Posted on Tuesday, 15 August 2023

Estonia's enchanting capital lies on the shores of the Baltic Sea, and is an increasingly popular city break destination for Brits.

The combination of affordable prices (a pint of excellent local beer is just £2), historic buildings, supercool art museums, and genial locals makes Tallinn a winning getaway option.

When is the best time to visit Tallinn?

In summer, Tallinn's seaside terraces are open, the harbour is alive with pleasure craft, and the days are long and often sunny.

As you might imagine, this northeast European capital gets a little cooler in Autumn, but it's still well worth exploring: and there are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy if it gets too chilly.

Winter visits, too, have their charm: Blanketed in snow, Tallinn with its iconic towers has a fairytale quality.

Getting around: Public transport and the Tallinn Card

A compact city of under 500,000 people, Tallinn is easy to explore on public transport.

If you plan to visit three or more museums, it's worth getting the Tallinn Card, which also allows you to use the public transport network for free!

Bicycle rental

You can also rent a bicycle inexpensively.

While your speed may be impeded by the cobbled roads of the Old Town, once you're out on the promenade you'll have plenty of space and a flat, smooth surface.

Tallinn's Old Town

The old quarter of the city is atmospheric and a little unreal.

At first glance, the majestic 14th century buildings may look like a movie set - but they're all genuine.

Town Hall

The 14th century Town Hall, located on the Town hall Square, recently celebrated its 700th anniversary - making it the oldest town hall in northern Europe.

Town Hall Pharmacy

Pharmacies are seldom tourist attractions, but this one is a little different: it boasts a museum room filled with antique medicines.

Centuries ago, merchants would meet here to discuss business over a glass or two of spiced red wine. Today, you can still buy a bottle of the good stuff (but only for take away!).

Towers: Kiek in de Kok Fortifications Museum

Many of Tallinn's 46 defence towers are linked by a mighty buttressed wall. The best place to climb one is at the Kiek in de Kok Fortifications Museum.

As well as tower climbing, there's a three-in-one museum that gives you a grounding in the history of Tallinn, and Estonia more broadly.

The museum also features a walkable section of wall, part of which overlooks the lofty St Nicholas Church and the Danish King's Garden.

Kiek in de Kok also gives you access to a network of mediaeval tunnels, complete with ancient and spooky stonework. 

Given all the things you can see and do in Kiek in de Kok Fortifications Museum, it's probably the best value attraction in the city.

Tallinn viewing platforms

A number of special viewing platforms afford excellent views over key parts of the city. As you might expect, a strenuous ascent is necessary - but it's worth the effort!

Popular platforms include Kohtuotsa and Patkuli.

St Olaf's Church

It's possible to climb to the top of four of Tallinn's main churches. The best of these, arguably, is St Olaf's, with its 123m tall spire and platform with breathtaking 360-degree views.

The only downside of visiting St Olaf's loftier reaches is the 258-step climb!

Gelato Ladies ice cream parlour

Tallinn summers can get rather hot, giving you the perfect excuse to cool down with an ice cream from Gelato Ladies.

These delicious Italian-style treats are sure to give you a sugary energy boost.

Beyond the Old Town

Teleskivi

As a stark counterpoint to the Old Town, Teleskivi is a cool collection of rejuvenated old buildings where you can enjoy all kinds of art, crafts, and on-trend food.

You can find everything from burgers served in Estonian rye bread to quality IPAs and excellent local wines.

Teleskivi is also a great place to do a little people watching over an al fresco coffee. 

A dazzling array of street art murals await discovery as you explore the back alleys of this enticing area.

Fotografiska

This superbly curated photography museum is a must-visit, especially if you're into photography.

And while most museums are keen for visitors to buy a coffee and some cake, Fotografiska takes this to a whole new level: the entire ground floor is vast, modern and super-cool cafe - an attraction in its own right. 

If you're feeling peckish, head to the top floor restaurant which specialises in sustainable cuisine.

And the rooftop terrace bar is a great place to end your evening.

Kadriorg Park

One of Estonia's most magnificent palaces is located in Tallinn's Kadriorg Park, comprising 70 hectares of superbly maintained gardens.

The palace itself was built by Peter the Great for his wife, Catherine the First, as a summer residence.

The ballroom is a highlight of this opulent Baroque masterpiece.

KUMU Art Museum

In Kadriorg Park you'll also find one of Estonia's principal modern art museums - KUMA.

This vast modern building is cut into a limestone cliff and is an attraction in itself. It houses four floors and 13 rooms of art, mostly of Estonian origin. 

Walk to the Russalka memorial

A walk along the park to the Russalka memorial, then on to the Reidi Road promenade, is best enjoyed in the evening.

Watching the sun go down over Tallinn Bay is something the entire city - seemingly - comes out for!

Credit: anrymos - stock.adobe.com

Noblessner: contemporary food and drink

A former submarine shipyard, Noblessner is now one of the most exciting and trendy parts of the city. People gather here at the waterfront bars and restaurants, surrounded by gleaming yachts.

Just 25 minutes from the city centre, Noblessner actually feels a long way from the urban sprawl.

If you're looking for some exciting, contemporary cuisine, Noblessner has an array of options - including Lore Bistro, which has retained many pipes and fittings from its original use, giving it a wonderfully industrial feel.

Credit: olgagorovenko - stock.adobe.com

Seaplane Harbour

This vast museum features hundreds of nautical displays, including a decommissioned submarine that you can enter and explore.

There's also a century-old steam-powered ship outside the museum - which you can also board.

 

Where to stay in Tallinn?

Hotels in Tallinn

Hotels in Tallinn, Estonia, include a wide range of luxurious options, many of which cost much less than comparable establishments in the UK. 

The Savoy Boutique Hotel

The Savoy Boutique Hotel is stylish and romantic, and located in the heart of the Old Town.

It has also been a three-time winner of 'Boutique Hotel in Estonia' from the World Travel Awards. Around £80pn.

The Schlössle Hotel

The Schlössle Hotel is a five-star hotel situated in a 13th-century merchant's house. Both Queen Elizabeth II and Status Quo have stayed here. Around £160pn.

The Kreutzwald Hotel Tallinn

The Kreutzwald Hotel Tallinn is a more affordable option, located on the edge of the main revelry zone - so you might get some sleep! About £65pn.

 

Best spas in Tallinn

Tallinn is also home to a number of excellent spas.

Mustamäe Elamus Spa in Kadaka offers a full Turkish bath experience, while Thai Lotus Spa presents a slightly less bruising encounter!

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