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

Should you visit Tallinn or Heidelberg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Heidelberg, 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 whimsical, historical, and charming city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a historic, quaint, and energetic town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Tallinn and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tallinn or Heidelberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tallinn than Heidelberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tallinn is more popular for its museums, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Heidelberg is known for its food. Tallinn is more touristy than Heidelberg and is known for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. It is also home to The Old Town. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

The Old Town

How is Tallinn different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg?

Tallinn is a great city for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Heidelberg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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 Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Tallinn and Heidelberg.

Tallinn has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Heidelberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Is Tallinn or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn and Heidelberg both have world-class historical old towns that attract visitors.

The rich history of Tallinn can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Heidelberg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Heidelberg?

Tallinn is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Tallinn. 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.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Tallinn or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Tallinn and Heidelberg are both good destinations for the whole family.

Tallinn is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Heidelberg. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Tallinn or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Tallinn and Heidelberg are both great to visit as a couple.

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.

Couples visit Heidelberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Is Tallinn or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Tallinn, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Is Tallinn or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Both Tallinn and Heidelberg are good destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Tallinn. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

Heidelberg is popular with students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

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

Visitors will find great public transit in both Tallinn and Heidelberg.

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

The public transit in Heidelberg can get you to most places easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Is Tallinn or Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Tallinn is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Heidelberg is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Heidelberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallinn and Heidelberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tallinn than in Heidelberg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 1-3 days is enough time in Heidelberg.

Families should spend more time in Tallinn than Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg 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 Tallinn or Heidelberg?

With museums and nightlife around the historical city of Tallinn, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Heidelberg, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Tallinn or Heidelberg?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Tallinn, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Heidelberg, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heidelberg has to offer.

Five days in Tallinn or Heidelberg?

Tallinn, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Heidelberg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Heidelberg?

Tallinn is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heidelberg. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Heidelberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tallinn and Heidelberg, we can see that Heidelberg is more expensive. And not only is Tallinn much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Heidelberg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Heidelberg?

Tallinn has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn and Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tallinn or Heidelberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Heidelberg. Many travelers come to Tallinn for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tallinn is cooler than Heidelberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tallinn in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heidelberg this time of the year. In Tallinn, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tallinn usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during summer. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Heidelberg. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tallinn or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Heidelberg. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Tallinn is generally much colder than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 7°C (44°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Heidelberg. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets more rain in October than Heidelberg. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tallinn or Heidelberg in the Winter?

Both Heidelberg and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tallinn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Heidelberg can be very cold. Tallinn can be very cold during winter. Tallinn is much colder than Heidelberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around -5°C (22°F) in January, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Tallinn usually receives less sunshine than Heidelberg during winter. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tallinn or Heidelberg in the Spring?

Both Heidelberg and Tallinn during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year.

The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. In the spring, Tallinn is much colder than Heidelberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tallinn in April average around 4°C (39°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Tallinn often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in April than Heidelberg. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Tallinn