Travel

Things to do in Tallinn

Tallinn, Estonia’s stunning capital city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modern innovation. Nestled on the shores of the Baltic Sea, Tallinn boasts a UNESCO-listed Old Town, cobblestone streets, and medieval towers. I’ve prepared a Tallinn travel guide for you, which i hope you will find it useful. 

Things to do for a city break in Tallinn

Tallinn attractions (take a screenshot of this, if you are in a hurry) 😊 :

  1. Tallinn Old Town, called Vanallin in Estonian. Key landmarks:
    1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
    2. Viru Gate
    3. St Catherine’s Passage
    4. Pikk Street 
    5. Saiakang Street
  2. Estonian Open Air Museum, located in the surroundings of Tallinn. Take note that here you can rent bikes and have a picnic.
  3. Town Hall Square ( Raekoja plats).
  4. Rotermann Quarter.
  5. Telliskivi Creative City.
  6. Kadriorg Park and Palace.
  7. Kalamaja District.

Tallinn Old Town – Vanallin

Tallinn’s old town is called Vanallin and it’s something you don’t want to miss while visiting the capital of Estonia. It’s the historical heart of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Tallinn it’s considered one of the Europe’s best preserved historical cities. As you wander through Vanalinn’s narrow, cobbled streets, you’ll encounter a myriad of architectural marvels, each with its own unique story.

Spots not to miss around Tallinn’s Old Town:

  1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  2. Viru Gate
  3. St Catherine’s Passage
  4. Pikk Street 
  5. Saiakang Street

Take your time and enjoy your walk in Tallinn’s Old Town. 

things to do in Tallinn St Catherine's Passage
St Catherine's Passage Tallin
things to do in Tallinn Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn Old Town
things to do in Tallinn St Catherine's Passage
St Catherine's Passage
Viru Gate
Viru Gate Tallin

Estonian Open Air Museum

Located near Tallinn, is a captivating outdoor destination that preserves and showcases traditional Estonian rural life and architecture. Here you can see well-preserved wooden buildings, skilled interpreters in traditional attire, and interactive workshops, and dive into Estonia’s cultural heritage. It’s a very nice and educational experience for all ages. There is also a restaurant on site, where you can eat if you are not a picnic lover.

Important: if you are a picnic lover, then take everything you need with you, because at Estonian Open Air Museum  are few locations that allow visitors to have a picnic.  We, personally, loved the experience. ❤️

Tickets  :

  • 12 €/per adult (buy there or online  – there is no queue, so it doesn’t matter)

You can also rent a bicycle (which i highly recommend, because the place is huge) and it will cost you 5€/bicycle + 10 € a deposit which you will receive back when you leave.

It’s definitely worth it to spend 17 €/per person ( +10€ the deposit ) to visit this open museum, we had such a good time here.  

things to do in Tallinn Estonian Open Air Museum
Estonian Open Air Museum
things to do in Tallinn Estonian Open Air Museum
Estonian Open Air Museum
things to do in Tallinn picnic at Estonian Open Air Museum
picnic at Estonian Open Air Museum

Town Hall Square – Raekoja plats

Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) is the vibrant heart of Tallinn’s Old Town. The square is surrounded by stunning medieval buildings and dominated by the impressive Town Hall, a Gothic masterpiece.

It hosts street performances, festivals, and open-air markets, maybe you will be lucky the catch one. 

With its picturesque ambiance and lively atmosphere, Town Hall Square is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Tallinn’s enchanting past.

Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn Old Town
things to do in Tallinn Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn Old Town

Telliskivi Creative City

Is a thriving and dynamic urban district that exudes creativity and innovation.

It was once an industrial complex, and has been transformed into a hub of art, design, culture, and gastronomy. You can explore art galleries, boutique shops, cafes, restaurants and even live music. 

If you are fond of street art and graffiti, you will love it here. 

Telliskivi Creative City
Telliskivi Creative City
Telliskivi Creative City
Telliskivi Creative City
Telliskivi Creative City
Telliskivi Creative City

Where to eat in Tallinn 

The following restaurants and cafes are the one’s that I’ve been to during my city break in Tallinn, of course there are many more to explore. 
  • Mere Resto – very nice and elegant terrace with very good sushi. P.S.: you must try the blueberry lemonade, it’s delicious!
  • Pegasus  – it’s a nice restaurant with very good food
  • Goodwin – it’s a franchise, known for delicious food ( steak, wings, pork iberico ). P.S: don’t miss the fried potatoes with mushrooms, they are soo yummy!
  • Cafe Maiasmokk – the oldest cafe in Tallinn, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a coffee here!
Cafe Maiasmokk
Cafe Maiasmokk
Mere Restro
Mere Restro
Goodwin wings
Goodwin wings
Goodwin apple pie
Goodwin apple pie - deliciuos!

In case Tallinn it’s not on your list yet, you can also check my other articles about BrasovAlicanteLondon, Pompeii and other destinations💕.

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