Tallinn Weather in January

January weather

Tallinn feels properly wintry in January, and that cold is the main reason it scores so low. Highs hover around -2°C, and the damp air can make it feel sharper than the thermometer says. Rain falls on many days, and daylight is brief and often cloudy. Pavements in the Old Town can turn slick, so long days of outdoor sightseeing aren't much fun. December is a touch milder but wetter, and February is much the same, so there's no real escape from winter here.

The short days suit a slower pace, though. Duck into the Kiek in de Kök museum and its underground passages, or warm up in a café after a stroll around Town Hall Square. Save beach time and long coastal walks for warmer months.

Winter things to do

Once you've settled into that slower pace, the city's winter calendar gives you a few reasons to get out. New Year brings celebrations, and Orthodox Christmas falls on January 7. Tallinn's Christmas market in Town Hall Square may still be open in early January, depending on its season dates, so check them before you make it the focus of your trip.

If you're travelling with kids, a museum break beats a long day outdoors. The Estonian Maritime Museum's Seaplane Harbour has plenty to explore indoors. For a local meal, try kama, a traditional grain mix often served as a dessert.

Crowds and costs

The indoor options also work well because the city is quiet. January is much calmer than the June-to-August peak, so you'll find fewer visitors in the Old Town lanes, and stays are generally cheaper than in summer. New Year can bring a short burst of activity, but the city soon settles back into its low season.

One practical tip: take the lift up to the viewing area at St Olaf's Church only if it's open and the weather is clear. The tower can close in winter, and clouds may hide the rooftops anyway. Keep a nearby indoor stop in mind, such as the Estonian History Museum in the Great Guild Hall, as a backup.