Tallinn's summertime white nights

Wondering what to do in Tallinn during the long white nights of summer? Here's how to spend your extra hours during this magical time of year.

During Estonia's white nights, the sun rises around 4 am and sets a bit before 11 pm.

Daylight fades to twilight but never goes pitch-black. Take advantage of this extra time by staying up and staying out into the wee hours.

Here are some ideas to make the most of Tallinn during the magical white nights of summer.

Explore the streets of Old Town

To really take full advantage of Estonia's white nights, stroll through the cobblestone streets and winding alleys of Old Town; if you're lucky, you might stumble on some live music. Try a cocktail from award-winning bartenders, or stop in for a drink at one of the best speakeasies in town if you can find it!

Cinephiles might want to see a movie in Tallinn's oldest cinema; it will still be light out when you come out of the theater. The lookouts in the upper part of Old Town or the cafe on top of Fat Margaret's Tower are also great spots to relax and watch the sky change color.

St. Catherine's passage in Tallinn, Estonia

Source: Vivian Velle, Visit Tallinn

Hit the museum, then go for a stroll

The Kumu Art Museum in Kadriorg Park is open until 8 pm on Thursdays. Spend a late afternoon visiting their exhibitions on Estonian art, then head out into Kadriorg Park or have dinner at one of the neighborhood's top restaurants. Afterwards, take a stroll along the Pirita Promenade. Hop on a bus, rent a scooter, or keep walking (if you have the time and energy!) until you get to Pirita Beach. Find a spot on the sand to watch the sun head towards the horizon.

You could also spend your evening going the opposite direction. If you're looking for luxury, start with a gourmet dinner at the MICHELIN-starred NOA Chef's Hall in Pirita. Otherwise, a picnic on the beach with ice cream for dessert is a summertime standard. From there, walk along the promenade before heading back into Old Town for a latenight wander.

Pirita promenade at sunset in the summer

Source: Kadi-Liis Koppel, Visit Tallinn

Steam the night away in a sauna

Sauna is an essential part of Estonian culture, no matter the weather. Try out the oldest sauna in Tallinn or head out of the city center to a local favorite, the Elamus Spa in Mustamäe. Open until 11 pm, they often feature DJs on the weekends. Iglupark Saunas in Noblessner are one of the city's chicest saunas in a prime seaside location. If you like your sauna with a side of stand-up, then Heldeke is the spot for you. They have a full calendar of comedy, burlesque, and live music. Many of the shows are in English, making it a good stop for visitors willing to venture off the beaten path.

Three friends at Iglupark sauna in Noblessner, Tallinn

Source: Rasmus Jurkatam, Visit Tallinn

Iglupark saunas in Noblessner

While away a summer evening in a sauna next to the sea.

Seek out new experiences around town

Enchanting evenings. Sundowners and outdoor dining. A technicolor sky. And the always changing, ancient yet modern city of Tallinn. Make it a white night to remember!