The 10 Most Interesting Facts about Tallinn

Tallinn, also known as the “Medieval Pearl of the Baltic,” is the capital city of Estonia. It’s a city rich in history and culture, with beautiful architecture, fascinating museums, and vibrant nightlife. Here are 10 interesting facts about Tallinn that you might not know:

1. Tallinn is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe

The old town of Tallinn is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is often compared to cities like Prague and Krakow for its beautiful architecture and well-preserved medieval walls and towers.

2. The city has been ruled by several different empires

Over the centuries, Tallinn has been ruled by the Danes, Swedes, Germans, and most recently the Soviets before Estonia regained its independence in 1991.

3. Tallinn was the European Capital of Culture in 2011

In 2011, Tallinn was designated as the European Capital of Culture, which helped to showcase the city’s vibrant cultural scene and numerous museums and galleries.

4. The city has a thriving startup scene

Tallinn is home to many startups, and Estonia has been called the “Silicon Valley of Europe” due to its tech-friendly policies and innovative companies.

5. The Old Town of Tallinn is home to many excellent restaurants and cafes

Tallinn’s cuisine is a mix of traditional Estonian dishes and international flavors, and the city has plenty of cafes and restaurants serving everything from simple street food to gourmet cuisine.

6. Tallinn has many beautiful parks and green spaces

Despite being a bustling city, Tallinn has many beautiful parks and green spaces, including Kadriorg Park, which has stunning gardens and a palace that now houses the Estonian Art Museum.

7. The city has a rich cultural heritage

Tallinn has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore many fascinating museums, including the Estonian History Museum, the Estonian Maritime Museum, and the Kumu Art Museum.

8. Tallinn is known for its vibrant nightlife

Tallinn’s nightlife scene is legendary, with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and pubs catering to all tastes, from trendy cocktail bars to rock clubs and karaoke joints.

9. The city has a well-developed public transport system

Tallinn has a well-developed public transport system, with buses, trams, and trolleys operating throughout the city. The city also has a bike-sharing program, making it easy for visitors to explore on two wheels.

10. The city has a stunning coastline

Tallinn is located on the Baltic Sea, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the coastline from the city’s many seaside parks and promenades. The city also has several beaches where visitors can swim and sunbathe during the summer months.

In conclusion, Tallinn is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and a thriving contemporary culture. Whether you’re interested in history, food, nightlife, or simply enjoying the city’s stunning natural surroundings, there’s something for everyone in Tallinn.

An Insider’s Guide to Tallinn – Estonia’s Enchanting Capital

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a gem in the Baltic region that is frequently overlooked by travelers visiting Europe. However, this city has a rich history, stunning architecture, delicious local cuisine, and a vibrant cultural scene that makes it a must-visit destination. Here’s an insider’s guide to the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that you will not want to miss in Tallinn.

Top Attractions

1. Old Town: The old town of Tallinn is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a well-preserved medieval city with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and scenic views. Don’t miss the Town Hall Square, St. Olaf’s Church, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

2. Toompea Hill: Toompea Hill is an imposing hilltop that is home to the government buildings and is a great spot to enjoy panoramic views of Tallinn’s skyline. Make sure to visit the stunning Pikk Hermann tower and the picturesque St. Mary’s Cathedral.

3. Kadriorg Palace: Built by Peter the Great, Kadriorg Palace is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Also located within the palace complex is the KUMU Art Museum, which is definitely worth a visit.

Best Dining Spots

1. Rataskaevu 16: This restaurant is located in the Old Town and offers traditional Estonian cuisine like sautéed wild mushrooms, roasted elk ribs, and braised pork cheeks.

2. NOA: This restaurant offers contemporary Nordic cuisine with breathtaking views of the Tallinn Bay. Be sure to try their signature dish, “Ocean” – a platter of fresh seafood caught in the Baltic Sea.

3. F-Hoone: Located in a restored factory building in the trendy Kalamaja neighborhood, F-Hoone offers affordable and tasty food with a hipster vibe.

Cultural Experiences

1. Estonian Open Air Museum: This museum showcases traditional Estonian architecture and way of life. Visitors can see farmhouses, windmills, and churches from the 18th and 19th centuries and learn about Estonian folk culture.

2. National Opera Estonia: The Estonian National Opera is an opportunity to enjoy performances by international artists, Estonian opera stars, and the Estonian National Ballet.

3. Nightlife in Telliskivi Creative City: Telliskivi Creative City is a former industrial complex that has been converted into a cultural hub for music, art, food, and fashion. It’s the perfect place to discover Tallinn’s buzzing nightlife scene.

Local History

1. KGB Museum: The Museum of Occupations provides visitors with an authentic insight into the time of Soviet rule in Tallinn. The KGB Museum is located on the top floor and offers an in-depth look at the role the Soviet KGB played in Estonia during the Soviet era.

2. Estonian Maritime Museum: This museum is housed in a former 14th-century cannon tower and displays maritime history with a particular emphasis on the seafaring heritage of Estonia.

3. Tallinn City Museum: The museum tells the story of Tallinn’s history from the Middle Ages to the present day, with exhibits that showcase the city’s cultural heritage.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Kalamaja neighborhood: A trendy and bohemian district, Kalamaja is home to street art, hipster cafes and bars, and the contemporary architecture of the Estonian Academy of Arts.

2. Patarei Prison: This former Soviet prison is now a museum, and it provides visitors with a glimpse into the dark history of Estonia. It’s a unique and sobering experience that should not be missed.

3. Kumu Art Museum: The KUMU Art Museum is Estonia’s largest art museum with an impressive collection of Estonian art dating from the 18th century to the present day.

In conclusion, Tallinn is a hidden gem in Europe, with plenty of exciting things to see and do. This insider’s guide highlights the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that should be on every traveler’s itinerary. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or art, Tallinn has something to offer for everyone.