40 things to do during Estonia's black nights
Evenings are extra long during autumn and winter. Don't turn in early! Make the most of the black nights with these 40 attractions and activities.
White nights are great. We get it.
But Estonia's black nights are far from boring.
We've gathered 40 things to do and places to go in Tallinn or nearby during autumn and winter's late afternoons and evenings — indoors or out. In addition to the seasons' many traditional holidays, there's always something to do when the sun goes down!
Spend November's black nights at the cinema!
The Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF) will illuminate movie screens in Tallinn from 3 to 27 November.
PÖFF is one of 15 A-list film festivals accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF) alongside Cannes, Berlin, Cairo, and other leading festivals. It attracts thousands of cinephiles from Estonia and abroad, and screens over 200 feature films and over 300 shorts.
Photo author: PÖFF
The Christmas season will light up the dark nights of December.
Tallinn's Christmas Market is the main event of the holiday season.
However, Christmas is an important holiday in Estonian culture, and the whole country celebrates in ways both big and small. Tartu also hosts a festive Christmas City on the Town Hall Square, while one-day markets pop up in villages and neighborhoods all over Estonia.
Take note: The 2025 Tallinn Christmas Market is open from 21 November until 27 December.
Photo author: Kaupo Kalda
If you can't make it for PÖFF, try the opera, listen to jazz, or check out the Kai Art Center.
Old Town is magical when the nights are long.
The cobblestone streets take on a mysterious air. Book a walking tour, sip mulled wine, or dine by candlelight like a medieval merchant.
Pamper yourself with a relaxing massage or an invigorating facial.
Once you start to feel the chill outdoors, head to one of Tallinn's spas. Let the jacuzzi wash away your aches after a day spent hiking or skiing.
Planning a night out on the town?
Glamorous speakeasy, wine bar, American-style microbrewery, or hipster hot spot — take your pick! The night is extra long, and it's all yours.
Autumn is the time to enjoy seasonal cuisine.
See what innovative chefs can do with pickled pumpkins and mushrooms, smoked meat, and berry preserves, or sample seasonal delicacies at the market.
Tallinn has plenty of opportunities for high-adrenaline indoor activities.
Don't let the cold weather slow you down! From climbing walls to sand volleyball, check out these indoor activities.
Skiing, sledding, skating, and swimming — winter sports abound in Estonia.
The city maintains several ice rinks around town, and summertime hiking tracks turn into ski trails in winter. Fancy a challenge? Try winter swimming!
Nature is open 24/7, every day of the year.
Frozen waterfalls and forests by twilight offer magical black night experiences or get your nature fix on the well-lit trails of Kadriorg Park.
A sauna is a must-do experience, no matter the season.
Black nights make a warm sauna feel extra delicious. Bar/sauna combo, old school, new age, or super Instagrammable — there's a sauna for everyone!
Need some company after dark? Venture outside of Tallinn with an experienced guide.
Seeing old buildings by lantern light or hiking by flashlight are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Go out after dark and make it back for dinner.
The most magical evening?
Star gazing. And if you're lucky, you might see the northern lights.
Every season has something special — and an extra season gives you extra time to see it all.
Expert tip: Exploring off-season will help off-load the pressure.
Last updated
22.09.2025