Explore Tallinn: A Guide to Estonian Food, Drinks and History Tours
Tallinn – the capital of Estonia – is a city with a rich history and spectacular culinary culture, situated on the Baltic Sea. From the free tours and museums to traditional Estonian food and drinks, there’s something for everyone. And to make your stay even more special, take a guided food and history tour that will take you off the beaten path, which will be memorable for years to come. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or a history enthusiast, these tours offer a fantastic way to explore Tallinn’s heritage and sample its mouthwatering food and beverages. Here’s everything you need to know about Estonia’s food and drinks, as well as some history tour insights.
Estonian Food & Drink: A Culinary Overview
The biggest influence on Estonian cuisine is the Scandinavian, German, and Russian heritages of the country. A typical meal comprises of thick soups, fresh vegetables, and plenty of rye bread. On top of that, there’s fish, pork, and dairy, as well as wild game.
- Soups: Estonian cuisine is full of hearty soups like pea soup, clear onion soup, or a smoky millet porridge called kartsupp.
- Main dishes: There are lots of options for the main course like roast pork with mashed potato and a mix of root vegetables – or any type of fish like salmon or zander.
- Sweets: Estonian desserts have a lot of Jewish elements. Manna from heaven is a layer cake made from ground almonds and jam, while Verivorst is a type of Estonian sausage sweet pudding.
Traditional Drinks in Estonia
From the national drink- või, which is made of liquor flavored with herbs – to inventive crafts beers and wines, Estonia’s drinks culture is vibrant and diverse. In Estonia, there’s something to suit all tastes.
- Või (‘vodka’): Clear Estonian vodka which should taste fresh and floral with no off-flavors.
- Õlu (‘beer’): Craft beers in Estonia range from light lager to dark spiced ales.
- Kali: This Estonian beer is made from malt, wheat and rye.
- Rhubarb Wine: This tart rhubarb wine is made from rhubarb juice infused with vodka and sugar.
- Vana Tallinn: This liqueur has herb and spice aromas due to being made from a centuries-old recipe.
On a guided tour you’ll have an opportunity to enjoy these traditional drinks in authentic craft pubs or cafés. Plus it goes without saying that any experience exploring local Estonian food & drink would not be complete without trying the ‘black stuff’ – Estonian dark beer!
The History Tour Experience in Tallinn
The Old Town of Tallinn is known for its intertwining alleys, picturesque buildings, and dreamy walls. It originated as a fishing village but it has since become one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals – perfect for a walking tour. Typically lasting around 3 hours, a guided tour will start with some background information on Estonia’s 800-year history. You may explore historic sites such as Toompea Castle, House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads, St. Olaf’s Church and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The tours will also guide you through key battle stories in the city’s history, plus information on housing, architecture, and more. But aside from exploring ancient monuments and buildings, a guided tour is also an opportunity to try out new foods. On our Tallinn ‘Food & History’ tour we’ll be visiting some of the best eateries in town and trying dishes like blood sausage (verivorst), fish pickles (kallivorstrimps) and sourdough bread (tanguroog). Plus we’ll be drinking traditional Estonian drinks like või or kali – and tasting some delicious craft beers. This tour offers not only a great insight into Estonian culture and cuisine, but gives you an authentic ‘taste’ of real Tallinn!
Book Your Estonian Food & History Tour Today!
This great walking tour offers foodie fans a delicious way to explore the fabulous city of Tallinn. Sample some of the very best Estonian cuisine and drinks while exploring one of Europe’s prettiest capitals – what could be better? With years worth of expertise under their belts (not to mention wonderful guides), it’s easy to see why people come back time and time again for our Tallinn Food & History tours! Book your tour with GetYourGuide today and let us show you the best that this beautiful city has to offer!
An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Tallinn: Discover Estonian Food, Drinks and History Tours
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia nestled on the Baltic Sea, is a city that has managed to retain its medieval charm and elegance. While it is popular among tourists for its UNESCO-recognized Old Town, there is much more to the city than just its cobbled streets and ancient walls. As an insider, I’d like to invite you to explore the city’s hidden gems, lavish cuisine, and rich history. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you discover Tallinn beyond the usual tourist spots:
Local Attractions: Discover Hidden Gems in Tallinn
While the Old Town is definitely a must-see, Tallinn has many other hidden treasures worth exploring. One such gem is the Kalamaja neighborhood – a former fisherman’s village, which has evolved into a trendy area with a relaxed and bohemian vibe. You can stroll around the colorful streets, sample some craft beer at Põhjala Tap Room or browse through the local boutiques.
If you’re looking for a scenic view, then hiking up to the Toompea hill will reward you with stunning panoramic views of the city. In addition, the Kumu Art Museum, housed in a modernist building, is a must-visit museum with fascinating collections of Estonian art.
Dining Spots: Savor Local Cuisine and Tallinn’s Food Culture
Estonian cuisine is a mix of traditionalism and innovation. One of my favorite dining spots is the Rataskaevu 16 restaurant, known for its rustic ambiance and mouth-watering Estonian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Another noteworthy spot is the Kalambuur Teahouse, which serves vegetarian and vegan dishes inspired by Estonian and Middle Eastern flavors. You can also visit the Balti Jaama Turg market, a buzzing place that features stalls selling fresh produce, meats, and cheese. You can even enjoy some delicious street food or grab a drink at the market’s hip bars.
Tallinn’s food culture is also enriched with interesting stories and customs. For instance, did you know that the kringle is a traditional Estonian pastry and a flagship dessert of Tallinn? It has a sweet almond paste filling, shaped into a ring, and baked to perfection. You can learn more about the kringle and other interesting stories while you take the Tallinn Food Tour.
Cultural Experiences: Unleash the Richness of Tallinn’s Traditions
One unique cultural experience you can participate in while in Tallinn is the Sauna experience. The Estonian sauna experience is an essential part of their culture and a way to relax and socialize. Whether you prefer a modern or a traditional sauna, Tallinn’s saunas offer an exceptional experience.
If you’re interested in Estonian music and dance, visit the Nõmme Open-Air Museum. The museum provides authentic glimpses of traditional Estonian culture, including songs, games, dances, and even farm animals.
Local History: Delve into the Fascinating Stories of Tallinn’s Past
Tallinn is a city with a rich historical heritage, from the medieval Hanseatic League period to the Soviet-era relics. One fascinating way to delve into the city’s history is to visit the Patarei Prison, which served as a KGB prison during the Soviet regime. Take a tour and learn about political prisoners’ lives, the prison’s infrastructure, and the prison’s current use as an art space.
Similarly, visit the Seaplane Harbor Museum, located in a former seaplane hangar. The museum showcases Estonia’s maritime history, from trading ships of the Hanseatic League to the submarines of the Soviet era.
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Discover Unique and Unforgettable Experiences
If you’re seeking something truly unique, then head over to the Telliskivi Creative City. It is a cultural hub that features independent boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. You can attend events like a flea market, a craft fair, or a film screening.
Another memorable experience is kayaking or canoeing on the Pirita River. You’ll enjoy a beautiful view of the city and gain a new perspective of Tallinn’s magic.
In conclusion, Tallinn is a city that deserves to be explored beyond its usual tourist spots. Use this insider’s guide to discover its hidden gems, savor its distinct cuisine and drinks, and experience its rich history and traditions. Trust me; this city will surprise you in more ways than one.
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