Tallinn is the perfect base for some incredible day trips, all easy to do on your own without needing a tour company. From the islands of Saaremaa and Naissaar to wooden walkways through peaceful Viru bog, and even the border city of Narva, there’s so much to discover nearby.
I used to focus on visiting capitals and famous cities, but now I find a special kind of magic in exploring less-travelled places. I’ve taken these 9 unique routes from Tallinn many times, and they never fail to captivate me.
For more insights, don’t forget to check out my comprehensive Tallinn guide to make the most of your stay. Now, let’s take a look at the best day trips in Estonia.
1. Naissaar Island
9 km from Tallinn, by ferry
Next to the lighthouse, there is a house where even the lighthouse keeper lives.
Naissaar Island in the Gulf of Finland is a fantastic summer destination for nature lovers and lighthouse enthusiasts.
In brief:
- Best time to visit: May–September
- What to do: Lighthouse, military history, nature, swimming
- How long to spend here: 7–8 hours
- What to bring: Insect repellent, swimsuit
Naissaar Island is quite large – about 17 times the size of Tallinn’s Old Town – but only three people live here year-round, with a few dozen more arriving in the summer.
During the Soviet era, Naissaar was off-limits due to its military base. Today, a marked trail leads visitors through remnants of this history, including the former Soviet military mine stockyard and the ruins of artillery batteries.
One of the main highlights is the picturesque red and white lighthouse. For a small fee, you can climb its 45-metre tower, and on clear days, you might even spot Finland.
The lighthouse is located on the opposite side of the island from the harbour, so be prepared for a long walk through the forest along a flat dirt road – the scenery can feel a bit repetitive.
The island is home to adders, wild boars, and in the warmer months, plenty of mosquitoes. While they pose no real threat, it’s good to be aware of them during your visit.
For those who prefer a guided experience, a local tour company offers trips around the island in a military-style truck. Back at the harbour, there’s a cosy café and a bike rental shop, making it easy to explore more of the island.
Getting there
Ferries to Naissaar operate from May to September. They are small and take about an hour to reach the island. Sunlines ferries leave from central Tallinn, while Monica ferries depart from Pirita (a 20-minute bus ride from the centre). Tickets are available on the ferry companies’ websites, and it’s wise to book ahead during the summer.
Other islands near Tallinn
Aegna Island: Ferries to Aegna also run only during the warmer months. The island has stunning sandy beaches, wild rose bushes, and dense forests filled with blueberries. There are almost no permanent residents.
Prangli Island: If you want to experience authentic island life, Prangli is the place to go. Over 200 people live here year-round, and there’s a shop, a school, and a chance to see real local life. The ferry operated by Tuule Liinid departs daily from the small Leppneeme Harbour in Viimsi, which you can reach by bus with one transfer from central Tallinn.
2. Tartu
180 km from Tallinn, by bus
Kissing Students (Suudlevad tudengid) – a fountain in the Town Hall Square.
The tower of the AHHAA Science Centre in Tartu makes it easy to remember where the bus station is – they are close to each other.
The Karlova district – known for its wooden houses, cozy home cafes, and street art. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the city center.
Angel’s Bridge (Ingli sild) – walk across it with your eyes closed and make a wish. It is located near the Town Hall.
As the second-largest city in Estonia, Tartu offers a contrast to glittering Tallinn. There is less hustle and bustle and less money here, and just steps from the Town Hall, you can still spot wooden houses with low, colourful doors and sailboats on the windowsills. Though the city isn’t by the sea, it is crossed by the Emajõgi River, which is large by Estonian standards.
In brief:
- Best time to visit: All year round
- What to do: The historic centre, museums, wooden houses
- How long to spend here: At least 6–7 hours
The cosy Town Hall Square is surrounded by souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. In December, the Christmas market stretches from the square to the Kaubamaja shopping centre, offering farmhouse sausages, barley bread, and warm woollen mittens.
But Tartu isn’t stuck in the past. The city is buzzing with life, with young people everywhere and plenty of trendy cafes, bars (check out Rüütli Street for dining options), shops, and exhibitions. It’s also home to the country’s main university, the University of Tartu, which adds to the vibrant atmosphere.
What to see
Tartu is home to numerous museums, including the impressive Estonian National Museum. This vast space – the largest exhibition area in Estonia – spans 6,000 square metres and explores Estonian life through the ages. The current President of Estonia, Alar Karis, once directed this museum before taking office. It’s located 3 km from Town Hall Square, so catching a bus is recommended.
For a more intimate museum experience, visit the Tartu Art Museum on Town Hall Square or the delightful Toy Museum, a five-minute walk from the square.
For science enthusiasts, the Science Centre AHHAA, located near the bus station, offers interactive exhibits in a striking white high-rise building.
Though the Botanical Garden of the University of Tartu is small, the collection is densely planted and renowned for its irises, peonies, and phlox. It’s at its best from April to October, with rhododendrons flowering beautifully in early June. Entry is free, except for the greenhouse. However, there is no cafe or gift shop on-site.
Getting there
Regular buses run from Tallinn’s central bus station to Tartu about 10 times a day, with a journey of around 2.5 hours. Tickets are available online or at the station, and both bus stations are centrally located in Tallinn and Tartu.
3. Viru Bog
53 km from Tallinn, by bus
The wooden boardwalk is 3.5 km long. You can’t step off it — the ground is wet.
Visiting bogs is a trendy activity in Estonia, and Viru Bog (Viru raba) in Lahemaa National Park is one of the best places to experience this. The bog features boardwalks and a watchtower, making it an accessible and popular spot – on a sunny day, it can be as crowded as the Champs-Élysées!
In brief:
- Best time to visit: May–October and snowy winter days
- What to do: Walk and swim in a bog pool
- How long to spend here: 3–5 hours
- What to bring: Umbrella, swimsuit, and mosquito repellent
Walking through Viru Bog offers a glimpse of what this landscape looked like 3,000 years ago – the nature here feels almost frozen in time. Small, twisted pine trees and lush moss create the typical scenery. You can even take a dip in one of the small, clear bog pools – but only in areas where wooden platforms are provided for safe entry. The water may appear yellow, but it’s actually very clean.
The bog is home to around 30 species of birds, including golden eagles, the common pochard (a medium-sized diving duck), and the wood sandpiper. In autumn, the common crane stops by on its way south, resting on the bog mounds.
The best time to visit is from May to early October, though the trail is also magical during the snowy winter months. Entry is free, but you must stay on the wooden boardwalk. Wear comfortable shoes – even sandals are fine – and bring an umbrella, as there’s no shelter nearby. There are no cafés or other facilities, just a toilet at the trail entrance. And be prepared for mosquitoes!
Getting there
You can reach Viru Bog in about 1 to 1.5 hours by bus. Check the schedule on the website peatus.ee and get off at the Viru raba stop. If the bus is marked in blue, you don’t need to buy a ticket in advance.
4. Haapsalu
100 km from Tallinn, by bus
Haapsalu is a charming resort, and it takes a couple of hours to walk around and explore its beautiful spots.
You can walk around the castle ruins, and inside, there is a history museum.
Haapsalu is a wonderful destination in good weather, especially during holidays and festivals. The town truly comes alive when more people are out enjoying its charm.
In brief:
- Best time to visit: All year round
- What to do: The castle, seaside promenade, cosy cafes
- How long to spend here: 5–7 hours
The town is a resort, and a walk along the seaside promenade is delightful year-round. Stroll from African Beach to Chocolate Beach, and admire the intricate wooden seaside pavilion built at the end of the 19th century – the only one in Estonia that has retained its original form. Afterwards, relax in one of the lovely cafes, such as Wiigi Kohvik or Von Gernet.
Another highlight is the ruins of the 13th-century Haapsalu Episcopal Castle, which serve as a natural backdrop for various events – from jazz concerts to yoga festivals. Along the castle walls, colourful wooden houses host charming cafes, some with delightful courtyards, like Müüriääre Kohvik.
Just steps away on the same street, at Karja 25, you’ll find the tiny Haapsalu Lace Centre (Haapsalu Pitsikeskus), a one-room museum dedicated to lace wool shawls. These delicate pieces are so fine that they can easily pass through a wedding ring.
For fans of Pippi Longstocking or Emil of Lönneberga, Haapsalu is a must-visit. This is where Ilon Wikland, the artist who illustrated most of Astrid Lindgren’s books, spent her childhood. Some of the houses in town look just like those in her drawings! You can see her work at Ilon’s Wonderland (Kooli 5), just a two-minute walk from both the castle and the promenade.
Getting there
Several buses run daily from Tallinn to Haapsalu, with a journey time of about 1.5 hours. In the summer, it’s best to buy tickets in advance. The bus arrives at the former train station (which no longer has train service), an interesting historical site in itself. From there, it’s a 10–15 minute walk to the town centre through a charming district of wooden houses.
5. Narva
207 km from Tallinn, by bus or train
Narva Town Hall (right) and the college building – make sure to check out both when you’re here.
In the photo, you can see Estonia’s Narva Castle (left) and Russia’s Ivangorod Fortress (right). The border runs along the bridge.
If you’re up for a longer journey, Narva is well worth the trip. The city is located on the border with Russia and offers a unique mix of Soviet architecture and medieval elements. By Estonian standards, Narva is a relatively large city with around 40,000 residents.
In brief:
- Best time to visit: All year round
- What to do: Narva Castle, Town Hall, river promenade
- How long to spend here: 5–7 hours
Narva was heavily bombed during World War II, leaving few old buildings intact. Today, most of the city consists of Soviet-era four- and five-story buildings. However, the beautifully restored Town Hall, nestled among these, is a must-see. Inside, you’ll find a tourist information centre and a café. Right next door is Narva College of the University of Tartu, a modern architectural gem with the popular Café Muna inside.
The main attraction in Narva is the impressive Hermann Castle, also known as Narva Castle, built by the Danes in the 13th century. You can explore the grounds for free, but entry to the castle itself, including a climb up Long Hermann Tower, costs €15. From the tower, you can enjoy sweeping views of both Narva in Estonia and Ivangorod across the river in Russia.
Though the exhibits inside the castle are not packed with historical artefacts, there are plenty of interactive activities. You can test your strength against a figure of Stalin, watch an animated film projected onto the ceiling, or take fun photos with knights and soldiers.
If you’d like to see and photograph Ivangorod Fortress, it’s easily visible from the riverfront promenade. The bridge connecting Estonia and Russia allows border crossings, but you’ll need a Russian visa to go beyond Estonia’s checkpoint.
Where to try something special
For a rare taste of Finno-Ugric cuisine, head to the Narva House of Ingria (Ingeri maja) on Fridays from 16:00 to 19:00. This is one of the few places in the world where they still prepare these traditional dishes. The food is simple and hearty, with a three-course meal costing just €5. Located at Vaksali 19, nearly the bus station, the café entrance is at the end of the building. As this is a pop-up venue, note that food may not be available every Friday.
Getting there
You can reach Narva from Tallinn by train or bus, with travel times of 2.5 to 3 hours. Tickets are available online.
If you’re travelling by bus, get off at Peetri Square (Peetri plats) where most buses stop. From there, head to the Town Hall and then walk down to the river promenade, following it to Narva Castle. You’ll even pass under the bridge connecting Estonia and Russia. After visiting the castle, take a walk along the Narva Joaoru Trail, where you can enjoy stunning views of both fortresses. If you arrive by train, you can follow the same route in reverse, starting at the castle and heading toward the Town Hall.
6. Viljandi
145 km from Tallinn, by bus
The photo was taken in mid-October from the hill where the castle ruins stand. A magical view in autumn!
And this is the town center. There aren’t many people around; locals are either sitting in cafes or admiring the golden leaves.
One of the strawberry sculptures is located at Kondase Keskus, but there are about a dozen of them around town.
Viljandi might be a small provincial town, but it’s packed with charm and character! This southern Estonian gem is known for its medieval castle ruins, tranquil lake, and streets lined with colourful two-story houses and apple tree gardens.
In brief:
- Best time to visit: All year round
- What to do: Castle Ruins, Kondase Keskus, strawberry sculptures
- How long to spend here: 5–6 hours
Your journey starts right at the Viljandi bus station, and there’s no need to wander far! The walk to the Viljandi Castle Ruins is about 1.5 km, perfect for a leisurely day. Along the way, you’ll pass several lovely sights: St. Paul’s Church, the Viljandi Museum, and the ever-popular Kohvik Fellin, where locals swear by the homemade cakes.
And speaking of quirky – don’t miss the giant strawberry sculptures scattered around town! These bright red berries, each about a metre tall, are a playful nod to Paul Kondas’s famous painting Maasikasööjad (Strawberry Eaters), which shows people happily devouring strawberries. How many can you spot along the way?
Next, head to Kondase Keskus – this tiny art museum, tucked inside a cosy wooden house, showcases incredible outsider art from Estonia and beyond. Though the gallery has just a couple of rooms, its charm lies in its intimate space. Before you leave, be sure to buy some art postcards from the gift shop.
The highlight of your visit is undoubtedly the Viljandi Castle Ruins. Though time has weathered the fortress, the ruins still captivate. The surrounding park offers some of the best views in town, so take at least half an hour to wander, breathe in the fresh air, and reflect on the history embedded here.
Getting there
Travelling from Tallinn to Viljandi is easy. Buses from the Tallinn Bus Station (Tallinn Bussijaam) run 5–6 times a day, with the journey taking just over 2 hours. You’ll step off right in the centre of Viljandi, ready to explore. Tickets can be purchased on the website tpilet.ee.
7. Kuremäe
207 km from Tallinn, with a bus transfer
The main entrance leads to the mysterious Orthodox Pühtitsa Convent.
The photo was taken in early January – it’s full of snow here.
Strolling through this village feels like stepping back in time.
Kuremäe is home to the Orthodox Pühtitsa Convent, the only active convent in Estonia. You can walk around the grounds and see how the nuns live. You don’t need to be religious to visit.
In brief:
- Best time to visit: All year round
- What to do: Visit the convent and explore the grounds
- How long to spend here: 3–6 hours
- What to wear: Modest clothing is required for the convent
The village of Kuremäe is small, with about 350 residents. Near the convent, you’ll find a small café, a hostel, and a shop. Built in 1891, the Pühtitsa Convent features simple and austere architecture. The convent is home to over 100 nuns, mostly from Estonia, Russia, and Ukraine. The nuns vary in age and all wear black robes.
The monastery grounds are large, with various buildings where the nuns live, work, and eat, along with an apple orchard. A unique sight is the way the nuns stack firewood – tall, round stacks up to seven meters high, shaped like sheaves of wheat.
Tourists are allowed to walk through most areas of the monastery courtyard, with restricted zones clearly marked. Visitors are asked to speak quietly and turn off their mobile phones. While Orthodox churches often have strict dress codes, this convent is more relaxed. Women may wear pants, though those dressed provocatively may be asked to adjust their attire.
Tourists are generally few, except during Orthodox holidays like Easter, when thousands of visiters gather here. Keep in mind that Orthodox Easter is celebrated according to a different calendar from other Christian traditions. If you’re in Estonia during this time, it’s a visit worth making.
Getting there
To reach Kuremäe from Tallinn, you’ll need to transfer between two buses, and the journey takes about 3–4 hours one way. First, take a bus from the Tallinn Bus Station (Tallinn Bussijaam) to Jõhvi Bus Station (Jõhvi Bussijaam) – it’s best to buy tickets in advance. At the Jõhvi station, catch bus number 60, which you can board with a ticket purchased from the driver. Check the schedule on peatus.ee, as this bus only runs a few times daily. It will take you directly to the convent.
8. Saaremaa Island
220 km from Tallinn, by bus and ferry
The castle in Kuressaare – you’ll need at least half an hour to an hour to explore it.
In the center of Kuressaare, cafes, restaurants, and shops are housed in historic buildings.
The photo was taken in mid-October – a beautiful time on the island.
Saaremaa is a popular destination known for its historic buildings, lighthouses, sandy beaches, lush forests, and fantastic birdwatching opportunities. However, it’s a bit farther from Tallinn, and I reluctantly included it in this guide for day trips.
In brief:
- Best time to visit: April–September, snowy winter
- What to do: Kuressaare Castle, Sõrve Lighthouse, birdwatching, swimming
- How long to spend here: At least 6 hours
- What to bring: Mosquito repellent, swimsuit
Saaremaa is quite large, so it’s best to plan at least a two-day visit to fully appreciate what it has to offer. However, if you’re short on time, it’s still worth a visit for a quick but memorable getaway.
The island’s capital, Kuressaare, is small, but it’s full of charm with many beautifully preserved historic houses. It is also home to the majestic Bishop’s Castle, situated right by the sea. You can explore the castle grounds and walk around the moats for free, but to visit the interior, you’ll need a ticket. Inside, there’s a history museum showcasing island folk costumes, among other artefacts.
If you’re visiting for just one day, you’ll likely only have time to explore Kuressaare – and that’s perfectly fine. But I’ll mention two more attractions in case you decide to extend your stay.
Sõrve Lighthouse (built in 1960) is about 30 km away from Kuressaare. From the top, you can even catch a glimpse of Latvia on a clear day. Nearby, there’s a small museum dedicated to lighthouses.
Not far from Kuressaare is the Kaali meteorite lake, a crater formed on the island of Saaremaa by a meteorite impact 3,470–3,545 years ago. Today, it’s simply a beautiful small, circular lake.
Getting there
The journey to Saaremaa takes around four hours one way by bus, departing from the Tallinn Bus Station and including a ferry crossing. The bus drives directly onto the ferry, and you can enjoy the crossing from the café with sea views. During summer, it’s advisable to book tickets at tpilet.ee in advance, as it’s a popular route. Alternatively, for those pressed for time, there’s the option to take a small plane, which gets you to the island in just 40 minutes. You can find flights at flynyx.com.
9. Helsinki, Finland
70 km from Tallinn, by ferry
This ferry has probably come over from Tallinn.
This photo was taken in mid-April – the sun is already shining!
Plan at least an hour or more to explore the Helsinki Central Library Oodi.
A day trip to Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is absolutely feasible. The ferry ride takes just over 2 hours each way, but it’s important to factor in extra time for boarding – doors to the ferry close about half an hour before departure, just like boarding a plane.
In brief:
- Best time to visit: April–September, snowy winter
- What to do: Famous sights, vibrant markets, beautiful parks
- How long to spend here: At least 6 hours
- What to bring: Your ID card or passport
Helsinki is a sizeable city, but the city centre and main attractions can be comfortably explored in a day. It’s a good idea to plan your route in advance, as wandering aimlessly around Helsinki for the first time can be overwhelming.
Popular tourist spots include the Market Square, where a serving of trout with potatoes is a must-try, and the grand white Helsinki Cathedral – a true symbol of the city. The Esplanade is ideal for a leisurely walk. Among the top museums are the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma and the Design Museum.
For those with a few spare hours, consider a short ferry ride to the island of Suomenlinna. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a rich history with well-preserved fortifications, museums, and old cannons. It’s just a 20-minute ferry journey from Helsinki Market Square. Tickets cost €2.90 and are valid for 80 minutes.
If modern architecture fascinates you, don’t miss the Helsinki Central Library Oodi, located next to the central train station. This library, designed to resemble a large ship, is a hub of activity – visitors can read, sew, play musical instruments, create 3D models, or simply relax in the café on the terrace. Entry is free.
Getting there
You can travel to Helsinki from Tallinn on ferries operated by Tallink and Viking Line. The main difference between them is the price, with Tallink generally being a bit more expensive.
In Tallinn, both ferries depart from terminals close to each other. However, in Helsinki, they arrive at terminals that are quite far apart.
The ferry is spacious, and the journey itself is a delightful experience. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and stunning views on the open deck, or relax with a coffee and meal in the onboard restaurant on the enclosed decks.
I hope this guide has inspired you to step off the beaten path and discover the many wonders that lie just beyond the capital. Safe travels, and may your adventures be as memorable as the places you’ll visit!
