A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tallinn vs. Canberra for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Tallinn or Canberra?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Canberra, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a charming, quaint, and whimsical city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tallinn and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Tallinn or Canberra?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Canberra than Tallinn. While Tallinn is larger than Canberra, Canberra has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Canberra is better known for its food, hiking, and big city activities, while Tallinn is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Tallinn is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. Also, Canberra is famous for the Australian War Memorial.

How is Tallinn different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tallinn
Canberra

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Tallinn and Canberra.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallinn can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Canberra. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.


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

Tallinn
Canberra

Canberra is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Canberra has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Tallinn area. 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.

Is Tallinn or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn
Canberra

Tallinn is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Tallinn has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Tallinn or Canberra Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn
Canberra

Tallinn is terrific for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Tallinn has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.


Is Tallinn or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Tallinn
Canberra

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

Canberra has hiking trails worth exploring. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Tallinn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Canberra?

Tallinn
Canberra

Tallinn is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Tallinn is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Tallinn or Canberra Better for Families?

Tallinn
Canberra

Canberra is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Tallinn. 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 Tallinn or Canberra Better for Couples?

Tallinn
Canberra

Tallinn is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Tallinn makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Tallinn or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn
Canberra

Tallinn is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Tallinn is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Tallinn or Canberra Better for Students?

Tallinn
Canberra

Canberra is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Canberra is a great city to visit as a student. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

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


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

Tallinn
Canberra

Tallinn is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Tallinn has some very good public transit options. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Tallinn or Canberra a more walkable city?

Tallinn
Canberra

Tallinn is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Tallinn. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Canberra?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallinn and Canberra. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tallinn than in Canberra. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 2-3 days is enough time in Canberra.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tallinn than Canberra 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.


  • How many days in Tallinn or Canberra? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallinn 2-4 
    Canberra 2-3

One day in Tallinn or Canberra?

The beautiful city of Tallinn offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Canberra, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Tallinn or Canberra?

Tallinn is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tallinn, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Canberra, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Canberra has to offer.

Five days in Tallinn or Canberra?

Tallinn is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Canberra 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.

A week in Tallinn or Canberra?

Tallinn is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Canberra. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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


Which place is cheaper, Canberra or Tallinn?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallinn is €95, while the average daily cost in Canberra is €125. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Tallinn and Canberra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallinn 47
    Canberra 77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallinn 94
    Canberra 154
Compare Hotels in Tallinn and Canberra

Looking for a hotel in Tallinn or Canberra? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Tallinn


Hotels in Canberra


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tallinn Hotel Prices and Canberra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallinn 12
    Canberra 23
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Tallinn

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Tallinn:


  • Tram Around Town for Two
    1.66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tallinn

Also for Tallinn, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport Transfer: $43
  • Highlights Shore Excursion with Return Transfer: $48
  • Beginner Archery Class with Transfer: $81
  • Airport Transfer Service: $48
  • Tallinn hotels to Tallinn Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $16
  • Tallinn Return Airport Transfers: $68
  • Tallinn Limo Airport Transfer: $75
  • Tallinn Lennart Meri Airport (TLL): Transfer to Tallinn Port: $102
  • Tallinn Highlights Shore Excursion With Port Return Transfer: $65
  • Tallinn Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tallinn hotels: $102
  • Tallinn Cruise Port to Tallinn hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Tallinn Arrival Private Airport Transfer in Minivan: $118

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Canberra

Also for Canberra, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Canberra city hotels to Eden Cruise Port: $82
  • Private Transfer from Canberra Airport CBR to Eden Cruise Port : $82
  • Guided Tour of Floriade Festival with Transfers: $118
  • Canberra to Canberra Int Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Int'l Airport to Canberra - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallinn or Canberra?

Prices for flights to both Canberra and Tallinn change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Tallinn 36
    Canberra 33
Typical Food Prices in Tallinn

For Tallinn, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    7.68
  • Dessert
    1.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tallinn

For Tallinn, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (2-course meal): $56
  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (3-course meal): $64
  • Tallinn Russian Dinner: $84
  • Tallinn Food Tour: $116
  • Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour: $127
  • Tallinn Food Tour with Round-trip Transfer Port-City: $137

Typical Food Prices in Canberra

For Canberra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    15

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallinn 5.63
    Canberra 16

Tours and Activities in Tallinn

For Tallinn, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • "Legends and Landmarks: A Tallinn Walking Adventure": $22
  • 120 Degrees daily guided walking tour: $27
  • 2 Hour Tales of Tallinn Private Car Tour: $66
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of Tallinn: $49
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Tallinn: $294
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Tallinn: $188
  • 5 Hour Deluxe Shore Excursion in Tallinn from Cruise Port: $48
  • 5 Hour Majestic Tallinn Tour from Cruise Port: $45
  • Accessible tour in Tallinn: $743
  • Aegna Island: Self-Guided Discovery Tour: $8.60
  • Alcohol Tasting Tour In Tallinn: $65
  • All-in-One Tallinn - See stunning Estonian Capital from a Cruise Ship or Hotel: $78

Tours and Activities in Canberra

For Canberra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in Canberra: $30
  • Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour: $14
  • Best of Wildlife and Birds Tour: $98
  • Building + Architecture Tour | 10am Daily: $13
  • Canberra Floriade Tour: $118
  • Canberra Small Group Winery Tour: $149
  • Beer, Wine, and Spirits Tasting Tour: $112
  • Best of Wildlife Tour: $89
  • City Highlights Day Tour with Entrance Fees: $118
  • Capital Christmas: Private Festive Tour in Canberra: $646
  • Discover Canberra’s Heritage: A Full-Day Private Tour: $870
  • Discover Pearls of Canberra - Private Walking Tour: $133

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallinn 15
    Canberra 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallinn

Also in Tallinn, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Mad Monk’s Pub Crawl Tallinn: $22
  • Tallinn Pub Crawl (Ex The Epic Bar Crawl): $27
  • Tallinn Exclusive Pub & Bar Crawl - Free Drinks, Local Guide: $42
  • Tallinn Brewery Fiesta: $72
  • Tallinn Guided Bar Crawl: $124

Typical Alcohol Prices in Canberra

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canberra from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Bar
    8.58

Sample the Local Flavors in Canberra

Also in Canberra, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Canberra Brewery and Beer Tour in 3 Hours: $99
  • Canberra Brewery Winery and Distillery Tour: $112
  • Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $122
  • CanBEERa Explorer: Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $123
  • From Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch: $149
  • Canberra Wine Tour: $158
  • Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch: $162


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tallinn and Canberra, we can see that Canberra is more expensive. And not only is Tallinn much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tallinn is in Europe and Canberra is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Tallinn would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tallinn and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Canberra would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Canberra than you might in Tallinn.

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


Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Canberra?

Tallinn has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn and Canberra, 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 Tallinn or Canberra?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Tallinn has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Tallinn or Canberra in the Summer?

Both Canberra and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Canberra for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Tallinn is cooler than Canberra in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Canberra fluctuates around 20°C (68°F)in January.

In July, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Canberrain January. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Tallinn 17°C (62°F) 
    Canberra 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Canberra in the Autumn?

Both Canberra and Tallinn during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tallinn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Canberra because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Tallinn is much colder than Canberra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallinn in October average around 7°C (44°F), and Canberra averages at about 17°C (63°F)in April.

Canberra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tallinn usually gets less rain in October than Canberrain April. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Tallinn 7°C (44°F) 
    Canberra 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Canberra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Canberra. The winter months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. In January, Tallinn is generally much colder than Canberrain July. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around -5°C (22°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In January, Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Canberrain July. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Tallinn -5°C (22°F) 
    Canberra 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Canberra in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Canberra. The natural beauty are the main draw to Tallinn this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Canberra for the activities around the city.

It's quite cold in Tallinn in the spring. Tallinn is much colder than Canberra in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 4°C (39°F) in April, and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F)in October.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in April than Canberrain October. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Tallinn 4°C (39°F) 
    Canberra 15°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Canberra and Tallinn

Tallinn Canberra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (22°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb -6°C (22°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Apr 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 7°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (60°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 1°C (34°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec -3°C (27°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)