The Port of Tallinn conducted a survey in the Sadama settlement in 2025. Over 100 people participated in the survey, including residents of the settlement, people working in the settlement, spatial development activists, historians, students, etc.
The purpose of the survey was to obtain information about the current situation and future expectations of the Port area, in order to jointly create the Old City Harbour as the heart of the city and a place where we would all love to live, work, and spend our free time.
It was an open-ended questionnaire, where four questions could be answered.
We would like to thank all participants and supporters of the survey (Viking Line, Eckerö Line). The winners of the raffle prize have been contacted.
RESULTS:
What existing attractions/services in the area do you highly value?
- 20% Cruise Promenade
- 12% food (Basiilik, Suveterrass, Kai Kohvik, Ocean 11, etc.)
- 12% transport (tram line no. 2, light traffic roads, bus connections, D-terminal bus stops and parking lot)
- 7% Admiral Pedestrian Bridge
- 49% other (shopping, Reidi road, D-terminal area)
What is your favorite place/attraction/object in the Sadama subdistrict?
- 45% Cruise Terminal Promenade
- 20% Admiral Pedestrian Bridge and Old City Marina
- 35% other (Reidi road, children’s playgrounds, Logi sauna)
What services/activities/objects do you miss in the Sadama subdistrict?
- 30% green areas (large trees) with shelters and seating areas
- 10% simple eateries
- 10% summer activities (concerts, summer bars, outdoor exhibitions, cultural events)
- 50% other (children’s play areas, cultural events, public toilets)
What is the port of your dreams?
- 30% green
- 30% diverse
- 10% safe
- 10% open to the sea
- 5% wild
- 5% peaceful
- 10% other
SUMMARY:
The Port of Tallinn is pleased that people recognize what has already been done and have embraced both the Admiral Pedestrian Bridge and the Cruise Promenade, which opened in 2021. There are many different eatery establishments in the port area. Several of them have been well found by people, but since many new cafes and restaurants have opened quite recently, it is probably necessary to share this information more within the area. It is great that the new tram line has also been well used by the residents and employees of the area, as well as tourists, and bus traffic is working. It is definitely necessary to improve the intermittent routes and signage.
The Port of Tallinn team is actively working with the City of Tallinn to find an interim use for the Tallinn Stars area next to the Cruise Terminal before the start of the real estate development. Already in the summer of 2026, the port wants to pilot various attractions and activities to activate the area. The interim use of the area would make the entire area more attractive to both locals and tourists, who number over 8 million in the Old City Harbour annually. It would also help introduce the area to locals, offering activities for families with children, teenagers, sports fans, pedestrians and those who simply enjoy the sea. Bicycle tours organized by Visit Tallinn and travel companies that also pass through Tallinn Stars Square would also get a completely new outlet, allowing for various activities in addition to scenic views. According to the regional police, putting the area into active use would make it significantly safer.
From the perspective of the real estate development of the Old City Harbour, the most important part of the study is people’s expectations for a diverse environment, because only then can we offer inspiring and safe space to different target groups.
All good ideas and cooperation offers are still welcome at r.meema@ts.ee
