What Should I See in Tallinn, Estonia?

Tallinn, Estonia is a thriving city of culture, attractions and history. It is the must-see destination on any trip to the Baltics. From the cobblestone streets to the impressive monuments, there”s something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or something more relaxed, Tallinn has something for every traveler. In this guide, we will dive deep into some of the must-see attractions of Tallinn and what you should do when visiting the city.

Getting Around Tallinn

The best way to get around Tallinn is with public transportation. Tallinn has many buses, trams, and trolleys that operate throughout the city. Additionally, you can take advantage of the convenient Hop On-Hop Off sightseeing buses that are a great way to get around and see many of the city’s attractions. For those looking for more control, renting a car or scooter is an option as well.

Old Town

One of the top attractions in Tallinn is the historic Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been well-preserved and remains one of the few cities in Europe to still have an original medieval wall around it. Once inside, you can explore the old cobblestone streets and visit some of the city’s many historical sites. Some of the must-see places in Old Town include the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which is a majestic Russian Orthodox church; St. Olav’s Church and Tower; and Town Hall Square and its impressive City Hall building.

Kadriorg Park & Palace

Kadriorg Park & Palace is another must for any traveler visiting Tallinn. This large area was established in 1718 as an imperial park for Tsar Peter I of Russia. Today, it consists of carefully manicured gardens and multiple parks with winding walking paths plus a few royal edifices to explore. The centerpiece of the area is the Kadriorg Palace, which features stunning Baroque architecture and is open for touring. Make sure to check out the nearby Kumu Art Museum and its extensive collection of art from throughout Estonia and abroad.

Rotermann Quarter

Rotermann Quarter is a relatively recent addition to Tallinn but one that shouldn’t be missed. This up-and-coming neighborhood is full of trendy shops, cafes and eateries offering everything from international cuisine to traditional Estonian fare. The whole area has been designed to work as a large playground with interactive art installations as well as plenty of grassy areas for picnics or lounging around. The highlight is the Fat Margaret Tower, a grand fortification built in 1511 that offers amazing views of Old Town.

Toompea Hill

Toompea Hill is the highest area in Tallinn and has been an important area of the city since its founding in 1219. Here you will find Nativity of the Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Cathedral, a gorgeous 18th century building; St Mary’s Cathedral, a stunning Lutheran cathedral; and Toompea Castle, an 18th century castle that was once home to Estonia’s government. On Toompea Hill, you will also find many government buildings from all levels including the Parliament of Estonia, which has interesting architecture worth exploring.

Kumu Art Museum

The Kumu Art Museum (Kunstimuuseumi) is one of the most impressive collections of art in the Baltics. Located in Kadriorg Park, this modern building features works from Estonian masters as well as some international artists as well.. In addition to viewing artistic works from throughout time, Kumu Art Museum also offers interactive workshops for adults and children alike where you can learn about Estonian culture and art in a hands-on way.

Seaplane Harbour Museum

Think airplanes are only meant for flying? Think again! When it comes to Tallinn, one of the most unique attractions is the Seaplane Harbour Museum – an interactive museum located in a former seaplane port complex on an island in Tallinn Harbor. Here you will find a wide variety of exhibits focusing on naval themes like submarines and torpedoes. You’ll also get to see actual WWII artifacts as well as an impressive collection of model ships and aircrafts. It’s a great place for both adults and kids alike to learn something new!

Baltic Sea Coast

Finally, no guide to Tallinn would be complete without mentioning its beautiful coastal location on the Baltic Sea. This vibrant body of water features numerous beaches – from golden sands perfect for swimming to hidden coves best explored by kayak. Head just outside of town to Pirita Beach or opt for deeper exploration farther down the coast. This stunning sea can be explored with boat tours too, so if you really want to take in its beauty then this is a great option. Overall, Tallinn has so much to offer travelers from all over the world. From its unique sights to its stunning coastal vistas, there’s something here for everyone. All that’s left is to start planning your trip! If you want some more tips on what to do in Tallinn, then make sure to check out this Visit Tallinn website. There are plenty of resources available that list all available attractions along with helpful tips and advice on how to make the most out of your time in this amazing city.