Tallinn, Estonia in September - The weather and is it a good time of year to visit?

Tallinn, Estonia's capital, is a city where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features winding cobblestone streets, medieval walls, and picturesque squares that transport visitors back in time. Beyond its historical core, Tallinn boasts a thriving tech industry, earning it the moniker "Europe's Silicon Valley", alongside a burgeoning food scene and numerous cultural attractions.

September is an excellent time to visit Tallinn, as the summer tourist crowds have thinned, but the weather remains relatively mild. The city takes on a golden hue as autumn begins, with trees in parks and surrounding forests starting to change colour. You'll find a perfect balance between outdoor exploration and indoor cultural experiences, with numerous events and festivals typically scheduled during this month.

Overview of Tallinn's Climate in September

September in Tallinn marks the transition from summer to autumn, bringing a noticeable shift in weather patterns. The month typically starts with remnants of summer warmth but gradually cools as autumn takes hold. You can expect a mix of sunny days and overcast periods, with an increasing likelihood of rain as the month progresses. The air becomes crisper, and the city's green spaces begin their colourful transformation into autumn foliage.

During September, Tallinn experiences a gradual cooling trend as summer gives way to autumn. At the beginning of the month, daytime high temperatures average around 18C (64F), offering pleasant conditions for outdoor activities. However, by the end of September, these highs typically drop to about 14C (57F). Nighttime temperatures also decrease over the month, ranging from about 11C (52F) in early September to around 7C (45F) by month's end.

Overall, September in Tallinn provides comfortable temperatures for exploring the city. Days are generally mild, requiring just a light jacket or sweater, especially when the sun is out. Evenings and nights can feel quite cool, particularly towards the latter part of the month, so it's wise to have warmer layers on hand. The moderate temperatures make it an ideal time for walking tours of the Old Town or enjoying outdoor cafes without the discomfort of summer heat or winter chill.

September in Tallinn sees a noticeable decrease in daylight hours as the autumnal equinox approaches. At the start of the month, you can expect about 14 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6:15 am and setting around 8:15 pm. By the end of September, this reduces to about 11.5 hours of daylight, with sunrise occurring around 7:15 am and sunset around 6:45 pm.

Despite the shortening days, September still offers a fair amount of sunshine in Tallinn. On average, you can expect about 5 to 6 hours of sunshine per day, although this can vary significantly. Clear, sunny days are not uncommon, particularly in the first half of the month. However, cloud cover tends to increase as September progresses, with overcast days becoming more frequent. This mix of sunny and cloudy periods creates beautiful lighting conditions, perfect for photography enthusiasts capturing Tallinn's medieval architecture and autumn colours.

September in Tallinn sees a slight increase in precipitation compared to the summer months. The city receives an average of 60-70 mm of rainfall over the course of the month, typically spread across 10 to 12 rainy days. While this might sound substantial, rain showers in September are often short-lived, interspersed with periods of dry weather.

As the month progresses, the likelihood of experiencing some rain during your visit increases. However, prolonged periods of heavy rain are relatively uncommon. The precipitation often comes in the form of light showers or drizzle, which rarely interfere significantly with sightseeing plans. Humidity levels in Tallinn during September are generally comfortable, averaging around 75-80%. This moderate humidity, combined with the cooler temperatures, creates a crisp, refreshing feel to the air, especially on clear days.

The Baltic Sea, which borders Tallinn to the north, begins to cool noticeably in September. At the start of the month, sea temperatures are typically around 17C (63F), dropping to about 14C (57F) by the end of September. These temperatures are generally considered quite chilly for swimming by most standards.

While sea bathing might be a bit bracing for all but the hardiest swimmers, the cooling waters contribute to the refreshing sea air along Tallinn's coast. The city's beaches, such as Pirita Beach, can still be enjoyable for walks or picnics on sunny days. For those keen on water activities, wetsuit-clad surfers and kitesurfers can often be spotted taking advantage of the autumn winds. However, for most visitors, September is more about enjoying coastal views and perhaps dipping your toes in the water rather than full-on swimming.

Packing Tips and Recommendations for September in Tallinn

When packing for Tallinn in September, your suitcase should balance between light summer wear and autumn comfort. Layering is a great approach. Think t-shirts and light tops that can be paired with a warmer cardigan or a light jacket, especially for cooler evenings. A good pair of walking shoes is essential as Tallinn’s Old Town is best explored on foot.

For the day time, t-shirts or light long-sleeve shirts would be suitable, as the weather is comfortably cool. As evening arrives, the temperature can dip, so carrying a light jacket or sweater would be wise. Lastly, an umbrella or a rain jacket might come in handy considering the chance of rain showers.

The best months to visit Tallinn

Among the best months to visit Tallinn, June, July, and August stand out. These summer months offer long, sunny days, with the warmest temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city buzzes with energy as festivals and events fill the calendar, presenting a rich cultural experience.

The worst months to visit Tallinn

On the other end of the spectrum, January could be considered the most challenging month to visit Tallinn. With temperatures often plunging below freezing and daylight hours significantly reduced, outdoor activities can be limited. It's also the month with the highest snowfall, which, while adding a magical touch to the city's aesthetics, can also make navigating the city a bit more difficult.

Fantastic activities for Tallinn during September

• Walking tour in Tallinn Old Town: Tallinn's Old Town is a historic jewel, characterized by cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming cafes. Enjoy a leisurely walk, soaking up the atmosphere, and do not miss the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an impressive Russian Orthodox church.

• Visit Kadriorg Palace: Built by Peter the Great for his wife, this stunning Baroque palace now hosts the Art Museum of Estonia. Explore its grand interiors and don't miss the beautiful gardens, which are particularly attractive in September when the leaves start to turn.

• Explore Kalamaja: Known as Tallinn’s hippest district, Kalamaja is renowned for its colourful wooden houses and Bohemian charm. Visit the Telliskivi Creative City, a creative hub filled with indie boutiques, ateliers, and delicious food stalls.

• Day trip to Lahemaa National Park: Just an hour's drive from Tallinn, Lahemaa offers a refreshing break from the city. It's perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, with its bogs, forests, and coastline serving as home to a rich variety of species.

• Visit the Estonian Open Air Museum: A unique peek into Estonia's rural past, this museum features historic windmills, farmhouses, and a village church. September's pleasant weather provides an ideal setting for exploring this extensive outdoor venue.

• Relax at Pirita Beach: While swimming may not be on the cards, Pirita Beach is worth visiting for its calming sea views, especially as the sun begins to set. It's also perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

• Seaplane Harbour Museum: This maritime museum houses a collection of historic vessels, including a British-built submarine from 1936.