Visiting Finland’s capital? You’re in the perfect spot to add a second country to your itinerary with minimal effort. Just a 2-hour ferry ride from Helsinki, the medieval charm of Tallinn, Estonia awaits. As a solo traveler, this day trip felt like a mini-adventure, effortless to plan, scenic, budget-friendly, and incredibly enriching.
Whether you’re chasing cobblestone streets, Baltic Sea views, or fresh-baked cinnamon buns, here’s everything you need to know to plan the best day trip from Helsinki to Tallinn by ferry.
Why Take a Day Trip from Helsinki to Tallinn?
- Two capital cities in one day
- No airport hassle, just hop on a ferry
- See the contrast between Nordic modernity and Baltic medieval charm
- Budget-friendly travel and food
- Perfect for solo travelers (very walkable, safe, and welcoming)
The best part? You’ll leave in the morning and be back in Helsinki by dinn or stay later for sunset over the Gulf of Finland.
Ferry Options from Helsinki to Tallinn
Which Ferry Lines Operate This Route?
Three major ferry companies run between the two cities year-round:
- Tallink Silja Line
- Viking Line
- Eckerö Line
Each has multiple daily departures and onboard amenities, so you can tailor your journey to your travel style.
Ferry Comparison Table
| Ferry Line | Duration | Round-Trip Price | Departure Terminal | Highlights |
| Tallink Silja | ~2 hrs | €40–50 | West Terminal 2 | Modern, most popular |
| Viking Line | ~2 hrs | €35–45 | Katajanokka Terminal | Great dining, smooth ride |
| Eckerö Line | ~2 hrs | €30–40 | West Terminal 2 | Budget-friendly fares |
How to Book Ferry Tickets
You can book tickets directly on the ferry websites or through aggregators like Rome2Rio or Direct Ferries. I suggest booking at least a day in advance, especially during weekends or summer.
- Earliest departure: 7:30 AM
- Latest return: Around 7:30 PM
If you want a full day in Tallinn, catch the early ferry and return by evening. Trust me, time flies in this medieval fairytale town.
What to Expect on the Ferry
The ferries are more like mini cruise ships than basic transport vessels.
Onboard Amenities
- Cafés and buffet restaurants
- Duty-free shops (souvenirs, snacks, clothes, cosmetics)
- Lounges and business-class upgrades
- Sun deck with panoramic views of the Baltic Sea
- Wi-Fi and plenty of seating
Pro tip: Head to the sun deck for sea views and selfies, but bring a light jacket, it gets windy out there!
Restroom tip: The ones in the middle of the ship often have large round windows overlooking the sea. A fun little secret!
Arrival in Tallinn: Where You Land & How to Get Around
Ferries arrive at Terminal D, a 15-minute walk from Tallinn Old Town.
You’ll go through a simple exit process, no passport checks if you’re from the EU/Schengen zone. Non-EU citizens should carry passports and check visa rules in advance.
Luggage Tip
Traveling light is best. There are lockers at the terminal if you need to stash a small backpack.
Money & SIM Card
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Tallinn is very card-friendly, but a few coins come in handy for public transport.
- If you’re data-dependent, consider an eSIM (Airalo, Holafly) before arriving.
One-Day Tallinn Itinerary
If you’re wondering how to best spend your hours in Estonia, here’s a perfectly timed solo-friendly itinerary.
10:30 AM Arrive and Walk to Old Town
Follow the signs or use Google Maps (offline mode works well). Soon you’ll reach Tallinn’s famous medieval gates.
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Explore Old Town
This is what you came for. Tallinn’s Old Town is a compact maze of cobbled lanes, fairy-tale architecture, and Gothic spires.
Must-see highlights:
- Town Hall Square (Raekoja Plats)
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Toompea Hill & Castle
- Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform – stunning photo op
- Viru Gate and Freedom Square
Take your time soaking in the atmosphere, Tallinn is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.
1:00 PM Lunch Spots You’ll Love
Tallinn’s food scene is creative, fresh, and surprisingly affordable.
- Rataskaevu 16 – Local favorite. Try the roasted elk and save room for the apple rhubarb bread pudding with salted caramel.
- Sai Sandwiches – Quick focaccia-based lunch near Viru Gate.
- Samsa Family Bakery – For hearty Uzbek pilaf or dumplings at Balti Jaama Turg.
2:30 PM Coffee & Pastry Break
Walk to RØST Bakery near the harbor. This spot is beloved for its cardamom and rhubarb buns, artisanal coffee, and modern vibes. Solo travelers: great place to journal or people-watch.
3:30 PM Optional: Creative District or Kalamaja
If you’ve still got energy:
- Telliskivi Creative City – Artsy murals, boutiques, cool exhibits
- Kalamaja District – Seaside, low-key, full of bohemian charm
Most tourists skip these areas. That’s exactly why I loved them.
5:00 PM Head Back to Terminal D
Allow at least 30–40 minutes before departure. Boarding usually starts early, and the ships don’t wait.
Practical Info for Solo Travelers
- Do you need a passport?
- Not if you’re from an EU/Schengen country. Otherwise, bring one.
- Not if you’re from an EU/Schengen country. Otherwise, bring one.
- Is the ferry safe for solo travelers?
- Yes! Ferries are clean, well-staffed, and tourist-friendly.
- Yes! Ferries are clean, well-staffed, and tourist-friendly.
- Will I get seasick?
- Unlikely the ride is smooth, and the ships are large.
Quick Tips to Maximize Your Day Trip
- Book your ferry early to get ideal times
- Take the earliest ferry out, latest ferry back
- Wear comfortable shoes the cobblestones are real
- Check the weather before you go (Tallinn can be breezy)
- Use offline maps or preload Google Translate for Estonian phrases
- Bring a portable charger, so many photo ops!
Final Thoughts
A day trip from Helsinki to Tallinn by ferry is one of the easiest and most rewarding border hops you can take in Europe. It’s solo-traveler friendly, easy to navigate, and full of cultural contrast.
From Gothic towers to cinnamon buns, Tallinn surprises at every turn. And with ferries running year-round, this side trip fits neatly into almost any Finnish itinerary.
Read More: Top Cafes in Helsinki for Finnish Pastries
FAQs
Is one day enough in Tallinn?
Yes, especially if you focus on the Old Town. You’ll get a great taste of Estonia in a single day.
Can I visit museums or galleries during a day trip?
Absolutely. Try the Kiek in de Kök Museum or Fotografiska Tallinn if you prefer modern exhibits.
Are there guided tours I can join?
Yes. Some ferries even bundle tickets with guided Old Town walking tours.
Julie Nova here, the founder and voice behind CharmedTravel.info, a passionate traveler, storyteller, and lifelong explorer with a deep love for discovering new places and sharing the magic of travel with others. Through Charmed Travel, my goal is to inspire, inform, and empower fellow travelers with practical guides, honest reviews, and destination tips that truly make a difference.
