Telliskivi Creative City is a former factory complex in Tallinn’s Kalamaja district, about a 15-minute walk from the Old Town. Its repurposed industrial buildings now hold independent shops, galleries, studios, cafés, restaurants and performance spaces. Walk the courtyard to see murals and outdoor art, then browse Estonian design and vintage finds or stop for coffee and food. The district is also home to Fotografiska Tallinn and hosts markets and cultural events, with a flea market held on Saturdays.
From factory grounds to creative district
Telliskivi Creative City occupies former industrial buildings in Kalamaja, near Tallinn’s railway station and Balti Jaam Market. The complex once served railway industry needs, including locomotive and wagon work. Its factory buildings have since been repurposed for creative businesses, cultural venues, shops and places to eat.
The scale is part of the appeal: more than 200 independent businesses are spread across the site. Studios, galleries, offices, rehearsal spaces and shops sit alongside restaurants, cafés and bars. The district’s industrial setting remains visible, giving the newer businesses a different feel from Tallinn’s medieval Old Town.
Murals, galleries and performance spaces
Look across the building walls as you walk: murals and street art are a defining part of the outdoor setting. The central courtyard also has an outdoor art gallery, with works that change over time. Galleries and studios add more opportunities to see contemporary Estonian art and design.
Fotografiska Tallinn is among the district’s cultural venues. Other spaces include the Juhan Kuus Documentary Photo Centre and Sõltumatu Tantsu Lava, a contemporary dance venue. The complex also hosts performances, concerts, exhibitions and other cultural events throughout the year.
Independent shops and places to eat
Telliskivi’s shops focus on independent design, vintage finds, gifts and homewares. Püant Books has a curated selection of fiction, poetry and art books. La Muu is known for organic ice cream, with flavours including lemon and poppy seed, raspberry prosecco, and blackcurrant with mascarpone.
For a meal, F-hoone is one of the district’s established restaurants. Cafés, bars and other eateries are spread through the complex, so you can make a stop for food or a drink part of a longer walk. Some places also cater to gluten-free diners, including the fully gluten-free restaurant Kivi Paber Käärid.
Markets and events
A flea market takes place on Saturdays, alongside other markets and pop-up events. The district’s program also includes live music, exhibitions, dance and theatre. Event schedules vary, so check the venue or district website if a particular performance or market is central to your plans.
Daytime is a practical time to explore the shops and galleries. Some businesses may be closed at night or during winter, so an evening visit can feel quieter than a daytime walk. If you want an introduction to the neighbourhood, a guided North Tallinn bike tour is one way to explore it.
Häufige Fragen
How far is Telliskivi Creative City from Tallinn Old Town?
It is about a 15-minute walk from the Old Town.
When is the flea market at Telliskivi Creative City?
The flea market is held on Saturdays.
What can you see at Telliskivi Creative City?
The district has murals, an outdoor art gallery, independent shops, galleries and cultural venues including Fotografiska Tallinn and the Juhan Kuus Documentary Photo Centre.
Are there places to eat at Telliskivi Creative City?
Yes. The complex has cafés, bars, restaurants and an ice cream shop. Kivi Paber Käärid is a fully gluten-free restaurant.
