Visit Tallinn, Estonia | A Brief Plan for a Budget-Friendly European Adventure

 Visiting Tallinn

Tallinn is the capital city of Estonia and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is a perfect destination for those who love history, culture, and architecture. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century when it was founded by Danish merchants. Today, Tallinn is a modern city that has preserved its medieval charm.

One of the best things about Tallinn is its Old Town. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. It is full of narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and charming squares. The Town Hall Square is the heart of the Old Town and a great place to start your exploration.

Another must-see attraction in Tallinn is Toompea Hill. Toompea Hill is home to several important landmarks such as Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and St. Mary's Cathedral. From Toompea Hill, you can also enjoy stunning views of the city.

If you are interested in learning more about Estonian history and culture, then you should visit some of Tallinn's museums such as the Estonian History Museum or the Kumu Art Museum.

Tallinn also has plenty of great restaurants where you can try traditional Estonian cuisine such as black bread, smoked fish, and sauerkraut soup. And if you are looking for something sweet to eat, then don't miss out on trying some marzipan – a traditional Estonian sweet made from almond paste.

Getting to Tallinn 

Tallinn is easily accessible by plane, with the Tallinn Airport located just 4 km from the city centre. There are many direct flights from major European cities like London, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Helsinki. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from nearby Helsinki, which is only a couple of hours away by boat.

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Five Must-Visit Places in Tallinn 

With its ancient buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming cafes, the city is a delight to explore. In this blog post, we've rounded up our top five must-visit places in Tallinn.

1. Old Town

Tallinn's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The charming cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and hilltop viewpoints make it a must-visit place in Tallinn. Here, you can admire the stunning architecture of Town Hall Square, the towering spires of St. Olaf's Church, and explore the picturesque alleyways and courtyards of the city.

2. Toompea Hill

Toompea Hill is located in the heart of Tallinn Old Town and is home to many of the city's historical landmarks. Here you can find the Estonian Parliament building, Toompea Castle, and the iconic onion-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. From the top of Toompea Hill, you can also enjoy magnificent views of the city's towers, rooftops, and the sea beyond.

3. Kadriorg Park

Kadriorg Park is a stunning urban park located just east of Tallinn Old Town. The park was designed in the 18th century by Peter the Great of Russia as a summer residence for his wife, Catherine I. Today, the park is home to several museums, including the KUMU Art Museum and the Kadriorg Palace, as well as beautiful gardens, lakes, and walking paths.

4. Telliskivi Creative City

Telliskivi Creative City is a vibrant and hip neighborhood located just outside the Old Town. Here you can find some of the city's best street art, trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops. This is also a great place to visit for live music, theater, and other cultural events.

5. Seaplane Harbour Museum

The Seaplane Harbour Museum is a must-visit place for anyone interested in maritime history and technology. The museum is located in a historic seaplane hangar and features interactive exhibits, vehicles, and artifacts related to Estonia's naval history. One of the highlights of the museum is the chance to explore a World War II-era submarine.

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Where to Stay 

Tallinn has plenty of options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. If you're looking to experience the charm of Old Town, then staying in a boutique hotel like the Three Sisters Hotel or the Schlössle Hotel is a great option. For a more modern vibe, there are plenty of hotels in the newer part of the city, such as the Radisson Blu Sky Hotel or the Hilton Tallinn Park.

Cultural Food and Drink 

Estonian cuisine has been influenced by its neighbouring countries, Sweden, Russia and Germany, and has a unique twist. A must-try in Tallinn is the traditional black bread (Leib) and smoked fish (suitable for pescatarians) that can be found in any restaurant. For a hearty snack, try some Karjase Piim Mulgikapsad, a regional dish from the southern part of Estonia, which is made up of sauerkraut and boiled potatoes. For a sweet treat, get your hands on a piece of Kama, a flour mix made from roasted barley and rye, which can be found in all the cafes.

In terms of drinks, Estonians are famous for their beer. Some of the best local breweries in Estonia to try are Sori Brewing, Tanker, and Pöhjala. For those who like strong drinks, there is always the local favourite Vana Tallinn, a spiced rum. And last but not least, the famous Estonian juice factory, Põltsamaa says that the drink of a true Estonian is the grog - a hot drink made from rum, sugar and water, often enjoyed after spending hours outside in the cold.

Conclusion
Tallinn is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, art, food, or nature, there are plenty of must-visit places to explore in this city.
So, don't hesitate to add Tallinn to your list of European city breaks.

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