20 Best Bars in Tallinn: Cocktails, Pubs and Hidden Spots
From secret speakeasies to medieval cellars, Tallinn's bar scene rewards those who know where to look. These 20 venues span the spectrum from €3 beers to €25 cocktails.
Tallinn's nightlife doesn't shout. The best bars hide behind unmarked doors, operate from laboratory-themed interiors, or occupy 700-year-old cellars. This list is ordered by reservation priority first—if you want to guarantee entry, you'll need to plan ahead for some venues—then by neighborhood concentration, which tends toward Old Town and radiating outward to Telliskivi and the Rotermann Quarter. Price tiers span from student-friendly (€3 beers at DM Baar) to serious cocktail investment (€20-25 at destination bars). Walk-in pubs cluster around the medieval quarter; concept bars and speakeasies cluster in Kesklinn and scattered cellars. A few operate Thursday to Saturday only. Most take reservations by phone or email; none require formal dress, though Whisper Sister enforces smart casual.
Pärnu mnt 12, Kesklinn · Speakeasy cocktail bar, call ahead · €7.50-15 per cocktail, Tue-Thu 6pm-12:30am, Fri-Sat 6pm-2:30am
stockNo sign marks the door; you find a phone number, call it, and if there's room, someone tells you where the door is. Step inside and you're in a dimly lit 1920s New York parlor — velvet seating, jazz on the turntable, bartenders who treat every drink like a small ceremony. The cocktail menu is inventive and deeply Estonian. The Black Sand Sazerac uses local ingredients you won't find anywhere else. The Mushroom Mary is exactly what it sounds like — a Bloody Mary riff with wild mushroom infusion. Book ahead on weekends; weekend seatings run 2.5 hours, with longer durations available if confirmed the day before.
Pikk tn 39, Old Town · Estonian pub · €10-20 per person, daily 12pm-1:30am
stockEstablished in 1993, this is not only one of the favorite spots among both residents and guests of Tallinn but also the first venue of its kind. Hell Hunt has 10 different draft beers, of which the most popular ones are Maja Hele and Tume (the light and the dark beer of the house); in addition, it offers about 50 various bottled beers. It's still where Old Town locals actually drink. Oak tables, wooden floors and many interesting interior details create a relaxed atmosphere; in summer, there is a spacious terrace open with a beautiful view of the cobbled streets. Walk-ins welcome; expect crowds Friday and Saturday.
Suurtüki tn 2, Old Town · Botanical cocktail bar, email for reservation · €10-20 per cocktail, Thu 6pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 6pm-1am
stockThe drinks are quite floral in nature, made from organic ingredients and fresh syrups handmade by the botanist, Andres Siem, himself. Cocktails are created using only the world's finest and freshest ingredients, served in charming vintage glasses. The space is filled with authentic Estonian art, fresh flowers, and candlelight. Botaanik is a small bar and reserving a table is a very good idea. You can reserve a table only via e-mail. Thursday-Saturday only; arrives early for weekend walk-in spots.
Sauna tn 8, Old Town · Concept cocktails · €12-16 per cocktail, Mon-Thu & Sun 7pm-1am, Fri-Sat 7pm-3am
stockThis unassuming 15th-century building houses a bar serving playful cocktails amid historic beam frescoes and a modern stained-glass window made by Estonian artisans. Instead of picking your cocktail based on its ingredients—you choose it based on your humor as in Ancient Greek medicine humors—phlegmatic, choleric, melancholic, and sanguine. Try the Zombirella: a crowd-pleasing (and punchy) combination of spiced rum, cachaça, spiced liqueur, almond, basil and lemon served in a head-turning jade-green Freud-shaped mug. Dog-friendly. No reservation necessary; walk-ins generally accommodated.
Suur-Karja tn 10, Old Town · Laboratory-theme cocktails & shots · €5-15 per drink, Sun-Thu 5pm-2am, Fri-Sat 4pm-3am
stockThey've got loads of experimental shooters on the menu, served in holders containing ten test tubes. If you'd prefer to sip your chemical concoctions, they also offer an explosion of other science-themed cocktails. Start your night before 10pm because until then there's happy hour and everything is half price. The lower level acts as a nightclub Friday through Saturday and entrance is free. Walk-ins; student-friendly pricing makes this a reliable early-night stop.
Depeche Mode Baar
Voorimehe tn 4, Old Town · Tribute bar · €7-20 per drink, daily 6pm-2am
This charming establishment is located at Voorimehe 4 and attracts not only dedicated Depeche Mode followers but also anyone seeking a unique bar experience. Atmospheric and inviting, DM BAAR pays tribute to the iconic band that has captured the hearts of many music lovers since its opening in 1999. The drinks are creatively crafted, as the cocktail menu is named after the band's songs. Whether it's 'Enjoy the Silence' or 'Personal Jesus,' every fan will find a personal favorite here. Walk-in friendly; expect a mix of devoted fans and curious tourists.
Väike-Karja tn 1, Old Town · Historic beer cellar · €6-15 per beer, Mon-Thu 2pm-11:30pm, Fri-Sat midnight-3am, Sun noon-11:30pm
stockKarja Kelder is possibly the oldest tavern in Tallinn, with a history dating back to 1924 and built on the site of a brewery from 1832. The bar has undergone several transformations, including closure during Gorbachev's anti-alcohol campaign in 1987. This Old Town cellar bar is decorated in the traditional style that Estonians tend to love. Lots of iron and wood is used in the décor, while wagon wheel chandeliers and other rural artefacts give it a homey feel. The large variety of beer is the big hit here, but Karja Kelder is also a good spot to enjoy a reasonably-priced, hearty meal. Walk-ins; arrive early on weekends.
Raekoja plats 10, Town Hall · Medieval tavern concept · €8-18, daily noon-midnight
stockIII Draakon in Tallinn is an old-fashioned, atmospheric, Medieval pub located inside the Town Hall. The setting immerses you in medieval aesthetics—timber beams, candlelit tables, traditional Estonian decor throughout. Specializes in local beers and traditional fare. Walk-in friendly; excellent for groups. Often busy with tour groups mid-afternoon but quiet by evening.
Nunne tn 8, Old Town · Cocktail bar · €12-18, Mon-Wed 6pm-midnight, Thu-Sat 6pm-2am, Sun 6pm-1am
stockFrank in Tallinn has this 1940s New Year New York flair. Simple but beautiful furniture, a sophisticated and warm atmosphere. Smaller, more intimate space than many Old Town bars. No sign; look for understated entrance on Nunne. Knowledgeable bartenders; good for cocktail enthusiasts seeking precision mixology. Walk-ins accepted but book ahead on weekends.
Fotografiska Bar
Kreenholm 10, Kalamaja · Museum bar with botanical focus · €12-20, hours vary with exhibitions
The principle of Fotografiska restaurant and bar is zero waste: for each raw material, everything from the leaf to the root is used. Estonian nature offers endless tasty gifts; just pick them up, and that's exactly what the Fotografiska bar staff do every season. The wild mushroom broth offers a unique taste, with the restaurant team using a range of ingredients: dandelion, stinging nettle or any other weed. Located within the photography museum; requires entry ticket. Book ahead for dinner reservations.
Mad Murphy's Irish Pub
Müürivahe tn 2, Old Town · Irish pub · €8-16, daily 11am-late
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mad Murphy's Irish Pub in Tallinn, where Irish charm meets Estonian hospitality. Spacious interior; screens for sports. Traditional Irish menu alongside Estonian options. Live music some evenings. Walk-in friendly; often full with tourists and expats. Good for larger groups.
Rataskaevu tn 10-12, Old Town · Wine and cocktail café · €9-18, Mon-Fri 11am-1am, Sat 11am-2am, Sun 11am-midnight
stockStep into the enchanting universe of Koht Wine Bar in Tallinn, where glasses are raised, and worries are carefully poured away. This delightful establishment, lovingly known as 'The Grape Escape,' is a haven for wine enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. Casual atmosphere; popular with both locals and tourists. Strong wine selection; excellent for afternoon stop. No reservations; walk-ins typical.
Fort Bar
Väike-Patarei tn 10, Old Town · Live music cellar bar · €8-15, Thu-Sat 6pm-4am
Tucked away in an Old Town alley, Fort's live vibes are anything but hidden. This tiny cellar bar packs a punch with stand-up comedy nights, live music. Intimate space; best for live performance nights. Book ahead for specific events. Thursday-Saturday operation only.
Pudelibaar
Telliskivi tn 60a, Kalamaja · Beer hall · €5-12, daily 3pm-3am
Experience the lively atmosphere and exceptional craft drinks at Pudel, a must-visit bar in Tallinn's creative heart. Located in the trendy Kalamaja district outside Old Town. Spacious interior; student-friendly prices. Walk-ins encouraged; less touristy than Old Town venues.
Valli Bar
Vabaduse väljak 3, Kesklinn · Lounge bar · €6-14, Mon-Thu 5pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Valli Bar, Tallinn's favorite spot for socializing and enjoying local drinks at affordable prices. Prime location near Vabaduse Square. Moderate crowd; good for pre-dinner drinks or group meetups. Walk-in friendly.
Suur-Karja tn 8, Old Town · Themed cocktail bar · €7-16, daily 5pm-3am
stockDiscover the lively ambiance and unique cocktails at Funky Bar, Tallinn's ultimate nightlife destination, perfect for locals and tourists alike. Eclectic jungle-themed interior. Strong cocktails; upbeat vibe. Popular with younger crowds. Walk-in friendly; less formal than speakeasies.
Sessel Speakeasy
Müürivahe tn 4, Old Town · Underground lounge · €8-18, call or visit for access · Thu-Sat 7pm-late
Experience the charm of Sessel Speakeasy, a hidden cocktail bar in Tallinn's heart, offering exquisite drinks and a cozy ambiance. Retro-artsy underground aesthetic. Smaller venue; reservations recommended. Thursday-Saturday only. Similar speakeasy vibe to Whisper Sister but more casual dress code.
Barbar
Viru tn 3, Old Town · Metal/rock bar · €6-12, daily 4pm-3am
Just off Viru Street in the Old Town, Barbar is an unmissable metal music bar housed in a historic medieval building set against the old defence wall. High-energy live music atmosphere. Affordable drinks; rock-focused crowd. Walk-in friendly.
Beer House
Dunkri tn 5, Old Town · Brewery restaurant · €7-18, daily 11am-midnight, Fri-Sat until 1am
This spacious restaurant-brewery just off Town Hall Square produces seven tasty varieties of natural, live beer, which visitors can enjoy with a hearty meal or buy in a bottle to take away. Live music plays every Thursday to Saturday. Large capacity; good for groups. House-made beers on tap. Walk-in friendly.
Pub With No Name
Müürivahe tn 12, Old Town · Alternative pub · €4-12, daily 6pm-3am
The Pub With No Name is a focal point of Tallinn's night scene, with tourists, expatriates, business people and Estonian bar-hoppers all making at least one stop here on any given Friday night. Started years ago by the Estonian Depeche Mode fan club, it has remained a staple of the town's alternative bar scene and is a particular favourite of foreign students. On weekends DJs will make sure that something is happening on the small dance floor. Nimeta also doubles as a sports bar, with multiple TV screens showing crucial English football matches. Walk-in friendly; youngest crowd of the list.
Share this article
Comments
Sign in to join the conversation. Only registered users can comment.
No comments yet. Be the first.