Public Transport: Tallinn offers excellent public transportation including buses, trams, and trolleybuses operating 6 AM-midnight with some night services. Free for residents, visitors must purchase tickets. Single tickets (€2) valid 1 hour on all transport, buy from drivers with cash. Better value: rechargeable Ühiskaart smart card (€2 deposit) loaded at R-Kiosks, reducing per-trip cost to €1.10. Insert card in validators when boarding. Download Tallinn Transport app for route planning and real-time arrivals.
Tallinn Card: Includes unlimited public transport plus free entry to 40+ attractions. Available 24hr (€32), 48hr (€42), 72hr (€52). Worthwhile if visiting multiple museums and using transport frequently. Purchase online or at tourist information centers.
Airport Transfer: Tallinn Airport (TLL) is only 4km from city center. Tram 4 connects airport to city center (€2, 15 minutes, runs every 10-20 minutes 6 AM-midnight). Terminates near Viru Gate. Bus 2 offers alternative route. Taxis cost €10-15 to city center; use official airport taxis or Bolt/Uber apps. Bolt (ride-sharing) typically cheapest option.
Walking: Old Town is compact and entirely walkable 15 minutes corner to corner. Most major attractions within walking distance. Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestones. Walking is the best way to discover hidden courtyards and architectural details.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Bolt (Estonian app similar to Uber) offers cheapest rides. Uber also operates. Official taxis more expensive; ensure meter running. Avoid unmarked taxis. Average ride across city €5-10 with Bolt.
Bicycles: Bolt bikes and scooters available via app throughout city. Useful for reaching Kadriorg, Pirita, or Kalamaja. Dedicated bike lanes on major streets. Note: cycling on Old Town cobblestones challenging.
Ferries: Tallinn-Helsinki ferries (2 hours) operated by Tallink/Silja, Viking Line, and Eckerö Line. Popular day trip option. Port located near Old Town, walking distance or short tram ride.
Car Rental: Unnecessary for city exploration; Old Town pedestrianized and parking expensive/difficult. Useful for day trips to Lahemaa National Park or Estonian countryside. International companies at airport and city center.