A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Tallinn for Old Town, Backpackers, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cesis or Tallinn?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Tallinn can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a traditional, quaint, and small town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a quaint, whimsical, and historical city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cesis and Tallinn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cesis or Tallinn?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tallinn than Cesis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tallinn is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cesis is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Tallinn is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Also, Tallinn is famous for The Old Town. Cesis is well known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

The Old Town

How is Cesis different from Tallinn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tallinn and Cesis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or Tallinn?

Tallinn is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Tallinn. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cesis or Tallinn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallinn is a city with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tallinn. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Tallinn Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Tallinn is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Tallinn Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn is renowned for its old town. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Tallinn is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Is Cesis or Tallinn Better for Hiking?

Cesis is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tallinn is not a hiking destination.

Cesis has hiking trails worth exploring. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Tallinn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Tallinn?

Tallinn is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Tallinn is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Tallinn Better for Families?

Both Cesis and Tallinn are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cesis. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Tallinn offers lots of family activities. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

Is Cesis or Tallinn Better for Couples?

Tallinn is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Tallinn frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or Tallinn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn is renowned for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Tallinn. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Is Cesis or Tallinn Better for Students?

Tallinn is a city with good options for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

Tallinn is popular with students. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

Cesis is not popular with students.

Is Cesis or Tallinn Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tallinn is well known for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Tallinn can get you to some places easily. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Tallinn a more walkable city?

Tallinn is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Tallinn on foot is easy. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is Tallinn Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tallinn or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Tallinn?

It's fun to spend time in either Cesis or Tallinn. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Tallinn due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-4 days is enough time in Tallinn.

Families should spend more time in Tallinn than Cesis. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tallinn, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Tallinn than Cesis. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tallinn that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tallinn than Cesis if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tallinn.

One day in Cesis or Tallinn?

Cesis is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Tallinn, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Cesis or Tallinn?

Cesis might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cesis has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallinn. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Tallinn?

Cesis is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Tallinn is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Tallinn. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cesis or Tallinn?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cesis. Since Cesis is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the whimsical destination of Tallinn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia.

When comparing the travel costs between Cesis and Tallinn, we can see that Cesis is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cesis Expensive? and Is Tallinn Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cesis or Tallinn?

Tallinn has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis and Tallinn, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Cesis or Tallinn?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cesis or Tallinn in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Tallinn. Most visitors come to Cesis for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the family-friendly experiences.

Cesis is around the same temperature as Tallinn in the summer. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Tallinn fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Cesis usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Tallinn. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tallinn receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cesis or Tallinn in the Autumn?

Both Tallinn and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tallinn this time of year.

In the autumn, Cesis is a little warmer than Tallinn. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cesis in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Tallinn averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In October, Cesis usually receives less rain than Tallinn. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Tallinn receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cesis or Tallinn in the Winter?

Both Tallinn and Cesis during the winter are popular places to visit. The cuisine are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tallinn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tallinn. It's quite cold in Cesis in the winter. In January, Cesis is generally around the same temperature as Tallinn. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around -5°C (23°F), and Tallinn fluctuates around -5°C (22°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than Tallinn. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Tallinn receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cesis or Tallinn in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Tallinn. Many travelers come to Cesis for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Tallinn in the spring for the natural beauty.

Tallinn can get quite cold in the spring. Cesis is a little warmer than Tallinn in the spring. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Tallinn fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In April, Cesis usually receives more rain than Tallinn. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Tallinn receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tallinn and Cesis