The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Harju

Harju, a picturesque county located in northern Estonia, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse culture, and rich history. Harju is home to several renowned tourist attractions that offer visitors an opportunity to explore and experience the traditions, lifestyle, and history of Estonia. In this post, we will be highlighting some of the most famous sightseeing attractions of Harju.

Tallinn Old Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tallinn Old Town is a well-preserved medieval city located in the heart of Estonia’s capital, Tallinn. The Old Town features several historic buildings, churches, and museums that showcase the city’s rich history and culture. The most famous landmarks in Tallinn Old Town include the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Olaf’s Church, and the Town Hall Square. Visitors to the Old Town can also explore the narrow cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and unique boutiques.

Lahemaa National Park

Lahemaa National Park is a stunning natural reserve located on the northern coast of Estonia. The park offers visitors an opportunity to explore the diverse landscape of Estonia, which includes bogs, forests, lakes, and rivers. The park is home to several hiking trails, cycling routes, and camping sites for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region. The must-visit landmarks in Lahemaa National Park include the Jägala Waterfall, Palmse Manor, and Sagadi Manor.

Kadriorg Palace and Park

Located in Tallinn, Kadriorg Palace and Park is a stunning Baroque palace and park that was built by Peter the Great in 1718. The palace was designed to serve as the summer residence for the Russian Tsars, and today, it houses the Estonian Art Museum’s foreign art collections. Visitors can explore the palace’s stunning art collections and take a stroll in the scenic park, which features several fountains, ponds, and sculptures.

Keila-Joa Park

Keila-Joa Park is a spectacular natural reserve located in western Harju county. The park features a stunning waterfall, Keila Waterfall, which is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Estonia. The park also offers several hiking trails, cycling routes, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

Vihula Manor Country Club and Spa

Vihula Manor is a luxurious 16th-century manor located in Lahemaa National Park. The manor has been renovated and transformed into a country club and spa that offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Estonia’s history and culture. Visitors can explore the manor’s stunning architecture, enjoy fine dining at the manor’s restaurant, and relax with spa treatments.

Conclusion

Harju County is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and rich history. The county has something for everyone, from exploring the medieval Tallinn Old Town to hiking in the serene forest reserves of Lahemaa National Park. When planning your visit to Estonia, make sure you don’t miss out on exploring Harju’s famous sightseeing attractions.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Tallinn, Estonia’s Harju County

Welcome to Tallinn – the capital city of Estonia and the largest city in Harju County. This beautiful medieval city is often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Baltic’ and for good reasons. With its unique Old Town, rich cultural heritage, and stunning seaside landscapes, Tallinn is becoming an increasingly popular destination for tourists visiting the Baltic.

Local Attractions

There’s so much to explore and enjoy in Tallinn. Here are some of the must-visit attractions every tourist should check out while exploring Harju County:

– Old Town: Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The architecture dates back to the 13th-16th century, and it is perfect for a walk-through for its unique architecture and cobblestone streets.
– The Town Hall Square: The Town Hall Square is located right in the heart of the city’s Old Town and is home to some of Tallinn’s most significant landmarks such as the Town Hall and the Gothic-style St. Nicholas Church.
– Kadriorg Palace: This stunning palace is in the Kadriorg district of Tallinn and was founded by Peter the Great of Russia to serve as his summer residence. The palace now houses the Estonian Art Museum’s foreign art collection.
– Tallinn TV Tower: This iconic tower is one of the most prominent landmarks in Tallinn and offers sensational views of the city, including views over the Gulf of Finland.

Dining Spots

Visitors will find an excellent choice of eateries in Tallinn due to a long history of German, Russian & Swedish influences. A few of the best places to sample local cuisine include:

– Rataskaevu 16: This fabulous restaurant offers both international dishes as well as local Estonian-style dishes, which cater to all tastes.
– Olde Hansa: Located in the Old Town, Olde Hansa is a themed medieval-style restaurant that will take you back to the days of knights and princesses. With its medieval décor, Olde Hansa provides diners with an authentic dining experience.
– NOA: If you’re looking for fine dining in Tallinn, head to NOA. Located on the outskirts, NOA boasts a spectacular view over the Bay of Tallinn and is a must-visit for seafood lovers.

Cultural Experiences

Tallinn has a rich cultural heritage that’s waiting to be explored. Here are some of the cultural experiences visitors should engage in:

– Estonian Open-Air Museum: Located a few kilometers from Tallinn’s city center, this open-air museum is an ethnographic museum aimed at showcasing Estonian culture.
– Kumu Art Museum: The Kumu Art Museum is the largest art institution in Estonia. It houses both Estonian and international art collections, and the exhibitions are spread over four floors.
– Tallinn Philharmonic Society: The Tallinn Philharmonic offers a wide range of concerts showcasing both classical and contemporary music.

Local History

Tallinn is a city with a long and interesting history that dates back centuries and is visible through its streets. Here are some historical sites where visitors can learn more about Tallinn’s past:

– Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour: Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour is one of the most visited museums in Estonia, and it is the perfect place to learn more about the country’s maritime history.
– Patarei Prison: Patarei Prison is a former Soviet prison that has now been turned into a museum. It’s an eerie but interesting place to visit where visitors can see how prisoners were treated during the Soviet era.
– Tallinn Town Wall: Tallinn’s ancient town walls date back to the 13th century and are an integral part of the city’s history. Visitors can explore various parts of the wall, including some of the former towers.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking for something unique, here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions to explore:

– Telliskivi Creative City: Telliskivi Creative City is a former industrial complex turned into a creative center. It’s home to the city’s top arts and culture venues and their excellent restaurants and shops.
– Kalamaja: Kalamaja is a trendy neighborhood in Tallinn that is well worth adding to your itinerary. Be sure to eat at the market hall and wander around the streets.
– The Seaplane Harbour Rooftop Terrace: If you’re looking for a unique perspective of Tallinn, head to the Seaplane Harbour. The rooftop terrace offers fantastic views over the Gulf of Finland and is a must-visit for photographers.

Conclusion

There you have it – the ultimate insider’s guide to Tallinn, Estonia’s Harju County. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to sample some of the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Tallinn. No matter what you do, don’t forget to take in the city’s unique twists and turns at every corner.