Tallinn is among the cheapest capitals in Europe, but when you don’t check out the prices before coming, and visit the most touristy places in the Old Town, it may even seem like an expensive place. But don’t worry, there are a lot of things to do in the Old Town in Tallinn, without breaking the bank. Here is how to explore it on a budget.

Stay in a hostel

Tallinn is packed with different hostels, suitable for backpackers. In addition to a small price to pay, hostels are great for meeting new friends from different countries. For young backpackers, looking to experience the nightlife in Estonia, the best option is the Red Emperor Hostel. Shared rooms start at only 13 euros per person, and private rooms can be found from 33 euros. The Red Emperor Hostel is in the heart of the Old Town, meaning you don't have to go far to catch the nightlife. Attached to the hostel is the Red Emperor Bar, where it never gets boring. The bar is hosting live concerts, karaoke nights, pub quizzes, and much more.

Red Emperor Hostel

Aia 10, 10111 Tallinn, Estonia

Walk around the Old Town

Tallinn’s biggest attraction is without a doubt the medieval Old Town, filled with hidden courtyards, churches, galleries and museums. And, guess what - walking around the cobblestone streets and admiring the old buildings is free of charge. The Old Town is compact and easy to explore on foot. Just grab a map from your hostel, put on some comfortable sneakers, and get going! Begin your walk at the main square - the Raekoja Square. Peek into little shops that offer Estonian handicrafts, without buying anything, get lost in the maze of narrow streets, or step into churches like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which is a sight to remember. To see the city from the highest point, climb to Toompea Hill and visit Toompea Castle, watch the ferries come and go, and breathe in the city vibes from above.

Picture © Credit to: iStock /Subodh Agnihotri

Dinner on a budget

Tallinn Old Town is packed with expensive restaurants, but if you are on a budget, there are a lot of places to have a bite for a relatively low price. Olde Hansa Restaurant offers an authentic experience with great food and medieval decorations. It will make you feel like a medieval noble. Just around the corner from Olde Hansa, there is a small medieval pub Draakon III. This pub is a good option for the folks who don't look for a fancy dining experience and focus on good food. Here, among other things, you can have an elk soup for just two euros, and still feel as if you have stepped into the medieval era.

Olde Hansa Restaurant, Tallinn

Vana turg 1, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia

In conclusion, exploring Tallinn’s Old Town on a budget is easy. There are a lot of places to stay, cheap places to have a meal, and most importantly, walking around the Old Town is absolutely free.