Seaplane Harbour travel guide

Seaplane Harbour, located in the heart of Tallinn, is a historic and unique maritime museum. It was first established in the early 20th century as part of Peter the Great's naval fortress.

One of its most iconic features, the seaplane hangars, are a remarkable piece of military architecture. These were constructed during the First World War and are the world's first reinforced concrete shell structures of such a grand scale.

Over the years, the harbour has witnessed significant events and developments. It was used as a submarine factory during the Soviet era and was later abandoned post-independence. In 2012, following comprehensive renovations, it was reopened as a maritime museum.

Today, Seaplane Harbour serves as a testament to Estonia's rich maritime history, offering visitors a chance to explore various vessels, including the Lembit submarine, the oldest in the world. The museum also showcases a myriad of other exhibits that provide a deep insight into naval warfare, maritime trade, and the evolution of shipbuilding.

Seaplane Harbour, also known as Lennusadam, is unique in its architectural grandeur, being housed within a historical seaplane hangar with a strikingly imposing dome structure. The hangar itself is an engineering marvel, built during the Tsarist era of Russia, and is one of the world’s first reinforced concrete shell structures. The heart of the museum is the 1936 submarine Lembit, which is the only surviving naval ship of pre-World War II Estonia. It is also one of the few surviving submarines from that era worldwide. Visitors can explore the submarine's interior and experience the life of a submariner firsthand.

The museum also features a full-scale replica of a WWI seaplane, offering an immersive, historical experience. The museum's exhibits are not confined to the hangar alone. Outside, you will find a collection of historic ships, including the century-old icebreaker Suur Tõll, which visitors can board and explore. Additionally, Seaplane Harbour offers hands-on exhibits that appeal to both children and adults, making it a family-friendly destination. The museum's interactive displays, including flight simulators, offer a modern and engaging approach to learning about Estonia's maritime and military history.

Discover Seaplane Harbour, a prime feature of Tallinn, in the vibrant Tallinn City. Seaplane Harbour is situated at Vesilennuki 6, 10145 Tallinn, Estonia, just a short distance from Patarei prison exhibition "Communism is Prison"/ Patarei vangla näitus "Kommunism on vangla" and Tallinna Linnahall, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Seaplane Harbour, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Tallinn, a city in Estonia rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Tallinn to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Seaplane Harbour. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Tallinn travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Seaplane Harbour is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Tallinn, Estonia. If you're flying in, Tallinn Airport is approximately 4.2 miles (6.8 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Seaplane Harbour by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Tallinn, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Seaplane Harbour, which is located 1 mile (1.7 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Vesilennuki 6, 10145 Tallinn, Estonia.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Seaplane Harbour!

The best time to explore Seaplane Harbour is during the late spring and summer months, from May to August. This period offers the most pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, allowing for comfortable exploration both outdoors and within the museum's exhibits. During these months, Seaplane Harbour is abuzz with activities, including special exhibitions, maritime festivals, and workshops. Moreover, the long summer days in Estonia mean more daylight hours for sight-seeing. In addition to this, visiting in late spring or early summer helps avoid the peak tourist season in July and August, providing a more relaxed atmosphere. However, those who don't mind braving the cold might consider a winter visit, when Seaplane Harbour's festive activities, such as the Christmas Market and Ice Sculpture Festival, create a magical setting. Regardless of the season, it is recommended to check the museum's schedule in advance and plan for a weekday visit if possible to avoid larger crowds.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Seaplane Harbour, perfectly planned travel packages to Tallinn make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Tallinn, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Seaplane Harbour.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic maritime museum in Estonia.

Upon arriving at Tallinn Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Tallinn.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Tallinn.

Choosing the right accommodation near Seaplane Harbour from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Tallinn can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Seaplane Harbour, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Seaplane Harbour, Tallinn boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to establishment, the top attractions in Tallinn offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Tallinn is Kadriorg Park, located at A. Weizenbergi 26, 10127 Tallinn, Estonia. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Freedom Square is worth seeing when you're in Tallinn. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Vabaduse väljak 9, 10142 Tallinn, Estonia.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Viru Gate completes any trip to Tallinn. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Viru tänav, Müürivahe 31, 10140 Tallinn, Estonia, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Tallinn below to discover even more incredible places to explore.