Hobbies, Art and Crafts Activities in Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is often labeled as a quiet, picturesque city—perfect for tourists but dull for those who live here. However, nothing could be further from the truth! For artists, creatives, and anyone curious to try something new, Tallinn offers countless opportunities to learn, connect, and grow.
Common Workshops/Activities
Pottery and Ceramics: Tallinn has lots of cozy studios in which you can create your own pottery under expert guidance! Many workshops also include glazing, so you can complete your piece from start to finish.
Nuunuu (Old Town)
Asuurkerraamika (Telliskivi)
Keraamikastuudio (Near Keskturg)
MyWorkshop (Tatari)
Leathercraft: Want to make your own leather accessories, from wallets to belts, and spend fun time with your friends?
Mirgoods (Telliskivi)
Stella Soomlais (Telliskivi)
Iglá (Near Hipodroom)
Painting Classes: Whether you want to dabble in watercolors or try your hand at acrylics, many studios in Tallinn often host beginner-friendly painting classes.
Flash Art (Kalamaja)
lovepaint.eu (Kesklinn)
Where to Find Other Workshops/Craft activities:
Katariina Gild - hosts many different workshops in different studios. In the heart of Old Town, really recommend checking it out!
Explore Tallinn’s Creative Areas
If you’re looking to meet like-minded creatives or to get inspiration, Tallinn’s creative areas are the perfect place to start:
Põhjala Factory: This converted industrial space is now a hub for artists, designers, and makers. Sign up for a woodworking class, attend an open studio, or simply wander the space for inspiration.
Telliskivi Creative City: The heart of Tallinn's creative scene, with art galleries, studios, and coworking spaces. It's a hub for artists, designers, and entrepreneurs.
Kalamaja: Known for its bohemian vibe, Kalamaja is a magnet for artists and creatives. The wooden houses and cozy cafes provide a relaxed atmosphere to get inspiration from and network.
Outdoor Hobbies for Inspiration and Adventure
Tallinn’s natural beauty offers plenty of opportunities to combine creativity with the outdoors:
Urban Sketching: Grab a sketchbook and join local urban sketching groups to capture the beauty of the Old Town, Telliskivi, or Kadriorg Park.
Photography Walks: Tallinn’s mix of medieval charm and modern design makes it a photographer’s paradise. Local photography clubs often organize themed walks.
Foraging and Nature Crafts: Learn to forage for wild herbs and berries in Tallinn’s surrounding forests, then use your finds to create natural dyes or handmade wreaths. Make pressed flower art or painted rocks from materials gathered in parks or beaches.
Plein Air Painting: Paint in scenic spots like Kadriorg Park or Pirita seaside. Some communities organise these sessions in the summer, so keep an eye open!
Gardening: Join urban community gardens! Info can be found here.
Beach Crafting: Create decorations or jewelry with driftwood or seashells from Pirita or Stroomi Beach.
Try Something New!
Sometimes the best way to fall in love with a city is to step out of your comfort zone. Tallinn has no shortage of unique hobbies to explore:
Mosaic Art: Discover the art of creating intricate designs with glass and ceramic tiles at one of Örreke’s workshops.
Cooking Classes: Tallinn offers plenty of options! From Estonian to foreign cuisine, you can learn how to basically cook everything like a pro!
Dance Classes: Try folk dancing, salsa or tango lessons, pole dance, hip hop.. The choices are endless!
Glassblowing: Sign up for a session to create your own colorful glass ornaments. Here’s a course in Vijandi (I think it’s worth the trip!)
Where to Get Supplies for Your Hobbies
Now you fell in love with your new hobby and want to work on your crafts independently, at home. Luckily, Tallinn has several shops stocked with art supplies:
Rahva Raamat: Besides books, they carry a great selection of high-quality sketchbooks and calligraphy tools!
Abakhan: Perfect for textiles and sewing enthusiasts - everything from textiles and hobby supplies.
and many other more!
Make Tallinn Your Playground
Tallinn is anything but boring if you’re open to exploring its creative side! From crafting workshops to outdoor activities, this city has plenty to keep your hands and mind busy. Whether you’re an expat searching for a sense of community or a local looking to rediscover your home, there’s a hobby in Tallinn waiting for you to try.
So, grab a paintbrush, a camera, or even a foraging basket, and start exploring! Tallinn’s creative heartbeat is yours to discover. :)
