"Tallinn - rohkem kui linn | Tallinn - more than a city"
About:
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, has a rich history dating back to 1050 AD. Initially a trading hub between Western and Northern Europe and Russia, it became a member of the Hanseatic League in the 13th century. It endured Swedish and Russian rule before Estonia's independence in 1918. Occupied by the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany during WWII, Tallinn was re-annexed by the Soviets until Estonia regained independence in 1991. Today, it's a vibrant, tech-savvy city known for its preserved medieval architecture.
When to visit:
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a charming city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history. The best time to visit Tallinn is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild and the city comes alive with various festivals and events. Visitors can enjoy exploring the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and taking in panoramic views from Toompea Hill. For a unique experience, consider visiting Tallinn during the winter months when the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and festive decorations.
When to avoid:
Traveling to Tallinn on a holiday during the winter months, particularly in January and February, is often considered the worst time due to the harsh weather conditions. The city experiences extremely cold temperatures, strong winds, and frequent snowfall during this period, which can disrupt travel plans and make sightseeing uncomfortable. Additionally, many tourist attractions and outdoor activities may be limited or closed during the winter season, reducing the overall appeal of visiting Tallinn during this time. Travelers seeking a more enjoyable experience should consider visiting Tallinn during the summer months when the weather is milder and the city comes alive with outdoor festivals and events.
Winter (Nov–Mar)
In Tallinn, Estonia, the coldest portion of the year is from December to February, with average temperatures dipping as low as -6°C. Snowfall is common, turning the city into a winter wonderland. However, days are short with only six hours of daylight in December. Cloud cover is high, with sunny days being a rarity. Rainfall is relatively low, around 40mm, but the melting snow can contribute to damp conditions. For a visitor, an average day might involve bundling up to explore the city's historic sites, with regular stops at cozy cafes to warm up with a hot drink.
"Summer (June-August)"
In Tallinn, Estonia, the warmest part of the year is from June to August, which is the summer season. During this time, the average high temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) to 21°C (70°F). The nights are cooler with temperatures dropping to an average of 11°C (52°F) to 13°C (55°F).
Rainfall is relatively moderate during these months, with an average precipitation of 50-90 mm per month. It's worth noting that July tends to be the wettest month. The summer season also experiences the most sunlight, with up to 17-18 hours of daylight per day due to Tallinn's location near the Baltic Sea and high latitude.
Humidity during the summer months is generally lower than the rest of the year, averaging around 70%. As for cloudiness, summer days are typically partly cloudy, but there are more clear or mostly sunny days compared to other seasons.
A typical summer day in Tallinn for a visitor would feel pleasantly warm, but not hot, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The extended daylight hours provide ample opportunity to explore the city. However, it's advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings, and an umbrella or raincoat could come in handy for the occasional summer showers.
Language:
Estonian is the official language of Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia. It is a Finno-Ugric language, closely related to Finnish and distantly to Hungarian. While Estonian is the most widely spoken language, Russian is also commonly spoken due to the significant Russian-speaking population in the city. Additionally, English is increasingly spoken among younger generations and in business settings.