Tallinn has its share of green space to explore, but if you long to recharge in forest shade or listen to the rush of a waterfall, head outside of the city for a day. According to data gathered by Visit Estonia in 2021, these are the five most popular day trips from Tallinn.
Day trips east of Tallinn
Jägala Waterfall
Jägala Waterfall is the widest waterfall in Estonia. Measuring 50 meters wide and 8 meters high, this waterfall is particularly interesting to visit during the winter. The water freezes forming a wall of ice.
The waterfall is a 30-minute drive east of Tallinn. Otherwise, the nearest bus stop is about 1.2 km away.
Nearby you can see the Jõelähtme stone barrows, or head further east to explore Lahemaa National Park and the quaint fishing villages along the northern coast. Jägala waterfall can easily be combined with the Viru bog trail, the next spot on the list.
Viru bog study trail
Viru bog observation tower
See the sky reflected in the still waters of Estonian wetlands.
Photo by: Visit Estonia
The Viru bog study trail was designed with accessibility in mind. The first stretch of the trail is a wooden boardwalk accessible to wheelchair users and families with strollers. An observation tower is located at the end of the boardwalk giving you a view over the landscape of Lahemaa National Park.
The Viru bog study trail is a 45-minute drive outside of Tallinn on the road east towards Narva. You can also go by bus. The distance from the bus stop to the trailhead is a little under a kilometer.
If you want to spend some more time outside after your hike, head north. Not far away is Purekkari cape, the northernmost point of mainland Estonia. You can also take in the quaint village of Kasmu, a picturesque fishing village, with a well-marked nature and cultural history trail.
Day trips west of Tallinn
Keila Waterfall
Keila-Joa Waterfall
Bring a rain jacket if you want to experience the waterfall up close!
Photo by: Julia Kivelä
Keila Waterfall is the third largest waterfall in Estonia. There are two suspension bridges to cross to reach the waterfall, and paths above and below the falls offer great photo opportunities.
The waterfall is about a 40-minute drive west of Tallinn. The nearest bus stop to the falls is close by, only 400 meters away.
While you're visiting the Keila Waterfall, take some time to explore the nearby area. Stop for coffee and cake at the renovated Keila-Joa Manor or go hiking on the Keila-Joa Park nature trail. If you're looking for more adventures in the area, you can visit the singing sands of Laulasmaa beach or relax after a long day outdoors at Hotel LaSpa water and sauna center.
Marimetsa bog hiking trail
The Marimetsa bog hiking trail is a 9-kilometer-long trek that makes for a perfect full-day trip from Tallinn. The hike itself typically takes 4-5 hours. While there are stretches of boardwalk, it can be wet in places, so come prepared.
While not impossible to reach by bus, it's more convenient to get there by car. Driving can take up to an hour and a half, and there's a parking lot at the trailhead.
If you still have energy after your hike, you could head on to Haapsalu for dinner or hit up Rummu Quarry, the final spot on our list, on your way back to Tallinn.
Rummu Quarry
Once a limestone and marble quarry, Rummu Quarry is now a mesmerizing sight to see. Industrial buildings and equipment lie partly submerged in a crystal blue lagoon. During the summer months, you can rent a SUP board or go diving and snorkeling.
The quarry is an hour's drive from Tallinn, though it is also possible to take a train and then a bus to get there. The nearest bus stop is about a kilometer away.
Still looking for more adventure? Head to the nearby high-ropes course. If the quarry gave you enough of an adrenaline rush for one day, then take a stroll on the walking track through the village of Padise and finish the day off with a gourmet meal at Padise Manor.
