Tallinn, Estonia: A Comprehensive City Guide for Tourists

Tallinn is the capital and largest city of Estonia, located in the north-eastern part of the country on the Gulf of Finland. Its name is derived from the Estonian language, meaning “Danish city”. It has been a historical centre since the 12th century and was once a powerful Hanseatic trading city. Today, Tallinn is known for its vibrant culture, captivating history, and stunning architecture. It is a modern metropolis with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of places to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in Tallinn.

A Brief History of Tallinn

Tallinn was first established in the 12th century as a trading post by Danish merchants. It quickly grew to a major commercial centre and was later taken over by the Teutonic Order in the 13th century. During the 16th century, Tallinn became part of the Swedish Empire and was known as Reval. It was then taken over by Russia in 1710 and remained under Russian rule until 1918 when it became part of the newly independent Republic of Estonia. During World War II, Tallinn was occupied by Germany from 1941 to 1944 and then by the Soviet Union until 1991 when Estonia declared its independence.

Today, Tallinn is home to approximately 400,000 people and is the main centre of business, finance, culture, and education in Estonia. It is also a popular tourist destination thanks to its well-preserved Old Town which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the city’s cobblestoned streets, medieval walls and towers, and picturesque churches or take in the stunning views from Toompea Hill.

Things to Do in Tallinn

With its unique blend of old and new, Tallinn offers something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do while you’re in town:

1. Take a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore Tallinn is by taking a walking tour of its Old Town. There are several tours available that will take you through the city’s cobblestoned alleys and past its impressive medieval fortifications. You’ll get to see some of Tallinn’s most iconic landmarks such as Town Hall Square, St. Olaf’s Church, and Toompea Castle. You’ll also learn about the city’s fascinating history from your guide.

2. Visit Kadriorg Park

Kadriorg Park is a beautiful park located just outside of Tallinn’s city centre. It was built in 1718 by Tsar Peter the Great as a gift to his wife, Catherine I. Today, it is one of Tallinn’s top attractions with its lush gardens, impressive fountains, and stunning Baroque-style palace. There are also several art galleries and museums located within the park that are worth visiting if you have time.

3. Try Estonian Cuisine

Estonia has a rich culinary heritage that has been influenced by its neighbours such as Finland and Russia. There are plenty of restaurants in Tallinn that serve up traditional Estonian dishes such as smoked fish, beetroot soup, and rye bread. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try some more daring dishes such as blood sausage or eel soup!

4. Take a Boat Trip

Tallinn is located on the Gulf of Finland so there are plenty of opportunities for boat trips. You can take a leisurely cruise around the harbour and enjoy the views of the city’s skyline or you can opt for a longer trip out to some of the nearby islands and explore their natural beauty.

5. Visit a Museum

Tallinn is home to several interesting museums such as the Estonian History Museum, the Estonian Maritime Museum, and the KUMU Art Museum. The KUMU is particularly worth visiting if you’re interested in modern art as it has an impressive collection of works from both local and international artists.

Popular Tours in Tallinn

If you want to experience Tallinn like a local, why not book one of these popular tours?

Tallinn Food Tour

If you’re a foodie looking for an authentic culinary experience in Tallinn, then this tour is definitely for you! You’ll get to visit some of the city’s best restaurants and sample some of its most beloved dishes such as salted salmon with potatoes, traditional black bread with butter and cheese, and smoked pork with potatoes and mustard sauce. You’ll also learn about Tallinn’s unique food culture from your guide as you explore the city’s streets and alleyways. Book a Tallinn Food Tour here.

Tallinn Old Town Tour

This tour will take you to some of Tallinn’s most historic sites such as Toompea Castle, Town Hall Square, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and St Olaf’s Church. Your guide will bring the city’s history to life as they share stories about key historical events that took place in these places. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore Tallinn’s past while seeing some of its most iconic landmarks. Book a Tallinn Old Town Tour here.

Tallinn City Bike Tour

If you’re looking for an active way to explore Tallinn then this bike tour is perfect for you! You’ll get to cycle through some of the city’s most picturesque streets and explore some of its hidden gems such as small courtyards and secret gardens. You’ll also get to see some of Tallinn’s most iconic landmarks such as Town Hall Square and Toompea Hill from a different perspective. Book a Tallinn City Bike Tour here.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich history or sampling its unique cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Tallinn for every kind of traveler. Be sure to book one of these popular tours to get an insider’s view of this captivating city!