Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is well off the beaten European trip that most travelers follow. The Baltic is always viewed as an outer boundary of European travel. I’m not sure where my thought originated, but probably very few people I know have gone or even thought about going there. In my circle, I really hear the Baltic mentioned by anyone..
Tallinn’s old town is a medieval fantasy land of cobblestone streets, pointy church towers, and red-tiled watchtowers, which could simply suit as a movie set of any 17th—century fantasy drama. By ferry about 2 hours away from Helsinki, a perfect day trip destination, but my trip originated from Riga.
Top Things to Do in Tallinn
I have spent three beautiful days in Tallinn and really enjoyed it. Here is a list of things you can consider during your visit to Tallinn.
1. Start Your Day Exploring Old Town
This is the best place to start your day in Tallinn, as many attractions are inside Old Town. Tallinn’s Old Town has belonged to UNESCO’s World Heritage list since 1997 and is a medieval fantasy land that will take you back in time to the 11th – 15th century.
Tallinn’s old town has undoubtedly gained popularity among travelers due to its dreamy fairytale-like image. However, this UNESCO-protected medieval masterpiece is well preserved—a perfect location to start your Tallinn city tour. The narrow cobblestone streets filled with spiky church towers, restaurants, cafes, historic architecture, and red-colored roofs that can be seen from a distance are among the many attributes that contributed to its popularity.
2. Visit Town Hall Pharmacy
They sell not only modern pharmaceuticals in this pharmacy but also interesting souvenirs. Once you are in Town Hall Square, you can’t miss this site. It is also known as Raeapteek, a 15th-century pharmacy, one of the oldest in Europe. Actually, town records go as back as 1422. In addition, they have a museum where you can learn about popular herbs and their history. Also, you can try out fabulous locally-grown herb tea.
3. Toompea Hill & Castle
Toompea Hill is the home of the 13th-century Toompea castle, which houses the Estonian parliament, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a museum, and a few lookouts with an amazing view. I would definitely recommend all three viewing platforms, such as Kohtuotsa, Patkuli, and Piiskopi, for a great photo opportunity.
4. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
While visiting the upper town, this picturesque cathedral is worth visiting. This orthodox Russian-style church was built between 1894 and 1900. Its onion-shaped dome is impressive and can be recognized from a far distance.
5. St Mary’s Church
The St. Mary’s Cathedral church is also located on Toompea Hill, one of the oldest in Estonia Originally built in the 13th century.
6. The Town Hall Square
Tallinn town hall square is also known as Raekoja Plats, one of the magical places to be. The huge cobblestoned square is surrounded by beautiful buildings and restaurants popular for the open-air weekend market, the best place to buy souvenirs.
7. St. Olaf’s Church
This 500-year-old church is still one of the most beautiful in Tallinn. The law says no building in Tallinn can be higher than this church. In summer, you can climb to the top if you decide to take the 200+ steps, but in the end, you will be rewarded with an amazing view of the old town.
8. Kadriorg & Park
From Old Town, take a quick tram ride to Kadriorg, possibly the most elegant area in Tallinn. Kadriorg Peter the Great’s summer palace is one of the bests attractions, surrounded by a huge park. If you are interested, a few exciting museums are nearby—a perfect place for a day out and a picnic.
9. Try Out A Few Pubs in Old Town
Tallinn’s old town has completely adopted its medieval heritage, with a number of cafes, restaurants, and pubs offering a ‘back in time experience, from the decor and traditional costumes of the staff to the surrounding environment and, definitely, the menu selections.
10. Enjoy Street Music
Tallinn’s old town trip is incomplete without paying attention to what’s happening at the narrow street corners. It will be unusual if you don’t hear the sound of beautiful melodies coming from a far distance while strolling through the narrow alleys. On a few occasions, I followed the sound and took a break to enjoy the traditional music played by the local musicians.
How to Get There
My first trip to Tallinn was from Riga by airBaltic airlines. But the best way to visit Tallinn is from Helsinki, Finland, by ferry as part of a day trip or even longer. Ferries run daily at infrequent intervals, and the cost is very much affordable. In addition, the travel is comfortable and takes about 2 hours to cross the Gulf of Finland. Ferries also run from Stockholm and St. Petersburg; both ferry and direct bus services are available.
Best Time to Visit Tallinn
I visited Tallinn in August, the weather was perfect, and the days were long and mostly sunny. I felt the weather was favorably mild, considering the amount of hiking I usually do on a given day. June and July are the busiest months, and attractions get pretty much crowded, particularly during the weekend.
Where to stay in Tallinn, Estonia
Citybox Tallinn City Center Hotel
Citybox Tallinn City Center is located in the Porto Franco Harbor Complex and offers simple and modern rooms of Scandinavian design. It is conveniently located in the center, close to the D terminal of the Port of Tallinn. Thus, it is only a short walk from the Old Town and the shopping and entertainment centers in the city center. The Ferry terminal to Helsinki, Stockholm, and St Petersburg was just across the street. I could see the city bus terminal through the window, so riding to Old town by bus was very easy. Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport is the nearest airport, 3.1 mi from Citybox Tallinn City Center.
Bob W Ambassador, Tallinn
Bob W Ambassador is located in the center of Tallinn, close to Kalarand, Estonian National Opera, and Maiden Tower, featuring a fitness center and free WiFi. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen with a dining table, fridge, dishwasher, and microwave. Popular points of interest near the apartment include Niguliste Museum-Concert Hall, Tallinn International Bus Station, and Tallinn Town Hall. Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport is the nearest airport, 1.9 miles from Bob W Ambassador.
My Opinion and Last Word
Have you been to Tallinn, Estonia? Any cool tips to share?
loved being in Tallinn, Estonia, and want to go back again. I hope my story has motivated you to visit Estonia.
Please leave a comment below! I’d love to hear from you to improve my knowledge.
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