Winter Activities

06 Feb 2024

While it may be tempting to escape the cold by staying indoors, there’s plenty to keep you occupied outdoors in winter.

Sledding

The moment the first snow blankets the ground, locals gather their kids and sleds, making a beeline for the city's beloved sledding hills. The most central sledding hills are in Toompark, just outside of the Old Town with a few short, but steep slopes. Our favourite sledding hills are in the park forest between Nõmme and Mustamäe, accessible near the Nõmme market (you can take bus No.36 from 'Viru' stop). Once you arrive just follow the kids with sleds. For these slopes you’ll have to bring your own sled. And, the parks are not supervised, so sled at your own risk. Alternatively you can opt for one of the paid snow parks listed below that also rent out the necessary equipment.

Skiing

Did you know that you don’t even have to leave the city to find a ski trail? Well-lit cross-country skiing paths weave through the pine-filled landscapes of Pirita and Nõmme districts, both easily accessible by public transport. In Pirita you can rent all the equipment you need from Pirita Sports Centre. In Nõmme the Nõmme Sports Centre has got you covered has got you covered with skis and sticks and you'll be ready to hit to slopes. Nõmme Snow Park offers downhill skiing and snowboarding, too, with lit slopes, as does Vimka Park just outside of Tallinn in Viimsi.

Skating

The epitome of winter romance, is right at your fingertips in Old Town. The charming Harju street outdoor ice rink is a delightful and romantic spectacle, even if you choose to skip the skates. Another central skating rink awaits in Telliskivi. Though not as picturesque as the Harju street rink, it's surrounded by a myriad of popular food and drink venues to explore afterwards. Additionally, you can lace up your skates in Nõmme, Mustamäe, Lasnamäe and Pirita districts.

Winter swimming

Certainly not the first winter activity that comes to mind, but if you're inclined to embrace local trends, cold-water swimming is worth considering! Renowned for its numerous health benefits, this practice has long been a part of Estonian sauna culture but is equally enjoyable on its own. For more information and tips, explore our Winter Swimming article.