How to Book Train Travel From Finland to Estonia

Finland is located just across the Gulf of Finland from Estonia in Northern Europe. The train trip from Finland to Estonia would be very roundabout and out of the way for most travelers, since you would have to cross into Russia, down to Moscow, and come back up to Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. Ferry travel is much faster and highly recommended instead.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet connection
• Passport
• An alternate travel plan

Consider Alternate Travel Methods from Finland to Estonia

1. Expect the ferry ride between Finland and Estonia to take 1.5 to 2.5 hours from Helsinki to Tallinn.
2. Realize that the only international train services in and out of Estonia connect through Moscow in Russia.
3. Take a coach service or bus to Estonia from Finland. Again, though, the route has to circumvent the Gulf of Finland and can take 24 hours or more to complete.

Travel by Train Within Estonia

4. Realize that trains do not run as often and are not as widely available in Estonia as in other European countries. Service here is limited and trains are few.
5. Book train travel within Estonia to see different cities in the country. There are stations in between Tallinn and Narva, Viljandi, Pärnu and Tartu, and Võru and Valga.
6. Use the electric trains in and around the capital of Tallinn to commute among local sites.
7. Book train travel by calling RailEurope at (888) 382-RAIL or by visiting the link below.

Tips & Warnings

• The ferry route from Helsinki, the capital of Finland, to Tallinn is one of the most traveled in all of Europe. You can book any one of more than 20 daily trips and even several dozen fast boat or hydrofoil options, when weather permits. At least 4 ferry companies service this route.
• Train travel from Finland to Estonia can take up to 20 hours or more and is not advisable because of the indirect route and cost to book tickets on all the different trains.
• During winter, many boats don't cross the Gulf of Finland, so ferries are much more crowded during daytime routes.
• Train service inside the country of Estonia is a semi-efficient way to get around, but buses are usually much more popular.
• Convert your money from U.S. dollars or Euro into Estonian Kroon for your trip. There are currency exchanges at the ports for ferries as well as at the airport. If you do end up taking a train, wait until you are in Estonia and search out a bank that will change your money.