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Shopping in Tallinn

With everything from department stores to major fashion chains and plenty of quirky boutiques, Tallinn has no shortage of places to shop. While many of the bigger stores sell much the same as shops anywhere else in Europe, its delightful markets are crammed with Soviet memorabilia and local crafts, while the upmarket shops of the Old Town are worth your time too.

Key areas

In the Old Town you'll find interesting shops selling knitwear, Vana Tallinn (the city's most famous alcoholic tipple) and hand-painted marzipan, among others. A few minutes's walk from the Old Town is the hipster-cool area of Kalamaja with an eclectic mix of old and new products.

Markets

The Old Town is home to the best markets, many of which specialise in particular items – the knit market on Müürivahe for instance. Keskturg (Central Market) at Keldrimäe 9 is good for local colour and tasty fresh produce, while Sadama Turg (Harbour Market) at Kai 3 also has good food and craft shops. Another great choice is Balti Jaama (Baltic Station) which has an enormous range of products on sales, from fresh fruit and vegetable, organic products, to arts and crafts.

Shopping centres

There are a number of large malls such as Kristiine Keskus (Endla 45) and Ulemiste Centre (Suur-Sõjamäe 4) which are now very popular with the locals. Within the city centre, Viru Keskus (or Viru Centre) at Viru väljak is another popular choice.

Opening hours

Shopping hours in Tallinn are Monday to Friday 1000-1800. Some shops open on Saturday 1000-1700. Department stores are open daily 1000-2000.

Souvenirs

Like neighbours Russia and Finland, Estonia is famous for its handicrafts with hand-knitted jumpers, carved wooden beer mugs and limestone candle holders among the highlights. Soviet antiques are also popular. All Baltic ambers come from Lithuania and Kaliningrad (the small Russian province between Lithuania and Poland) but it is worth buying if you see a design that you like.

Tax information

Estonia’s VAT is set at 20%.

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Schlössle Hotel

Tallinn’s first 5-star hotel has fought off a clutch of upstarts in recent years to stay at the top of the tree. Perfect Old Town location with atmosphere and smooth service.

Economy Hotel

This pleasant city-centre hotel with 40 comfortable rooms is just a short walk from the train station and the Old Town. Free Wi-Fi access and parking are also offered.

Swissotel Tallinn

Set in the city centre, many rooms in this 5-star hotel enjoy great views of the Old Town and the Gulf of Finland. The top-floor Horisont Bar is cosy while The Quarter restaurant on the 8th-floor serves up creative dishes.

Hestia Hotel Seaport

No frills but a clean and comfortable cheap Tallinn hotel right next to the D-terminal (for passengers) at the Port of Tallinn. The on-site sauna is available upon prior request.

Hestia Hotel Europa

Hestia Hotel Europa is centrally located in the historical Rotermann city block not far from the Old Town. The six-storey Tallinn hotel has 185 rooms, some of which have superb views over Tallinn Bay. There is a conference centre with a capacity of 700 as well as a fitness centre and sauna.

Hotel Telegraaf

This luxury Tallinn hotel is tucked away on Vene Street, in what is sometimes called the Tallinn Latin Quarter, in the Old Town. There are 83 stylish rooms, an excellent spa with lots of different treatments on offer, a good restaurant and conference space for up to 45 people.