Tallinn Christmas Market: Everything You Need to Know
When it comes to European Christmas markets, Tallinn isn’t even close to the top of the list of cities that people recommend. Typically, places like Vienna, Nuremberg, and Strasbourg pop up quickly. But Tallinn? Well, I’ve found that many people don’t even know where it is. Which, to be honest, might be a good thing, because when it comes to Christmas markets, this small but charming capital is a well-kept secret. A secret that I’m going to share with you.
Getting to Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, and chances are it’s easiest for you to arrive by plane. There are a few airlines that come here directly from various major cities across Europe. Alternatively, you can take the ferry over from Finland or hop a bus if you are already in the Baltic region. Those who fly in will be pleased to know that the airport is only about a ten minute drive from the Old Town, making it a quick (and inexpensive) taxi ride. You can also take public transport or a ride share service like Bolt.
Where to Stay in Tallinn for the Christmas Market
The Tallinn Christmas market is located in the heart of Old Town Tallinn, so I recommend staying in Old Town as well. It’s absolutely charming with its winding cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and medieval towers and walls that line the city. There are a number of hotels throughout the Old Town in varying prices- keep in mind some of the buildings are older and may not have elevators.
I recently stayed at Rixwell Collection Savoy Boutique Hotel and would recommend it. The rooms were larger than standard for Europe, and the location was just on the edge of Old Town, only a four minute walk to the Christmas market (and yes, there is an elevator).
A couple of other popular options include:
About the Tallinn Christmas Market
Tallinn is known for having the first-ever public Christmas tree, dating back to 1414. However, despite that history, the Christmas market here is relatively new: 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of the market. Despite being so new, this Christmas market is by far one of the most romantic and charming Christmas markets I have ever been to. While small, it has a very local feel to it and is significantly less crowded than the more well-known Christmas markets. It’s very easy to grab a cup of Glogg and find a spot at a table to take in the large Christmas tree in front of Town Hall.
For 2025, the Old Town Tallinn Christmas market opens on November 21st and is open daily from 10am- 8pm. Drinks, however, will be served until 10pm on Sunday-Thursday and 11pm Fridays and Saturdays.
Despite opening early, some activities don’t start until the First Sunday of Advent. This is when the season is officially proclaimed by the Mayor, and Santa Claus begins making his daily appearance. It’s worth checking the calendar on the local tourism website to see what else might be going on during your visit as they do have several other events throughout the season.
What to Buy at the Tallinn Christmas Market
The Old Town Tallinn Christmas market prides itself on its focus of local Estonian goods. Some of the goods for sale are repetitive, but they are made-in-Estonia products. Perhaps the most popular things you will see for sale are woollen hats, mittens, slippers, socks, and scarves. There will be some that are machine-made, and therefore cheaper, as well as hand-made versions. Costs vary drastically, with mittens ranging from 25 euros per pair to 95 euros per pair depending on the quality and materials.
There are also some Christmas decorations and ornaments, pottery, jewelry, pillowcases/table cloths, and of course, plenty of food and drink.
What to Eat and Drink at the Tallinn Christmas Market
Food and drink make up for several of the cabins at this adorable Christmas market. The most common meals available are dishes of various sausages and meats accompanied by sauer kraut and fried potatoes. You can also find potato pancakes, dumplings, and soup in an edible cup.
When it comes to sweets, gingerbread is quite popular. You will find varying sizes and designs, including some beautifully hand-painted cookies decorated to look like the colourful buildings around town. There is also a mini pancake stall and a woman who sells truffles and chocolates.
As for the drinks, one thing I was really impressed with was the amount of non-alcoholic options available. Of course, there is the typical hot chocolate, but you can also get a few flavours of the glogg (mulled wine) with or without alcohol. My personal favourite was the cherry glogg, but the blueberry and Vana Tallinn came in close second.
Note that the Tallinn Christmas market does not offer the traditional ceramic mugs. Instead, they have plastic cups. You still pay a deposit for the cups (as well as any dishes you may use) that you will get back once you return them.
PS: Want a gluhwein recipe? Try this one, which was shared with me by an Austrian chef.
Other Things to do in Tallinn at Christmas
Tallinn is a beautiful city to visit at the best of times, although coming at Christmas does make it a little more magical! That being said, since it is ‘off season’, there are some closures and things to be mindful of. I noticed, when I visited in late November of 2025, that the free walking tours were only available on weekends and guided castle tours required a minimum group of 10+ people.
Despite that, there is lots to explore on your own. There are still several museums to visit within the Old Town, some great viewpoints, all the little boutiques and shops to explore, and of course the new part of the city as well.
Café culture is also a big deal in Tallinn, which is perfect for when you need a chance to slip inside and warm up with a hot drink (and maybe a treat!) I loved:
- Pierre Chocolaterie for hot chocolate and cake
- Reveal Café for brunch
- Kohvik Lummus for coffee and cake
- Kohvik Maiasmokk (the oldest café in Tallinn) for coffee and cake
- Pulla Bakery for delicious cinnamon rolls
Depending on how long you have, you may also want to consider a day trip over to Helsinki, Finland. It’s easy to do by ferry and perfect if the Christmas market in Helsinki is also up and running. You can book that day trip here.
Final Tips for Tallinn’s Christmas Markets
Tallinn’s Christmas market may be small and quiet compared to others, but I do think it’s one of the most romantic and charming ones I have ever been to. If, like me, you are doing a big Christmas market trip, it’s a nice break to have after the faster-paced and busier cities.
That being said, it is winter here, and it can be cold. It’s not uncommon for it to snow this time of year and the daylight hours are minimal; sunrise was 8:40am and sunset was at 3:30pm. So be sure to pack and dress warmly!
Finally, while it may be quieter than major Christmas markets in Europe, it is still a popular time to visit Tallinn so book accommodation and any restaurants you have your heart set on in advance to avoid disappointment, especially if you are visiting on the weekend.
I hope you have a magical time!
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