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How to get from Helsinki to Tallinn
Ferries cross the Gulf of Finland from Helsinki to Tallinn in about 2 h, many times a day all year. Several large ferry companies compete on the route, so fares are low if you book ahead. Both ports are close to the city centres.
Best option: Ferry. Frequent year-round ferries take about 2 h harbour to harbour and carry cars as well as foot passengers.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ferry Ferries from Helsinki (West Harbour or Katajanokka) to Tallinn (Tallink, Viking Line, Eckerö Line) | about 2 h–2 h 30 | many departures a day, all year | about €20–50 per foot passenger; more with a car | Check which Helsinki terminal your ferry uses. Book ahead for Friday and summer sailings. |
| flight Short flights from Helsinki-Vantaa to Tallinn, if operating | about 30 min flight; about 2 h 30–3 h door to door | limited | about €60–200 | Rarely faster than the ferry once airport time is added. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Helsinki has two main terminals for Tallinn ferries, West Harbour (Länsisatama) and Katajanokka; check your ticket.
- Tallinn old town is a 15–20 min walk or short tram ride from the D and A terminals.
- Fares are cheapest midweek and outside summer; return day-trip offers are common.
- Estonia and Finland are both in the Schengen area, but carry ID or a passport, which ferry companies may check.
Common questions
How long is the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn?
About 2 hours on most ferries, sometimes up to 2 h 30. Tallink, Viking Line and Eckerö Line all operate the route, with many sailings a day throughout the year. Ships leave from West Harbour or Katajanokka in Helsinki and arrive at the old city harbour in Tallinn, close to the old town.
Can I do Tallinn as a day trip from Helsinki?
Yes. Take a morning ferry, spend six or seven hours in Tallinn’s old town and return on an evening sailing. The ferry companies often sell day-return tickets at reduced prices. Book ahead on summer weekends, and check the last departure back to Helsinki, which is usually late evening.
Do I need a passport for the Helsinki–Tallinn ferry?
Finland and Estonia are in the Schengen area, so there are no routine border checks, but you must carry a valid passport or national ID card, and ferry companies or police can ask for it. Non-EU visitors should carry their passport. Check the rules for your nationality before travelling.
Can I take a car on the ferry to Tallinn?
Yes. The large ferries carry cars, and many Finns drive to Estonia. Book the car space ahead, especially on Friday and Sunday sailings and in summer. If you have a hire car, check that the rental company permits travel to Estonia. Parking in Tallinn old town is restricted.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.