Explore the Medieval City of Tallinn in Estonia
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a charming city soaked in history and culture. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has cobblestone streets, beautiful churches, and medieval architecture. But Tallinn has much more to offer than just its Old Town. From modern art galleries to beautiful parks and gardens, Tallinn has plenty of things to see and do. In this blog post, we will explore some of the top sights and attractions you should add to your itinerary when visiting Tallinn. So grab your waddling shoes and get ready to explore this beautiful city!
The map below shows all the spots we saved to explore in Tallinn. We managed the majority of it as most are within walking distance.
Let’s look at what you should not miss when coming to Tallinn.
Linnanhall
You can find a multi-purpose venue near the beautiful old town of Tallinn. Linnahall is a unique and historically significant building located in Tallinn, Estonia. Linnahall was built in 1980 for the sailing events of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Today, it remains a symbol of Estonia’s Soviet past and a testament to its architectural heritage.
Estonian Maritime Museum
If you’re interested in maritime history and technology, visiting the Lennusadam Tallinn Museum is a must. Located in an old seaplane hangar at the seaplane harbor, the museum offers a unique and fascinating look into Estonia’s naval and maritime heritage. And even if you are less into maritime history, the museum is worth visiting. Apart from a lot of history, there is even more interaction you can try out.
Vanalinn
Vanalinn or Old Town, we do not even have to mention as the thing you should do. The beautiful alleys it hides are a sight for the eyes. It reminded us of Alghero a little. From the square to the colorful doors, it’s beautiful.
Town Hall
When in the main square, it’s hard to miss the Town Hall of Tallinn. It’s one of the most iconic buildings in Estonia’s capital city. The Town Hall dates back to the 13th century, and it’s been the hub of the city’s administrative and social activities ever since. Inside, you’ll find a museum dedicated to the history of Tallinn, featuring a range of exhibits and artifacts that showcase the city’s past. You can also waddle up to the top of the tower for some fantastic views of the surrounding area. The Town Hall hosts various events and activities throughout the year, from concerts and art exhibitions to cultural festivals and food markets. It’s a true centerpiece of Tallinn’s vibrant community and certainly worth a visit.
Freedom Square
You can find Freedom Square at the western end of Tallinn’s Old Town. It’s a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. The square is named after the Estonian War of Independence, which ended in 1920 and led to the country’s freedom from Russian rule. One of the most prominent features of Freedom Square is the tall pillar in the center, topped by a statue of the “Victory Angel.” This monument was erected in 2009 to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the War of Independence. Several important buildings surround the square, including the Estonian National Opera and the Bank of Estonia. Many events occur here throughout the year – from concerts and festivals to political rallies and demonstrations.
Viewing Platforms
Tallinn offers various viewing platforms, each providing a unique panorama perspective, so it’s a good idea to leave enough time to see a few while you’re here. It’s our favorite part of the city. We usually climb a church tower to get a beautiful view, but Tallinn has three beautiful platforms offering stunning views.
The Towers and Gates of Tallinn
When you waddle around Tallinn, you will feel like you are returning to the Middle Ages. It is a mesmerizing city full of history. Once, it was Europe’s greatest fortified city. Tallinn has altogether 46 defense towers and approximately 4 kilometers of surrounding walls. Feels like the Dubrovnik of the North. Today, about 26 towers and about 2 kilometers of walls are still in place. Let’s explore which one you can waddle to when exploring the old town.
Kadriorg Park
Kadriorg Park in Tallinn is a stunning and historic destination that draws locals and tourists alike. And we wanted to waddle around as well. The park’s natural beauty and historical significance make it an ideal place to explore. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the park’s history, some fun facts, and what to see during your visit. We enjoyed our waddle for sure.
Walls of Tallinn
If there are walls we can waddle, we never think twice about it. And the Walls of Tallinn are a magnificent sight to behold. They have stood for centuries and have been witness to countless historical events. They were built in the 13th century to protect Tallinn from foreign invaders. Today, they are one of the main tourist attractions in Tallinn and are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Check out our waddle.
Balti Jaam Market in Tallin
Balti Jaam Market is a bustling marketplace that you can find in the heart of Tallinn, Estonia. The market has a long history, established in the late 19th century. Today, it is one of the most popular destinations in Tallinn, attracting visitors from all over the world. Let’s explore what makes Balti Jaam Market a unique and exciting destination apart from the food.
Churches of Tallinn
Tallinn is a beautiful city known for its medieval Old Town and picturesque views of the Baltic Sea. It’s also a city that has a rich religious history. Thus, the many churches you can find here. It is home to several beautiful churches, each with its unique story and architectural style. When you go to one of the viewing platforms, you can tell there is more than one church in the city. Let’s have a closer look at them.
From the medieval streets of the Old Town to the modern art galleries and beautiful parks, there is something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you’re here for a short city break or a longer vacation, be sure to take in some of the top sights and attractions we’ve covered in this blog post. And remember to explore beyond the beaten path and discover the many hidden gems that Tallinn offers. With its unique blend of old and new, Tallinn is a city that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. It left an imprint on us.
Waddle on and explore Tallinn!
