Car Rental at Tallinn Airport, Estonia

Located in the North of Estonia, Tallinn is packed full of things to do. Make sure you get a Tallinn Card whilst you're there, which gives you access to over 40 museums and attractions for as little as 28.00 € per adult. You will then be able to explore the city by visiting the Seaplane Harbour, Kiek in de Kök Fortifications Museum, Kumu Art Museum, KGB Prison Cells and many more educational and interesting places. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Tallinn!

Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL) is the main international gateway to Estonia, located just 4 km (2.5 miles) from Tallinn’s Old Town. Modern, efficient, and compact, TLL is known for its convenience and fast service. From here, travelers can quickly reach the historic heart of Tallinn, while also enjoying easy access to Estonia’s forests, coastal routes, and charming small towns. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend city break or a longer road trip, renting a car is the best way to explore beyond the capital.

Tips for renting a car in Tallinn

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

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Car rental at Tallinn Airport – Good to know about driving there

 

Driving in Estonia is safe, well-organized, and typically stress-free. The country’s road infrastructure is in good condition, especially on major routes like Route 1 (Tallinn–Narva) and Route 4 (Tallinn–Pärnu). Outside urban areas, traffic is light and the landscape offers a peaceful backdrop of forests, lakes, and fields.

Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, and roads are well-marked. Most rental cars are manual, though automatics are available. Road signs follow international standards and are usually easy to understand.

Speed limits in Estonia are as follows:

50 km/h (31 mph) in cities and towns

90 km/h (56 mph) on open rural roads

110 km/h (68 mph) on selected highways during summer (with signage)

Be aware that speed cameras are common, especially on highways approaching Tallinn and other urban centers. Always carry your driver’s license, passport, and rental documents with you. EU licenses are accepted, and non-EU visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) depending on their country of origin.

Estonia has zero tolerance for drinking and driving — the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.0‰, so even a small glass of wine could lead to fines or more serious consequences.

Winter driving (typically November to March) requires winter tires, which are mandatory. Roads are generally well-cleared, but in rural or forested areas, snow and ice can linger, so caution is advised.

Fuel stations are widely available and usually self-service, with both card and cash payments accepted. In remote areas, unmanned fuel stations may require chip-and-PIN cards or advance payment.

Parking in Tallinn is relatively easy outside of the Old Town. In central zones, parking is usually paid and time-limited, with clear signs. You can use a parking disc (available from rental companies or shops) in many areas, or mobile apps like Pargi.ee or EasyPark.

Useful Information about renting a car at Tallinn Airport

Where do you pick up your car?

The Green Motion office is conveniently located just 200 meters from the main terminal building on airport grounds (office address - Keevise 10, 11415 Tallinn). Upon arrival at Tallinn Airport follow public transportation signs. Once you find the tram stop, keep walking straight following the tram line until you see a Green Motion sign on your left (yellow building with red roof). If you need assistance, please call +37258117177

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

Euro (€)

Nearest Gas Station

The closest fuel station to Tallinn Airport is the Circle K Ülemiste. It's conveniently located near the airport, providing easy access for refueling rental cars before returning them.

Nearest Bus Station

The Tallinn Central Bus Station (Tallinna Bussijaam) is the main hub for domestic and international bus services. It's situated approximately 2 kilometers from the airport and is easily accessible via local bus lines. For instance, Bus Line 2 connects the airport to the city center and stops near the bus station .

Nearest Train Station

The closest train station is Ülemiste Station, located approximately 800 meters (0.5 miles) from the airport terminal.

Average temperatures

13°C (55°F) - 27°C (81°F)

Car hire in Tallinn Airport – FAQs about renting a car

How long does it take to drive from TLL to Tallinn city center?

Only about 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. The airport connects directly to the city via Peterburi Road and Route 1.

Are Estonia’s highways in good condition?

Yes. Highways and major roads are generally well-maintained, though secondary roads in rural areas may be narrower or less smooth.

Are toll roads used in Estonia?

No — there are no toll roads in Estonia. Driving is free across the national road network.

Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) required?

EU/EEA licenses are fully accepted. If your license is from outside Europe and not in Roman characters, an IDP is recommended.

What’s the rule for headlights?

Daytime running lights or low-beam headlights must be used at all times, year-round — even in daylight.

Can I drive to Latvia or Finland with a rental car?

Usually yes, but check your rental agreement. Cross-border travel is common but may require advance permission and added insurance.