Exploring Tallinn: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is a captivating blend of medieval charm and modern innovation. Here’s a list of must-visit attractions that every tourist should include in their itinerary.

1. Tallinn’s Old Town (Vanalinn)

• Toompea Hill: Home to Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and Estonia’s Parliament (Riigikogu). The hill offers panoramic views of the city.
• Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats): The heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, filled with colorful buildings, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
• St. Olav’s Church: One of the tallest medieval structures in the world, although only the lower part is accessible to visitors today.

2. Museums & Galleries

• Kumu Art Museum: Showcases Estonian art from the beginning of the 20th century to the present day. Its modern architecture is a sight to behold.
• Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour): Houses four unique museums: The Estonia Maritime Museum, Saab Aviation Museum, Submarine Lembit, and Mikkel Museum of Political History.
• Tallinn TV Tower (Teletorn): Offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

3. Cultural Experiences

• Estonian Open Air Museum: Experience traditional Estonian life in a beautifully preserved outdoor museum.
• Photography at Sunset at Pirita Beach: Enjoy the stunning sunset over the Baltic Sea at this popular city beach.
• Try Traditional Estonian Cuisine: Don’t miss out on dishes like Black Bread, Blood Sausage (verivors), and Kiluvõileib (cold smoked fish sandwich).

4. Day Trips from Tallinn

• Lahemaa National Park: Explore beautiful landscapes, manor houses, and the coastal cliffs of the Gulf of Finland.
• Tallinna Zooloogiline Aed (Tallinn Zoo): Home to over 140 animal species, it’s a great family-friendly activity.

Practical Tips

• Currency: Euro is widely accepted, but some smaller stores may only accept Estonian Kroons.
• Transportation: Tallinn has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. Taxis are also readily available.
• Language: While many people in Tallinn speak English, knowing a few words of Estonian will be appreciated.