Tallinn Christmas Markets

Tallinn Christmas Markets city breaks

Tallinn's Christmas markets, at the heart of Estonia’s capital, are a magical festive experience. Dotted throughout the city’s medieval Old Town, they feature charming wooden stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, festive decorations and delicious local treats like zingy gingerbread and mulled wine, AKA glogi. The enchanting atmosphere is made even more special thanks to a giant Christmas tree in the middle of the square, thousands of twinkling lights and jolly carol performances to get you into the spirit. On top of the markets, you’ve got a whole host of history, culture, shopping and nightlife to explore across the city too. Try Tallinn for your festive city break next year and make it a Christmas to remember...

Old Town square Christmas market

Old Town square Christmas market

This is the biggest and best in the city, so you can’t miss it. It’s held in the medieval Old Town, where the square is transformed into a winter wonderland. Wooden stalls sell handmade gifts, traditional Estonian treats and warming mulled wine, and there’s a great calendar of entertainment!

Admire it from the Town Hall

Admire it from the Town Hall

Want to see the Christmas markets from above? Head into the 700-year-old Town Hall and climb up to the top floor. Admire the frescoes that adorn the walls as you go. Peek out from its time-worn windows for a bird’s-eye view of all the festive fun below.

Catch live performances

Catch live performances

Be entertained as you wander around the stalls by everything from carol singers and Santa Claus to folk groups and dance troupes. Join the crowds as they sing and dance along to performers on stage and really get into the festive spirit.

Gingerbread Mania

Gingerbread Mania

This annual art exhibition is like nothing you’ve seen before – everything showcased here has to be made out of gingerbread! Admire artwork (or should we say bakes!) made by local artists or join a workshop and create your own sweet souvenir. ‘Piparkook’ means gingerbread in Estonian.

Walk the city walls

Walk the city walls

Fancy a break from the hustle and bustle of the markets? Enjoy a unique perspective of the city's rich history from these well-preserved, UNESCO-listed fortifications which date back to the 13th century. See medieval architecture and charming cobblestone streets along the way.

Take museum pit stops

Take museum pit stops

Escape the chilly temperatures and head into one of the city’s many museums to learn about Estonia’s fascinating history. The Estonian Maritime Museum and Kumu Art Museum are two of the most popular! Some even offer free entry.

Centennial Nexus Hotel Tallinn
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Centennial Nexus Hotel Tallinn

Tallinn City, Tallinn Christmas Markets

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Based on 671 reviews

  • Contemporary and spacious rooms
  • Modern design
  • 850m from Freedom Square
  • 950m from Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • 1.2km from Tallinn Town Hall Square and Christmas markets
Go Hotel Shnelli
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Go Hotel Shnelli

Tallinn City, Tallinn Christmas Markets

Our rating

Based on 36 reviews

  • Contemporary design
  • Excellent transport links
  • 240m from Balti Jaama Turg
  • 700m from Tallinn Town Hall Square and Christmas markets
  • 950m from Toompea Castle and Hill
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Balti Jaama Turg

Balti Jaama Turg

Tallinn Christmas Markets

Fancy a spot of retail therapy? Head to the historic market of Balti Jaama Turg for a vibrant mix of local produce, artisanal goods and international food stalls. Nearly 300 in total, across three floors!...

Language

Estonian

Currency

Euro (€)

Time difference

+2hr

Cost of a beer

£4.20

One-way local transport ticket

One-way bus ticket £1.70

Three-course meal for two

£59.00

Climate

Tallinn Christmas Markets

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1. Go ice skating
Just minutes from the Town Hall Square, you’ll find the Old Town’s seasonal ice-skating rink. Wrap up warm, hire a pair of skates and glide over the ice with Tallinn’s iconic spires and skyline as your backdrop. Enjoy the music as you skate, then head to the café for a warm drink!
2. The giant Christmas tree
Cameras at the ready! Snap a photo with this giant tree for a festive selfie like no other. You’ll see it in the middle of the Old Town square, towering over the market stalls. It’s dotted with thousands of twinkling lights, so it looks even prettier at night.
3. Sample verivorst
This is the country’s national dish and is especially popular at Christmastime! It’s a spicy sausage, which is often compared to black pudding, served with sauerkraut and a red berry jam. Grab some from the markets or try it in a traditional restaurant.
4. Wrap up warm with a mulled wine
AKA glögg or glögi, this delicious tipple is sure to warm your cockles. There are lots of different flavours to choose from, with non-alcoholic versions available as well. How about a hot chocolate for the little ones too?
5. Fairground rides
Whether you’ve got kids in tow or not, it’s sometimes hard to resist a ride on a merry-go-round, especially at Christmas! Enjoy the music, admire the colourful lights and soak up the festive atmosphere.
6. Gaze across the snowy rooftops
Day or night, head to the Kohtuotsa viewing platform for sensational view across the city’s skyline. When the red roofs of the Old Town are blanketed with snow in winter, they’re even more picturesque. It’s a bit of a climb uphill to get there but it’s well worth it for the view.