Tallinn – What to do on a Short Trip

Tallinn, Estonia’s capital is quickly becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers, especially in the last decade. From its breathtaking architecture, lively nightlife and cobblestone streets, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. We’ve put together a guide of things that are unique to Tallinn and shouldn’t be missed when you plan a short trip to this charming Northern European city.

Visit Old Town Tallinn

If you’ve seen photos of Tallinn, then chances are that you’ve seen some of its charming Old Town. This is probably the most iconic area of the city and contains its most impressive buildings, such as Toompea Castle and the Church of the Holy Spirit. It has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1997 and definitely lives up to expectations. But beyond these impressive buildings and architecture, the area is alive with life – from locals to visitors enjoying the cobblestone streets and bustling atmosphere.

Take a visit to Kadriorg Palace

Just east of Old Town is Kadriorg Palace, a Baroque-style palace complex built by Tsar Peter I around 1718. The palace is famous for its enchanting gardens and grandiose rooms, plus its many galleries and art collections showcasing different works from centuries past. All the ornate rooms and hallways of Kadriorg Palace make it a tour de force and an interesting insight into the Baltic region’s history.

Try Local Food & Experience the City’s Nightlife

Two of the most important things to experience while on a visit to Tallinn are its food and nightlife. Traditional Estonian cuisine includes heavy meats, potatoes, and lots of xukini salad to lighten it up. For those looking for a more modern version of Estonian cuisine, more and more restaurants offering gourmet twists on traditional ingredients have started popping up around town, such as Rataskaevu 16, which is thought to be one of the best restaurants in Estonia. When it comes to nightlife, there are plenty of drinking holes to choose from, from cozy pubs to hipster bars and trendy lounges. No matter what your budget is or what type of nightlife you are looking for, you are sure to find something that suits your taste in Tallinn. Our top recommendations include Studio Old Fox, Drink Up Bar, Torreality Bar,and Sinilind.

Visit Other Areas around Tallinn

Most visitors to Tallinn tend to stay within the city limits, but there are plenty of other attractions outside of it that can fill up another day of exploration. One such destination is Paide, a small town located an hour’s drive from Tallinn. Its primary attraction is its castle, which was once a military stronghold but today serves as an exhibition space for cultural events and concerts. The Jägala Waterfall is another great day trip from Tallinn – this is Estonia’s highest waterfall and definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Other intriguing trips include exploring the historic Lahemaa National Park and taking the ferry out to Saaremaa Island – both can be easily accessed from Tallinn.

Catch a Show at Estonia Concert Hall

Live music plays an important role in Estonia’s culture and there is no better venue than Estonia Concert Hall for experiencing it (subject to shows taking place of course!). This impressive concert hall has played host to some of Europe’s best orchestras, symphonies and operas over the years and its interior can be seen from the outside thanks to its expansive glass façade showcasing its spectacular architecture. Even if you don’t get to experience a show here during your stay, it’s definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in music and architecture.

Explore Interesting Museums & Art Galleries

For those who prefer exploring culture indoors, there are plenty of interesting museums and art galleries in Tallinn that should be on everyone’s lists. The Kalamaja District offers access to some incredible buildings, including Seaplane Harbour where you’ll be able to explore the Flying Dutchman Exhibit showcasing one of Tallinn’s most famous shipwrecks. The Estonian History Museum plays host to various artifacts and exhibitions exposing visitors to Estonian culture and history dating back centuries. Of course, let’s not forget some popular art galleries such as the KUMU Art Museum or the EKKM Contemporary Art Museum which offer interesting background about certain artists who use them as their platforms for showcasing their artworks and private collections.

Conclusion

From its stunning architecture and museums to its lively pubs and bars, Tallinn has something special for everyone when planning a short trip. Whether you’re looking for culture or nightlife, stately palaces or local Estonian dishes, this modest capital has something unique and captivating in store – making it one of Northern Europe’s most exciting cities right now!