Tallinn: Best day trip from Helsinki – All you need to know

Dreaming of a swift escape from Helsinki to a charming destination? Look no further than Tallinn, a medieval gem that beckons with cobbled streets and historical allure. If you’re on the quest for the perfect day trip, you’re not alone in navigating the nuances of planning. The worries of efficient transportation, maximizing time, and ensuring a seamless experience can feel overwhelming. But fear not, fellow traveler! Join me on a journey as we unravel the secrets to making Tallinn the best day trip from Helsinki. As someone who has not only visited but found the allure so irresistible that I extended my stay, I’m excited to share the insights, tips, and wonders awaiting you across the Gulf of Finland. Let’s turn your day trip dreams into an enchanting reality. Welcome to the ultimate guide for the best day trip from Helsinki to Tallinn!

Where do ferries depart from?

Ferries for the best day trip from Helsinki to Tallinn typically depart from West Terminal 2. The West Terminal is known for its modern facilities and ease of access. It’s 40 minutes walk from City center but it’s also well connected by public transportation. You can take the tram 7 or 9, which departs every 7 minutes from the city center and the ticket costs 3.2 euros.
Ferries from Tallinn to Helsinki depart from Tallinn A Terminal. It’s very easy to access from Tallinn City Center, only 15 minutes walking.

What’s the best company for traveling with timetables?

3 companies are operating the route from Helsinki to Tallinn and vice versa.
Tallink Silja – With 7 sailings daily, this is the best option for the timetables. It has the most convenient departing times but also the highest price. It has also the earliest ferry departing from Helsinki, at 7:30.

Viking Line – With 2 sailings daily, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. This is more economical than Tallink Silja, but it does not offer a variety of choices.

Eckerö Line – With 3 sailings daily, this is the most convenient line to start your best day trip from Helsinki. This is also the line I chose for my trip.

How much is a round-trip ticket for Tallinn – the best day trip from Helsinki?

The round trip ticket starts from 40 euros with Eckerö Line. It may vary depending on how flexible you are. Where do you want to depart and if you have a vehicle or not? The price of the ticket depends also on where and when you book it. On the one hand, if you want to book the ticket in advance, mind that some sites make you pay a commission, on the other hand, if you book directly at the ferry terminal, the last minute, the prices may increase.

I chose Eckerö Line, I booked the ticket at the ferry terminal and it cost 44 euros roundtrip.

What are the timetables?

Plann your best day trip from Helsinki, to Tallinn, by choosing the right ferry that meets your travel plans. Here all the departures from Helsinki to Tallin and vice versa.

From Helsinki to Tallinn:

Tallink Silja: 7:30, 10:30, 13:30, 16:30, 18:35, 19:30 and 23:00
Viking Line: 10:30 and 20:30
Eckerö Line: 09:00, 15:15, 21:40

From Tallinn to Helsinki
Tallink Silja: 7:30, 10:30, 12:30, 13:30, 16:30, 19:30 and 23:00
Viking Line: 7:00, 17:30
Eckerö Line: 6:00, 12:00, 18:30

The journey takes about 2hours and 30 minutes and you can check the timetables online in this site: www.ferryscanner.com

Are there cabins available on the cruise?

In the ferries traveling from Helsinki to Tallinn, passengers can enjoy the added comfort of cabins for a truly relaxing journey. These cozy cabins provide a private retreat where travelers can unwind and recharge during the voyage. Equipped with essential amenities, including comfortable beds and ensuite facilities, the cabins offer a tranquil space to escape the hustle and bustle of the ship. Whether you’re seeking a short nap, some quiet time, or a place to freshen up, the cabins on Eckero Line ensure a pleasant and rejuvenating experience as you sail across the Baltic Sea. They have also a beautiful view of the Baltic Sea.
Anyway, most part of visitors stay in the bar area, enjoying a drink and the views from the windows. It makes even better your best day trip from Helsinki.

What is there to do on the cruise?

Inside the ferries, a world of onboard entertainment awaits passengers on the journey from Helsinki to Tallinn. From panoramic lounges offering breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea to vibrant dining areas serving delectable meals, the experience is designed to be as enjoyable as the destination itself. Travelers can indulge in duty-free shopping for souvenirs, fashion, and more. For those seeking relaxation, there are cozy lounges to unwind, and for the little ones, play areas ensure a fun-filled voyage. With a range of amenities catering to diverse interests, the ferries ensure that the journey becomes an integral part of the memorable Tallinn day trip experience. There are also live performances on the ferry, with different singers who sing in certain scenes and at certain times. All these facilities will help you make the best day trip from Helsinki, to Tallinn.

What documents do you need to take with you?

Even though you’re just doing a day trip, you are actually crossing the border. There are no regular security checks either in Helsinki or in Tallinn, but anyway you must bring your ID with you. I noticed the police stopping random people, checking their IDs, and questioning them. So, even if it’s only a day trip, don’t forget to bring your ID with you.

Is a day enough in Tallinn – The best day trip from Helsinki?

As I pondered this question, my excitement to explore the captivating allure of Tallinn only grew stronger. A city rich in history, culture, and architectural marvels, a single day felt like a mere glimpse into its treasures. The enchanting cobblestone streets of the Old Town, adorned with medieval buildings and charming squares, seemed to hold stories waiting to be discovered. To truly savor the spirit of Tallinn, I made a decision – a day wouldn’t suffice. I chose to extend my stay, embracing the opportunity to delve deeper into its hidden gems and immerse myself in the authentic atmosphere of this Baltic gem. And, oh, the decision was nothing short of a revelation, turning what could have been a fleeting visit into an unforgettable exploration of Tallinn’s magic. 

So, consider to extend your stay – I did it! And here my travel guide on what to do in Tallinn.