About Tallinn Train Station
Tallinn’s main train station, also known as Baltic station, is one of the main transport hubs for the small country of Estonia. Currently, the station receives around 13 million passengers per year. And as Tallinn starts to appear on more and more tourist itineraries, that number is only set to grow.
Located to the northwest of Tallinn's Old Town, Tallinn Train Station is within walking distance of many of the city's best-known attractions. With its connections to other Estonian cities and international lines throughout the region, the station is the gateway to Estonia's capital for many visitors.
Tallinn's very first railway station was built at the end of the 1860s, when railways were first taking off around the world. It was constructed as the terminus of a line that ran from Tallinn to St. Petersburg in Russia. However, this early station didn't survive. Set on fire in 1941 by the Red Army, the station was demolished and rebuilt in the 1960s. The current station dates back to this period. However, the interior was completely renovated in 2005, so this station with very old origins nevertheless feels quite modern.
Things to do near Tallinn Train Station
Thanks to its location close to the heart of town, you’ll find plenty to do near Tallinn Train Station. Some of the city’s best attractions are only a short walk away. As soon as you arrive at Tallinn train station, you can start seeing what the Estonian capital has to offer.
- See one of northern Europe's oldest civic buildings at Tallinn Town Hall. Built in 1404, the Townhall resembles a medieval church but has been the center of power in the city since it was founded. It also makes a great venue for occasional concerts and exhibitions.
- Experience Estonia's Russian influence at Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Built in 1900 when Estonia was part of the Russian Empire, this Eastern Orthodox Cathedral with its onion-shaped dome has been carefully restored to its original glory.
- See the country's foremost art collection at the Kadriorg Art Museum. Housed in a former palace, the gallery showcases art by both Estonian and foreign artists dating between the 16th and 20th centuries.
- Explore a darker side of Estonia's history at the KGB Museum. Located in the Viru Hotel, these rooms full of Soviet espionage equipment have been left exactly as they were when the KGB occupied them. Exploring the hotel's top floor is like taking a step back in time.
- Lose yourself in the ancient fortification at Kiek in de Kok. Built in 1475, this cannon tower is part of a museum complex that details the military history of the country. A highlight is the tunnels underneath the tower that have served as a prison, an air raid shelter, and now an art museum.
Transit options at Tallinn Train Station
- Tallinn airport flies to Russia, the UK, Poland, Germany, Scandinavia, and other European destinations. Tram line 4 connects the airport to the Majaka stop, and from there you can board tram line 2 to the train station.
- Trains to Tallinn Train Station are operated by Elron and connect the city to Tartu, St. Petersburg, Moscow, and other cities in the region.
- Tram routes 1 and 2 run from the Balti jaam stop outside the train station to the heart of Tallinn. Tram number 2 also connects the train station to the city’s main bus station.
Luggage storage in Tallinn Train Station
Because of its central location close to the Old Town, Tallinn Train Station makes a great place to begin exploring the city. The Old Town is very walkable, and the ancient streets are best explored on foot. However, to make things easier, you'll want to get rid of any heavy bags you don't need.
Use a Bounce location to store your luggage near Tallinn train station. No matter how big your bags are or how long you need them stored, Bounce can help you find a secure place to keep them.
Activities and attractions near Tallinn Train Station
- Toompea Castle: Located on the hill close to the center of the city, Toompea Castle has been part of the city since at least the ninth century. To this day, it remains the center of power in the country, housing the parliament of Estonia. It's also a great place to visit to explore the history of the city and the country. Plus, you'll get some of the best views of the city from this hilltop location. Note that large bags are not permitted inside the castle, so make sure you leave yours at a luggage storage shop in Tallinn before you visit.
- Kumu Art Museum: The main location of the Art Museum of Estonia, Kumu Art Museum is one of northern Europe's biggest. The main collection focuses predominantly on art from the 18th century up to the present day. Not surprisingly, it is home to an extensive collection of Estonian art, but you'll also find work by foreign artists in this eclectic gallery. Large bags aren't allowed inside, so make sure you leave yours at a luggage locker near Tallinn Train Station before you go.
- Helsinki: Take a classic day trip from Tallinn to the Finnish capital of Helsinki. Only two and a half hours by ferry across the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki is a great place to visit from the Estonian capital. Don't miss the National Museum and the unusual red-brick Cathedral of this northern city, and soak up the atmosphere of another Baltic state on your trip.
