Why I love winter in Tallinn (and maybe you will too).
As I’m writing this, I’m thinking about why I’m so obsessed with Tallinn in December. Maybe it’s because when it’s freezing, I turn into a human sloth — and Tallinn’s Old Town is perfectly compact. You step right into a Christmas fairytale without having to trek across town. Add in the icy wind (which feels like a slap from the Snow Queen herself), and even walking to the shop feels like an expedition.
So, is a winter trip to Tallinn worth it? Let’s dive in.
🎄 Festive atmosphere in Tallinn Old Town
Starting in mid-November, the entire Old Town transforms into a glowing postcard. Lights drape medieval buildings, and the scent of cinnamon and gingerbread follows you like a loyal puppy.
It’s not just central Tallinn—shopping malls, cafés, and even suburban windows join the festive fun. Christmas concerts in historic churches add that magical soundtrack.
🎆 Tallinn New Year celebrations
Tallinn celebrates both Christmas (24–25 December) and New Year (31 December–1 January) with style. Christmas is quieter and family-oriented, but many restaurants stay open, so you won’t feel abandoned. New Year’s Eve, though? Lively parties, local performers, and a big light show over Freedom Square.
There are no official fireworks (for safety and pet-friendly reasons), but locals handle that on their own—with enthusiasm. Just one tip: if you’re planning a festive dinner at a popular spot like Olde Hansa, book your table at least two months in advance—these places fill up fast.
💶 Budget-friendly winter city break
Visiting Tallinn in December is often easier on the wallet. Flights and hotels are cheaper than in summer, and there are fewer tourists. Avoid the Christmas and New Year peak, and you’ll find great deals—especially midweek. Plus, the city feels calmer and less crowded.
🛍️ Christmas shopping in Tallinn
Shops are full of handmade winter souvenirs—think woollen socks and mittens (from €40), cute gnomes and Santas (€5–17), and locally designed decorations.
You’ll spot them not just in Old Town boutiques, but also in supermarkets, shopping malls, and even hair salons, where rows of gnomes—some charmingly mass-produced, others surprisingly artistic—peek out from the shelves. Even if you’re not a big shopper, it’s fun just to browse.
🎄 Christmas trees around the city
The main tree lights up Town Hall Square in mid-November, officially switched on the first Sunday of December—complete with a speech by the mayor and a priest.
Estonia is largely secular, but this tradition holds strong. You’ll also find beautifully decorated trees at Noblessner Harbour and the Rotermann Quarter, many staying up until February.
⛸️ Winter activities in Tallinn
Ice rinks open from mid-November, with the most popular one on Harju Street 32, near Town Hall Square. Skating under fairy lights with music in the background is as charming as it sounds.
Sledding is also popular—favourite spots include the Song Festival Grounds, Hirve Park, Pirita Sports Centre, and the Estonian Open Air Museum.
If you prefer a quiet stroll, Kadriorg Park is lovely in the snow. And for something more adventurous, try a winter walk in nearby Viru Bog or along forest trails just outside the city.
🎅 Tallinn Christmas Market
Every winter, Town Hall Square turns into something out of a snow globe. The Christmas market may be small, but it nails the cosy, fairy-tale vibe: wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and the occasional snowflake drifting dramatically through the air.
You’ll find woollen mittens, hand-painted ornaments — and, of course, food. Go for the blood sausages with mulgikapsad—sauerkraut stewed with barley and pork—a true winter classic, if you’re feeling brave (or just cold). And don’t skip the glög—one cup warms the hands, two warms the soul. For the latest dates and events, check the → official Tallinn Christmas Market website.
🔥 Saunas and spas in Estonia
Estonians take their saunas seriously—it’s practically a national sport. Even simple hotels often have one. In some countries, spa time is a luxury; in Estonia, it’s just part of everyday life.
For extra relaxation, look for places with full spa areas: Finnish, Turkish, or infrared saunas, pools, and wellness treatments galore.
When Tallinn in December might not be for you
It’s cold. Very cold.
Temperatures can dip below freezing, and the wind is no joke. Streets get icy, so pack proper winter gear: waterproof boots with grip, gloves, and a coat that means business.
New Year bookings fill up fast
The city gets busy during the holidays. Book your hotel early. New Year’s Eve dinners at places like Olde Hansa may need reservations 1.5–2 months ahead.
Limited daylight
Only about 6 hours of daylight, with sunset around 15:30. Great excuse for long breakfasts and evening spa sessions, but tricky if you’re a sun chaser.
Holiday closures
Some shops and museums close or shorten hours—especially on 24–26 December and 1 January. Check ahead and reserve where possible.
❄️ What to wear in Tallinn in December
Estonian weather is full of surprises. One day +7°C and slushy, the next -15°C and icy. Usually, it hovers around 0°C. It’s unpredictable, so check the forecast but prepare for anything. The keyword is layers. And good shoes.
🧤 What locals wear
Locals dress for function over fashion. Expect long insulated coats, waterproof boots, layered knits, fleece, and lots of hats, scarves, and gloves. Some folks (like me) skip the hat and trust their hood.
🧳 What you’ll need
Footwear: Waterproof shoes with non-slip soles. Icy cobblestones are not your friends.
Outerwear: A warm coat that laughs in the face of wind and drizzle. Bonus points for a hood.
Layers: Cosy sweaters, thermals, fleeces—layers are key for adjusting between chilly streets and toasty cafés.
Accessories: Gloves, scarf (or hood), and lip balm. Trust me on the lip balm.
But don’t stress—Tallinn is full of cafés, museums, and shops where you can defrost between strolls.
💭 Is Tallinn in December worth visiting? Final thoughts
Absolutely. If you’re up for a little cold and a lot of charm, Tallinn in December is the perfect blend of magic, history, and hearty meals. It’s not just about the lights or the markets—it’s the feeling you get sipping glög on a snowy street, surrounded by medieval towers and the soft sound of carols in the air.
Just bundle up, plan ahead, and embrace the sparkle. You might just fall in love.
And if you’re planning a longer stay, don’t miss my full → Tallinn Travel Guide — packed with local tips, hidden gems, and day trip ideas.
