Ready to step into a winter wonderland? Wintertime in Tallinn feels like stepping into a fairytale. Cobblestone streets are dusted with snow, medieval towers glow under the twinkling lights, and the scent of mulled wine drifts from cosy cafés, making Estonia’s capital a magical destination in the colder months.  

Whether you’re drawn by its world-famous Christmas markets, eager to explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town in a quieter season or you simply want to experience the Baltic culture while it’s wrapped in festive charm, Tallinn has plenty to offer. In this handy guide, we’ll share the best ways to enjoy Tallinn in winter, from festive traditions to hidden local gems. 

Grab your hat and scarf, pull on some comfy shoes and don’t forget your camera – Tallinn at Christmas, here we come...

Head to the Christmas markets 

As it’s probably the main reason why you’d visit Tallinn over the festive period. The markets in the Town Hall Square are at the heart of the city’s Christmas celebrations. You’ll find them next to the 15th-century Tallinn Town Hall, and lit up with twinkling lights, it’s a picture-perfect winter wonderland. If a spot of retail therapy is on the cards, you’ll have over 40 charming stalls to choose from, and you can pick up traditional gifts, local crafts and seasonal delicacies. 

The markets will be open from Friday 21 November until Saturday 27 December 2025.  

Enjoy festive activities 

Away from the markets, there are plenty of other exciting, Christmassy things to see and do! Why not take to the ice and glide around the Harju Street ice rink? It’s right next to St. Nicholas’ Church, so it’s super easy to find and the charming buildings that surround it just add to the magical atmosphere.  

In the mood for music? There are various concerts and performances taking place throughout the festive season in churches and cultural venues, especially choral music and Christmas hymns. 

Tick off the top sights 

Tallinn is a city where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy, so there’s a huge range of things to see. And when it’s dusted with snow, it’s even more spectacular. Start in the UNESCO-listed Old Town, a beautifully preserved district with cobbled lanes, merchant houses and towering spires. The Town Hall Square, where the main markets are, is at its centre and is home to the Gothic Tallinn Town Hall. Nearby, don’t miss the Town Hall Pharmacy, one of Europe’s oldest still in operation. 

Climb up to Toompea Hill for sweeping views over the city. Here, you’ll find Toompea Castle, now Estonia’s parliament. The Kohtuotsa and Patkuli viewing platforms are perfect spots to admire Tallinn’s red rooftops against the Baltic Sea backdrop. 

For a taste of maritime history, head to the Seaplane Harbour Museum, where historic ships and a submarine are on display. Bit of an art lover? You should make a beeline for Kumu Art Museum, Estonia’s largest art museum, blending classical and contemporary works. 

Finally, take a stroll through Kadriorg Park and Palace, a baroque masterpiece commissioned by Peter the Great, surrounded by tranquil gardens. Together, these capture the essence of Tallinn perfectly – historic, cultural and endlessly picturesque.  

Keep your camera hand as you’ll want to snap photos of all these top spots! 

Try the local food and drink 

Keen to sample the local dishes and delicacies? The huge variety of eateries across the city will provide all the opportunities you could need. Estonian cuisine blends rustic traditions with Nordic and Eastern European influences. Staples include hearty dishes like mulgipuder (mashed potatoes with barley and bacon), wild boar and rye bread, AKA leib, often served with pickled vegetables. And as you’ll be right on the coast, fish, especially sprats and herring, are really common and extra fresh! 

Dairy plays a huge role too, with treats like kohuke, a sweet curd snack coated in chocolate. For dessert, vastlakukkel, a cream-filled bun, is a must-try!  

Something to wash it all down with? Estonians enjoy drinks like kama, a fermented grain beverage, and locally distilled vodkas. They’re smooth and clear but do pack a punch. 

The food is simple yet hearty and comforting, reflecting the country’s roots and seasonal rhythms. See how many local treats you can try! 

A traditional Estonian Christmas feast 

Just like in Britain, a Christmas dinner is an integral part of the festive season. Common dishes include oven-baked pork with sauerkraut, verivorst – a blood sausage, similar to traditional black pudding, oven-roasted potatoes, and sweet lingonberry sauce and pickled pumpkin on the side.  

Piparkook, gingerbread, is the preferred seasonal dessert. Pick it up from stands in the Christmas market, enjoy it with a warming mulled wine in a local bakery, and there's even a seasonal exhibition devoted to gingerbread sculptures called Gingerbread Mania!  

Experience the exciting nightlife 

Tallinn’s nightlife pulses with energy, blending medieval charm with a modern edge. The Old Town transforms after dark into a playground of cosy pubs, stylish cocktail bars and lively clubs. 

Whether you're sipping gin at a speakeasy or dancing under chandeliers, Tallinn caters to every mood. And the city’s compact layout makes bar-hopping a breeze!  

Are you ready for a Christmas city break filled with festive cheer? 

Visit Estonia. It’s about time.