Photography Guide: 15 Best Photo Spots in Tallinn, Estonia

Wondering where are the best photo spots in Tallinn? You are in the right place! I will help you discover the most beautiful places in Tallinn and make sure you get some wonderful Tallinn postcards.

Tallinn is one of the most photogenic cities in Estonia with its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and stunning panoramic views. This is why you want to bring your camera and take some epic photos during your trip to Northern Europe.

My guide to the best photo spots in Tallinn is going to ensure that you don’t miss a single photo opportunity! I will share additional photography tips, the best time to see these places without crowds, and help you pick out the right lens. Let’s get started!

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The overview of the most Instagrammable places in Tallinn

• Town Hall Square
• Viru Gate
• Hellemann Tower and Town Wall Walkway
• Design shop Oma Asi
• The tower behind Monks from Müürivahe Tänav
• Patkuli Viewing Platform
• St. Catherine’s Passage
• Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform
• Musumägi
• St Olaf’s church
• Vanaturu Kael: Old Hansa & Peppersack
• Kadriorg Palace
• Mündi Street
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

☕️ Bonus: the most Instagrammable cafes in Tallinn

15 best photo spots in Tallinn and photography tips

Town Hall Square

While there are a lot of famous Tallinn Instagram spots, this place is at the top of the list of many travelers. For a good reason of course.

Town Hall Square, known as “Raekoja plats” in Estonian, has been at the heart of Tallinn’s history for over 700 years. It is home to the Gothic Town Hall, a stunning example of Baltic Gothic architecture, which dates back to the 13th century.

Considering its popularity and central location, you will need to wake up early to take the best Tallinn postcards. The old town of Tallinn gets busy around 9 am, so you want to make sure you arrive before the crowds.

To capture the entire Town Hall, you will need a wide-angle lens. However, there are more colorful houses and cute cafes in the square that deserve to be photographed as well.

Viru Gate

At the entrance of the old town, you will find Viru Gate, which is one of the best photo spots in Tallinn.  Surrounded by endless flower shops, you have plenty of photo opportunities and different angles to capture this Tallinn attraction.

The historic structure of Viru Gate was built in the 14th century and served as one of the main entrances to Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, which has been registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The imposing gate, flanked by massive towers, was a vital part of the city’s fortifications.

Viru Gate is an architectural masterpiece and one of the most beautiful places in Tallinn. The two towers with their distinctive red-tiled roofs, create a picture-perfect view.

Just like the Town Hall Square, Viru Gate gets busy, so you will have to wake up early to beat the crowds. It can get busy even early in the morning as there are many trucks delivering flowers to the flower shops, but bring your patience and don’t get discouraged.

You can use many different lenses to create cool Tallinn photos, however, I think the side view from the flower shops gives the best angle.

Hellemann Tower and Town Wall Walkway

While Tallinn Old City Walls steal the spotlight, Hellemann Tower and Town Wall Walkway are lesser-known Tallinn Instagram spots.

The Hellemann Tower, dating back to the 14th century, stands as a silent sentinel to Tallinn’s medieval past. Originally part of the city’s defensive fortifications, this tower once played a vital role in safeguarding the city against external threats.

Nowadays, you can go up to the Hellemann Tower and pass through the Town Wall Walkway. Inside the tower, you will find a small exhibition, however, the highlight is the best views of Tallinn that you will see from the top.

The entrance fee is 4 euros and you will need to pay it in cash. It is open from 11 am to 5 pm and the access to the tower is closed on Tuesdays.

Design shop Oma Asi

Design shop Oma Asi is one of the prettiest places in Tallinn and just a perfect spot for photography lovers. Considering that it is located behind the Town Hall Square, there are many people passing by, however, it is often missed as one of the best photo spots in Tallinn.

Inside the shop, you will find works of many different local designers, so in case you are on a hunt for local souvenirs, this is your perfect opportunity to shop.

When it comes to photos, the exterior of the house is a real eye candy. The tiny structure, red colors, and traditional design elements create a perfect photo opportunity when visiting Tallinn.

I suggest you visit the little red house before its opening time to avoid the crowds passing by. For reference, it opens at 10 am and you can easily combine it with Town Hall Square and other photo spots in the old town of Tallinn.

St. Catherine’s Passage

Among many enchanting locations, St. Catherine’s Passage is hands down one of the best photo spots in Tallinn. It started as a hidden gem of Tallinn, however, it gained popularity in the last years.

St. Catherine’s Passage is steeped in history, tracing its origins back to the 15th century. Lined with historical stone walls and archways, this passage served as a trade route during Tallinn’s medieval era.

The architectural allure of St. Catherine’s Passage lies in its well-preserved medieval structures. The passage is adorned with arches, vaulted ceilings, and ornate doorways. Basically, everything you need to get a beautiful Tallinn photo.

Considering that it is an open space, there is no entrance fee. Which makes it one of the free photo spots in Tallinn.

Patkuli Viewing Platform

Located high above the Estonian capital, the Patkuli Viewing Platform sits as one of the most iconic and beloved photo spots in Tallinn. As you stand on this unique vantage point, you have the best views in Tallinn right under your feet.

During the summer months, this place is packed at sunset time, so you might have to wake up for a sunrise mission. But if you are visiting during the shoulder season or winter, you will be able to capture the beautiful panoramic views over Tallinn with the sun setting over.

Make sure you bring your zoom lens! You will be able to capture some amazing close-ups of famous landmarks in Tallinn.

The tower behind Monks from Müürivahe Tänav

You will find this location right at the entrance of Hellemann Tower and Town Wall Walkway and at the end of St. Catherine’s Passage. From Müürivahe Street you get a fantastic view of the Tower behind Monks and it is one of the secret photography spots in Tallinn.

Considering that this is not a popular attraction in Tallinn, you can take photos any time of the day. But make sure you avoid harsh lights that create unattractive shadows in your photos.

This is a perfect opportunity to play with your zoom lens and see different angles of the tower. If you are using a 35 mm lens or a wide-angle lens, the tower will be lost in the photo, so I suggest you avoid that.

Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform

Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform is one of the best places to take photos in Tallinn and it offers a fantastic view of the city. It is located near the Patkuli Viewing Platform on Toompea Hill, so you can easily combine these best viewpoints.

Honestly, seeing the best viewpoints in Tallinn should be at the top of your bucket list when visiting the capital city of Estonia. The vistas over the medieval town are simply breathtaking, which makes it one of the top places in Tallinn to take pictures at sunset.

Just like the other viewpoint, you will need to bring your zoom lens. This way you can create some amazing Tallinn photography.

Musumägi

Musumägi is one of the most underrated places in Tallinn for photos. It offers a fantastic view of Viru Gate from an unseen perspective and it is also affectionately known as the Kissing Hill among locals.

Constructed in the 19th century as part of the park’s romantic design, it replaced the former Moscow Rondel at Karl XI Bastion. Today, a staircase leads to the hidden photo spot in Tallinn.

The best part about Musumägi is the view of Viru Gate. Considering its high position, you can take a photo of Viru Gate and cut the crowds from above. This is a perfect spot for those who like to sleep in, but still want to capture the iconic landmarks in Tallinn.

Kadriorg Palace

Visiting Kadriorg Palace is one of the best things to do in Tallinn and it offers some of the best photography locations. Kadriorg Park is a popular tourist attraction and for all the right reasons.

Kadriorg Palace was constructed in the 18th century during the reign of Peter the Great of Russia. It was intended as a summer residence for the Russian Tsar and named after his wife, Catherine I.

The palace is a prime example of Baroque architecture and is renowned for its elegant and ornate design. It features splendid facades, grand halls, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Today, the palace houses the Kadriorg Art Museum, which features a remarkable collection of European and Russian art from the 16th to the 20th century. The museum’s exhibits include paintings, sculptures, and decorative art.

The palace is surrounded by the stunning Kadriorg Park, a well-manicured and picturesque area that adds to the beauty of the site. The park is a popular spot for leisurely walks and picnics. And one of the most Instagrammable places in Tallinn.

If you are visiting during peak season, head to the palace before closing time to skip the crowds. And plan a couple of hours from your Tallinn itinerary.

The entrance fee is 9 euros and you can buy your ticket here. It is open from 10 am to 6 pm. The palace is closed on Monday, but you can still visit Kadriorg Park even if the palace is closed.

St Olaf’s Church

St. Olaf’s Church is an iconic landmark in the heart of Tallinn known for its stunning Gothic architecture. If you decide to go up to St Olaf’s Church, you will find some of the best views in Tallinn.

The spire of St. Olaf’s Church once held the record as the tallest building in the world during the 16th century. The towering spire, characterized by its intricate design and dark spire roof, is a prominent feature of the city’s skyline.

But where is a perfect place to take photos of St Olaf’s Church? The observation platforms offer a spectacular view of St Olaf’s Church. However, my favorite view is at the edge of the old town. And you will find it when walking from Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to Pikk Street.

If you want to make your photo even more impressive, bring your zoom lens and watch it work its magic.

Vanaturu Kael

Multiple great photo spots are located on Vanaturu Keel right behind the Town Hall Square. Old Tallinn is filled with picturesque corners and this is just one of those locations.

If you want to photograph the medieval charm of Tallinn, this is the place to be as you are surrounded by old traditional houses. In fact, here you will find two of the famous restaurants – Old Hansa & Peppersack.

The unique exterior of these restaurants with beautiful cobblestone streets create great photo spots for tourists visiting the Capital of Estonia.

Mündi Street

Another must-visit spot in the city center is Mündi Street. The fantastic view of the Town Hall that you can see from Mündi Street makes it one of the best Instagram spots in Tallinn.

Head to the beginning of the Mündi Street and find the perfect spot to picture Town Hall. This view has been featured in multiple famous Estonian paintings, so this is your chance to get creative and make your own art.

Make sure you stop by early in the day as it gets filled with people eager to see the main square of Tallinn. If you are still wondering, where to take photos in Tallinn, this is the place to be.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The next Insta-worthy place in Tallinn is Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is renowned for its stunning Russian Revival architecture.

It was built in the late 19th century, during a time when Estonia was part of the Russian Empire, and it reflects the influence of Russian Orthodox architectural traditions.

The cathedral is characterized by its impressive and distinctive design, featuring multiple onion-shaped domes with gilded crosses. The domes, along with the dark red brick exterior, make it one of the best Tallinn photography spots.

Where to find the best spot to capture Alexander Nevsky Cathedral? Head to the Chapel of the Lutheran Consistory and play with the perspective while using a zoom lens. You won’t be able to fit in the entire cathedral in your shot, but this is the best way to cut the cars and frame the massive size.

The most Instagrammable cafes in Tallinn

Instagram spots in Tallinn wouldn’t be complete without some epic cafes that you should add to your itinerary. 

While Cafe Maiasmokk offers a historical and elegant setting in the heart of Tallinn, Pierre Chocolaterie ticks off all the qualities to be on the list of the most Instagrammable cafes in Tallinn. RØST Bakery is another aesthetic cafe in Tallinn and it is located in Rotermanni. This modern part of the city offers even more epic Tallinn photography spots.

If you are looking for coffee shops and more places where to take photos in Tallinn, these 3 Instagrammable cafes in Tallinn should be at the top of your list.

Extra tip! Looking for the best day trip from Tallinn for more photo opportunities? Head to Rummu quarry or Lahemaa National Park.

Recommended gear for photography spots in Tallinn

• Nikon D850 FX-Format Digital SLR
• Nikon Nikkor AF-S 14-24 mm f/2.8G ED
• Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.4G
• Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D
• Tamron SP 70 – 200 mm f/2.8 di VC G2

Further reading for the best photo spots in Tallinn

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Or read more about: Tallinn | Estonia | Baltics

In conclusion…

This is the end of the best photo spots in Tallinn and I’m sure that after reading this article you are impatient to get to Tallinn and create some unforgettable postcards. I believe that these photography tips will help you take epic photos and find the exact locations of the best photo spots in Tallinn.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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