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Tallinn Named European Capital of Sport 2025

Tallinn has been named the European Capital of Sport 2025! This prestigious title not only highlights Tallinn’s dedication to promoting sports and active lifestyle but also positions the city on the global map as a TOP destination for sports enthusiasts and travelers alike.

The Significance of the Title

Tallinn has been named the European Capital of Sport 2025! This prestigious title not only highlights Tallinn’s dedication to promoting sports and active lifestyle but also positions the city on the global map as a TOP destination for sports enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Being named the European Capital of Sport brings numerous opportunities. For Tallinn, it’s a chance to present its talented sportsmen, state-of-the-art sports facilities, and vibrant sports culture. It’s also an opportunity to inspire locals and visitors to embrace an active lifestyle, blending fitness with cultural exploration in one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals.

A Year-long Celebration of Sports

As the European Capital of Sport, Tallinn will host a variety of events throughout 2025, with each month dedicated to a specific sport. The city’s rich sports calendar ensures that both residents and visitors have countless opportunities to participate in or witness world-class sporting events. Here is a sneak peek into the program:

  • January: Skiing
    The year kicks off with winter sports at the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds Winter Center, featuring skiing demonstrations, workshops, and an opening ceremony with a special performance by LORDI, the 2006 Eurovision winner.
  • February: Martial Arts
    February focuses on martial arts, offering training sessions in various combat sports, beginner self-defense courses for women, and a world record attempt in winter swimming.
  • March: Ice Skating
    March brings ice skating activities, including hockey training, curling lessons, open skating sessions, skating discos, and a figure skating show.
  • April: Hiking and Nordic Walking
    With the arrival of spring, April encourages outdoor activities like hikes on Naissaar and checkpoint adventures along the Tallinn coast.
  • May: Running
    May’s warm weather is ideal for running events in Tallinn’s Old Town, featuring workshops by running coaches, the launch of new mobile orienteering (MOBO) courses, and opportunities to challenge the Mayor in orienteering.
  • June: Cycling
    June celebrates cycling with a grand Bike Day at Freedom Square, where enthusiasts can test their skills alongside former professional cyclist Tanel Kangert.
  • July: Beach Sports
    July’s beach sports festival on Tallinn’s beaches offers activities like surfing, air badminton, beach tennis, spikeball, pétanque, kiiking, slackline, and yoga classes.
  • August: Ball Games and International Children’s Games
    August spotlights ball games, hosting the International Children’s Games, Estonian 3×3 basketball and beach volleyball championships, and public access to courts at Freedom Square. Walking football sessions are also available.
  • September: Orienteering
    September encourages exploration with an all-day orienteering race around Tallinn and its neighboring areas, accessible by bike or public transport.
  • October: Fitness
    October focuses on fitness with a festival featuring various workouts, lectures on nutrition and health, and opportunities for health assessments by specialists.
  • November: Brain Games
    November is dedicated to brain games, including chess and checkers sessions, sports-themed trivia, a Rubik’s Cube record event, and challenges against Estonia’s top chess players.
  • December: Disc Golf
    The year concludes in December with disc golf competitions accompanied by a spectacular light show, marking the official closing of the Capital of Sport events.

Major International Sports Events in Tallinn in 2025

In addition to the monthly themed activities, Tallinn will host several major international sports events throughout the year:

Date Event
01.28 – 02.02 European Figure Skating Championships
02.1 – 02.16 Curling Mixed Doubles World Cup
03.19 Cross-Country Skiing World Cup
03.28 – 04.11 European Pool Championships
04.08 – 04.09 Simple Session
04.26 – 05.02 Ice Hockey World Championship Division I B
04.28 – 05.04 European Taekwondo Championships
05.17 The Maijooks Run
06.04 – 06.08 European Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships
07.17 – 07.20 Disc Golf Major Tour
07.17 – 07.20 World Rally Championship Delfi Rally Estonia
08.03 – 08.08 International Children’s Games
08.08 – 08.16 Offshore Sailing World Championships
08.23 – 08.24 IRONMAN Tallinn
09.12 – 09.14 Tallinn Marathon
09.12 – 09.14 Tallinn International Horse Show

Explore Tallinn and Estonia

While sports will take center stage in 2025, Tallinn invites visitors to additionally discover its cultural, culinary, and natural treasures, offering the perfect combination of following your passion for sports and exploring a foreign country.

  • Culinary Adventures: Indulge in Tallinn’s Michelin-starred restaurants and experience the city’s growing gourmet scene.
  • Museums and Culture: Visit iconic attractions like the Seaplane Harbor, Fotografiska, Kadriorg Palace, and the KUMU Art Museum for a deep dive into history and contemporary art.
  • Day Trips: Escape the city and immerse yourself in Estonia’s breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the bogs of Lahemaa National Park with bog shoeing adventures, or visit Rummu Quarry for an unforgettable rafting experience.
  • Island Retreats: Relax and rejuvenate on the Estonian islands of Saaremaa or Muhu, known for their serene spa experiences and unique cultural charm.

Whether you’re a sports enthusiast eager to follow your passion, a traveler looking to combine fitness with exploration, or simply seeking a new and exciting adventure, Tallinn in 2025 is the place to be. Explore Estonia together with other Baltic states of Latvia and Lithuania. Take advantage of a combination of several countries by traveling from Estonia, to Latvia and taking a peak at Eurobasket in Riga (August 27 – September 14, 2025) and Lithuania to enjoy the World Pentathlon Championship in Druskininkai (September 27–31, 2025). 

Estravel is here to help you make the most of this exciting year-long celebration of sports and discovery. From planning your travel itinerary to booking accommodations and event tickets, we ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey.

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