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

Should you visit Tallinn or Madrid?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Madrid, 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 to Tallinn because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Tallinn travel costs.

Madrid

Madrid is a authentic, cultural, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Madrid travel costs.

Tallinn and Madrid: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Tallinn or Madrid?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Madrid than Tallinn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Madrid is very popular for its food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Tallinn attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Tallinn is more touristy than Madrid and is known for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Madrid is famous for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. It is also well known for The Prado Museum.

How is Tallinn different from Madrid?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tallinn
Madrid

Tallinn is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Madrid offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.


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

Tallinn
Madrid

Madrid is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Madrid is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.

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 Madrid Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn
Madrid

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Tallinn and Madrid.

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.

Madrid is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.

Is Tallinn or Madrid Better for Music?

Tallinn
Madrid

Madrid is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Tallinn is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Madrid. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.

Tallinn is not a live music destination.


Is Tallinn or Madrid Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn
Madrid

Tallinn is renowned for its historic old town. However, Madrid does not have a historic old town.

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.

Madrid does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Madrid?

Tallinn
Madrid

Madrid is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Madrid draws large crowds to its stores. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Tallinn or Madrid More Beautiful?

Tallinn
Madrid

Tallinn is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Madrid is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Tallinn because of it's amazing beauty. The beautiful architecture and impressive old town makes this a top tourist destination in Eastern Europe.

Madrid is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Tallinn or Madrid Better for Families?

Tallinn
Madrid

Madrid 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, Madrid is very family-friendly. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.

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 Madrid Better for Couples?

Tallinn
Madrid

Tallinn and Madrid are both high quality 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 Madrid frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.

Is Tallinn or Madrid Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn
Madrid

Tallinn is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Madrid is a great city to visit for backpackers. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.


Is Tallinn or Madrid Better for Students?

Tallinn
Madrid

Madrid is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Madrid is a great destination for students. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.

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

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

Tallinn
Madrid

Madrid is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Madrid has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.

The public transit in Tallinn can get you to most places easily. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

Is Tallinn or Madrid a more walkable city?

Tallinn
Madrid

Tallinn and Madrid are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

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.

Getting around Madrid on foot is easy. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.


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

Should I spend more time in Madrid or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Madrid?

In either Tallinn or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Madrid than Tallinn because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 2-5 days is enough time in Madrid.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tallinn than Madrid 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 Madrid? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallinn 2-4 
    Madrid 2-5

One day in Tallinn or Madrid?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Tallinn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Because Madrid is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Madrid?

Tallinn is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Because Madrid is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Madrid has to offer.

Five days in Tallinn or Madrid?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallinn. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Madrid is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Madrid has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Tallinn or Madrid?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Tallinn. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Madrid. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Madrid. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Madrid or Tallinn?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallinn is €121, while the average daily cost in Madrid is €162. 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 Madrid in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallinn 47
    Madrid 78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallinn 94
    Madrid 156
Compare Hotels in Tallinn and Madrid

Looking for a hotel in Tallinn or Madrid? 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 Madrid


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 Madrid Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallinn 12
    Madrid 18
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:

  • From Helicopter transfer to Helsinki: $2,852
  • Private Shore Excursion: Tallinn Old Town Walking Tour with Round-Trip Transfer: $264
  • Tallinn Limo Airport Transfer: $162
  • Tallinn Party Bus Airport Transfer: $137
  • Tallinn Arrival Private Airport Transfer in Minivan: $127
  • CO2-Offset Arrival Transfer from Tallinn Airport/Port to Tallinn : $100
  • CO2-Offset Departure Transfer from Tallinn City / Tallinn Airport: $100
  • Beginner Archery Class with Transfer: $86
  • Tallinn Airport (TLL) to Tallinn Cruise Port - Round-Trip Privat Transfer: $82
  • Tallinn Cruise Port to Tallinn hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $82
  • Tallinn Return Airport Transfers: $79
  • Tallinn Highlights Shore Excursion With Port Return Transfer: $71

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Madrid

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Madrid are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Madrid

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

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Madrid HTL-APT (MAD): $53
  • Transfers Madrid Airport to Madrid Center in Vans up to 7 Passengers: $51
  • Transfer: Barajas Airport (MAD) to Madrid City Center: $32
  • Transfer to Madrid, travel calmly and comfortably: $156
  • Transfer to Barajas Airport from Madrid: $108
  • Transfer from Barajas Airport to Madrid: $120
  • Segovia: Full-Day Tour with Transfer to and from Madrid: $484
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer Madrid Airport (MAD) - City: $66
  • Round Trip Transfer from Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid by Sedan: $89
  • Private transfer from Madrid city to CHAMARTIN train station: $47
  • Private transfer from City to Madrid Airport (MAD): $33
  • Private transfer departure from City Centre to Madrid Airport: $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallinn or Madrid?

Prices for flights to both Madrid 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 62
    Madrid 59
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:

  • Arabic Cooking Class with Dinner: $58
  • Tallinn old town: Estonian Cuisine Cooking Class: $75
  • Estonian cuisine Cooking Class: $78
  • Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour: $139
  • Authentic Baltic Home Dining and Cooking Class in Tallinn: $199
  • Vegan Food Tours Tallinn: $234

Typical Food Prices in Madrid

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Madrid:


  • Coffee
    2.00
  • Ice Cream
    3.00
  • Kebabs (for 2)
    16
  • Croissant
    1.50
  • Lunch at Airport (for 2)
    16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Madrid

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

  • Madrid Sunset Walking Tour with Optional Flamenco Show and Dinner: $29
  • Madrid Tapas and Guided Food Tour with Dinner: $45
  • No Diet Club - Unique local Food Tour in Madrid !: $57
  • Madrid Food Tour with Tapas & Drinks with a Local: $59
  • Local Flamenco Show with dinner at El Cortijo: $60
  • Dinner-Show La Circa de Marta Cariño! en el centro de Madrid: $65
  • Zarzuela Opera and Dinner at La Castafiore Restaurant in Madrid: $66
  • Tapas Food Tour with 6 Tapas and 4 Drinks: $68
  • The Authentic Morning Food Tour!: $68
  • Opera and Zarzuela Show and Dinner: $68
  • Tapas Crawl in Madrid Historical Quarter for Lunch or Dinner: $68
  • Iberico Ham and Spanish Wine Small-Group Food Tour: $68

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallinn 5.63
    Madrid 33

Tours and Activities in Tallinn

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

  • 2 Hour Tallinn Old Town Walking Tour: $216
  • 2-Day Guided Tour of Medieval Tallinn : $264
  • 2-hour Tallinn Kalamaja Walking Tour: $197
  • 2-hour Tallinn Old Town walking tour: $186
  • 5 Hour Tallinn Shore Excursion from Cruise Terminal: $48
  • 5-Hour Tallinn Tour for Cruise Passengers: $49
  • Aegna Island: Self-Guided Discovery Tour: $9.21
  • Alcohol Tasting Tour In Tallinn: $71
  • All inclusive Tallinn Food and Bike tour: $91
  • Audio Tour of the Toompea Hill (Cathedral Hill) in Tallinn: $5.75
  • Best Tallinn Shore Excursion from Cruise Port: $54
  • Best of Tallinn 2-Hour Bike Tour: $36

Tours and Activities in Madrid

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Madrid.

  • Authentic Flamenco, Tapas & Wine Madrid Experience: $119
  • El Pardo Royal Palace Entry Ticket: $20
  • Madrid Kids and Family Sightseeing Tour: $71
  • Madrid Photo Tour with Pro Photographer Lifestyle and Portrait: $144
  • Madrid Tapas & Taverns Small Group Food & History Tour: $119
  • Tablao Flamenco las Tablas Madrid Admission Ticket: $54
  • Toledo with Cathedral from Madrid Full Day Tour: $148
  • Ávila & Segovia and Alcazar Day Tour from Madrid lunch included: $215
  • "Skip the line" Royal Palace + Prado Museum: $76
  • 1 Hours, Madrid Welcome and Historical Tour: $103
  • 1.5-hour Tuk Tuk Tour in Madrid: $149
  • 15 Cultural Madrid 10- Hour Private Tour: $806

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallinn 15
    Madrid 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallinn

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

  • Old Town Bar Crawl - free drinks, discounts & club: $20
  • Bar Crawl with Shots, Beer, and Nightclub Entry: $23
  • Telliskivi Bar Crawl with games, drinks, discounts: $23
  • Tallinn Exclusive Pub & Bar Crawl - Free Drink, Local Guide: $45
  • Tallinn Brewery Fiesta: $79
  • Old Town Walking Tour, Pub Crawl and Accommodation in Tallinn : $119
  • Tallinn Guided Bar Crawl: $136

Typical Alcohol Prices in Madrid

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Madrid are as follows:


  • Beer
    5.00
  • Drinks and Tapas (for 2)
    13

Sample the Local Flavors in Madrid

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Madrid:

  • Madrid VIP Pub Crawl with Beers, Top Clubs (Updated): $8.07
  • Pub Crawl | Free shot & Free Club entry: $8.64
  • Pub Crawl & Club Tour: $11
  • NOCHE MADRILEÑA (PUB CRAWL Free shots 3BARS+1 CLUB): $12
  • Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra: $12
  • Guided Pub Crawl Madrid Experience and Club Entry: $18
  • Pub Crawl Madrid: $24
  • Pub Crawl Madrid Running since 2005 Bar Exploration: $29
  • Pub Crawl Madrid-The Original since 2005-Shots-Fun-Clubs-Dance: $30
  • Wine Tasting Experience with 4 Spanish Wines: $35
  • Wine Tour with tasting in the Natural Park of La Mata: $38
  • Wine Tasting Experience: $53


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tallinn and Madrid, we can see that Madrid 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 Madrid would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Madrid 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 Madrid Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Madrid?

Madrid has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Tallinn. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn and Madrid, 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.