So, you’ve arrived in the tiny capital of Estonia and are clueless about what to do. Yes, you could explore the Old Town, in fact you should as it’s extraordinary enough to have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, however this will only take a few hours of your day (we sincerely hope you’re staying a little longer than a day). Don’t let the city’s size fool you; there’s plenty to do here, you just have to know where to look. If you wish to make your stay in Tallinn truly memorable, here’s a list of unique tours and activities that you should definitely consider taking part in!

1. Enjoy a delicious 4-course meal at HÄPI Home Studio

Eating out is a big part of travelling, but if you really want to experience the local culture, why not dine at a local home restaurant? HÄPI Home Studio is a small concept-based, gay-friendly apartment located in Tallinn’s bohemian Kalamaja district. Chef de Cuisine Rain Uusen will treat your taste buds to a four-course meal full of fabulous flavours. This really is as local as it gets! Note that HÄPI Home Studio can accommodate a maximum of four people.

2. Explore Kalamaja on two wheels on a Funky Bike Tour

This tour takes you off the tourist trail to Kalamaja – a charming neighbourhood rich in history. A friendly local guide will lead you along quiet backstreets past historic wooden houses, industrial Soviet landscapes, a curious Russian flea market and many other hidden gems. These are places that you would generally never stumble across on your own. If you’re worried about not being fit enough – don’t be! This tour is all about cruising, with lots of pit stops for interesting stories at cool locations.

3. Channel your inner child at a playful AcroYoga class

AcroYoga is a physical practice that combines yoga and acrobatics. Not only is it fun, playful and addictive, it also teaches you to know and trust your body. You should definitely join a class if you want to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. You’ll be amazed by what your body is capable of, and you may even become hooked for life! The best part is that classes take place outdoors during the summer season.

4. Stay fit on a Tallinn Running Tour

Tallinn Running Tours are perfect for those who want to combine staying fit with sightseeing. Guided by local triathlon enthusiasts, you’ll get to discover the city by running through it! They offer recreational and competitive running sessions all year round, and are flexible when it comes to distance and speed. Not only will you experience Tallinn’s history and culture with like-minded people, you’ll get a unique perspective on the city, including tips on what to do and where to go during your stay.

5. Join the scenic Lahemaa National Park Day Tour

Lahemaa National Park is one of the most well-known and cherished nature reserves in Estonia. It’s located only an hour from Tallinn, yet once you arrive, you’ll feel as if you’re hundreds of miles away from the city. It’s extremely diverse, with a bog, coastal areas, the sea and forests, as well as various man-made structures. This day trip to Lahemaa not only enables you to discover the natural beauty of the reserve, but also gives you the chance to visit several quaint Estonian villages, explore an abandoned Soviet submarine base, see one of the area’s charming manors (Palmse or Sagadi) and get to know the local wildlife, if you’re lucky!

6. Take a voyage to Prangli island

Prangli is a tiny island (6.44 km²) located north of the Estonian mainland in the Gulf of Finland. It rose from the sea roughly 3500 years ago, and nowadays is populated by fewer than 100 people. It’s the closest island to our capital that has maintained its native culture since the 14th century. Prangli Travel offers an all-inclusive day trip with transfers from Tallinn city centre, ferry transport to the island, a truck excursion with an English-speaking guide, museum and church visits and lunch.

7. Travel back in time at the Viking Village

Many centuries ago, the Nordic region, including Estonia, was visited and inhabited by Vikings. The Viking Village recreates the atmosphere and appearance of life in ancient Estonia. After hearing plenty of cool Viking stories and taking a tour of the village (including stops at a Viking cave sauna and a historical wooden fortress), you can unleash your inner Viking with some archery, axe throwing and catapult throwing!

For more local recommendations read:
What locals like to do in Tallinn
Where locals like to eat in Tallinn
Where locals like to party in Tallinn

Special tip:
For a more authentic Tallinn experience, get the Like A Local mobile app