Medieval city
Tallinn is a small European city with the great history and magnificent fairy-tale atmosphere. You will never be tired of its cobblestoned streets, ancient buildings and an infinite amount of magnificent sightseeing.
Tallinn was settled in the 12th century and nowadays it is a modern city with remarkably well-preserved medieval architecture. That means not only an excellent condition of the ancient buildings but also that the street layout hasn’t been changed since the 15th century. Be sure to find time for walking and wandering around among its charming, narrow streets.
Best places for tourists
For the first acquaintance with the city, it’s better to take Tallinn Old Town tour and to learn more about city’s main attractions and landmarks.
- Old Town
The heart of the city and the main tourist spot in Tallinn is Old Town, which includes City Wall with remarkable towers; Town Hall Square; Tompea castle; ancient churches and great museums. In the 1997 year, Tallinn Old Town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Perhaps, City Wall with amazing towers is the most charming and mysterious place in Tallinn. It was founded in the 13th century and become the most impregnable fortress in Medieval Europe. In old times it defended Tallinn from enemies; today it keeps the city’s magic atmosphere. The most famous towers of the City Wall are Viru Gate, Epping Tower, Fat Margaret (the biggest one), Kiek in de Kok, etc. You could climb the towers and visit the museums inside.
- Town Hall square
For centuries Town Hall square was a center of political, economic and social life. Nowadays it is one of the top tourist attraction and a favorite place for concerts, exhibitions, and traditional Christmas Market. Surely, there are a lot of cozy cafés, restaurants, shops and even hotels. The square consists of 600-years Gothic Town Hall, surrounded by magnificent ancient buildings. On summer tourists could climb the tower and enjoy the breathtaking view of Old Town.
- Toompea castle
One of the most spectacular sights in Tallinn is Toompea castle, located on the self-titled hill in the center of the city. Since the 13th century, the castle had been a residence for Estonian Kings. Nowadays the Parliament is settled here. Toompea Hill is the greatest observation place which offers breathtaking views and picturesque photos.
- Old Churhes
Another must-see attractions of the Old Town are Dome Church (12th century), which is one the oldest cathedral in the city; Oleviste Church (13th century), considered to be the highest building in medieval Europe; Church of the Holy Spirit (14th century), Town Hall pharmacy – the oldest still running pharmacy in Europe.
- Museums
Tallinn is a city of great museums. The favorite one among tourists and locals is Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour an interactive museum, where you would be able not only to observe the exhibition of boats and airplanes but also to go inside the full-size submarine and to try yourself in flying a WW2 plane.
Tallinn has a wonderful geographical location and famous for its great nature. That’s why bike tours are so widespread here. Bike tours involve visiting Kadriorg park with a Kadriorg palace (early 18th century), Pirita Beach, Song Festival Grounds, Olympic Yacht Center etc.
During your Tallinn tour, be sure to visit Estonian Open Air Museum. It’s a great place to be immersed in Estonian village life of 18th century, get acquainted with country architecture, as well as enjoy beautiful nature and breathe fresh air.
As you could see, tours to Tallinn are very diverse and for every taste. The city has a well-developed infrastructure, great numbers of hotels and restaurants. You will enjoy the warm and hospitable atmosphere of this northern city.