Tallinn, Estonia

🇪🇪 Welcome to Tallinn – A Medieval Gem in the Baltic

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is often described as a storybook city with its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and colorful buildings. While it feels like stepping back in time, Tallinn is also a dynamic hub of innovation, especially known for its thriving tech scene. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers travelers a delightful combination of history, culture, art, and modern amenities.


🏙️ Top Attractions in Tallinn

  • 🏰 Tallinn Old Town (Vanalinn)
    The heart of Tallinn, where medieval history comes alive. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Toompea Castle, and the Town Hall Square, with its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.

  • 🏛️ Kumu Art Museum
    One of the largest and most important art museums in the Baltic, housing Estonian art from the 18th century to contemporary works.

  • 🕍 Tallinn TV Tower
    Offering breathtaking views of Tallinn and its surrounding landscape, including the Gulf of Finland. The tower also has interactive exhibits and a glass-floored observation deck.

  • 🌿 Kadriorg Palace & Park
    A beautiful Baroque palace built for the Russian tsar Peter the Great. It now houses the Estonian Art Museum and is surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

  • 🚢 Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam)
    A maritime museum housed in a stunning seaplane hangar, with interactive exhibits, historic ships, and submarines. Great for families.

  • 🏛️ St. Olaf’s Church
    Once the tallest building in the world in the 16th century, this Gothic church offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

  • 🏙️ Telliskivi Creative City
    A former industrial complex transformed into a vibrant cultural center filled with street art, hipster cafes, design shops, and galleries.

  • 🧘 Pikalao Beach
    Tallinn has several small beaches, and Pikalao is one of the most popular for sunbathing and a relaxing day by the water in the summer.


🍽️ What to Eat & Drink in Tallinn

  • 🍖 Kohuke
    A sweet, chocolate-covered curd snack that’s a beloved local treat. Great for a quick pick-me-up.

  • 🥧 Kama
    A traditional Estonian dish made from a mix of roasted barley, oats, and peas. It's usually served as a dessert mixed with kefir or yogurt.

  • 🍞 Rye Bread (Rukkileib)
    Dark, hearty, and flavorful, this bread is a staple in Estonian cuisine and often served with butter, cheese, or meats.

  • 🥩 Verivorst
    Blood sausage, typically served with potatoes and sauerkraut, a hearty and traditional Estonian dish enjoyed especially during winter holidays.

  • 🍷 Estonian Craft Beer
    Estonia has a booming craft beer scene. Try local beers at small breweries like Põhjala Brewery or Kuker Brewery.

  • 🍸 Vana Tallinn
    A famous Estonian liqueur made from rum, herbs, and spices, often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink.


🏨 Where to Stay in Tallinn

  • 🌟 Luxury: Hotel Telegraaf
    A 5-star hotel housed in a historic building in the Old Town, offering luxury, sophistication, and a blend of modern amenities with classic style.

  • 🏨 Mid-Range: Swissôtel Tallinn
    A modern and stylish hotel offering breathtaking views of the city, luxurious facilities, and great service.

  • 🏠 Boutique: St. Petersbourg Hotel
    A charming boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Town with elegant interiors and personalized service.

  • 🛏️ Budget: Red Emperor Hostel
    Located in the Old Town, offering budget-friendly accommodations with a lively and welcoming atmosphere for backpackers.

📅 Best Time to Visit Tallinn

Season Months What to Expect
🌸 Spring April–June Mild weather, blooming flowers, fewer crowds, perfect for outdoor exploration.
☀️ Summer June–August Pleasant temperatures, festivals, long daylight hours — the city is vibrant and busy.
🍂 Autumn September–November Crisp air, golden leaves, and fewer tourists. The ideal time for a quieter visit.
❄️ Winter December–February Cold, snowy weather with festive Christmas markets and winter activities.

🧭 Travel Tips for Tallinn

  • 🌍 Language: Estonian is the official language, but most people speak excellent English, especially in tourist areas.

  • 💰 Currency: Euro (EUR). Tallinn is relatively affordable compared to many other European capitals.

  • 🚇 Transport:
    Tallinn has a reliable public transport system (buses, trams, and trolleybuses). Consider purchasing the Tallinn Card, which offers free access to public transport, museums, and discounts on attractions.

  • 🏙️ Walkability: Tallinn is very walkable, especially in the Old Town, so don’t hesitate to explore on foot. The cobbled streets are charming but can be slippery in winter.

  • 💻 Digital Nomads: Tallinn is known for its e-Residency program and has a thriving digital nomad community. Many cafes and co-working spaces cater to remote workers.

  • 🧳 Day Trips:

    • Lahemaa National Park: A vast and picturesque park known for its manor houses, forests, and coastal scenery.

    • Paldiski: A former Soviet military town with a rugged coastline and mysterious, deserted buildings.

📊 Traveler Ratings (Out of 10)

Category Rating Why It Matters
🏞️ Scenic Beauty 9/10 Picture-perfect medieval streets, coastal views, and lush parks.
🏛️ Attractions 8.5/10 Rich in history, culture, and modern museums.
🍽️ Food & Drink 8/10 Traditional flavors with a mix of modern and local cuisine.
💸 Affordability 8/10 Tallinn is quite affordable, especially in comparison to other Nordic capitals.
🚖 Transport 8.5/10 Easy-to-navigate public transport, including the Tallinn Card.
🏨 Accommodation Variety 8/10 A good mix of affordable and boutique options in the heart of the city.
🎭 Culture & History 9/10 Fascinating mix of medieval and Soviet history, modern culture, and art.
❤️ Romantic Appeal 8/10 Perfect for a romantic weekend getaway with cobbled streets and cozy cafes.
👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly 8.5/10 Plenty of activities, parks, and attractions for children and families.
☀️ Weather 7.5/10 Beautiful summers but cold, snowy winters.