Tallinn TV Tower Observation Deck

The Tallinn TV Tower is a 314-metre broadcasting tower on Kloostrimetsa tee in the Pirita-Kose area of Tallinn, Estonia, with an observation deck at about 170 metres that gives views over the city, forest and Gulf of Finland. On clear days the view stretches north across Tallinn Bay and the Old Town spires, south and east over the forests of Pirita and Kloostrimetsa, and even toward the Finnish coast under the best conditions. A 24-70mm lens covers most compositions, while a longer lens picks out distant landmarks such as the Old Town and harbour cranes. Photographing through the glass requires care: placing the lens close to the pane, using a lens hood or a dark cloth, and avoiding a polariser, which can produce odd patterns in tinted glass, will all reduce reflections. Morning light on clear days gives the best visibility, with haze lower than in the afternoon; the evening ticket slot suits sunset, when warm light falls on the city and the sky changes colour over the bay. Autumn adds colour to the forest below, while winter snow gives a stark view of the surrounding woodland. Crowds vary: summer weekends and school holidays fill the deck, so arriving at opening gives more room to move along the windows. Tripods are generally not suited to a busy deck and may be restricted, so a stable handheld technique or a small clamp is more practical. An admission ticket is required, and prices and times should be checked with the tower. Drone flying near the tower and Pirita is restricted. A café and toilets are available within the tower complex.