There’s something magical about visiting a city after its peak tourist season. At the end of October, my son Max and I decided to visit Tallinn for 24 hrs via ferry from Helsinki. The experience felt like stepping into a quieter, more intimate version of the medieval city.

Medieval Magic Without the Crowds

Tallinn in late October is a completely different experience from the bustling summer months. The cobblestone streets of the Old Town were nearly empty, giving us the freedom to wander at our own pace. The quiet amplified the charm of the medieval buildings, colorful facades, and cozy cafés, all set against a backdrop of crisp autumn air.

Walking through the narrow alleys and past landmarks like the mediaval city wall felt like traveling back in time. Without the usual summer crowds, we could stop and enjoy the variety of cool architecture and even take uninterrupted photos—a photographer’s dream.

Capturing the Beauty of Tallinn

Speaking of photography, my Fujifilm X100VI once again proved to be the perfect travel companion. Compact and reliable, it was ideal for capturing Tallinn’s earthy fall palette.

From wide shots of the city’s iconic orange rooftops to close-ups of ancient doors and cobblestone textures, the X100VI handled it all effortlessly. The soft, overcast lighting of autumn gave the photos a moody, timeless feel that suited the setting perfectly.

Evening Charm

As day turned to evening, the city revealed yet another side of its personality. Streetlights cast a warm glow over the streets, and the peaceful atmosphere made the experience feel almost cinematic. We stopped at a traditional Estonian restaurant for dinner, enjoying the super friendly service and very delicious food.

Back to Helsinki

A quick word about the ferry ride. The Tallink ferry service was very pleasant. Our vessel felt like a luxurious cruise ship – almost a separate trip itself. With calm seas and plenty of space to relax, I had the chance to enjoy the scenery and prepare for a busy week at work ahead.

Back in Helsinki I did have the opportunity to take at least a few photos one of the evenings.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a visit to Helsinki, I highly recommend setting aside a day for Tallinn. The ferry ride is pleasant and easy, and the city’s Old Town, especially in late October, offers a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. And if you’re a photography enthusiast, don’t forget to pack a trusty camera—there’s beauty waiting around every corner.