The Best Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia
Estonia’s capital city, Tallinn, is a beautiful and vibrant place to visit, full of quaint Medieval-style buildings, captivating history and plenty of unique things to do. Once a city of prosperity and power known as Reval, Tallinn gained control from the German Teutonic Order in the 13th century and began to shape itself into the thriving tourist hub it is today.
To help you plan your visit, here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the most incredible activities and attractions available in Tallinn.
Explore the Old Town
Tallinn’s Old Town is a stunning example of Medieval architecture and one of the best-preserved town centers in Europe. Its cobblestone streets feature a range of attractive independently owned shops and colorful cafes, as well as plenty of monuments and landmarks that provide insight into the city’s history. It’s also a great place to try traditional Estonian dishes like Kama and Mulgikapsad – porridge-like treats typically eaten for breakfast in Estonia. The iconic Town Hall Square – known for its extravagant Christmas market – plays host to the city’s liveliest concerts and street performances, making for the perfect evening stroll no matter the season.
Take a Trip to Kumu Art Museum
If you’re looking for something a bit more cultural, head over to the modern Kumu Art Museum. Located at the edge of Kadriorg park, one of Tallinn’s oldest picturesque gardens, Kumu houses permanent and temporary exhibitions from various periods and movements of Estonian art. The museum can be accessed using the door-to-door HopOn hop-off sightseeing bus, making it simple to get around town and explore all the museum’s amazing artworks. The museum also features a number of international works by some of the biggest names in art, making this attraction well worth a visit.
Experience Medieval Tallinn
If you want to take a step back in time and explore what life was like in Medieval Estonia, then Tallinn is definitely the place to be. The town’s wealth of museums, monuments and cobblestone streets provide a fascinating insight into Tallinn’s past and be sure to leave you with plenty of stories to tell. One of the must-see sights is Toompea Castle – the oldest building in Tallinn – which is home to Estonia’s Parliament. It stands tall at the top of Toompea Hill and can be reached by climbing cobblestone streets or taking a ride on the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.
Enjoy Estonian Cuisine
No trip to Tallinn would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine which is defined by its simplicity. Hearty dishes featuring fish, pork, potatoes, vegetables and pickles are usually found on menus, with some more exotic and eye-catching dishes like blini – thin pancakes made with buckwheat flour – also available throughout the town. Thanks to Tallinn’s coastal location, the city is home to plenty of seafood restaurants serving up fish that has just been caught out at sea and cooked to perfection over an open fire. Keep your eyes peeled for great restaurant discounts throughout the city that are often advertised outdoors or through independent websites like Take a Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park
One of the best ways to see Estonia outside of the city is by taking a day trip to Lahemaa National Park – located about an hour away from Tallinn by car. The park offers visitors stunning scenery, picturesque landscapes and plenty of activities including horse riding, kayaking and walking trails. You can also sign up for guided tours of the park which will take you to some of its hidden gems like historic fishing villages or majestic waterfalls. Make sure you bring your camera with you – Lahemaa National Park is the perfect place for taking some breathtaking holiday snaps. From exploring Tallinn’s beautiful cobbled streets to experiencing the richness of Estonian cuisine and visiting Lahemaa National Park, there is truly something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you decide to visit during summer or winter, make sure you plan plenty of activities as well as ample time for exploring it all yourself. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to understand why so many people make Tallinn their new favorite holiday destination each year. As the picturesque capital of Estonia, Tallinn is fast becoming a popular tourist destination for its rich culture, architecture, history, and stunning landscapes. While the city is famous for its attractions like the Old Town and Kadriorg Park, it has so much more to offer beyond the usual tourist spots. Let’s take a look at some of the hidden gems that only locals know. One of the hidden gems of Tallinn is the Estonian Museum of Applied Art and Design. This museum showcases unique and contemporary Estonian art, design, and craft that highlights the country’s artistic heritage and modernization. For those who love historical places, KGB Museum, situated on the top floor of the Hotel Viru, offers an insight into the Soviet-era spy operations in Estonia. Another spot worth exploring is the Seaplane Harbor Museum, with a massive collection of ships, planes, and submarines that goes back to World War I. Visiting Tallinn means indulging in Estonian traditional cuisine. One such place to visit is Olde Hansa, located in the heart of the Old Town. This medieval-themed restaurant offers the best of Estonian cuisine paired with rare beers from the country. For something more authentic and local, head to Põhjaka Mõis. This restaurant is located just outside Tallinn and serves locally sourced seasonal cuisines in a cozy and charming setting. One of the quintessential Estonian customs is the sauna, which has been an essential part of Estonian tradition for centuries. The Estonians believe that it cleanses the mind and soul. Saunas can be found all over the country, but Tallinn’s Saunaküla offers an authentic sauna experience with local medicinal herbs and traditional sauna techniques. Another cultural experience is the Tallinn Song Festival, which is held every five years and features mass choirs singing patriotic songs in the historic limestone bowl at Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. Tallinn is not only a beautiful city with unique architecture and stunning views, but it is also rich in history. One such story is that of the Danes, who founded Tallinn in 1219. Legend has it that one flag bearer danish soldier spontaneously planted Denmark’s flag in the riverbank of Tallinn, thus creating the emblematic symbol of the capital – the Danish King’s Garden, which is seen as a part of the Olde Town wall. Another fascinating tale is that of the Toompea Castle, wherein historical times, servant girls used to carry chambers with candles on their feet under their skirts up the Tower in order to light it up. For an extraordinary experience, take a stroll in the forest cemetery, a beautiful 1849 cemetery located in Tallinn’s outskirts. This tranquil and mystical place is filled with sculptures, mausoleums, and historic tombs surrounded by an atmospheric forest. For those who love adventure, Kayaking in Tallinn’s Bay is worth trying. Paddle through the Baltic Sea, with an unrivaled view of the city’s skyline and the Helsinki shoreline in the distance. Tallinn is a city full of surprises and offers endless opportunities for exploration. It’s time to pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and start exploring the secrets of this beautiful city. Table of ContentsThe Best Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia: An Insider’s Guide
Local Attractions: Unveiling Hidden Gems
Dining Spots: Savor Local Cuisine
Cultural Experiences: Discover Essential Traditions
Local History: Exciting and Fascinating Tales
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences
