How to Plan Your Behind the Iron Curtain Tour in Tallinn

If you’re looking for a unique, off-the-beaten-track tour experience in Tallinn, the Behind the Iron Curtain of Tallinn – Secrets of the Soviets tour might be just the thing for you! This tour takes you on a journey through some of the most fascinating locations related to Tallinn’s Soviet history, from an abandoned air defence base to the Olympic Center built for the 1980 Moscow Olympics. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your own unforgettable Behind the Iron Curtain tour in Tallinn.

Booking Your Tour

The first step in planning your tour is to book it! You can do that easily by visiting the GetYourGuide website and selecting your desired tour date. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, guide services, transportation, entrance fees to museums, and lunch, so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

Experience

The tour is a full-day experience that takes you on a journey through Tallinn’s Soviet past. Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

Visit an Abandoned Soviet Air Defence Base

The tour starts with a visit to an abandoned Soviet air defence base located on the Viimsi peninsula. This base was once a top-secret location during the Soviet era and has since been abandoned. The tour includes access to the base and a guided tour that will take you through the various structures that make up the base.

Coastal Folk Museum

The Coastal Folk Museum is the next stop on the tour. Here you will find an exhibition that introduces stories about life behind the iron curtain. In addition, you’ll also find exhibits that explain the former border-zone areas, both coastal and land-based.

Tallinn TV Tower

The Tallinn TV Tower is the tallest building in Estonia and offers stunning views over Tallinn Bay and the seaside district of Pirita. Here you can enjoy picture-postcard views of the Old Town skyline while learning about the tower’s history during the Soviet era.

Visit the Olympic Center and Yacht Port in Pirita

The Pirita area was once home to the Olympic Center built for the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Here you can learn about how the yachting competitions were organized during Soviet times. You’ll also see the Yacht Port that was built at the same time.

Planning Your Tour

To make the most of your Behind the Iron Curtain tour, there are a few things you should keep in mind when planning:

Bring Comfortable Shoes

The tour involves a fair amount of walking, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be exploring the abandoned air defence base and the Coastal Folk Museum, so it’s a good idea to wear sturdy footwear that can handle uneven terrain.

Dress for the Weather

Tallinn can get cold and windy, especially near the coast. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and bring any necessary items like a coat, hat, or gloves.

Bring a Camera

The Behind the Iron Curtain tour offers plenty of photo opportunities, so make sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the memories.

Listen to Your Guide

Finally, make sure to listen to your guide! They are experts on Tallinn’s Soviet history and will be able to share fascinating insights that you won’t find in any guidebook.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for a unique tour experience in Tallinn, the Behind the Iron Curtain of Tallinn – Secrets of the Soviets tour offers an unforgettable journey through the city’s Soviet past. By following the tips above, you can plan your own perfect tour and create memories that will last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure unlike any other!

FAQs About Tallinn

1. What is Tallinn?

Tallinn is the capital city of Estonia, and it is located on the northern coast of the country, adjacent to the Gulf of Finland. The city has been an important center of commerce and culture throughout Estonia’s history, with a rich heritage of architecture, music, and art.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Tallinn?

Tallinn is a city with a lot to offer tourists, and some of the top attractions include:

• Old Town: The medieval Old Town of Tallinn is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.
• Kadriorg Palace: This beautiful baroque palace was built by Peter the Great for his wife Catherine I and now houses the Estonian Art Museum’s foreign collection.
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: This stunning Orthodox cathedral is one of Tallinn’s most recognizable landmarks, with its onion-shaped domes and ornate façade.
• Toompea Castle: This castle, located in Old Town, serves as the seat of the Estonian Parliament and has a history dating back to the 9th century.
• St. Olaf’s Church: This historic church is one of the tallest buildings in Tallinn, and offers amazing views of the city from its tower.

3. What is the best time of year to visit Tallinn?

The best time to visit Tallinn depends on your interests and preferences. If you enjoy outdoor activities and warm weather, the summer months (June-August) are your best bet. However, the winter months (December-February) can be magical, with crisp snowy landscapes and the opportunity to experience authentic Estonian winter traditions. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer milder weather and fewer tourists, making them great options for exploring the city without crowds.

4. How do I get to Tallinn?

Tallinn is well connected to other parts of Europe by air, with daily flights from major European cities such as London, Paris, and Berlin. The city is also accessible by ferry from Helsinki, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg.

5. Is it easy to get around Tallinn?

Yes, getting around Tallinn is relatively easy. The city has a comprehensive public transport system that includes buses, trams, and trolleybuses, as well as taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber. Many of Tallinn’s top tourist attractions are located in Old Town, which is compact and easily walkable.

6. What should I eat in Tallinn?

Estonian cuisine is a mix of traditional peasant food and modern European dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Some traditional Estonian dishes you should try when visiting Tallinn include:

• Black bread: A heavy, dense bread made with rye flour, often served with butter or creamy cheese.
• Kama: A mixture of roasted barley, rye, wheat, and oat flour, usually eaten with yogurt or kefir.
• Pea soup: A hearty soup made with dried split peas, potatoes, and usually some kind of smoked meat.
• Sült: A cold meat jelly made from pork, usually served with a vinegar and onion sauce.
• Rhubarb cake: A sweet, tart cake made with rhubarb, which is a common ingredient in Estonian baking.

7. What are some fun activities to do in Tallinn?

There are plenty of fun activities to do in Tallinn, depending on your interests. Some popular options include:

• Visit a spa: Tallinn has several excellent spas where you can relax and rejuvenate, such as the Schlössle Hotel Spa and the Aqua Spa.
• Take a food tour: Several tour operators offer food tours of Tallinn, where you can sample traditional Estonian cuisine and learn about the city’s culinary traditions.
• Attend a music festival: Tallinn hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the Tallinn Music Week in the spring and the Jazzkaar Festival in the fall.
• Go on a bike tour: Several companies offer bike tours of Tallinn, where you can explore the city’s historic sites and scenic parks.
• Visit a museum: Tallinn has several excellent museums, such as the Estonian History Museum and the KUMU Art Museum, which showcases Estonian art and design.

8. What is the currency used in Tallinn, and can I use credit cards?

The currency used in Tallinn (and Estonia more broadly) is the Euro. Most restaurants, shops, and hotels in Tallinn accept credit cards, although some smaller businesses may only take cash. It’s a good idea to carry some Euros with you at all times, just in case.

Book Your Tour Now

Tallinn is a beautiful and historic city with plenty to offer tourists. Whether you’re interested in exploring Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, experiencing traditional Estonian cuisine, or simply soaking up the city’s laid-back vibe, there’s something for everyone in this charming Baltic capital.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Tallinn

If you’re planning to visit Tallinn, the charming capital of Estonia, you’re in for a treat! There is much to see and do in this city that is rich in history and culture. From medieval architecture to modern art, Tallinn has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best things to do and see when you’re in Tallinn.

1. Explore the Beautiful Old Town

No visit to Tallinn would be complete without exploring its Old Town. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. The Old Town is a maze of narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, medieval towers, and churches. Make sure to bring your camera with you, as every corner seems to be more picturesque than the last.

What to Do in Old Town

• Visit the Town Hall Square: This is the heart of Old Town, and it’s surrounded by buildings dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.
• Climb Toompea Hill: This is the highest point in Tallinn, and it offers amazing views of the city.
• Explore the Town Wall: Tallinn’s Town Wall is one of the best preserved in Europe, and it’s possible to walk along some sections of it.
• Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: This impressive Russian Orthodox church was built in the late 19th century and it’s one of the most important landmarks in Tallinn.

2. Discover Local Cuisine

Estonian cuisine might not be the most famous in Europe, but it’s definitely worth trying. Estonians love their meat, berries, and fish, and you can find them all over Tallinn. Make sure to try some of the following dishes:

What to Eat in Estonia

• Black bread: This is a staple of Estonian cuisine, and it’s made with rye flour.
• Kama: A traditional Estonian breakfast food made from a mixture of roasted barley, rye, peas, and wheat.
• Smoked fish: Estonia has a long coastline, and smoked fish is a popular local delicacy. Try it with black bread and butter.
• Vana Tallinn: This is a traditional Estonian liqueur made from rum and spices, and it’s a great way to end a meal.

3. Visit Top Museums

Tallinn has a rich history and culture, and there are many excellent museums to explore. Here are some of the best:

Top Museums in Tallinn

• The Estonian History Museum: This museum covers the entire history of Estonia and is located in Tallinn’s Old Town.
• The Kumu Art Museum: the largest art museum in the Baltic countries, located in a modern building in Tallinn’s Kadriorg district.
• The Tallinn City Museum: Located in a medieval building and tells the story of Tallinn’s development through the centuries.
• The Maritime Museum: Tallinn was an important maritime center, and this museum tells the history of Estonia’s seafaring traditions.

4. Discover Tallinn’s Modern Side

While Tallinn is known for its medieval Old Town, it also has a vibrant modern side. Some of the best places to explore include:

Modern Places to Visit in Tallinn

• The Telliskivi Creative City: This former industrial complex now houses creative and cultural businesses, restaurants, and shops.
• The Kalamaja District: This trendy neighborhood is filled with colorful wooden houses, street art, and independent shops and restaurants.
• The Noblessner Quarter: This former industrial area has been transformed into a trendy residential and commercial district.
• The Contemporary Art Museum of Estonia: This modern museum located in the Rotermann Quarter focuses on cutting-edge contemporary art.

5. Enjoy Tallinn’s Nature

While Tallinn might be a city, it’s also surrounded by beautiful nature. Make sure to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore Estonia’s forest, lakes, and seaside.

Nature Places to Visit near Tallinn

• Lahemaa National Park: Located about an hour’s drive from Tallinn, Lahemaa is Estonia’s oldest and largest national park.
• The Bog Walk Trail: Located about 20 km from Tallinn, this trail lets you walk through a beautiful bog landscape.
• Kadriorg Park: This is a beautiful park located in Tallinn’s Kadriorg district. It’s perfect for a picnic or a relaxing walk.
• Jägala Waterfall: About a 30-minute drive from Tallinn, this is Estonia’s biggest waterfall.

Book Your Tour Now

As you can see, there are many things to see and do in Tallinn. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just exploring a new city, Tallinn has something for you. So why not book a trip to Tallinn and discover it for yourself?