Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki: Routes, Tickets & Tips

Introduction

We wrapped up our road trip through the Baltic States by crossing the Gulf of Finland from Tallinn to Helsinki—a journey that turned out to be one of the most scenic and stress-free legs of our trip. The ferry between these two capitals is not only practical but also incredibly enjoyable, offering a mini cruise experience with sea views, comfortable lounges, and cafés onboard.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about taking the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki: how to book your tickets, which ferry companies to choose, schedules, prices, what to expect onboard, and our top tips to make the most of the crossing.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or continuing your travels into Finland, this guide will help you plan your ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki with ease.

Read: The perfect 2-week Baltic States Itinerary

Why Take the Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki?

Taking the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki is more than just a way to get from point A to point B—it’s part of the adventure. This short sea crossing across the Gulf of Finland connects two vibrant capital cities and offers a relaxed, scenic, and surprisingly comfortable travel experience.

Unlike airports, where the experience is often rushed and stressful, ferry terminals are generally more laid-back. The journey itself feels like a mini cruise, complete with sea views, cafés, cozy lounges, and even duty-free shopping. With several daily departures and multiple companies to choose from, you have flexibility and convenience without sacrificing comfort.

The ferry is also a great choice if you’re planning a day trip. Whether you’re based in Tallinn and want to hop over to Finland for the day, or you’re wrapping up a trip through the Baltics and heading into Nordic territory, the ferry is an easy and affordable way to combine both capitals in one itinerary.

In short, it’s scenic, simple, and offers great value—especially if you book in advance.

Check our Google Map of the Baltic States

Ferry Companies Operating Between Tallinn and Helsinki

Three major ferry companies operate regular routes between Tallinn and Helsinki: Tallink Silja, Viking Line, and Eckerö Line. Each offers a slightly different experience in terms of travel time, onboard comfort, and price. Here’s what you need to know:

Tallink Silja

Tallink Silja is one of the most popular choices on this route, especially for travelers looking for a balance between speed and comfort. Their Megastar and MyStar ships are modern, spacious, and packed with amenities—think restaurants, cafés, family areas, shopping zones, and lounges. The journey takes about 2 hours, and multiple departures are available daily.

Why choose Tallink Silja?

• Stylish, newer ships
• Excellent food and lounge options
• Business Lounge upgrade available
• Great for families and digital nomads

Viking Line

Viking Line is another well-established option with comfortable ships and competitive pricing. Their XPRS ferry also takes around 2.5 hours and includes many of the same onboard perks—cafés, buffet dining, and relaxation areas. Viking Line is often slightly more budget-friendly, especially when booking in advance.

Why choose Viking Line?

• Solid service with reliable schedules
• Good value for money
• Ideal for travelers seeking comfort without the frills

Eckerö Line

Eckerö Line is often the most affordable of the three, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Their MS Finlandia ferry also takes around 2.5 hours and offers a good range of basic services onboard. You’ll find a self-service buffet, a café, and a few lounges to relax during the journey.

Why choose Eckerö Line?

• Budget-friendly fares
• Frequent discounts and promotions
• Straightforward experience without extras

Tip: we recommend buying your ticket for the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki online

How Long Is the Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki?

The ferry ride from Tallinn to Helsinki is surprisingly quick, especially considering you’re crossing between two countries. On average, the journey takes between 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the ferry company and specific vessel.

• Tallink Silja: Around 2 hours with high-speed ferries like Megastar and MyStar.
• Viking Line: Typically 2.5 hours on the XPRS.
• Eckerö Line: Approximately 2.5 hours on the MS Finlandia.

While these times are similar, keep in mind that boarding usually begins about 30–45 minutes before departure, and you’ll want to factor in time to get to and from the ferry terminals on both ends. Overall, you should budget about 3.5 to 4 hours total for the full experience—still faster and much more enjoyable than flying when you count airport procedures.

If you’re doing this as a day trip, the early morning and late evening ferry combinations make it easy to explore either city without needing an overnight stay.

How Much Does the Ferry Cost?

Ticket prices for the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki can vary depending on the season, the ferry company, and how far in advance you book. That said, it’s generally an affordable and great-value option, especially when compared to flying.

Average one-way ticket prices:

• Tallink Silja: Starting from €20–€30 for a standard ticket when booked in advance.
• Viking Line: Around €15–€25, often with promotional fares available.
• Eckerö Line: Typically the most budget-friendly, with tickets from €10–€20.

Prices can go up during weekends, holidays, or peak summer months, and may also increase if you book last-minute.

Round-trip fares: Most companies offer return ticket discounts, especially for same-day returns. Expect to pay around €25–€45 for a round-trip if you plan ahead.

Additional costs to consider:

• Cabin or lounge upgrades: From €15 to €50, depending on the level of comfort.
• Bringing a car: Prices for vehicles start at €30–€70 one-way, depending on size and season.
• Pets or bikes: Small additional fees may apply.

Tip: Book directly on the ferry company’s official website or with a tour company. Some tickets even include public transport passes or discounts for attractions in Helsinki or Tallinn.

Read: 28 Best things to do in Tallinn, Estonia, in 4 days

Where to Buy Tickets for the Tallinn–Helsinki Ferry

Booking tickets for the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki is easy, and you have a few reliable options depending on your preferences and travel style.

Online: The most convenient and often the cheapest way to book your ticket is directly through the ferry company’s website:

• Tallink Silja
• Viking Line
• Eckerö Line

Booking online allows you to:

• Compare departure times and prices
• Choose your seat or upgrade to a lounge
• Add extras like a meal, priority boarding, or checked luggage
• Receive your ticket instantly via email or mobile app

If you book early, you’ll often find promotional fares and discounted round-trip deals.

At the Ferry Terminal:  Each ferry terminal has a ticket desk where you can buy tickets on the spot. This is handy if you’re traveling last-minute, but prices may be higher and availability more limited—especially in summer or on weekends.

Travel Agencies and Booking Platforms: You can also book through third-party platforms like Direct Ferries, Omio, or even GetYourGuide but be aware they may charge small service fees. These can be useful for easy booking on a platform you already know, multi-leg itineraries or if you’re combining transport modes.

Read: 17 Best things to do in Helsinki, Finland, in 1 day or more

What to Expect Onboard the Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki

One of the best things about traveling from Tallinn to Helsinki by ferry is that it doesn’t feel like typical transportation—it’s more like a mini cruise. Whether you’re traveling in the morning, afternoon, or evening, the onboard experience is designed to be comfortable and enjoyable.

Seating Options in the ferry from Tallin to Helsinki:

Most standard tickets include open seating, which means you can choose from a variety of public lounges and café-style areas. If you’re looking for a quieter or more premium experience, you can upgrade to:

• Comfort Lounges: More spacious seating with access to Wi-Fi, snacks, and beverages.
• Business Lounges: Even more exclusive with meals, drinks, and work-friendly space.
• Cabins: Available on some ferries for those who prefer privacy or want to rest.

Onboard Amenities on the ferry from Tallin to Helsinki

• Here’s what you can typically expect on all major ferry lines:
• Cafés and restaurants: From quick bites to buffet dining
• Duty-free shops: Alcohol, cosmetics, snacks, and souvenirs
• Free Wi-Fi zones: Usually limited in speed, but enough to check emails or browse
• Children’s play areas: Especially useful for families on longer crossings
• Outdoor decks: Perfect for enjoying Baltic Sea views and fresh air

On our crossing, we personally loved the café area—it had a cozy, relaxed vibe and big windows overlooking the sea. We grabbed a coffee, found a quiet corner, and simply enjoyed the peaceful views as we glided across the Gulf of Finland. It was a simple moment, but a memorable one.

Luggage and Vehicles onboard the ferry from Tallin to Helsinki

• Carry-on luggage is allowed and there are luggage racks available onboard.
• If you’re bringing a car, just follow the boarding instructions—vehicles are parked in lower decks and accessed via ramps.
• Bicycles and pets are also allowed but must be registered during booking.

Whether you’re traveling for fun or convenience, the ferry ride is an experience in itself. You can relax, enjoy the sea views, grab a coffee, or even get some work done before you arrive in Helsinki.

Tip: we recommend buying your ticket for the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki online

Ferry Terminals in Tallinn and Helsinki

Both Tallinn and Helsinki have modern, well-connected ferry terminals that make boarding and disembarking simple and efficient. Here’s what you need to know about each:

D-Terminal – Tallinn

Most ferries to Helsinki depart from Tallinn’s D-Terminal, located in the port area just a short walk from the city center. If you’re staying in the Old Town, you can easily reach the terminal in 15 to 20 minutes on foot. Taxis and Bolt rides are also readily available and inexpensive.

Facilities at D-Terminal:

• Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
• Luggage lockers
• Small cafés and snack stands
• Restrooms and free Wi-Fi
• Indoor waiting area with seating

It’s a good idea to arrive at the terminal at least 45 minutes before departure, especially during peak travel periods or if you’re traveling with a vehicle.

West Harbour – Helsinki

In Helsinki, ferries from Tallinn usually arrive at West Harbour Terminal 2, located in the Jätkäsaari district. From here, it’s about 2.5 km to the city center, which you can easily reach by:

• Tram: Line 7 and 9 stop right outside the terminal
• Taxi or ride-share: Available directly outside
• Walking: Around 30–40 minutes if you prefer a scenic stroll

Facilities at West Harbour Terminal 2:

• Spacious check-in and waiting areas
• Luggage storage and lockers
• Cafés, vending machines, and restrooms
• Direct access to public transport

Both terminals are efficient, clean, and user-friendly—even for first-time travelers. Just make sure to check your terminal number when booking, as some companies may occasionally use different departure points.

Tip: we recommend buying your ticket for the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki online

Tips for a Smooth Ferry Crossing

Taking the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki is straightforward, but a few smart tips can make your experience even more enjoyable and stress-free.

1. Book in Advance: Ferries on this route can fill up quickly, especially during summer and weekends. Booking early not only guarantees your spot but often gets you the best price—sometimes as low as €10 one-way.
2. Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the terminal at least 45 minutes before departure. This gives you time to check in, find your gate, and settle in without rushing—especially if you’re boarding with a vehicle.
3. Travel Light (If You Can):
4. There’s no strict baggage control like at airports, but packing light makes boarding quicker and more comfortable. If needed, luggage lockers are available at both terminals.
5. Bring Snacks or Buy Onboard: While ferries offer cafés and food options, they can be a bit pricey. Bringing your own snacks or water is totally allowed and a good way to save.
6. Choose Your Seat Early: If you want a window seat or quiet corner in the café lounge, head there as soon as you board—seating is usually first come, first served unless you’ve upgraded to a reserved lounge.
7. Head to the Deck for Views: Don’t miss the chance to step outside and take in the Baltic Sea scenery. The outdoor decks are great for fresh air, photos, and watching the approach to Helsinki’s harbor.
8. Download Tickets & Maps Ahead of Time: While there’s Wi-Fi onboard, the signal can be spotty. Download your e-ticket, offline maps, or any travel documents in advance just in case.

These little details can make a big difference in how smooth and enjoyable your crossing is.

Is the Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki Worth It?

Absolutely—taking the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki is one of those travel experiences that’s both practical and surprisingly memorable. Not only does it connect two beautiful European capitals in just a couple of hours, but it also offers scenic views, a relaxed atmosphere, and a stress-free alternative to flying.

For us, the ferry ride felt like a natural pause between destinations—a time to rest, reflect, sip coffee, and watch the Baltic Sea stretch out in every direction. It wasn’t just about getting somewhere; it became part of the journey itself.

Whether you’re planning a day trip, continuing a Baltic or Nordic itinerary, or simply want to avoid the airport altogether, the ferry is a fantastic option. It’s comfortable, affordable, and fits seamlessly into any travel plan between Estonia and Finland.

So yes—it’s absolutely worth it. And if you can, grab a seat by the window, bring a warm drink, and enjoy the views. You won’t regret it.

Conclusion

Taking the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki is a seamless, scenic, and budget-friendly way to connect two of Northern Europe’s most charming capitals. Whether you’re looking for a smooth day trip or transitioning between Baltic and Nordic adventures, the ferry offers a stress-free, enjoyable journey across the Gulf of Finland.

With multiple companies, frequent departures, and modern onboard amenities, planning your crossing is easy—and actually something to look forward to. From booking tips to terminal insights, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your experience.

Tip: we recommend buying your ticket for the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki online

Where to stay in Tallinn

Here are three great accommodation options in Tallinn to suit different budgets:

(€) N48 Boutique Hotel: A charming, budget-friendly option located just outside the Old Town. The rooms are compact, modern, and perfect for a short city stay. Great value with a peaceful vibe.

(€€) Hilton Tallinn Park: Set just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms, a full-service spa, and skyline views. Ideal if you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and top-notch service without breaking the bank.

(€€€) Schlössle Hotel – Small Luxury Hotels of the World: For a luxury experience, this 5-star boutique hotel located in the heart of Old Town is a dream. Part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Schlössle features historic interiors, elegant suites, fine dining, and warm service. A perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort.

Here are all your accommodation options in Tallinn