Parking in Tallinn: What Do You Need to Know
Tallinn offers a lot of parking options to cater to its locals and visitors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the various parking types available, especially focusing on municipal and leading private providers such as Europark and Snabb.
Different Kinds of Parking in Tallinn:
Municipal Parking
Managed by the city’s local administration, these spots are available throughout the city, often divided into different zones with varying tariffs.
- How to Pay:
Various mobile apps allow you to pay for parking, and they often come with features like reminders when your time is about to expire.
Payment can be made through parking meters that are strategically placed in various spots. They usually accept both cash and cards. Mobile apps and SMS services are also available for added convenience. - When It’s Free: While the rates and free hours can vary, often evenings and weekends provide free parking opportunities. Always look for relevant signage to ensure you’re parking during free hours.
For, example, if you need to get to Old Town you can park for free after 19 o’clock and during weekend at Mere pst 10, Kopli street, near Linnahall, in Kassisaba area and near the National Library of Estonia. - Zones:
Tallinn’s city center is divided into parking zones, each with distinct pricing. The main zones are:- Old Town (Vanalinn): This is the premium zone, usually the most expensive, and covers the heart of the city.
- Downtown (Südalinn) and City centre (Kesklinn): These zones are spread outwards from the center with descending price rates.
- Parking Garages: For those looking for covered parking options, municipal parking garages are available, offering protection against the elements and sometimes added security.
For example, Admirali parking garage costs 6 euros per day and is 7 minute walk from the Old Town.
You can park for free for the first 15 minutes if you use a parking clock to show when you started. Make sure this clock or a note with the start time can be seen on your car’s wind-shield.
This 15-minute free time is only for city parking zones, not private ones, unless the private lot says otherwise.
It’s always good to check the current rates and hours of operation, as they can change based on municipal decisions. See the official map here.
Private Parking
Several private entities offer parking solutions. Two of the major players are Europark and Snabb.
Europark Parking
Europark provides a variety of parking spaces throughout Tallinn. Their lots are well-marked and can be found in strategic locations.
One noteworthy mention is the Europark parking at Ahtri 3, which stands out for its affordability. Parking here costs only 4 euros per day, making it an excellent choice for those planning to leave their vehicle for extended periods near the Old Town.
Parking can also be paid via app (download here)
Snabb App
Snabb (previously known as Barking) offers a digital approach to parking in Tallinn. This mobile application allows users to find, book, and pay for parking spots seamlessly. Its intuitive interface and real-time updates on parking availability make it a favourite among tech-savvy drivers and those who appreciate the convenience of cashless payments and reservations.
Go to https://snabb.xyz/ to download the app.
Random Tips
Conclusion
Navigating parking in Tallinn might initially seem daunting, but with a little understanding and preparation, it becomes much more manageable.
Note: It’s always advisable to check the latest regulations and rates from official Tallinn city sources or local apps, as they can change over time.
