Helsinki to Tallinn ferries are the most scenic means of transportation between the capital cities of Estonia and Finland. The Russian style buildings of the Finnish capital of Helsinki are reminiscent of St Petersburg, while Tallinn boasts Europe’s best preserved old town, which has remained relatively unchanged for 700 years.

Two companies are in charge of the ferries for this route. M/S Viking XPRS, owned by Viking Line Ferries, makes the two hour ferry journey several times every week. Passengers may choose between day cruises where they may spend two and a half hours in Tallinn on Sundays or four hours during the rest of the week, or all day trips allowing them to explore Tallinn for nine and a half hours on Saturday and 11 hours throughout the rest of the week.

Facilities aboard the M/S Viking XPRS ferry include a wide variety of cabins, the cozy Viking’s Inn pub, a shop, meeting facilities, four restaurants, and a dance pavilion with live entertainment and a stunning sea view.

The other company is Silja Line and they operate the Tallink Star. The Tallink Star ferry includes 131 passenger cabins, a 120 seat business lounge with televisions and wireless internet, an observation lounge where private parties can be hosted, four restaurants, a large shopping area, a supermarket, a perfume shop, and a children’s playroom.

Regardless of which ferry option passengers choose, they will find no shortage of things to do in both cities. Tallinn’s historic old town, a designated UNESCO World Heritage is easily walkable and filled with fascinating castles, churches, and towers. The baroque Kadriorg Palace and nearby seaside resort of Pirita are also worth visiting. Among Helsinki’s most recommended attractions are its more than 80 museums and its stunning and well preserved Suomenlinna fortress.

Tags: Estonia, Europe, Finland, Helsinki, Silja Line, St Petersburg, Talinn, Tallink Star, UNESCO World Heritage, Viking Line Ferries, Viking’s Inn pub