Tallinn pocket guide.
Located in the far north of the Baltics, the Estonian capital has emerged as one of the most vibrant destinations in Europe. Characterised by small cobbled lanes, colourful baroque townhouses, and towering churches, Tallinn’s picturesque Old Town is a true medieval beauty.
Modern-day Tallinn is a thriving cultural hub that encompasses influences from across Europe, with its very own distinct spin. From re-vamping old industrial spaces to taking up arms in the craft beer revolution, the younger generations of Estonians are steadfast and perceptive to changing trends, which helps bolster the city as one of the coolest capitals throughout Europe.
🏰 Sights, Culture + Experiences.
One of the best preserved medieval settlements in Europe, a series of winding cobbled streets and quaint alleyways comprise the Old Town. An enchanting place, visitors come here to immerse themselves in the rich history of the Estonian capital.
Looming over the skyline of the Old Town, St. Olaf's Church draws inspiration from Gothic architecture, however is distinctly more vibrant and colourful than your average church constructed in this style.
The imposing fortified castle of Toompea (📷) straddles the western border of the historic Old Town parameters, and is replete with numerous towers affording excellent views across the city. In the shadow of Toompea, the Danish King's Garden is fascinating. Statues of shadowy cloaked figures are scattered across the garden in various poses, creating a surreal ambience and old-world vibe.
There are numerous spots throughout Old Town that exemplify its medieval foundations, but few are as immersive and picturesque as St. Catherine's Passage and the Masters' Courtyard. Both of these quaint lanes are incredibly popular tourist attractions, with charming cafes and chocolatiers adorning Masters' Courtyard, whilst visitors marvel at artists hard at work crafting various utensils from open-plan workshops on St. Catherine's Passage.
Before departing Tallinn, hit up one of the amazing viewpoints dotted throughout the city for a picture-perfect snap of the town; Patkuli Viewing Platform (📷) being the best of the bunch.
Venturing outside of the well-established tourist area yields some of the most rewarding and unique experiences in Tallinn. What was once a decaying disused factory complex is now home to the flourishing community at Telliskivi Creative City (📷). Tallinn's alternative crowd have planted firm roots here, resulting in a vibrant and exhilarating venue for events and weekly open-air markets, which entice all generations of Estonians to mingle and create memories.
Further to the east of Old Town, the opulent Kadriorg Park is a worthy place to spend a balmy summer afternoon. Home to a charming palace and perfectly tended gardens, aimlessly wander through the park and take a deep breath to relax after your time partying in the Old Town.
🍸 Bars + Nightlife.
Nightlife in Tallinn is amongst the most eclectic and diverse in Northern Europe. Everything from classy bespoke speak-easy style bars to bustling nightclubs have surged here in recent years, with party-going Estonians putting in tonnes of effort to vitalise the after-hours scene.
For a chilled out night of great conversations and good music, head down to Pööbel on the fringes of the Old Town. The homey decor of this pub will make you feel at ease instantaneously, combined with chat from friendly locals, you may find yourself staying here for a full evening.
A similar rustic chic vibe radiates from Manna la Roosa, a buzzing hotspot for locals and tourists alike that opens late on weekends, bringing locals and tourists together at one of the coolest restaurant-bars in Tallinn.
Located in the Creative City complex, craft beer connoisseurs are in for a real treat when they stop by Pudel Baar (📷). The sleek, minimalist interior of this trendy bar boasts a cosy atmosphere; thanks in due part to the natural light pouring through large windows and knowledgeable, welcoming staff.
Across town, the chic wine bar Paar Veini is open until 5am at weekends, and draws a youthful crowd. Start off your evening here, or settle in for the night and enjoy frequent live performances from DJs.
There are a few nightclubs in Tallinn if you find yourself itching to dance the night away whilst in the city. The huge dancefloor of Club Hollywood is the setting for many boozy nights on the town, with locals descending upon this ritzy club at the weekend to let loose to some thumping house music. If you are considering a clubbing experience that is slightly more intimate and off-the-beaten path, definitely make a point of checking out Club Mynt, which hosts frequent events.
🍔 Food + Drink.
When eating out in Tallinn, expect to get excellent value for money, even in the tourist-centric Old Town. The charming Rataskaevu 16 is an extremely popular spot for lunch and dinner in the Old Town, it has established its reputation as a go-to spot by whipping up delicious food at an agreeable price. As much as its game meat dishes are praised, it is equally adored for its delicious cakes and desserts.
Travelling vegetarians want to make sure to take a note of firm favourite Von Krahli Aed for their itinerary. Serving up delightful veggie and vegan friendly cuisine in warm and welcoming setting, this spot is a highlight for all.
Tallinn is a haven for budget travellers who are looking to restrict their expenditure on food, as some of the best spots in town reflect unbeatable value. Back in the Creative City, the ramshackle interior of staple restaurant F-Hoone is constantly abuzz with locals and tourists kick-starting their day by enjoying simple, good food at a wallet-friendly price, with hot sandwiches beginning from €3.50.
Eye-catching exotic decor at Tai Boh (📷), a must visit for Asian cuisine in Tallinn.
A hidden gem of Tallinn's Old Town is the cutesy cafe Kohvik August, welcoming guests to relax in the charming rainbow coloured interior and enjoy the freshly baked sweet pastries.
Exhibiting an interesting blend of cuisines, hip restaurant Sfäär Resto draws the basis of its menu upon traditional Nordic cuisine paired with new approaches to traditional Estonian food, with evident influences of Italian food peppered in. As much of a hodge-podge as it sounds, the dishes have gone down a treat with local people.
💤 Accommodation.
Regardless of your budget, Tallinn is a very affordable city to visit no matter what your travel type. Backpackers will rejoice as there are a handful of lively and cheap hostels in the city that are held in high regard. Those who are looking for private accommodation within breaking the bank can find classy, upmarket hotels from below £100.00 per night with great ease, and people who love a good pampering can also access top-of-the-range luxury hotels for below £200.00 per night.
💰 Dorms from £12.00 per night.
💰 Dorms from £12.00 per night.
💰 Rooms from £73.00 per night.
💰 Rooms from £96.00 per night.
Rounding off.
You may be surprised by just how hip and bustling Tallinn actually is. It is only in recent years that mainstream tourism has finally began to gravitate towards Estonia and the Baltics, and has built serious momentum.
After gaining independence from Russia in 1918, Estonians have worked tirelessly in an attempt to re-vitalise their community in a way that would reflect the true Estonian culture and propel its people into the modern age, whilst retaining and preserving its rich and vibrant history.
If you have never invested time exploring everything that Tallinn has to offer, now is the time, because the word is most definitely out. With burgeoning nightlife and numerous trendy bars cropping up, alongside cheap flights from across Europe, Tallinn is well overdue its day in the spotlight, and is certainly on the right path.
