Embarking on a two-day journey through Tallinn, Estonia, with a day trip to Helsinki, Finland, offers a rich blend of medieval charm and modern Nordic culture. Here’s a comprehensive itinerary to make the most of your visit:
Day 1: Discovering Tallinn
Morning:
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Arrival and Check-In:
- Accommodation Options:
- Hotel Telegraaf: A luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, offering elegant rooms and a spa. Prices start from €150 per night.
- Hotel Palace: A 4-star hotel known for its central location and modern amenities. Rates begin at €100 per night.
- Hestia Hotel Barons Old Town: A boutique hotel set in a historic building, providing a unique stay experience. Prices from €80 per night.
- Accommodation Options:
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Explore Tallinn’s Old Town:
- Raekoja Plats (Town Hall Square): The historic center surrounded by colorful merchant houses and the Gothic-style Town Hall.
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: An iconic Russian Orthodox cathedral known for its stunning architecture.
- Toompea Castle: Now housing the Estonian Parliament, this castle offers panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon:
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Lunch Options:
- Rataskaevu 16: A highly-rated restaurant offering traditional Estonian dishes with a modern twist. Expect to spend around €20-€30 per person.
- Olde Hansa: A medieval-themed restaurant serving authentic dishes from the Hanseatic era. Meals average €25 per person.
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Continue Exploring:
- Kumu Art Museum: Estonia’s largest art museum, showcasing both classical and contemporary works. Admission is €10.
- Kadriorg Palace and Park: A baroque palace built by Peter the Great, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Entrance fee is €8.
Evening:
- Dinner Options:
- NOA Restaurant: A seaside restaurant offering panoramic views and a diverse menu. Average meal cost is €30 per person.
- Vegan Restoran V: A popular spot for plant-based dishes, with meals averaging €15-€20 per person.
Day 2: Day Trip to Helsinki
Morning:
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Ferry to Helsinki:
- Departure: Board the Tallink Silja Line ferry from Tallinn’s D-Terminal to Helsinki. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.
- Tickets: Round-trip fares range from €40 to €50, depending on the time and booking class. It’s advisable to book in advance.
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Arrival in Helsinki:
- Disembarkation: Arrive at Helsinki’s West Terminal 2, conveniently connected to the city center by trams 7 and 9.
Mid-Morning:
- Suomenlinna Sea Fortress:
- Access: Take a 15-minute ferry from the Market Square (Kauppatori) to this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Tickets: A round-trip ferry ticket costs approximately €5.
- Exploration: Wander through the historic fortifications, museums, and enjoy scenic picnic spots.
Afternoon:
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Lunch Options:
- Story Cafe at the Old Market Hall: Known for its salmon soup and cinnamon rolls. Meals cost around €15 per person.
- Yes Yes Yes: A vegetarian-friendly restaurant offering a variety of dishes. Expect to spend about €20 per person.
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City Exploration:
- Helsinki Cathedral: A neoclassical landmark overlooking Senate Square, open daily with free admission.
- Uspenski Cathedral: An Orthodox cathedral offering panoramic city views. Admission is free.
- Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church): A unique church built into solid rock, renowned for its acoustics. Entrance fee is €5.
Evening:
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Dinner Options:
- Savoy Restaurant: Offers French cuisine with Finnish influences. Average meal cost is €50 per person.
- Löyly: Combines a traditional sauna experience with dining. Sauna access is €19; meals average €25 per person.
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Return to Tallinn:
- Ferry Departure: Evening ferries depart around 7:30 PM, arriving in Tallinn by 9:30 PM.
Additional Tips:
- Booking: Reserve ferry tickets and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Currency: Both Estonia and Finland use the Euro (€).
- Transportation: Both cities have efficient public transport systems; consider purchasing day passes for convenience.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration, culinary delights, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable experience in both Tallinn and Helsinki.