A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tallinn vs. Taupo for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Tallinn or Taupo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Taupo, 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 quaint, whimsical, and historical city. The famous beauty of Tallinn 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. See Tallinn travel costs.

Taupo

Taupo is a stunning, otherworldly, and striking town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Taupo is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Taupo travel costs.

Tallinn and Taupo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tallinn or Taupo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tallinn than Taupo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tallinn is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Taupo is more popular for its skiing, food, hiking, and small town charm. Tallinn is more touristy than Taupo and is popular for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Also, Tallinn is famous for The Old Town. Taupo is well known for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes.

The Old Town

How is Tallinn different from Taupo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tallinn or Taupo Better for Skiing?

Taupo is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Tallinn is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Taupo is among the best in the world. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Tallinn is not a skiing destination.

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

Tallinn is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Tallinn offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

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

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

Taupo has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

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 Taupo Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Tallinn know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

Is Tallinn or Taupo Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Taupo does not have a historic old town.

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.

Taupo does not have a historic old town.

Is Tallinn or Taupo Better for Hiking?

Taupo is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Tallinn is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Taupo. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

Tallinn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Taupo?

Tallinn is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Taupo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Is Tallinn or Taupo More Beautiful?

Tallinn is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Tallinn is one of the main draws. The beautiful architecture and impressive old town makes this a top tourist destination in Eastern Europe.

Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the lake, there is stunning natural beauty in the area and many breathtaking views.

Is Tallinn or Taupo Better for Families?

Taupo is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Taupo is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

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 Taupo Better for Couples?

Taupo is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Taupo has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

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.

Is Tallinn or Taupo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn and Taupo are both fantastic destinations 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.

Taupo is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Tallinn or Taupo Better for Students?

Tallinn is a popular place for students. However, Taupo is not popular with students.

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

Taupo is not popular with students.

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

Tallinn is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Taupo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

Is Tallinn or Taupo a more walkable city?

Tallinn is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Taupo 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.

Taupo is a somewhat walkable city. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Taupo or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Taupo?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tallinn than Taupo 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 Taupo?

In Tallinn, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint 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.

In Taupo, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This town 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 Taupo?

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.

In Taupo, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Taupo has to offer.

Five days in Tallinn or Taupo?

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.

Taupo is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Taupo?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taupo. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Taupo. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

When comparing the travel costs between Tallinn and Taupo, we can see that Tallinn 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. Even though Tallinn is in Europe and Taupo is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Taupo?

Tallinn has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Taupo. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn and Taupo, 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.