood offers boutique hotels, quirky hostels, and unique guesthouses.

    • Pros: Bohemian vibe, close to the sea and hip cafes/restaurants, more affordable options with a local feel
    • Cons: May be a bit further from the main Old Town attractions

  • Kadriorg: A beautiful area with parks, museums, and grand palaces.

Beyond the Basics: Accommodation Options in Tallinn

Tallinn offers a variety of accommodation types, each with its own charm and appeal:

  • Boutique Hotels: Experience Tallinn’s historic charm with a stay in a boutique hotel. These charming establishments often feature unique architecture, stylish rooms, and personalized service.

    • Recommended for: Travelers seeking a memorable and luxurious stay with a distinct personality.

  • Historic Apartments & Guesthouses: Live like a local by renting an apartment or staying in a guesthouse within the Old Town walls.

    • Recommended for: Those who want to be close to the action but prefer a more private setting.
    • Great for: Families, groups, or couples wanting a comfortable and independent stay.

  • Hostels: Enjoy budget-friendly lodging and meet fellow travelers in Tallinn’s vibrant hostel scene.

Types of Places to Stay:

  • Historic Hotels: Many hotels in Tallinn are located in beautifully restored medieval buildings, offering a unique blend of history and modern amenities.

  • Boutique Hotels: These often offer smaller rooms with a focus on design and individual charm.

    • Recommended for: Solo travelers or those seeking a social atmosphere.
    • Budget: Expect to pay less per night for a bed in a dorm room compared to a private room.

  • Apartments: Enjoy the comforts of home with a fully equipped kitchen, living space, and laundry facilities.

    • Pros: More spacious than hostel rooms, allowing for longer stays or self-catering.
    • Great for: Staying in a specific area or wanting more privacy and space.

  • Boutique Hostels: These offer a more unique and social experience compared to traditional hostels. Expect a focus on style and local amenities.

Recommended Areas:

  • Staying in the Old Town:

    • Old Town (Vanalinn): Immerse yourself in Tallinn’s medieval charm.

      • Pros:

        • Close proximity to historical landmarks, museums, and restaurants.
        • Many apartments are available within walking distance of the city center, making it a convenient option for exploring the city.

    • Kalamaore: This trendy neighborhood offers unique stays in converted warehouses and factories.

      • Pros:

        • Quaint, historic atmosphere with cobblestone streets and charming architecture.
        • Walking distance to the Kalamaja district’s attractions, including cafes, restaurants, and the seafront.

    • Charming neighborhoods outside of the Old Town:

      • Kadriorg: A beautiful park area with a palace and museums.

      • Kalamaja: Offers a more bohemian vibe and unique accommodation options.

        • Boutique Hotels & Hostels: Experience luxury in a renovated historical building or explore the area’s charm by staying in a boutique hotel within the neighborhood.

Things to Consider:

  • Budget: Accommodation prices vary significantly across neighborhoods, with the Old Town being more expensive than others.
  • Travel Style: Do you want to be in the heart of the action (staying in the Old Town) or explore a quieter side of the city? Do you prefer staying in a hotel, hostel, or guesthouse?
  • Location: Consider what activities you are interested in and choose accommodation that is close to them.

Travel Tips for Finding Accommodation:

  • Book in advance: Especially during peak season (May-September), it’s crucial to book your accommodation before arriving in Tallinn. This ensures you get the best deals and avoid disappointment.
  • Utilize online booking platforms:

Websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia offer a wide variety of hotels, hostels, and apartments in Tallinn.

  • Check for reviews: Reviews are essential when choosing accommodation. Look for recent reviews on websites like TripAdvisor or Google Maps to get an accurate sense of the property’s quality and reputation.

Things to Consider When Booking:

  • Location: Think about whether you want to be within walking distance of the main attractions, close to public transport, or in a quieter area.

  • Budget: Determine your budget range for accommodation and consider what amenities are important to you (breakfast included, Wi-Fi access, etc.).

  • Dates: Be aware of peak season pricing and availability.

  • Type of Accommodation: Choose from charming hotels in the historic heart of the city, or explore more budget-friendly options like hostels or apartments.

  • Purpose of Travel:

Are you looking for a romantic getaway? Consider a hotel with a beautiful setting and amenities like a spa or fine dining.

  • Family travel: A family vacation might call for an apartment rental.

For the best results, consider:

  • Location: Old Town hotels offer charm but convenience comes at a price.

  • Amenities: Do you need a kitchen to cook your own meals? Or are you looking for hotel amenities like

a pool or gym:**

  • Recommended for: Budget-friendly travel:
  • Near the Old Town: Consider staying in a hotel in the Kadriorg neighborhood.
  • For budget travelers, hostels offer a social atmosphere and are generally located close to the city center.
  • Reviews:

Look for reviews that mention “quiet” or “peaceful” when choosing your accommodation.

  • Location: Read reviews about the location and safety of the area.
  • Reviews: Check reviews for recommendations on restaurants, cafes and bars near the accommodation.
  • Consider the type of experience you’re looking for (e.g., budget-friendly, family-oriented, romantic) to find a place that is right for you.

Here are some popular options in Tallinn:

  • Luxury Hotels:

For a more luxurious experience, look for high-end hotels like the Hotel Schonne or the Hilton Tallinn Park.

  • Boutique Hotels:

Consider staying at The Three Sisters Boutique Hotel (a unique stay with a focus on history and location) or the elegant Hotel Neva.

  • Consider your needs for individual rooms, shared rooms, or apartments.

  • Location: Check out the charming Old Town hotels in the heart of the city or the luxurious options like:

    • Hotel Telegraaf: Located in a historic building with views of the Tallinn skyline.
    • The Merchant’s House & Spa:

A historical hotel with a focus on luxury and comfort.

  • Consider looking for apartments outside the city center for more affordable prices and a unique experience.

Think about:

  • Budget:

  • Location: Prices and options vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation you choose, whether it’s in the bustling Old Town or a quieter neighborhood like Telliskivi Creative City.

  • Reviews:

Look for reviews that mention:

  • Value for money: Is this a budget-friendly option?

  • The location: How convenient is it to transportation and attractions?

  • Historic charm: This can be a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture.

  • The type of room: Some reviewers may mention specific rooms or views they enjoyed, while others may focus on cleanliness, noise levels, and amenities.

Remember, research is key!

Explore different websites and read reviews from various sources to get a well-rounded understanding of the accommodation.

Consider using the search tools on these websites and filtering by your desired criteria (location, budget, etc.)

  • Price:

Look for listings with a price range that suits you.

  • Location:

Look for reviews mentioning the location’s safety and accessibility to public transport and attractions.

  • Amenities:

Check if the guesthouse or hotel offers amenities such as breakfast, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, etc.

Consider reading the descriptions carefully and contacting the accommodation directly about any specific needs you may have.