How to Make the Most of Your Old Town and Kalamaja Tour in Tallinn

Exploring the charming cobblestone streets of the medieval Old Town and the modern shops and eateries of the hip Kalamaja neighborhood of Tallinn are two of the top activities that visitors flock to Tallinn for. Whether you’re on a business trip, family vacation, or romantic getaway, a guided Old Town and Kalamaja tour is a great way to get to know this beautiful Baltic city and see both its ancient and modern sides.On your guided tour you’ll be immersed in the fascinating architecture, culture and history of Tallinn. From the birthplace of Estonia’s independence movement to the quaint wooden fishing boats of Kalamaja; your knowledgeable guide will divulge all the secrets of both and take you on a unique journey through time. There are many ways to explore this city, but with a guided tour, you’ll get an authentic cultural experience and make sure you don’t miss out on any important historical sights.

What You Will See on an Old Town and Kalamaja Tour in Tallinn

On your guided tour of Old Town and Kalamaja, you’ll start with a brief overview of Estonia’s history. You’ll learn about the city’s fascinating medieval heritage; specifically, how in 1219 it became a member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful trading alliance in northern Europe. You’ll hear stories of its turbulent past, including its occupation by Sweden, Germany and the Soviet Union.From there, your guide will lead you through the narrow cobblestone streets of Old Town. On this part of the tour your guide will point out beautiful churches, centuries-old architecture, vibrant street markets and cozy cafes. You’ll also visit the famous city walls that date back to the 1500s and take in the wonderful views from atop Toompea Hill. After exploring Old Town, you’ll move on to Kalamaja. This hip, former working-class neighborhood has become one of the city’s trendiest areas thanks to its mix of modern shops, eateries, galleries and charming wooden fishing boats known as “Kotkad.’ Here your guide will show you off-the-beaten path attractions that many tourists miss out on, including cafes which often feature live music performances and boutiques selling unique handicrafts.

How Long Will Your Old Town and Kalamaja Tour Last?

Your guided tour of Old Town and Kalamaja will last approximately 3-4 hours in total and will provide a comprehensive overview of Estonia’s history, culture and current way of life. During that time your knowledgeable guide will provide you with interesting anecdotes and interesting facts about Tallinn, while taking the time to go into more detail about both neighborhoods.

What Else Should I Bring with Me on My Tour?

A camera! As you explore both neighborhoods your guide will point out picturesque sites that you won’t want to miss photographing. Make sure to also bring a hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking for about 2-3 hours. Snacks and water are also recommended so that you can stay hydrated and energized throughout your tour.

What Are Some Benefits of Taking an Old Town and Kalamaja Tour?

When you are visiting a new place, it is often difficult to know where to start exploring or what attractions are worth seeing. A guided tour is an excellent way of gaining comprehensive knowledge about a place in a short amount of time. Unlike guidebooks or online reviews, on a guided tour you can ask questions directly to your guide and get a more personal understanding of the city. Plus, having someone with you who knows the area well provides extra safety when exploring unfamiliar lands.

Is an Old Town and Kalamaja Tour Worth It?

All in all, a guided Old Town and Kalamaja tour is a great way to get an immersive overview of Tallinn’s history, culture and current way of life. If you are visiting the city for just a few days and want to maximize your time, an organized tour is definitely worth doing as it ensures that you won’t miss important attractions while providing interesting insight into Estonia’s diverse culture. Plus, as with any guided tour, it saves you time by providing transportation between sites that are far away. If you would like to book an Old Town and Kalamaja tour in Tallinn, we recommend GetYourGuide, an online service that offers customized sightseeing experiences with professional guides in more than 4,000 destinations across the globe! From walking tours to boat trips and bike rides; GetYourGuide offers something for everyone, so why not explore everything Tallinn has to offer today with their fantastic selection of activities!