← Back to blog

Tallinn Beyond the Guidebooks: 6 Unusual Things to Do in Tallinn

This list is for travellers who want to experience Tallinn in a less conventional way. All of these ideas are affordable, easy to arrange and offer a chance to see the city from a different perspective.

1. Chasing Sunrises and Sunsets

Spend a morning or evening by the sea and experience a quieter side of Tallinn. The city's beaches offer a peaceful setting to relax, recharge and enjoy the fresh coastal air. Bring a coffee, have lunch with a view or pack a simple picnic to enjoy outdoors.

Tallinn's beaches are beautiful at any time of day, but sunrise and sunset are particularly magical moments. For unforgettable sunsets, head to Kakumäe Beach, Pirita Beach or Stroomi Beach. If you're an early riser, Pikakari Beach is one of the best places in Tallinn to welcome the sunrise.

2. Meet the Fluffy Cows of Paljassaare

During the summer months, a herd of fluffy Highland cattle can be found grazing in the coastal meadows of Paljassaare. Anyone can visit them, and they have become one of Tallinn's most unexpected local attractions.

The cows are often curious and may approach visitors, making this a memorable experience for both adults and children. While it is important to respect the animals and avoid feeding them, observing them up close is a unique way to spend an afternoon in Tallinn.

Paljassaare is located not far from Pikakari Beach. The area also features a forest trail, a birdwatching platform, and a modern outdoor gym, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature without leaving the city.

Coordinates of the grazing area: 59.482540, 24.709310

3. Explore Tallinn's Seaside Promenades

One of the best ways to enjoy Tallinn's coastline is by bike or scooter. The city offers several scenic waterfront routes that combine sea views, fresh air and modern public spaces. Rocca al Mare Promenade features a peaceful coastal route and a viewing platform overlooking the sea. Reidi Road Promenade offers a modern waterfront experience with relaxation areas, playgrounds and plenty of space for cycling or riding a scooter.

These promenades are a popular leisure destination for Tallinn residents and offer a glimpse into everyday life by the sea.

4. Create Your Own Tallinn Souvenir

For a more creative experience, try making your own souvenir. Pick up a small canvas, a few brushes and a basic set of paints, then head out to capture Tallinn on canvas.

One option is to visit one of the viewpoints in the Old Town and sketch the city's iconic red rooftops and church towers. Another is to move away from the centre and paint Tallinn's skyline from a distance.

There are no rules — choose your own view, colours and style. The goal is not perfection, but a unique souvenir that will remind you of your visit long after the trip is over.

Personal recommendation: For Old Town views, head to Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform. For one of the best skyline views of Tallinn, Linnahall is hard to beat.

5. Ride Tallinn’s Blue Trams

Experience Tallinn like a local by taking one of the city's charming blue trams. Head to Hobujaama tram stop and look for one of the blue-themed trams, decorated with a nostalgic old-time interior that makes the journey feel a little more special.

Sit back and enjoy the changing scenery as the tram travels through both central Tallinn and residential neighbourhoods beyond the usual tourist areas. You can stay on until the final stop or get off whenever something catches your attention.

Exploring an unfamiliar neighbourhood is a great way to discover a side of Tallinn that many visitors never see. Sometimes the best way to get to know a city is to leave the itinerary behind and see where the tram takes you.

6. Discover Medieval Tallinn at Your Own Pace

Step into the Golden Age of Tallinn and discover the stories behind one of the best-preserved Hanseatic cities in Europe with your private Tallinn tour.

Unlike traditional guided tours, there is no need to adjust your schedule, keep up with a group or follow a fixed timetable. Start whenever it suits you and explore the Old Town at your own pace.

All you need is a charged phone and a pair of headphones. From hidden courtyards and merchant guilds to ancient churches and city legends, a unique medieval experience awaits around every corner.