Is It Worth Visiting Tallinn: A Comprehensive Guide

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, a small country in Northern Europe bordering Russia and Latvia. Despite its small size, Tallinn is a popular tourist destination, attracting nearly 3.5 million visitors in 2019 alone. If you’re considering a visit to this picturesque city, you may be wondering: Is Tallinn worth visiting? In this guide, we’ll explore the city’s unique attractions, culture, and history to help you make an informed decision.

The Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Old Town in Tallinn is a must-see for any visitor to the city. It’s a perfectly preserved medieval city, surrounded by walls and towers, that dates back to the 13th century. The Old Town is so impressive that it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The town square, Raekoja Plats, is the heart of the Old Town and features cobblestone streets, traditional buildings, and cozy cafes. The town square is also home to the famous Christmas market held annually.

The Tallinn Town Wall & Towers

The Tallinn Town Wall and Towers are an essential part of the Old Town. The wall was built to protect the Old Town, and you can walk along the top of the wall for an incredible view of the city. The wall has 26 towers, each with its unique history and story, and you can visit some of them. If you’re interested in history, then visiting the wall and towers is a must-do.

The Estonian Open Air Museum

The Estonian Open Air Museum provides a glimpse into Estonia’s rural life from the 18th to the 20th century. The museum is situated in a large forested area of Rocca al Mare, which is just outside Tallinn. You can take a tour of the farmhouse, fishing village, and the traditional taverns to learn more about the Estonian way of life. The museum is a fun and educational experience for both children and adults.

The Kumu Art Museum

The Kumu Art Museum showcases Estonian and international contemporary art. It opened its doors in 2006 and is part of the Art Museum of Estonia. The museum houses some of the most comprehensive collections of Estonian art, displaying artworks from the early 18th century to the present day. The architecture of the building is also impressive and is worth seeing.

The Food and Drink

Estonian cuisine is unique and has a rich history. Estonians love their traditional dishes, which include black pudding, smoked fish, and sauerkraut. Estonia also produces some of the world’s best vodka and liqueurs. You can experience the traditional dishes and drinks at the local restaurants, cafes, and bars in Tallinn. Tallinn’s bustling nightlife scene is also worth checking out.

The Narva-Jõesuu Beach

If you’re looking for a break from the city and want to soak up some sun, then head to the Narva-Jõesuu beach. It is a beautiful beach situated on the north coast of Estonia, just two hours drive from Tallinn. The beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months, and there is a large pine forest a few minutes away from the beach.

Is it Worth Visiting Tallinn?

In conclusion, Tallinn is a stunning city, and there is plenty to see and do. The Old Town alone is worth visiting, and the museums, beaches, food, and drink only add to the experience. It’s a small city, which means you can see a lot in a few days. If you’re interested in history, art, culture, or just want to experience something new, then Tallinn is definitely worth a visit.

So pack your bags, book your tickets and get ready to explore the enchanting city of Tallinn, Estonia.

An Insider’s Guide to Tallinn

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a hidden gem in Europe. It is a city full of stunning architecture, fascinating history, and rich culture. Here is your ultimate guide to exploring Tallinn like a local.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While Tallinn’s Old Town is certainly worth a visit, there are many other hidden gems that locals love. Start by visiting the Kalamaja neighborhood, where you will see traditional wooden houses and bohemian cafes. You can also explore St. Catherine’s Passage, where local artisans sell handmade crafts.

One hidden gem for nature lovers is the Kakerdaja Bog, a stunning wetland area just outside the city. You can hike along the wooden boardwalk and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Dining Spots: Traditional Flavors and Stories

Estonian cuisine is a delicious blend of Scandinavian, Russian, and German flavors. Start by trying authentic dishes like black bread, smoked fish, and elk meat. Try going to Must Puudel, a cozy restaurant in the Old Town, for some rustic Estonian food.

For a unique experience, visit one of Tallinn’s oldest restaurants, the Olde Hansa. This medieval-themed restaurant takes you back to the Middle Ages, with waiters dressed in costume and candlelit dinners. It might be a bit of a tourist spot, but it’s worth it for the experience!

Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Art, and Music

Tallinn has a rich cultural scene that is worth exploring. From its music festivals to contemporary art galleries, there is no shortage of cultural events to attend.

One must-see event is the Estonian Song Festival, which takes place every five years. With over 30,000 performers, it is one of the largest choral festivals in the world. For art lovers, Kumu is one of the best contemporary art museums in Europe.

Local History: Fascinating Tales

Tallinn has a long and complex history that dates back to the 13th century. One captivating story is about the KGB Prison Cells in the Hotel Viru. In the Soviet Era, the hotel was used as a base for the KGB to spy on foreign guests. Today, you can visit the prison cells and learn about Estonia’s history under Soviet rule.

Another fascinating tale is about the history of the Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour. This maritime museum is housed in an old seaplane hangar and tells the story of Estonia’s maritime history, from the Vikings to the modern era.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For a truly unique experience, visit the Patarei Prison. The former Soviet prison is now open to the public for tours, and you can even stay overnight in the old cells. It’s not for the faint of heart, but definitely an unforgettable experience!

Another unique experience is to go on a pilgrimage to the Estonian island of Kihnu. It is inhabited almost entirely by women, who have their own culture and traditions. You can learn about the island’s history and see traditional handicrafts.

In conclusion, Tallinn is a city full of hidden gems, fascinating history, and rich cultural experiences. By venturing beyond the typical tourist spots, you can discover something truly special in this quaint European capital.