4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn
Cheapest price
$14
Average price
$38
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h
Ferries per day
13
Distance
82 km
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Helsinki to Tallinn is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Helsinki to Tallinn will cost around $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.
Of the 13 ferries that leave Helsinki for Tallinn on Tue, Dec 02, 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Dec 02 the direct ferries cover the 82 km distance in an average of 2 h but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 2 h .
On Tue, Dec 02 the slowest ferries will take 2 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
VICTORIA
Viking LineViking Line
Eckerö LineEckerö LineMEGASTARMYSTARMEGASTARMYSTARMYSTAR
Travel Information
Compare bus and ferry for Helsinki to Tallinn
Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Helsinki to Tallinn among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from €10. For those with little time consider booking a ferry which can get you there in 2h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the ferry is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of €10, and a bus costs an average of €32.
Distance: 44 nautical miles (82 km)
Compare ferry with
Most popular Ferry | Bus |
|---|---|
€16 Average price Cheapest | €52 Average price |
3h 26m Average total duration Fastest 2h 26m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 9h 41m Average total duration 9h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular ferry company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Helsinki to Tallinn Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Eckerö Line | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Viking Line | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 2h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat |
Operator Viking Line | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Tallink Silja Line | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Eckerö Line | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Viking Line | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 2h30 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun |
Operator Tallink Silja Line | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Viking Line | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 2h30 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Tallink Silja Line | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 13h25 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Viking Line | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 2h30 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Viking Line | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 2h30 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Eckerö Line | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 2h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Tallink Silja Line | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Tallink Silja Line | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Tallink Silja Line | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Tallink Silja Line | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Live departures
Helsinki to Tallinn ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Helsinki to Tallinn ferries for today, Monday, December 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viking Line | 6:30 PM Helsinki (Katajanokka Terminal) | 2h30 | 9:00 PM Tallinn Port (Terminal A) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Eckerö Line | 7:40 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h30 | 10:10 PM Tallinn Port (Terminal A) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| MEGASTAR | 8:30 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 10:30 PM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, December 2 | |||||
| MYSTAR | 5:30 AM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 7:30 AM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Eckerö Line | 7:00 AM West Terminal 2 | 2h15 | 9:15 AM Tallinn Port (Terminal A) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| MEGASTAR | 8:30 AM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 10:30 AM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Viking Line | 8:30 AM Helsinki (Katajanokka Terminal) | 2h30 | 11:00 AM Tallinn Port (Terminal A) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| MYSTAR | 11:30 AM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 1:30 PM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Eckerö Line | 1:15 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h15 | 3:30 PM Tallinn Port (Terminal A) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| MEGASTAR | 2:30 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 4:30 PM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Helsinki to Tallinn by bus or ferry
Compare bus and ferry prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Dec 01
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Dec 21
How far in advance should I book ferry tickets from Helsinki to Tallinn?
Offers and deals from Helsinki to Tallinn
Discover the offers available on trains covering the route from Helsinki to Tallinn and choose the solutions that best suit your needs. Below, you will find a selection of the most popular offers proposed by Tallink Silja Line
ReviewsReviews for the ferry ride from Helsinki to Tallinn
Trip durationOn-board service
PriceLowcost ticketsSeveral departures dailyAlcoholised fellow travellersJourney information
Overview: Ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn
Finland
Estonia
Ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 26m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 12 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 00:30, the last at 23:00. The fastest ferry covers the 44 nautical miles (82 km) distance in 2h 0m. There are 83 sailings per week. Ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn are available to foot passengers.
Distance 44 nautical miles (82 km) |
Average sailing duration 2h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Ferries per day 12 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 83 |
Fastest ferry 2h 0m |
First ferry 00:30 |
Last ferry 23:00 |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Ferry operators: Tallink Silja Line, Eckero Line, Viking Line from Helsinki to TallinnYou can travel by ferry between Helsinki to Tallinn with Tallink Silja Line, Eckero Line, Viking Line for as low as $12 (€10). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
Tallink Silja Line
Eckero Line
Viking Line
Taking the Ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn
Introduction
It’s easy to forget just how close Helsinki and Tallinn really are, but a quick two-hour ferry ride connects the two capitals. While traveling through the Baltic countries, I knew I wanted to see Helsinki as well, so I booked a return journey across the Gulf of Finland. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or an extended overnight stay, hopping between these cities is surprisingly simple.
Route Overview
Helsinki has multiple ferry terminals, and the one you use depends on the ferry operator. Tallink and Eckerö Line depart from Länsiterminaali (West Harbor), while Viking Line uses the Katajanokka Terminal. Each terminal has a small cafe and shop, but I’d recommend grabbing food beforehand or waiting to eat on the ferry itself.
Tallinn also has multiple ferry terminals: Terminal A is used by Eckerö Line and Viking Line, while Terminal D serves Tallink passengers. All ferries take between two hours and two hours and 15 minutes, so there’s no denying that this is the best way to get from Helsinki to Tallinn.
Transportation Experience
It’s easy to book ferry tickets on Omio. Just use the website or app to find, select, and pay for your journey. After that, your tickets will be sent to your email or stored in the app for easy access.
I didn’t consider flights to Tallinn for this trip. While they’re available and take just 30 minutes in the air, once you factor in travel to the airport, check-in, and waiting time, the total journey isn’t likely to be any faster. Plus, on the ferry, you can stretch your legs, grab a meal, or simply enjoy the views from the deck.
Another option is the Helsinki to Tallinn bus, which also travels on the ferry but includes transport to and from each city center. I was happy to walk to the ports myself, but this could be a convenient option for anyone traveling with bulky luggage.
Route Details
Departure & Arrival Details
Depending on the ferry company you choose - I went with Tallink and had a good experience, though I’ve also used Viking Line for Stockholm to Helsinki ferries - you’ll depart from either Länsiterminaali or Katajanokka Terminal.
Länsiterminaali is located approximately 4.75 kilometers from Central Helsinki - I traveled here by tram from the center and used contactless to pay.
Katajanokka Terminal is situated just over 1.5 kilometers away, sitting amongst landmarks like Upenski Cathedral and Helsinki Cathedral at Senate Square.
Schedule & Frequency
There are around six sailings per day across the three main ferry providers, and they’re known for being very punctual, even in the winter when temperatures drop well below freezing. Mine left at around 10 am, so it was mostly light, which meant I could enjoy the gorgeous Baltic scenery - Helsinki has lots of stunning islands around it!
Onboard Experience & Services
I had a standard ticket for the ferry, which doesn’t include reserved seating, but a reservation isn’t really necessary. There were two restaurants onboard (a buffet and an à la carte) serving mains like seafood and potatoes. I’d already eaten, so I just took a seat in the bar/café. There are also several open seating areas, including a heated deck. Power outlets were readily available, and I enjoyed a warm glögg (Nordic mulled wine) while watching Helsinki slip away and Tallinn come into view!
There was no Wi-Fi, but I had mobile reception from either country for nearly the entire crossing. The ship was clean and well-decorated, and the staff - who spoke English, Finnish and Estonian - were friendly and helpful throughout the journey. There are no luggage limitations, but passengers are expected to carry all their bags. I only had a small backpack, so this wasn’t a problem for me!
Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown
The Helsinki to Tallinn ferry is a popular route, and ticket prices tend to increase closer to the travel date. So, I’d recommend booking tickets as early as possible. With Omio, you can compare providers and select the best or cheapest one. All ferry companies serving the route are of high quality.
Here’s a breakdown of everything I spent:
- Return ferry ticket: €62
- Glögg on the ferry: €6
- Tram ticket in Helsinki: €2.95
- Total: €70.95
Top Tips & Personal Recommendations
- Try the buffet: Ferries here are famous for the buffet, which can seem expensive (€30–€40) but are worth trying!
- Cross in daylight: The views around Tallinn and Helsinki are wonderful.
- Buy a one-day Helsinki transport card: If you’re traveling around the Finnish capital, it will work out cheaper.
- Don’t forget your passport: Both countries are in Schengen, and it may not be checked, but you’re still crossing an international border.
Conclusion
Traveling from Helsinki to Tallinn by ferry is an easy and speedy addition to any trip through Finland and Estonia—and well worth it, even if you’re just planning a day trip. It’s also a great option for anyone looking to travel overland from the Nordics to Eastern Europe without flying. Just keep in mind that tickets can sell out during peak times, so book in advance on Omio to avoid last-minute disappointment.
About the Author: Claire Martin
Job Title: Travel Journalist and Videomaker
Bio: I’m a full-time travel journalist, blogger, and videomaker who specializes in train and ferry travel around Europe.
Ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn
The Helsinki-Tallinn route is one of the busiest on the Baltic Sea. You can take any of the ferries crossing the course from Tallink Silja, Eckerö Line, and Viking Line. The ferries between the two capital cities commute daily, with around 12 ferries completing the journey every day. It will take you approximately 2 hours and a half to cover the 51 miles (82 km) distance. However, you can arrive in just over 2 hours in the fastest ferries.
Each of the ferries provides different amenities and classes on board. You can choose between cabins, sitting lounges, business lounges, and cabins. Onboard, you will find buffets, fast-food restaurants, coffee-houses, shops, kennels for pets, and car garages. Remember that since you are traveling between two countries, bring your passport, visa and other relevant documents.
Ferry Schedules Helsinki to Tallinn
You can find the schedules for ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn online. However, remember that the timetables can change depending on the weather or operator emergencies. It is always wise to confirm the availability of your trip before going to the port. On average, there are around 12 ferries making trips at different times in the day, which is about 84 ferries per week.
You can catch the earliest ferry from the Port of Helsinki at about 7:30 a.m. or travel with the latest ferry around 11:30 p.m. However, remember that the time may change depending on the weather. All the ferries travel direct to their terminals in Tallinn, taking around 2 hours and 18 minutes. The fastest ferries, however, take about 2 hours to finish the trip.
How to Find Cheap Ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn
The Helsinki-Tallinn is a bustling route. Booking in advance is advisable, though it may vary your prices only slightly. Also, since it’s sea travel, you may not find monthly schedules. To find the best deals for ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn, browse through Omio and compare different ferries and their ticket prices. The prices may also vary depending on the season. Most operators lower their prices during winter and increase them in summer to take advantage of holiday travelers.
How Long Is the Ferry Journey from Helsinki to Tallinn?
The average distance between the two ports is approximately 51 miles (82 km). Most ferries cross the waters in around 2 hours and 18 minutes. However, there are faster ferries that take 2 hours. To board your ferry, ensure that you arrive at least 2 hours before your trip. Some ferry operators close boarding 45 minutes before departure. If you are traveling with your car, bike or bicycle, remember to reserve space during the booking and arrive early for check-in. Fortunately, the ports have check-in kiosks and you can also print your ticket from your phone to reduce check-in time.
What Do You Need to Know Before Traveling from Helsinki to Tallinn?
Departure Port: The Port of Helsinki is the busiest passenger port in the world. Fortunately, the harbor is a walking distance from the city center. You can also access the terminals through trams. If you book a Tallink Silja or Eckerö Line ferry, go to West Terminal 2 for boarding. The terminal is accessible via tram 6T and 7. You will also find ticket kiosks, luggage lockers, cafes, and restaurants at the terminal.
Remember that only the Tallink Silja shuttle ferries use the West terminal 2. If you book the cruise ship Silja Europa, use West Harbor Terminal 1 for boarding. Viking Line ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn use the Viking Line Terminal. You can also use tram route 5 or walk from the Helsinki Market Square.
The terminal has an ATM, money exchange, free WiFi, café, restaurant, kiosk, bar, and an information desk. You can also find unattended short-term and long-term parking.
Port of arrival: Ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn end their trips at the Port of Tallinn. The Estonian port is conveniently near the old town and the city center. Tallink Silja ferries use the D-Terminal. To get to the city center, you can take any of the taxis parked in the port. If you wish to explore without your luggage, rent any of the small or large lockers available at the terminal. Other amenities in the terminal include ATMs, currency exchange, ATMs, and shops.
Eckerö Line and Viking Line ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn use the A-Terminal. You can leave your luggage in the rentable lockers and walk to downtown Tallinn. To get to the city center, take any of the taxis, but remember to negotiate the prices before boarding.
You can also use tram 1 and 2 or take Bus 2, which leaves every 30 minutes. The bus can also ferry you to the airport. Some of the amenities available at the port include accessible restrooms, bars, restaurants, cafes, money exchanges, ATMs, pharmacy, and elevators.
FAQs: Ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Helsinki to Tallinn by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Tallinn, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
When departing from Helsinki, you have various port options to start your journey from including West Terminal 2 and Helsinki (Katajanokka Terminal). When arriving in Tallinn, you can end your trip in ports like Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) and Tallinn Port (Terminal A).
Passengers board the ferry most frequently from West Terminal 2, which is located around 1.9 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the ferry at Port of Tallinn (Terminal D), located 1.1 miles (1.7 km) away from the city centre.
popular ferry ports
Popular ports from Helsinki to Tallinn
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Office
- 06:00-22:00
- Sat-Sun: 07:00-22:00
- Free WiFi
- Restaurant Faro Channelside Bar & Restaurant (0.3km)
- Restaurant Loiste (0.6km)
- Restaurant Merimakasiini (0.9km)
- Main companies are Lähitaksi and Taksi Helsinki.
- Free
- Tram Line 7, West Terminal stop
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 06:00-22:00
- Sat-Sun: 07:00-22:00
- Free WiFi
- Johan & Nyström (0.3km)
- Ravintola Nokka (0.4km)
- Holiday Bar (0.6km)
- Main companies are Lähitaksi and Taksi Helsinki.
- Free
- Tram Line 4, Katajanokan Terminal stop
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
HotelTicket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental- Mon-Sun 06:00-19:00
- Free WiFi
- Kaks Kokka (0.6km)
- Restoran ORE (0.8km)
- Restaurant Bordoo (1km)
- Main companies are Tulika Takso and Tallink Takso.
- Free
- Bus lines 2 and 20, stop Reisisadam D-terminal
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office- 06:00-19:00
- Sat-Sun: 07:00-18:00
- Free WiFi
- Kaks Kokka (0.4km)
- Restoran Olevi Residents (0.8km)
- Leib Resto ja Aed (0.9km)
- Main companies are Tulika Takso and Tallink Takso.
- Free
- Bus: Line 2, Stop: Reisisadam
More options for your journey from Helsinki to Tallinn
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Tallinn and Helsinki
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