Tram 4 — straight to Old Town
Tram 4 connects the airport terminal directly to the centre. It's the easiest option for first-time visitors: the stop is right outside Arrivals, signs are bilingual, and the line ends near the Old Town / seaside within about 20 minutes. Trams are modern, low-floor, and quiet.
Runs roughly every 10–15 minutes during the day; less frequently late evening. Check live times in Rada before you board.
Bus 2 — via the port
Bus 2 is the long-running alternative. It runs between the airport and the cruise terminal / city centre, stopping at Hobujaama and Viru keskus on the way. Travel time is typically 20–25 minutes. Good option if you're headed to the port (ferry to Helsinki) or the eastern side of the centre.
How to pay
Both tram 4 and bus 2 accept the Ühiskaart (green card) and app-based tickets via the Ühistransport app. A single ride is valid for one hour with transfers. You can also buy a paper ticket from the driver, but it costs more than card/app.
Validate your ticket when you board. Ticket inspectors do check, and the fine for travelling without a valid ticket is hefty.
What about taxis and ride-hail?
Bolt works well in Tallinn and reaches the Old Town in about 10 minutes. Useful after midnight when public transport is thin, or if you have heavy luggage.
Tips that save time
- Arrivals side: exit the terminal, turn right, the tram and bus stop are about a 2-minute walk.
- Luggage: trams and buses are fine for suitcases; use the low-floor entrance and the flip-down seats in the middle.
- Airbnb / Old Town: tram 4 drops you close enough for a 5-minute walk into the cobbles.
- Port: bus 2 is the right call.
Use Rada to see the next tram: open the app, tap the stop near the airport exit, and you'll see the countdown to the next departure with the vehicle's live position on the map. No guesswork.