By default, "public transportation" in Estonia refers to buses. The primary passenger transportation within cities and townships is facilitated by road transport, and for remote villages, bus service is often the sole means of connecting with the broader region. You can check the schedule of intercity buses on the specialized website.
In major cities, trolleybuses are gradually assuming some of the functions previously handled by buses, and there are four streetcar routes operating in Tallinn as well. Drivers make an effort to adhere to the schedule, minimizing passenger wait times at bus stops and ensuring a comfortable ride.
Single-ride tickets for public transportation can be purchased at kiosks located at bus stops or directly from the driver. The average fare per trip is 1.20 EUR. In Tallinn, the fare is slightly higher at 1.60 EUR, but you have the option to purchase a discounted Tallinn Card, which provides free access to public transport. Children under 7 and passengers aged 65 and above, including foreigners, travel for free on public transport.
Municipal public transportation in Estonia operates from 6:30 AM until midnight, which means you might need to take a taxi if you're out late at a nightclub. You can often find taxis near major hotels or important transportation hubs during the evening, but it's a good idea to pre-book a taxi to avoid any unexpected costs.
The typical taxi fares in Estonia range from 0.6 to 0.8 EUR per kilometer, and there's usually an initial boarding fee of around 2.60 EUR. Waiting time is typically charged separately.
Rail travel isn't widely used in Estonia. The number of long-distance trains is declining, but you can find regular train services between Tallinn and cities like Tartu, Pärnu, Narva, Orava, and Viljandi. For train schedules and ticket prices, you can check here.
However, when it comes to suburban travel within a 30-50 kilometer radius, trains can offer a competitive alternative to faster but traffic-jammed road transportation. Suburban train schedules are available here.
Boat transportation in Estonia offers not only romantic boat trips for tourists but also addresses significant issues in the national economy and social welfare. Cargo and passenger ferries operate year-round to Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, with navigation to the smaller islands available from May to September.
Despite high airfares, domestic flights from Tallinn to Kuressaare and Kärdla are unlikely to replace ferries in the near future. Nevertheless, air transportation remains prominent, with passenger airports in five Estonian cities: Tallinn, Pärnu, Tartu, Kuressaare, and Kärdla, along with a sixth airport on Ruhnu Island.
For those looking for a more eco-friendly option, renting a bicycle is also a great way to explore Estonia. A well-developed network of cycle tracks and thoughtful services make the journey smoother, and you can share your adventures with friends at a cozy cafe while savoring the aromatic memories with a glass of fine wine.
