Tallinn Travel Guide

Introduction

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is located on the northern coast of the country along the Gulf of Finland. Known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tallinn features a mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture, including notable landmarks such as Toompea Castle and St. Olaf's Church. The city is divided into two main areas: the upper town (Toompea), which historically housed nobility, and the lower town, which was a centre for trade. Tallinn also serves as a cultural hub with various museums, galleries, and theatres, alongside a growing technology sector. The city is easily accessible by air and sea, making it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and modern travellers.

Interesting Facts about Tallinn

• Tallinn's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, with its origins dating back to the 13th century.
• The city was once divided into three distinct parts: Toompea (the seat of power), the old Hanseatic merchant town, and the newer Estonian town.
• Tallinn was an important member of the Hanseatic League from 1285, playing a crucial role in trade between Europe and Russia.
• The world's first public Christmas tree was erected in Tallinn's Town Hall Square in 1441.
• Tallinn is home to one of the oldest continuously operating pharmacies in Europe, dating back to the 15th century.
• The city's air quality is amongst the cleanest in the world, with nearly 50% of Estonia covered by forests.
• Tallinn has over 1,200 public Wi-Fi hotspots, reflecting Estonia's reputation as a digital pioneer.
• The popular communication software Skype was created by Estonian developers in Tallinn.
• Tallinn hosts a massive Song and Dance Festival every five years, showcasing Estonia's rich folk culture.
• The city's name is believed to derive from "Taani-linna", meaning "Danish castle", referencing its historical ties to Denmark.

History

The first signs of settlement in the area appeared around 3000 BCE, but it was during the medieval period that Tallinn truly flourished. In 1285, the city, then known as Reval, became the northernmost member of the powerful Hanseatic League, a confederation of merchant guilds that dominated trade in Northern Europe. This marked the beginning of Tallinn's golden age as a vital trading hub, connecting East and West through its strategic position on the Baltic Sea.

The medieval Old Town of Tallinn, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a remarkably well-preserved testament to this prosperous era. Its 13th-century city plan remains intact, showcasing an impressive array of medieval architecture, including the grand Town Hall, the longest continuously operating pharmacy in the world, and formidable defensive walls and towers. The city was divided into the Upper Town (Toompea), home to the nobility, and the Lower Town, where merchants and artisans resided. This unique urban structure reflects the coexistence of feudal overlords and Hanseatic traders within a shared fortification system.

Tallinn's history is marked by periods of foreign rule and resilience. After centuries of Danish, German, and Swedish control, the city fell to Russian forces under Peter the Great in 1710. Despite the challenges of occupation, including significant damage during World War II, Tallinn preserved much of its medieval charm. The city played a crucial role in Estonia's journey to independence, first achieved in 1918 and then regained in 1991 after Soviet occupation. Today, Tallinn stands as a vibrant capital that seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with modern innovation, offering visitors a unique glimpse into a city that has been at the crossroads of European history for centuries.

Main Attractions

Old Town

Tallinn's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval city centres in Europe. It is divided into two main sections: the Lower Town and Toompea Hill. The Lower Town features a maze of cobblestone streets lined with colourful merchant houses, historic landmarks, and hidden courtyards that transport visitors back in time.

At the heart of the Lower Town lies the Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats), which has been the city's central gathering place for centuries. The square is dominated by the impressive Gothic Town Hall, built in the 14th century. Visitors can climb the Town Hall's 64-metre tower for panoramic views of the Old Town's red-tiled roofs and church spires. The square is also home to Europe's oldest continuously operating pharmacy, the Town Hall Pharmacy, which has been in business since the early 15th century.

One of the most picturesque spots in the Lower Town is St. Catherine's Passage (Katariina käik), a narrow alley flanked by artisan workshops housed in 15th-century buildings. Here, visitors can watch craftsmen at work and purchase unique handmade items. The passage connects Vene Street with Müürivahe Street, where the town walls and several defensive towers can be explored.

Tallinn City Walls

Tallinn's medieval city walls are a testament to the city's historical importance and defensive capabilities. Built in the 13th century, these fortifications stretch for nearly 2 kilometres and include 20 defensive towers. Today, about half of the original towers still stand, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's turbulent past.

One of the best places to experience the walls is at the northwestern corner of the Old Town, where visitors can climb up Nunna tower and explore a 200-metre section of the wall. This walkable portion provides stunning views of the Old Town and beyond. The Hellemann Tower, located near Viru Gate, offers another opportunity to walk along the walls and enjoy panoramic vistas of Tallinn.

For those interested in the city's defensive history, the Kiek in de Kök Fortification Museum is a must-visit. This museum complex includes several towers and underground passages, providing an in-depth look at Tallinn's military heritage. The main tower, Kiek in de Kök, houses exhibitions on the city's history, while the Bastion Passages offer a unique underground tour of 17th-century tunnel systems.

Viru Gate

Viru Gate serves as one of the main entrances to Tallinn's Old Town and is one of the most photographed spots in the city. Originally part of the town's 14th-century defence system, the gate we see today consists of two picturesque towers that formed the forepart of a larger gate structure.

The area around Viru Gate is always bustling with activity. Street vendors sell flowers, handicrafts, and souvenirs, while the nearby streets are lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. The gate marks the beginning of Viru Street, one of the main shopping thoroughfares in the Old Town.

Just outside the gate, visitors can see a section of the old town wall and even walk along a small portion of it. This area provides a good starting point for exploring the Old Town, with many of Tallinn's key attractions within easy walking distance.

Katariina Käik (St. Catherine's Passage)

Katariina Käik, or St. Catherine's Passage, is one of the most atmospheric walkways in Tallinn's Old Town. This narrow, cobblestone alley connects Vene Street with Müürivahe Street and is lined with craftsmen's workshops housed in 15th to 17th-century buildings.

The passage takes its name from St. Catherine's Church, which once stood nearby. Today, visitors can see the remains of the church incorporated into the surrounding buildings. Along the passage, artisans can be observed working in their studios, creating ceramics, glassware, textiles, and other handcrafted items.

One of the most notable features of the passage is the collection of tombstones lining one of its walls. These stone slabs, dating from the 14th to 17th centuries, were originally in St. Catherine's Church and the Dominican monastery that once stood in the area.

Toompea Hill

Toompea Hill, the upper part of the Old Town, has been the seat of power in Estonia for centuries. This limestone hill rises about 20-30 metres above the rest of the city and offers some of the best viewpoints in Tallinn.

The hill is crowned by Toompea Castle, a grand structure that has housed various ruling powers throughout history. Today, it is home to the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu). The castle's most prominent feature is the Tall Hermann Tower, from which the Estonian flag is raised and lowered each day, symbolising the country's independence.

Adjacent to the castle stands the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an ornate Russian Orthodox church built in the late 19th century. Its onion domes and elaborate decoration provide a striking contrast to the medieval architecture surrounding it. Nearby, the Gothic St. Mary's Cathedral (also known as Dome Church) is the oldest church in Tallinn, dating back to the 13th century.

Visitors to Toompea should not miss the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic views from the Kohtuotsa and Patkuli viewing platforms. These spots offer breathtaking vistas of the Lower Town's spires and towers, as well as the modern city beyond and the Gulf of Finland.

St. Olaf's Church

St. Olaf's Church, with its soaring spire reaching 124 metres, was once reputed to be the tallest building in the world during the 15th and 16th centuries. Named after the Norwegian king Olav II Haraldsson, the church has a long and eventful history dating back to at least the 12th century.

The church's most distinctive feature is its tower, which has been struck by lightning numerous times throughout history. Today, visitors can climb the tower's 232 steps for panoramic views of Tallinn's Old Town and beyond. The climb is steep and narrow, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.

Inside, the church features a simple yet elegant Gothic interior with high vaulted ceilings and whitewashed walls. The church also houses a small museum displaying religious artefacts and providing information about the building's history.

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Situated at the heart of Toompea Hill, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is the largest and grandest Orthodox church in Tallinn. Built between 1894 and 1900, when Estonia was part of the Russian Empire, the cathedral is a striking example of Russian Revival architecture.

The cathedral's distinctive onion domes, intricate mosaics, and elaborate decorations make it one of Tallinn's most recognisable landmarks. Inside, visitors can admire the ornate iconostasis, beautiful frescoes, and a set of 11 bells, including the largest in Tallinn, weighing 15 tonnes.

Despite its controversial history as a symbol of Russian imperial power, the cathedral remains an important religious centre for Tallinn's Russian Orthodox community and a popular attraction for tourists. Admission is free, but visitors should be respectful of ongoing services and dress modestly.

Freedom Square

Freedom Square (Vabaduse väljak) is a significant public space located at the edge of the Old Town. This modern civic square serves as a venue for public gatherings, concerts, and national celebrations.

The square is dominated by the striking Freedom Monument, also known as the War of Independence Victory Column. This 23.5-metre glass column, erected in 2009, commemorates those who fought for Estonia's independence. The monument is particularly impressive when illuminated at night.

Surrounding the square are several important buildings, including St. John's Church, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture dating back to the 14th century. The square also features underground parking and a subterranean shopping area, seamlessly blending modern amenities with the historical surroundings.

Kadriorg Park

Kadriorg Park is a sprawling 70-hectare urban oasis that offers a perfect retreat from the bustling Old Town. Established in 1718 by Tsar Peter I of Russia, the park showcases a beautiful blend of formal gardens, woodland areas, and cultural institutions.

At the heart of the park stands Kadriorg Palace, a stunning example of Baroque architecture commissioned by Peter the Great for his wife Catherine. Today, the palace houses the Kadriorg Art Museum, which displays an impressive collection of foreign art from the 16th to the 20th centuries. The palace's manicured gardens, with their symmetrical flowerbeds and fountains, provide a serene setting for a leisurely stroll.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's diverse landscapes, including the romantic Swan Pond, the colourful Flower Garden, and the tranquil Japanese Garden. The park is also home to several museums, including the modernist KUMU Art Museum, which focuses on Estonian art from the 18th century to the present day.

Telliskivi Creative City

Telliskivi Creative City represents Tallinn's vibrant contemporary culture scene. Located in a former industrial complex near the Old Town, this creative hub has transformed abandoned factory buildings into a thriving community of artists, designers, and entrepreneurs.

Visitors to Telliskivi will find a diverse array of shops, galleries, studios, and eateries spread across ten buildings covering over 25,000 square metres. The area is particularly known for its street art, with colourful murals adorning many of the buildings' facades. Regular events, including concerts, exhibitions, and markets, contribute to the district's lively atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Telliskivi is the weekly flea market, held every Saturday, where visitors can browse for vintage items, handmade crafts, and local design products. The district is also home to several popular restaurants and bars, offering everything from gourmet cuisine to casual street food.

Kalamaja District

Kalamaja, meaning "fish house" in Estonian, is a trendy neighbourhood located just north of the Old Town. Once a working-class area populated by fishermen and factory workers, it has transformed into one of Tallinn's most sought-after residential districts, known for its bohemian atmosphere and hipster vibe.

The area is characterised by its charming wooden houses, many of which date back to the 1920s and 1930s. These colourful structures, known as Tallinn Houses, feature two symmetrical apartments with separate entrances, giving the streets a unique architectural character.

Kalamaja is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, many of which are housed in converted industrial buildings. The Balti Jaama Turg, a renovated market complex near the main train station, offers a mix of traditional market stalls and modern food halls, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

One of the district's main attractions is the Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam), an impressive maritime museum housed in a former seaplane hangar. While the museum itself is not covered in this guide, the area around it is worth exploring for its industrial heritage and seaside views.

Port Noblessner

Port Noblessner is a recently revitalised seaside quarter located in the Kalamaja district. Once a closed submarine production area, it has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and leisure destination.

The area features a mix of historical industrial architecture and modern developments. Visitors can explore art galleries, enjoy fine dining restaurants, or relax in waterfront cafes. The PROTO Invention Factory, housed in a former foundry building, offers an interactive journey through the history of innovation using virtual and augmented reality technologies.

Port Noblessner is also home to the Estonian Contemporary Art Museum (EKKM), which, while not covered in detail in this guide, contributes to the area's cultural significance. The waterfront promenade provides beautiful views of the Bay of Tallinn and is a popular spot for evening walks and watching the sunset.