The charming and mysterious old town of Tallinn is a welcoming balance of plot and a postcard perfect for the painting. The old town is so well preserved you will be allowed to pinch yourself and question reality – it really is It’s too cute! Whether you spend a few days in the city or visit on a day trip from HelsinkiHere are 10 absolute things to do in Tallinn!
Top 10 Things You Should Do in Tallinn
1. Start at Market Square (Raekoja Plats)
As a central point in the old town, Market Square is a great place to start a meandering through the cobblestone streets. From here you can already get some great ideas about the vibrancy the city has to offer, and you can see the Game of Thrones set come to life in a 360-degree turn (except tourists, of course).
2. Check out the view from Toompea
Many will say that the best view of Tallinn is above Toompea. This is a beautiful view, but certainly not the best view of the city from above (read where you can find the best views!) Toompea is a neighbourhood overlooking the old town, and it is here that you can also find St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
3. Step into St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Located on the hills of Toompea, St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a beautiful church of traditional orthodox faith. The cathedral was built in 1900 when Estonia was still part of the Russian Empire. Photos are not permitted inside, but you will need to step inside the cathedral and look around to marvel at the ornate architecture, mosaics and gold candelabra (plus the entrance is free!)
4. Take a view from the church of St. Orave
It is surprising that the number of visitors to Tallinn does not climb 258 stairs to the top of St. Olav’s Church, which probably has the best views of the old town. The tower dates back to 1267 and was previously used as a beacon or KGB watch tower to get closer to the ship, but today it is one of the city’s tourist attractions. It costs 3 euros to enter. A small price to pay for the perfect photo of these photos!
5. Walking along the cobblestone street
One of Tallinn’s greatest joys is wandering through the winding cobblestone streets for hours. The old street is incredibly photogenic with pastel coloured buildings, unique shapes and my personal favourite, Tallinn’s colorful doors! That was the most beautiful street I tripped over length (the longest street in the old town) Catherine’s movements.
6. Buy powdered unicorn horns
Tallinn’s beauty is often seen in his ability to stay in another era. Located on the Market Square, the town hall pharmacy is where you can find powdered unicorn horns, mummy juices and all sorts of eccentricity. The pharmacy is considered to be the longest-running pharmacy in Europe and was once a favorite of the Russian emperor. Unfortunately, please note that pharmacies are closed on Sundays.
7. Walk along the walls of the town
You will see another stunning view of the city as you wander along the medieval walls surrounding the old town. Once you’ve finished walking along the walls, head to Kiek in De Käk to learn about Tallinn’s defence history. To this day, you can see the cannonballs that Ivan left in the terrible things during the Livonian War.
8. Indulge in the cutest pastry shops in town
After a long day of wandering around the old town, head to the cutest (and tastiest) pastry shops in town Rukis. Located on Viru Street, this pastry shop has lots of seduction, one and three euros, making it difficult to say no!
9. Toompea Castle
Located across from St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is Tompia Castle, which now houses the Estonian Parliament but was an ancient hub that had been in use since the 9th century.
10. Take the ferry day to Helsinki
If you’re visiting Estonia more and haven’t arrived by ferry from Helsinki, take a 2 hour north day trip to Finland! Helsinki is the exact opposite of Tallinn, offering a more urban experience, particularly appealing to design enthusiasts and cafe hunters.
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I flew to Europe with Finnea, arrived in Helsinki (Finland’s capital) at 6am, then took the 2-hour morning ferry to Tallinn. Buy tickets at the Ferry Port and you will receive a return of 35 euros on the Viking Line. This is the easiest/easiest port if you are staying in the heart of Helsinki. The ferry offers free Wi-Fi and affordable food options (though they’re a little far away to be desired!)