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What Kind of Activities Can You Do in Tallinn?
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a charming city that not many people know about. Its small but vibrant population of around 450,000 makes it a cozy and vibrant place to visit. The city is full of culture, history, and endless activities for all kinds of visitors. Here are things you can do when visiting Tallinn, from fun on the water to culture and history.
Experience Historical Sites
Tallinn was founded in the 13th century and features countless buildings from this period. The city has many historical sites, monuments and buildings listed one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To get an overview of the city’s past start at the Town Hall Square, with its Gothic architecture and gilded Hall of St. Olaf’s Church in the north end. From there, check out the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which commemorates the Russian emperors who conquered Estonia in the 13th and 19th centuries. You will also find plenty of fortifications around the old city walls, dating back to 1347−1580 that are preserved.
Go Shopping Sprees in Boutiques
Tallinn is also known for its boutique shopping. In the old town, you can find plenty of small shops offering unique items like shoes, jewellery and clothing that isn’t sold anywhere else. Stroll through Rotermani Quarter, which was remodeled and restored from turn-of-the century brick warehouses and factories now filled with boutique stores. Shopping malls are also plentiful with Õismäe Shopping Centre and Rocca Al Mare Shopping Centre being two of the largest places to shop.
Experience Local Food Fare
Tallinn’s restaurants offer all kinds of flavors, including fused European cuisine and traditional Estonian dishes. Sample traditional dishes like pork belly with sauerkraut or grilled whitefish. For a romantic evening out, check out Telliskivi, an old industrial area on the edge of the Old Town which is now filled with colorful street art, cool bars and hip restaurants. Meanwhile, vegetarians will find plenty of options too with restaurants offering couscous salads, vegan burgers and other delicious dishes.
Explore Later Life & Medieval Times
The city’s historical character is kept alive with the great life size medieval tradition occupying many of Tallinn’s streets every summer. The Hopneri House is a wonderful example of Tallinn’s past-time vibes which is located in the Old Town. Step back in time in a bygone era at this 17th-century merchant’s house which has been carefully remodeled to portray what life was like when Estonia was part of the Hanseatic trading league.
Enjoy an Artful Street Scene
Tallinn has plenty of art to offer too. From traditional galleries to secret underground graffiti art, you can find them all here. Explore Rotermann quarter with its abundance of diverse galleries and street art. While here why not solve puzzles inside immersive art installations like arches or wooden boxes? Many of these are permanent works while some are only around for a few months before they disappear.
Have Fun on & near the Water
No matter what time of year it is, Tallinn will keep you having fun by the water! In summer take small boat tours around the harbor and enjoy stunning views of ancient fortresses and modern architecture along the harbor’s edge. Even in the winter fun can be had when the ice skating rink opens on Old Town’s Town Hall Square. Enjoy a game of mini-golf in Kalamaja park or challenge your friends to a game of boules just a few steps from the train station.
Embrace Nature & Go on Ventures in Nature
For those looking to get fresh air and connect with nature, don’t miss out on going hiking or biking around one of Tallinn’s scenic parks or recreation areas. Take a leisurely stroll along Kadriorg park where you’ll find flowers and trees dotted throughout the grassy landscape creating an Instagrammable atmosphere. Or explore Lahemaa National Park which has over 60 kilometers of trails perfect for biking or hiking – complete with plenty of wildlife watching opportunities!
Take Part in Pub Crawls Here
If you want to get an authentic taste of Tallinn nightlife, why not take part in a pub crawl? Gather your friends and let a local guide show you some popular places to eat, drink and dance in local bars, pubs and restaurants. Visiting some underground bars which would normally be hard to find without knowledgeable local guidance is just one perk that comes with taking part in a pub crawl tour. Take a Tallinn Pub Crawl or one specialising in craft beer tours with private evenings arranged on request which will allow you to get an insight into Tallinn’s hip bar scene!
Whether you are looking for beautiful street artists outlets, pubs filled with friends or stunning nature outdoors – Tallinn offers many activities that can occupy the inquisitive traveler who loves everything from art to nature! With its charming cobbled streets and fortresses from centuries-long ago and plenty of outdoor activities happening year-round there is something for everyone to explore here. And a great way to get to know this magical city better is by joining on a pub crawl tour which will introduce you to some hidden gems of Tallinn as well as help you connect with local people!
