Tallinn Airport (TLL) is Estonia’s main international gateway, known for its compact layout and calm, easy-to-navigate terminal. For weary or bored travellers on layovers, there are a few low-key things to do at Tallinn Airport, including practical food options, local flavours, a small library, shops selling Estonian goods, and quick access to downtown Tallinn if your layover is long enough. Below are some grounded ideas to help you pass the time without overselling the experience.
1. Grab a bite to eat
Tallinn Airport has a modest but well-chosen mix of food options, including a few places that reflect local tastes alongside familiar fare. You’ll find Estonian-inspired dishes and good coffee at Kohver Kitchen, lighter café meals and baked goods at Põhjala Deli, and a small street food court offering burritos, pizza, pastries, and healthier options. Rosin Wine Bar is a comfortable spot for a glass of wine with snacks, while Take Off cafés cover sandwiches, salads, and hot dishes, and Subway provides a familiar fast-food fallback. If you leave the airport, look for traditional Estonian foods such as black bread (leib), smoked fish, kama, local cheeses, and honey, which are better sampled in town. There are no 24-hour restaurants, and most food outlets close in the evening, so late-night travellers should plan ahead.
2. Visit the lounge
As economy-class travellers, we appreciate airport lounges opening their doors to us. Luckily, the Business Lounge here welcomes anyone willing to pay to enter. Any traveller, regardless of airline or flight class, can take advantage of this all-inclusive environment: food, drinks, WiFi, news and TV, an outdoor terrace, comfortable seating, and even shower facilities. You can pre-book a lounge pass online or pay at the door. [ read more ]
3. Shop
Tallinn Airport has a small but worthwhile selection of shops focused on local products and easy-to-pack gifts. Browse Goods of Estonia for authentic Estonian food items like black bread, smoked fish, honey, and small design pieces, or stop by 100 Gifts for maritime-inspired souvenirs reflecting the country’s coastal heritage. Apollo Bookstore offers books, travel guides, and small keepsakes, while Sokisahtel is a fun stop for locally branded socks and casual apparel. You’ll also find Tallinn Duty Free for standard duty-free purchases and R-Kiosk for snacks and last-minute travel essentials.
4. Freshen up with a shower
Shower facilities are available in the Business Lounge, which is open to any traveller who pays the entrance fee.
5. Visit the library
The 24-hour airport library is a modern area with comfortable seating, offering books in many languages, plus children’s books. Borrow one just for your layover, or swap one on the shelf with one of your own, leaving it for another traveller to enjoy.
6. Check out the art gallery
Tallinn Airport features a small art gallery in the landside (pre-security) area on the second floor, offering rotating exhibitions by Estonian artists. Shows typically change a few times a year and may include photography, painting, or contemporary visual art. It’s not a large museum-style space, but it can be a pleasant, quiet diversion if you have time to spare before heading through security. Exhibition hours and displays vary, so consider this a bonus rather than a main attraction.
7. Go sightseeing
With an extra-long layover, Tallinn’s compact city centre is close enough to make a short visit realistic. The airport is just a few kilometres from downtown, and a 7+ hour layover is usually enough to leave the airport and return comfortably.
Public buses run frequently between the airport and the city centre, with travel times of roughly 20–30 minutes and low fares. Route numbers and payment methods change occasionally, so it’s best to confirm current details before boarding. Taxis are faster and readily available outside the terminal. Using official airport taxis or app-based ride services helps avoid pricing surprises.
In the city, explore the medieval Old Town (Vanalinn), wander Town Hall Square, and enjoy the cafés and narrow streets. For views, head up Toompea Hill, or visit museums like Kumu Art Museum if time allows.
Always allow enough time to return and clear security before your next flight.
Don’t let time fly by! Make it back to the airport in time to clear through Security before your next flight. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Tallinn.
8. WiFi
WiFi is free and unlimited, so browse your layover away.
9. Sleep
Sleeping here is possible, and airport staff are generally tolerant of overnight travellers. Seating options include cushioned benches, armchairs, and bean bags in themed lounge areas. Much of the terminal is carpeted, making floor sleeping more comfortable than in many airports. [ read more ]
If proper sleep is a priority, nearby airport hotels may be a better option than snoozing in the terminal. Several hotels are located just a few minutes from Tallinn Airport and can be especially appealing for overnight layovers or early departures. For current options, locations, and traveller tips, see the Hotels near Tallinn Airport section in our airport guide. [ read more ]
Updated 15 December 2025
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Tallinn Airport. Visit our Tallinn Airport Guide for more information about more services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.