Introduction
Tallinn is the capital city of Estonia, located on the northern coast along the Baltic Sea. It’s best known for its beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and ancient city walls. Tallinn has a rich history as a key trading hub in the Hanseatic League during the middle Ages.
- Viru Gate – The Historic Entry Point
Your journey often begins at Viru Gate, once the main entrance into the medieval city. The twin stone towers, part of the original 14th-century wall, instantly transport visitors back in time. Once used to defend the town from invaders, they now welcome travelers into the bustling streets of the Old Town. Beyond the gate lies a pedestrian street lined with shops, cafés, and flower vendors, providing a gentle introduction to the historic center.
- Town Hall Square (Raekoja Plats)
At the heart of Old Town lies Raekoja Plats, the Town Hall Square. This was once the main market and gathering place for medieval Tallinn. Colorful merchant houses, cozy cafés, and the famous Tallinn Town Hall surround the square, Europe is only surviving Gothic-style town hall. Its spire, topped with the weather vane known as Old Thomas, is one of Tallinn’s most iconic symbols. The square is especially lively during summer festivals and the Christmas market.
- Tallinn Town Hall – A Gothic Masterpiece
Built in the early 15th century, the Tallinn Town Hall is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Inside, you can explore historical rooms where the city council met, view ancient murals, and admire the impressive wooden ceiling. The tower can be climbed during warmer months for panoramic views of the Old Town’s red-tiled roofs and church spires.
- Raeapteek – Europe’s Oldest Pharmacy
Right on the Town Hall Square is Raeapteek, one of the oldest continuously operating pharmacies in Europe, first mentioned in 1422. It once sold everything from herbal remedies to powdered unicorn horn. Today, you can visit the small museum inside to see medieval medical tools and recipes, and even buy herbal teas or remedies still sold under traditional names.
- St. Catherine’s Passage – A Hidden Gem
Tucked between Vene and Muurivahe streets lies St. Catherine’s Passage, a beautifully preserved medieval alleyway. Here, the atmosphere of old Tallinn is palpable, with stone walls, archways, and artisan workshops housed in historic buildings. This quiet lane also leads to St. Catherine’s Monastery, one of the oldest buildings in the city, dating back to the 13th century.
- Dominican Monastery and Courtyard
A short walk from St. Catherine’s Passage brings you to the Dominican Monastery, another relic of Tallinn’s medieval religious life. Founded in 1246, the monastery once played a significant role in the spiritual and educational life of the city. Its peaceful courtyard and cloisters offer a serene escape from the bustling streets and a deeper understanding of monastic life in the Middle Ages.
- St. Olaf’s Church – Once the Tallest in the World
St. Olaf’s Church is one of Tallinn’s most impressive landmarks. Originally built in the 12th century and expanded in the 14th, it was once the tallest building in the world, with a spire reaching over 150 meters. It served both as a house of worship and a maritime landmark for sailors. You can climb its steep tower steps for one of the best views of the Old Town and Tallinn’s modern skyline.
- Toompea Hill – The Upper Town
Climbing up to Toompea Hill reveals a different side of Tallinn—the Upper Town, once home to the nobility and the seat of power. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Lower Town and the Gulf of Finland. Historically, the two parts of the city were divided by class, with merchants and artisans living below and aristocrats above.
Key sites on Toompea include:
- Toompea Castle, now housing the Estonian Parliament.
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a striking Russian Orthodox church with onion domes.
- St. Mary’s Cathedral (Dome Church), a medieval Lutheran church with noble family coats of arms lining its walls.
- Kohtuotsa and Patkuli Viewing Platforms
No medieval walk is complete without visiting the Kohtuotsa and Patkuli viewing platforms. These spots, both on Toompea Hill, offer breathtaking panoramic views of Tallinn’s Old Town—its spires, red rooftops, and city walls, with the sea and modern skyline beyond. It’s a perfect place to pause, take photos, and reflect on the centuries of history beneath your feet.
- City Walls and Towers – Defenders of Tallinn
Tallinn once had nearly 2.5 km of fortified walls and over 40 defensive towers. Today, about half of that wall remains, along with more than 20 towers, making it one of the best-preserved medieval defensive systems in Europe.
Where to Stay in Tallinn
- Old Town (Vanalinn)
Best for: First-time visitors, history lovers, and tourists wanting to be in the heart of the action.
- Stay here if you want to walk out your door and be surrounded by medieval buildings, charming cafés, museums, and top sights like Town Hall Square and Toompea Castle.
- Streets can be cobbled and busy, but the atmosphere is unmatched.
Top Picks:
- Hotel Telegraaf – 5-star luxury in a historic building with a spa.
- Hotel Schlössle – Romantic, boutique-style with old-world charm.
- Old Town Alur Hostel – Budget-friendly and social atmosphere.
- City Centre / Viru Area
Best for: Shopping, modern amenities, business travelers.
- Just outside Old Town, this area has modern hotels, shopping malls, and good public transport.
- Easy walk to the Old Town and ferry terminal.
Top Picks:
- Radisson Collection Hotel – High-end, modern comfort with great views.
- Tallink City Hotel – Stylish 4-star hotel with spa and restaurant.
- Hestia Hotel Europa – Great for cruise passengers or ferry travelers.
- Kalamaja
Best for: Hipsters, artists, foodies, and repeat visitors.
- Trendy and laid-back, this area north of the Old Town is known for wooden houses, street art, cafes, and the Telliskivi Creative City.
- Close to the Seaplane Harbour Museum and Balti Jaam Market.
Things to do in Tallinn
- Explore the Old Town (Vanalinn)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tallinn’s Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.
- Walk the cobblestone streets and admire Gothic architecture
- Visit Town Hall Square and Tallinn Town Hall
- Discover St. Catherine’s Passage, Viru Gate, and medieval merchant houses
- Climb Toompea Hill
This upper section of the Old Town offers some of the city’s best views and historic landmarks.
- Visit Toompea Castle, home of the Estonian Parliament
- Explore Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and St. Mary’s Cathedral
- Enjoy panoramic views from Kohtuotsa and Patkuli viewing platforms
- Walk the City Walls
Get a taste of Tallinn’s medieval defenses by walking the preserved city walls and towers.
- Climb Hellemann Tower for city views
- Visit Kiek in de Kok and explore its underground passages
- See Fat Margaret Tower, now part of the Maritime Museum
- Lahemaa National Park
Best for: Nature lovers, hikers, history buffs
Travel time: ~1 hour by car
Highlights:
- Estonia’s largest and oldest national park
- Hike scenic bog trails like Viru Bog
- Visit historic manor houses like Palmse, Sagadi, and Vihula
- Explore the charming coastal fishing villages of Altja and Käsmu
How to get there:
- Join a guided tour (many depart daily from Tallinn)
- Rent a car for flexibility
- Public transport available but less convenient
- Rakvere Castle
Best for: Families, medieval history fans
Travel time: ~1.5 hours by car or bus
Highlights:
- Explore a 13th-century castle turned interactive museum
- Try archery, sword fighting, and alchemy labs
- Fun for kids and adults with medieval costumes and exhibits
How to get there:
- Direct buses from Tallinn (~1h 40m), then a short walk
- Or drive for flexibility
- Parnu – Estonia’s Summer Capital
Best for: Beach lovers, spa-goers, laid-back travel
Travel time: ~2 hours by car or bus
Highlights:
- Relax on the long sandy beach
- Explore cute cafés and boutiques in the old town
- Treat yourself to a wellness day at a spa hotel
- Visit the Parnu Museum to learn about local history
How to get there:
- Frequent buses from Tallinn Bus Station
- Train less frequent but possible via nearby stops
