Destination information: Tallinn, Estonia
Introduction
Tallinn is Estonia's capital, and with a population of just over 400,000, it's by far the nation's largest city. It's best known for its stunning Old Town, a Medieval neighbourhood of cobblestone lanes, gabled houses, Gothic churches and charming squares. The area, which is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, includes a number of one-of-a-kind historic curiosities such as the world's oldest working pharmacy (open since 1422) and the St. Olav's Church, once the world's tallest building.
Far from being a museum piece, the Old Town is the heart of Tallinn's dining and social scene and home to some unforgettable, Medieval-themed restaurants.
The compact layout of the city makes distances conveniently short. Not only is the airport just 10 minutes away from the city centre, nearly all sights, hotels, conference venues and restaurants are within easy walking distance of each other.
In comparison with other European capitals, luxury is cheap and it is easy to get a good value for your money, making Estonia a desired shopping destination.
Estonia has full mobile coverage and in city centrals, wireless is free and widely available.
Practical information
Travelling to Estonia is easy – by plane, train, automobile or boat (ferries and cruises). As a member of European Union, we’ve got all the comforts of modern European country to offer.
Electricity
The electricity supply in Estonia is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. European-style 2-pin plugs are in use.
Currency
From January 2011 the local currency is Euro.
Foreign currencies can be easily exchanged in banks and exchange offices. Most banks are open from 9.00 - 18.00 on weekdays, and some offices are also open on Saturday mornings. There are exchange offices in several hotels, in the port of Tallinn, at the airport, the railway station and many other places.
Credit cards
Credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard/Eurocard, Diner's Club, American Express etc. are accepted in most of the major hotels, restaurants and shops, but ask first. Most banks will give cash advances on credit cards supported by a valid passport. Check with the credit card company for further details before travelling.
Visa
Estonia is a part of the Schengen visa area.
Nationals of EU and EEA member states are free to enter Estonia. The required travel document for entry is a national ID card or passport.
More information
http://www.vm.ee/?q=en/node/4039
Tax free
Travellers arriving from outside the European Union can buy goods from tax-free shops and have them exempt from VAT. Exemption from Value Added Tax shall be applied when the total sales price of the goods purchased from a tax-free shop (including the VAT) exceeds 160 EUR. A tax-free shop provides the buyer with a respective document to prove the purchase. This document must be presented to Customs for confirmation when leaving the European Union. The buyer must take the goods out of the European Union before the end of the third month following the month of purchase.
Travellers are not allowed to unwrap the packaged goods before leaving the European Union. Travellers are obliged to present the unwrapped goods for customs inspection if requested. For further information please contact the local customs office or a customs officer on duty.
Customs helpdesk: +372 696 7435, +372 696 7436.
Medical care
No vaccinations or health certificates are required upon entering Estonia, though health insurance is advisable. Ordinary over the counter medicaments are available in pharmacies (“Apteek”) in every town. However, for the convenience of the traveller we suggest you bring along your own supply.