The Cheapest Ways to Get from the USA to Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, the capital and largest city of Estonia, is a unique blend of history and modernity. Covering an area of 159 square kilometers, the city is known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage. From the USA, reaching Tallinn can be both exciting and cost-effective if you choose the right routes. This article explores various budget-friendly options to reach Tallinn from the USA, providing you with detailed insights and recommendations based on personal experiences and current market trends.
Domestic Flights to Tallinn
If you are flying out of major hubs like Newark (EWR) or JFK in New York City, you have a couple of options. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Finnair, and Aeroflot are popular choices. SAS and Finnair often use smaller planes for connecting flights to Tallinn, while Aeroflot, which flies from Moscow, still utilizes a larger aircraft. Despite the convenience, Airbus and similar prop-driven aircraft can be more comfortable during short flights.
Transatlantic Routes and Budget Options
Getting to Tallinn involves a combination of transatlantic and regional flights. One popular route involves flying to Helsinki, Finland, and then connecting by boat to Tallinn. Although traveling by boat can be a unique experience, flight options like Finnair provide more convenience. Additionally, flying to London, England, and then to Tallinn by either Air Baltic or another connecting flight offers another budget-friendly route.
The key to finding the cheapest flights is thorough comparison. Websites like Google Flights allow you to swiftly compare prices across different airlines and routes. For instance, Norwegian, known for its budget-friendly flights, often offers great deals, although Finnair provides a comfortable alternative. Polish LOT could also be a good choice, but it depends on the specific city you are flying from.
Airlines to Consider
If you are starting from New York (NYC) airports like LAX, ORD, or LGA, SAS is a highly recommended choice. I have found flights from these cities to Tallinn for around $1200 round trip, which includes two connections. The connection is in Stockholm, usually taking about 40-60 minutes, and you pass through passport control, but there have been no missed connections.
Other Options
Turkish Airlines: While the journey is longer, the comfort level is high, and they offer excellent services. They can provide food and even a hotel stay if needed, especially with long layovers. I highly recommend a trip to Istanbul, where you can explore the city and enjoy its beautiful sights. Lufthansa: Although this route is similar to SAS, they offer reasonable rates and decent travel times. If you prefer to stick with one airline for frequent flyer benefits, Lufthansa could be a good choice. However, their economy class can be somewhat cramped. British Airways: If you prioritize comfort, British Airways might be the better option, especially with their business class. However, their economy class is more cramped, and there seems to be a significant difference in class options.No matter what route you choose, always compare prices and check for frequent flyer perks to maximize your savings. Additionally, considering third-party booking sites or working directly with airlines can yield the best deals.
As a general rule, planning your trip well in advance can also help you secure better deals, especially if you consider traveling during the shoulder seasons, which tend to have fewer travelers and more competitive pricing.
Remember, your starting point in the USA can significantly affect the cost and travel time. Always check the airport codes for TLL (Tallinn), and be prepared for potential delays or layovers, especially with budget airlines.