Weather lowdown
May is when it really starts becoming comfortable in Tallinn, the beautiful capital of Estonia, one of the Baltic countries in northeastern Europe that's squeezed between Finland and Russia. The city is situated a short ferry ride away from Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, which makes it a popular destination among the people from Helsinki. Tallinn's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is absolutely recommended visiting. While this historic city is covered in a beautiful blanket of snow in winter, late spring and summer are unquestionably the most popular times of year to visit.
The average temperature in May is 11°Che first time to mercury reaches into the two digits, averagely speaking. It's a significant increase in temperature since April, a trend that will continue until the annual maximum temperatures are reached in July. The nighttime average temperature of 5°C means that, while frost may occasionally still occur, the freezing cold nights are now well in the past. The afternoons are quite comfortable, with an average high temperature of 17°C. The sea temperature, however, isn't anywhere near a level that could be considered comfortable. It averages 7°C. Swimming in Tallinn is really only pleasant in the peak summer months of July and August.
May is only slightly wetter than April, which was the driest month of the year. The total amount of precipitation is 20mm, which is spread out over 12 days. The chance that any type of precipitation occurs is at its annual low around May 9, which makes that the historically driest day of the entire year. After May 9, the chance that it will rain increase slightlyt the end of the month, it is at 46%. Snowfall is non-existent in May; the most common types, the only types really, of precipitation are light rain and moderate rain, which are respectively observed on 45% and 37% of the days with precipitation.
Cloud cover decreases from 81% to 77% in the course of the month, opening up the skies for some more sunshine. The lengthening of the days also plays its role in the amount of sunshine that Tallinn enjoys this time of year. The days lengthen from 15.54 hours of daylight in the beginning of May to 18.04 daylight hours at the end.
If you're planning a trip to Tallinn in the near future, you might want to check out our up-to-date weather forecast.
Where to stay
Hotel L'Ermitage offers its guests a comfortably cosy retreat within easy walking distance from the gorgeous Old Townalking is the best way to explore this historic city, the pleasant May weather being the perfect companion. Its modern interior contrasts with the striking exterior, its facilities are numerous and include everything from restaurants to a sauna and Jacuzzi to conference rooms and free Wi-Fi. The 122 guest rooms are well-equipped as well, some of them boasting amazing views of Deer Park and Cathedral Hill.
Hotel Euroopa is a great option for romantic city breaks, family vacations and everything in between. This well-rated four-star hotel offers its guests easy access to the city's main attractions, while also providing peace and quiet. It lies right next to the Tallinn harbour and only a short walk from the Old Town. This modern hotel boasts a restaurant and lounge, a beauty centre, conference space and a Wi-Fi area.
Built in the 1950s and located near the National Library of Estonia, the Kreutzwald Hotel Tallinn is named after a 19th-century Estonian poet and public figure. This stylish hotel has a central location and features a wonderful restaurant, a well-equipped wellness centre, a library lounge, and a summer terrace.
Eating and drinking out
D.O.M. Restaurant is situated in the Old Town of Tallinn and serves exquisite food. Its menu consists of European dishes with an Asian touch, served in an authentic and easy-going atmosphere. You can enjoy live music on Friday and Saturday nights while having an extensive dinner with friends, family or a partner or kicking back after a fun day of exploring one of Europe's most stunning historic capitals.
If you want to relax with a drink or two, Paar Veini is an excellent option to have. With a bohemian-inspired interior and an extensive list of drinks, including numerous wines, cocktails, spirits and beers, this is a relaxing place to spend the evening.
Another great place for drinks and an evening snack is Self Baar, a Spanish eatery and gin bar. Its inviting atmosphere makes this a suggested place to go for pre- or after-dinner drinks.
Things to do
Spring has arrived in Tallinn in May and you can enjoy afternoons that are 17°C warm. There are numerous attractions in the Estonian capital, ranging from great museums to medieval streets, and there are two places in particular that give you an actual overview of the city.
The first one, Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform, is a large area on the east side of Toompea Hill and provides spectacular views of the Tallinn skyline. The view takes in both the centuries-old towers in the Old Town and the newer skyscrapers in the modern city centre. You are strongly recommended to walk up therehe panoramic views truly are magnificent.
Patkuli Viewing Platform is the second lookout point. This one is at Toompea Hill's northern side and offers breathtaking views of Tallinn's Old Town, most prominently its towers and massive city walls. Put on some comfy shoes and head up to 157-step staircase that starts in Schnelli Park.
