- Must visit
Kumu Art Museum
Estonia’s flagship art museum in Kadriorg, known for classic and contemporary Estonian art, major temporary exhibitions, and striking modern architecture.
Cheapest price
$14
Average price
$40
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h
Ferries per day
14
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 $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.
Of the 14 ferries that leave Helsinki for Tallinn on Mon, Jun 01, 14 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 01 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 Mon, Jun 01 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.
Viking Line
Viking Line
Eckerö Line
Eckerö Line
Eckerö Line
Tallink Silja
Tallink Silja
Tallink Silja
Tallink Silja
Tallink SiljaOmio 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 $14. For those with little time consider booking a ferry which can get you there in 2h 24m. 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 $14, and a bus costs an average of $51.
Distance: 44 nautical miles (82 km)
Most popular Ferry | Bus |
|---|---|
$28 Average price Cheapest | $94 Average price |
3h 24m Average total duration Fastest 2h 24m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration 4h 56m 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Helsinki to Tallinn:
A ferry is $66 (€53) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Helsinki to Tallinn costing on average $94 (€75).
Other travel options to Tallinn take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 56m.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Tallink Silja | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Tallink Silja | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 13h30 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator Eckerö Line | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Eckerö Line | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 2h45 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Tallink Silja | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
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 03:15PM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator VIKING LINE | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 2h30 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Tallink Silja | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Eckerö Line | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 2h45 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator VIKING LINE | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 2h40 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat |
Operator Tallink Silja | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator Tallink Silja | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator Tallink Silja | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator Tallink Silja | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 01:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator VIKING LINE | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 11:10PM | Duration 2h40 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat |
Operator VIKING LINE | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Eckerö Line | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 2h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Tallink Silja | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 4h10 | Sailing Days Everyday |
The table below shows live departures for Helsinki to Tallinn ferries for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tallink Silja | 1:30 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 3:30 PM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Eckerö Line | 3:15 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h15 | 5:30 PM Tallinn Port (Terminal A) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Tallink Silja | 4:30 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 6:30 PM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Tallink Silja | 6:30 PM West Terminal 2 | 13h30 | 8:00 AM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Tallink Silja | 6:35 PM West Terminal 2 | 4h10 | 10:45 PM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Viking Line | 7:00 PM Helsinki (Katajanokka Terminal) | 2h30 | 9:30 PM Tallinn Port (Terminal A) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Tallink Silja | 7:30 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 9:30 PM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Eckerö Line | 8:00 PM Vuosaari Harbour (Hansa Terminal) | 2h45 | 10:45 PM Muuga | 0 transfersDirect | |
Eckerö Line | 9:40 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h30 | 12:10 AM Tallinn Port (Terminal A) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Tallink Silja | 10:30 PM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 12:30 AM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Tallink Silja | 7:30 AM West Terminal 2 | 2h00 | 9:30 AM Port of Tallinn (Terminal D) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Eckerö Line | 9:00 AM West Terminal 2 | 2h15 | 11:15 AM Tallinn Port (Terminal A) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
By Claire Martin
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.

A heated deck on the ferry with flag blowing in wind
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.
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.

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.
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!
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!
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:*
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €68 |
| Food & drinks | € |
| Travel to departure station | €2.95 |
| Travel from arrival station | € |
| Total | € 70.95 |
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.



Ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 24m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $14 (€11) if you book in advance.
There are 12 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 00:10, the last at 23:30. The fastest ferry covers the 44 nautical miles (82 km) distance in 2h 0m. There are 86 sailings per week. Ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn are available to foot passengers.






Distance 44 nautical miles (82 km) |
Average sailing duration 2h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $14 (€11) |
Ferries per day 12 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 86 |
Fastest ferry 2h 0m |
First ferry 12:10 AM |
Last ferry 11:30 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Tallinn — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tallinn trip today.
Estonia’s flagship art museum in Kadriorg, known for classic and contemporary Estonian art, major temporary exhibitions, and striking modern architecture.
A popular maritime museum in a historic seaplane hangar with ships, submarines, and hands-on naval exhibits. One of Tallinn’s most family-friendly museums.
Contemporary photography museum and gallery in Telliskivi, famous for international exhibitions and strong social media appeal.
The city’s medieval core, filled with cobbled lanes, merchant houses, church spires, and major landmarks. Essential for any first visit.
Historic Town Hall Square, a lively focal point of the Old Town surrounded by Gothic architecture and seasonal events.
Tallinn’s best-known formal park, ideal for walking among ponds, gardens, and palace grounds in an elegant historic setting.
A traditional Estonian mixture of roasted barley, rye, oat and pea flour, often stirred into kefir or yogurt for a nutty dessert or snack.
Open-faced rye bread topped with Baltic sprats, butter and usually boiled egg; a classic Tallinn and Estonian snack, especially for celebrations.
A hearty dish of sauerkraut slowly stewed with barley and pork, deeply associated with traditional Estonian home cooking.
One of Tallinn Old Town's best-known restaurants, serving polished Estonian and European comfort food in a warm, historic setting.
Tallinn's well-known vegan restaurant in the Old Town, offering creative plant-based dishes in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
A stylish modern Estonian restaurant near the Old Town, appreciated for seasonal ingredients, refined cooking and a cozy courtyard atmosphere.
Moderate by European standards. Groceries and transit are reasonable, while central hotels and tourist restaurants cost more.
Service is usually included or modest. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Taxis can be rounded up.
Official public transport app
Port Of Tallinn Terminal D, Tallinn -> Balti Jaam, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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