Things to Do in Seaplane Harbour

Seaplane Harbour sits in Tallinn's Kalamaja district, housed in what might be the world's most impressive maritime museum building - a massive concrete hangar built for seaplanes in 1916. The structure itself is worth the visit, with its soaring shell-dome architecture that feels surprisingly modern for something over a century old. Inside, you'll find Estonia's largest museum complex, where historic ships, submarines, and aircraft tell the story of the country's relationship with the sea. The museum manages to be both genuinely educational and entertaining, with interactive exhibits that work well for adults and kids alike, plus the kind of authentic maritime artifacts that give you a real sense of Estonia's naval heritage.

The museum has a decent cafe with harbor views, but the real food scene is in the surrounding Kalamaja district. This neighborhood has become Tallinn's foodie destination, with everything from traditional Estonian cuisine to modern Nordic restaurants. F-hoone, housed in a former factory, serves good casual food in an industrial setting that fits the area's vibe. For something more upscale, the restaurants near Rotermann Quarter, just a short tram ride away, offer excellent dining with a more polished atmosphere. Local markets in the area also sell traditional Estonian snacks and drinks if you want to try regional specialties.

Summer months (June through August) offer the best weather and longest daylight hours, but also the biggest crowds and highest prices. Late spring (May) and early fall (September) provide a good balance of decent weather and fewer tourists. The museum operates year-round, and there's something to be said for visiting during Estonia's dramatic winters when the harbor setting feels particularly atmospheric. Winter visits work well since you're mostly indoors anyway, and you'll have more space to explore the exhibits properly.