TALLINN – between the poles of history and creativity

Tallinn, Estonia’s capital between the poles of history and creativity, cannot be described with a handful of corny attributes and some stock catchphrases.

St Michael's Church in Tallinn
Besides many lovely and alluring things, there is also a bit of creepy to see in Tallinn – which makes the city even more intriguing.

Overall, by the standard categories, this city is far too diverse, its past too changeful, its faith too inconsistent, its present too dynamic, and its future definitely too promising. In conclusion, a hub between the poles of history and creativity.

Estonia is the northernmost of the three Baltic States. Hence, culturally and language-wise, there are close relations with Finland whereas historically, there are multiple cultural ties to Germany through the German Baltic states.

One of many cobblestone streets in the historic walled center of Tallinn
One of many cobblestone streets in the historic walled center.

Just like its southern neighbors Latvia and Lithuania, Estonia made it through an everchanging history during which the eras of freedom and independence were shockingly short, namely from 1918 to 1940 and now again since 1991.

Estonia’s Past

Like the other two Baltics, Estonia was occupied by the German knights in the 13th century.
However, over the centuries, Estonians were under Danish, Swedish, and Russian supremacy.

From the Middle Ages until well into the 19th century, there was a hegemony of German merchants. Also, Estonian culture and architecture were under strong German influence. Especially since Tallinn – then under its old name Reval – was an important and active member of the Hanseatic League.

Note: If you want to learn more about this powerful predecessor of the European community, read my post on Lübeck, the North German queen of the Hanseatic League.

Only after the end of WWI in 1918, Estonia gained independence. This lasted only a couple of years till 1940 when Nazi-Germany and the Soviet Union agreed in their Hitler-Stalin-Pact the Baltic should henceforth exist under the Soviet hegemony.

Street in Tallinn
There’s lots of history in Tallinn – also reflected in the architecture from various epochs.

This era lasted till 1990 as the European iron curtain was lifted.

Estonia’s Present

Only in 1991, as the country got tied up with the Perestroika, the wind of change also blew through Estonia towards further independence. This time, hopefully, for good.

It seems as if Estonia tries to make up for the decades of forced deep slumber as fast as it can – going casually beyond all other European countries. Since the year 2000, the Estonian state has by law guaranteed its citizens access to the internet.

Therefore, there are Wi-Fi access points covering the country’s inhabited areas.  Estonians who still do not have their own computer are entitled to access the net for free at one of 700 public terminals in post offices, libraries, or village shops. Also, all schools are online.
In brief: Estonia has the most Internet connections per capita worldwide.

Becoming an e-Resident

Sounds intriguing and you wanna be in with the in-crowd?
Since the beginning of 2015, Estonia has offered citizens of many countries a so-called e-residency. However, e-residents do not become citizens or residents of Estonia and thus do not receive a residence permit, EU visa, or the right to vote. They get only a digital identity.

For an e-residency, you can apply online, obviously. After a processing time of a few weeks, an examination by the Estonian Border Guard and the payment of a processing fee of 100 €uro, finally, a card with chip and reader can be picked up in Estonia or in many Estonian embassies.
However, the e-residency entitles you mainly to some commercial transactions.
By the way, one of your e-compatriot would be Pope Francis!

Which is even funnier since the majority of Estonians do not belong to any denomination.

However, even today, it’s not all peaches and cream in this land of milk and honey. Despite numerous state programs, it has not been possible to fully integrate the Russian residents who mostly settled in Estonia during the Soviet era. For example, about half of Estonia’s Russian-speaking population doesn’t even have an Estonian passport.

Welcome to Tallinn

It’s somehow symbolic: As you arrive at Tallinn’s Balti Jaam, the main train station, you are at the brink of choosing between history and modernity. Basically like the entire country.

The old city wall - one of Tallinn's most prominent features.
The old city wall – one of Tallinn’s most prominent features.

Hence, you can either dive head over heels into the dreamy historic old town, surrounded by an almost intact city wall. Or you turn west and plunge into the Telliskivi Creative City. Here, with all the startups, creative centers, but also restaurants and bars, Tallinn’s hipsters work hard and play even harder.

But it’s early in the morning, so let’s just explore the traditional, historic part of Tallinn in the morning. We’ll meet up with the in-crowd later on.

Historic Old Town

Tallinn’s Old Town is surrounded by an almost intact city wall with guard towers and barbicans and everything else a classic medieval fairytale town needs.

The center of attention: The medieval Raekoja Plats, Tallinn's town hall square.
The center of attention: The medieval Raekoja Plats, Tallinn’s town hall square.

Although the historic center can be very easily explored walking, if you’re not a regular at your local gym, you might break a sweat since it’s divided into two areas – a lower and an upper town. Since the lower town is one of the best-preserved European medieval towns, it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

Peeping in Kitchens

The first major landmark you’ll spot is actually the city wall. It’s not only beautiful and stately, but it is also possible to walk on a short part that connects the three towers Nunne, Sauna, and Kuldjala on the northern side. Also, some of the towers are open to the public, the Kiek in de Kök being the most important and interesting one. This former cannon tower houses a fascinating museum. The funny name, by the way, stems from the German times and translates to peek in the kitchen – and until this day, the view from the top is grand.

View of Tallinn's Historic Old Town
City with a view: Straight ahead, St. Olaf’s from where you could easily look back at me.

However, coming from the main station, you cross the Šnelli Park and walk almost straight to the main square Raekoja Plats. This town hall square is one of Tallinn’s biggest tourist attractions where you are surrounded by the most amazing buildings of which the Town Hall is only the largest one.

In the very middle of these two rows of houses, a bit hidden, is the Revali Raeapteek, Europe’s oldest pharmacy.
In the very middle of these two rows of houses, a bit hidden, is the Revali Raeapteek, Europe’s oldest pharmacy.

Each of the buildings encircling the square is an architectural masterpiece and tells the most amazing stories. Like for instance the Revali Raeapteek, Europe’s oldest pharmacy, continuously operating since 1422. Just take a peek in since today, it is also a museum.

It is a good idea to walk south to the next corner where you’ll find the Tallinn Tourist Information Center. Here you can get recommendations, maps’n’flyers, book tickets or join a free walking tour – of course, based on tips.

Churches in an Ungodly Place

Right across from the Tourist Info Center is St. Nicholas’. No wonder this church is also a museum.

St. Nicholas' church and museum in historic Tallinn
Waiting for your tour to start, you can already admire the St. Nicholas’ church and museum.

Considering that approximately 70 percent of Estonia’s population does not belong to any denomination, there is clearly an oversupply of houses of worship.

Easter Procession in Tallinn
These are not the 70 percent: A procession at Easter.

However, Tallinn’s transitional eras are also reflected in its variety of confessions.

St. John’s

Starting our walking tour, we firstly admired the facade of the protestant Saint John’s church on the Freedom Square.

St. John's church on Tallinn's Freedom Square.
St. John’s church on Tallinn’s Freedom Square.

According to religion in Northern Germany, following the time of the Reformation, Estonia turned to Lutheranism, and this beautiful yellow church was built from 1862 to 1967 in neo-Gothic style.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

As you walk up the Komandandi tee to the upper part of town, you cannot miss the iconic Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
As seen on thousand pictures of Tallinn: Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Built in typical Russian Revival style between 1894 and 1900 while the country was part of the Russian Empire, to this date, it is not only an important house of worship to the local Russian community, but one of Tallinn’s most important touristic landmarks.

St. Michael’s

Once you’ve made it up here, make sure to take a glimpse at the Swedish St. Michael’s church from the Danish King’s Garden nestled behind the city wall close to the Kiek in de Kök tower.

St Michael's Church in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
A faceless clergyman in front of St. Michael’s.

Actually, the sight is even more impressive with the spooky monk-statues, namely, the faceless clergymen Ambrosius, Bartholomeus, and Claudius.

St. Mary’s Cathedral

Two blocks north you’ll get to the medieval Catholic St. Mary’s Cathedral from the 13th century.

St. Mary's Cathedral in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Good mix of styles: A Gothic building under a Baroque bell tower.

St. Nicholas

In the lower part of town, there is – besides many others – the Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas, the first church built in a Classicist style in the early 19th century.

Sacral treasures inside the St. Nicholas Church in historic Tallinn
Fantastic collection of sacral treasures inside the St. Nicholas Church.

Not to be missed are the church’s valuable iconostases.

Church of the Transfiguration of Our Lord

Another house of God that owns a treasure of iconostases would be the Orthodox Church of the Transfiguration of Our Lord, built in the 13th century.
Initially an abbey, it was reconstructed as the Transfiguration Church in 1732.

The top of the Church of the Transfiguration of Our Lord
The top of every Orthodox Church.

Today, this majestic complex houses not only the grave monument of the holy martyr Bishop St. Platon, but rings also the oldest church bell in Tallinn.

St. Olaf’s

Last but definitely not least, I’d like to introduce St. Olaf’s church, a Baptist church built in the 12th century. It is named after King Olaf II of Norway, also known as Saint Olaf, and used to be the center of the Scandinavian community.
All this is fine and good, however, St. Olaf’s is mainly popular among tourists for its observation platform on the 405-foot tower.

St Olaf's Church in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Nor only can you see all of Tallinn from St. Olaf, you can also see St. Olaf from basically everywhere in Tallinn.

Hard to believe that there is space for some amazing worldly structures between all these houses of God.

City With a View

Although Saint Olaf’s is a very popular outlook, it’s by far not the only opportunity to see the enchanting city of Tallinn from above.

View of Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
It’s all about the views.

Like I said, there are the Lower Old Town and the Upper Town, built on the limestone mountain called Domberg. Actually, till 1877, the Lower and the Upper Towns were separate cities.

Raekoja torn in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
My favorite of all of Tallinn’s many towers is Raekoja torn, the 64-meter high townhall tower that visitors can climb, too.

At the Upper Town, you’ll find many governmental and administrative buildings as well as some embassies such as the German and the Dutch one. But you’ll find also spots that grant a grand view of the city and its outskirts.

The two parts of the city are connected by only a few streets and stairs.

Backyard in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
One of the charming old courtyards where you can relax – or find a truly original souvenir.

Anyway, breathtaking views don’t have to be necessarily from above. Also, the lower part of Tallinn is full of charming alleys and mesmerizing courtyards. In the past, craftsmen were working at their tiny workshops, and craftsmen are still crafting here, albeit mainly artisan craftwork.

Souvenirs: Made by Hand, Made with Love

Handicraft is big in Tallinn. While in Riga it’s all about woolen gloves, here you’ll be amazed by the number and variety of artfully knitted sweaters and vests. Prime quality at reasonable prices.

Sweaters in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Sweaters with this nordic pattern are a beautiful yet very practical souvenir. A gift like this does not only warm the heart.

But also embroidery, broderie anglaise, and ceramics are great.

Woman making pottery in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Truly handmade.

If you prefer to shop for edible souvenirs, you’ll find a variety of artisan pralines, truffles, and chocolates.

Chocolate Store in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Chocolate is a great, however not very lasting gift from Tallinn.

Sampling Sweet…

The famous café Maiasmokk is known for the best marzipan; Estonia’s best marzipan – since Tallinn’s big Hanseatic sister Lübeck is world-famous for the same treat. As they say, competition is good for business.

café Maiasmokk in Tallinn
The staff at the famous café Maiasmokk has taken good care of their guests since 1864.
Estonian Purukook cake at Café Maiasmokk in Tallinn
Piece of cake: A typical Estonian Purukook made of crumbs and filled with cream.

Maiasmokk
Pikk tn 16,
Tallinn
Phone: + 372 – 64 64 079
Email: maiasmokk@orkla.ee

Looking for something more….spirit-ual? Well, Vana Tallinn Liköör, a 40% liqueur based on rum, refined by citric oil, cinnamon, and vanilla might be the perfect gift then.

…And Sampling Hearty

The Olde Hansa is not only a medieval restaurant but also houses a gift shop selling all sort of quirky souvenirs – including booze, of course.

Medieval Shop Olde Hanse in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Medieval Times.

They still prepare food and drinks like in the Hanseatic period. Also, they play music from that era, and the staff dresses accordingly.

Usually, I am not very much into this sort of Disney-fication, but since the Olde Hanse presents itself on the spot as well as on their website with a certain irony, even I find it okay. And I assume that people who are not from northern Europe will just love it.

Olde Hanse
Vana turg 1
10140 Tallinn
Phone: + 372 – 627 90 20
Email: reserve@oldehansa.ee

Museums Not to Be Missed

Since Estonia is looking back at such a dramatic history, it will be of no surprise that there are a couple of museums dealing with the country’s past.

There are the Estonian History Museum Tallinn and the City Museum. At the Vabamu Museum of Occupations and the Freedom Hotel where KGB artifacts like uniforms, cameras, and spy gear are on exhibit, you learn about the difficult times during Soviet rule.

Museum of Estonian Drinking Culture.
There is even a wine tasting included in your visit to the Museum of Estonian Drinking Culture.

If you prefer to deal with the good life, the Museum of Estonian Drinking Culture at the beautiful Luscher & Matiesen Distillery might be for you – including wine tasting. Or you visit the chocolate museum Chocolala and learn about the history of the Estonian chocolate industry since 1806.

We couldn’t have asked for nicer weather when we visited Tallinn in Spring. Though, you see that even if the sunshine should be rather liquid, there’s enough to keep you busy.

Visits to all these museums are free with your Tallinn Card so you should definitely consider getting one when visiting the city.

The Hip Neighborhoods Outside the Walled Center

So yes, I presume that nobody will visit Tallinn without exploring the enchanting old town.

A fine example of the traditional wooden houses in the gentrified neighborhoods of Kalamaja, Noblessner, and Telliskivi.
A fine example of the traditional wooden houses in the gentrified neighborhoods of Kalamaja, Noblessner, and Telliskivi.

However, if you have the time, getting to know the gentrified hip parts is as intriguing.

Telliskivi Creative City in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Getting to know Tallinn, a visit to the Telliskivi Creative City is indispensable.

The hip neighborhoods of Kalamaja, Noblessner, and Telliskivi begin just behind the Balti Jaam railway station.

Once a working-class district, Kalamaja with its old, charming, very nordic wooden buildings is highly sought after as a residential area. Besides, it is also attractive for visitors since they find a great choice of galleries, shops, restaurants, and bars.

Store at Telliskivi
Cool stores selling even cooler furniture and decoration.

Probably the most known part is the Telliskivi Creative City, a former industrial complex. Today, the old, spacious structures are housing agencies, studios, creative companies, but also hip’n’trendy specialty stores.

Telliskivi – A Creative City within a Creative City

It’s a great neighborhood to feast on international cuisine but also on traditional food with a light’n’healthy twist. There are many bars – and as soon as the weather turns from cold to cool, they even offer outside seating; now, ain’t that cool?!

Graffiti in Tallinn
The whole complex is lavishly decorated by ingenious…

If you can adjust your itinerary accordingly, make sure to visit on Saturday when the weekly flea market takes place.

Graffiti in Tallinn
…and powerful street art.

Another, much lesser known hip’n’creative neighborhood is just north of the Fat Margaret tower: The Kultuurikatel, Tallinn’s Creative Hub. From 1913 till 1979, the building housed the city’s central power plant. After the renovation, it is now a venue for exhibitions and festivals, but also for workshops and conferences.

Mural of a man taking a selfie with death
My absolutely favorite piece: Yes, death is on far too many selfies….

One block further is the CCA, Center for Contemporary Arts, founded in 1992 to promote Estonian contemporary art.
They are doing a great job: I’m still thinking back at Estonia’s contribution to the Venice Biennale 2015 where NSFW. A Chairman`s Tale by Jaanus Samma was presented.

Gigantic Head Statues in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Streetart at another very artsy district close to the waterfront.


However, the center, as well as the art they are promoting, will probably rather take people by the storm who are really into contemporary and maybe a bit quirky art.

Kadriorg Park

Art – yes, but quirky?! Well, if you are interested to see some more pleasing exhibits, there are two very nice venues a short ride from the old center. And they are set in a very pleasing environment, too: The Kadriorg Park.

The Kadriorg Palace
The Kadriorg Palace, a Baroque structure, commissioned by Peter the Great and built from 1718 till 1736.

The Kadriorg Park was first laid out in the early 18th century by Russian Tsar Peter I. Over the centuries, elements from the 19th and 20th centuries were added.

For a pleasant stroll in the park, there are trails along the flower beds and around the swan pond.

Old Art…

Also, there is a number of museums in the park such as the Kadriorg Art Museum and the Mikkel Museum, the Peter the Great House, as well as the charming café Katharinenthal – which, by the way, would be the translation of Kadriorg.

The Kadriorg Art Museum houses and displays a large collection of western European and Russian art while the neighboring Mikkel Museum houses a collection of art and porcelain donated by the private collector Johannes Mikkel who passed away in 2006.
Also, Estonia’s presidential palace is located right behind the Kadriorg Art Museum.

Kadriorg Art Museum
Weizenbergi 37,
10127 Tallinn
Phone: + 372 – 606 64 03
Email: kadriorg@ekm.ee

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from  10 a. m. till 6 p. m., Wednesday till 8 p. m.

…And New Art

An outstanding structure is the KUMU, short for Kunstimuuseum.

The KUMU in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
The KUMU: An interesting building for interesting art.

Designed by Finnish architect Pekka Vapaavuori and finished in 2006, it houses large collections of Estonian art. Besides the permanent collection, there are also temporary exhibitions taking place.

Estonian Red Army Soldiers with Lenin and Stalin was a co-production of Elmar Kits and Evald Okas
I’m not sure if every Estonian enjoys this sight: Estonian Red Army Soldiers with Lenin and Stalin was a co-production of Elmar Kits and Evald Okas
Lenin depicted by Ilmar Malin
Lenin depicted by Ilmar Malin in a pretty psychedelic manner. I don’t quite get it: Is he rising like the sun?

Kumu Art Museum
Weizenbergi 34 / Valge 1,
10127 Tallinn
Phone: +372 – 602 60 00
Email: kumu@ekm.ee

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from  10 a. m. till 6 p. m., Thursday till 8 p. m.

Renata Green at a museum of modern art in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Finally, a place to sit – and what a huge one! Chair I-II is a practical work by Estonian artist Villu Jaanisoo.

To get to Kadriorg, you can take tram #1 or #3 from the stop Hobujaama to the stop Kadriorg.
If you want to start your visit at the KUMU, you can catch buses #31, #67, or #68 at the stop close to the Opera and get off at Kumu.

Practical Information

How to Get There

There are many options on how to get to Tallinn.

By Air

The fastest and easiest way is, obviously, flying into Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport. Although air Baltic is not the most service-oriented airline and the staff could certainly be more courteous, they have some good offers.

Once at the airport, a cab to the city center should set you back about 7 to 10 €uros.

But you can easily get downtown e. g. by Tram line #4 – you’ll be there in less than 20 minutes.

All relevant information on public transport in Tallinn can be found on this site.

By Land

Of course, Tallinn has also a train station. Nevertheless, the cheapest yet fastest and most comfortable way to travel to other cities in the Baltics would be by bus.

The long-distance busses are clean and punctual and
almost equipped like planes with reclining seats and a great
entertainment program. On our way from Tallinn to Riga, which took only
four hours, we were able to listen to the latest hits and
watch films that made it to the movie theaters only recently; and all this
for about 15 €uro each – can hardly beat this.

If you are planning on travelling within Estonia or paying the other Baltic states a visit, make sure to check out the schedules and offers.

We went by Lux Express and did not regret our choice – just check out their website for the best deals.

However, unlike in most other cities, in Tallinn, the long-distance bus stop is not next to the train station but a couple of city bus stops from the old town.

By Ferry

If you are coming from Helsinki or Stockholm, taking the ferry is a perfect – and very scenic – option. While the trip to and from Helsinki takes up to three hours, from Stockholm, it’s much longer – about 15 hours – and travels through the night.

Getting Around

Obviously, the Old City Center can be visited walking – actually, there is hardly any other way due to the slopes and the cobblestone plastered streets and alleys.
So the only tip here: To hell with vanity, put on your most comfortable shoes and prepare for a bit of an exercise.

Married couple in Tallinn
Walking the streets of the old town.

In general, public transportation in Tallinn is not only excellent, it is also free….at least for the city’s almost 430,000 inhabitants. But also as a visitor, you pay quite little: Buying a ticket from the driver will cost you 2 €uro, buying a QR-ticket on the Internet only 1 – pretty amazing, isn’t it?

Tram in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Besides buses, there are also many trams taking you wherever you need to go.

If you stay for a couple of days and intend to visit more places outside the Old Town, you might consider getting a Ühiskaart Transport Card.

If you get the Tallinn-card, and I really recommend it, all public transportation is included.

Where to Stay

There is all kind of accommodation in Tallinn, a little more expensive within the old city wall, quite reasonable in the outskirts.

We opted for an apartment about ten minutes walking from the center which gave us the feeling of seeing Tallinn not only from a totally touristy perspective. We found it on booking.com*.

The three sisters building in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
The first record of The Three Sisters merchant houses comes from the year 1362. As since then, the structures were renovated a couple of times and became a hotel, today, you can book a room…provided you have the cash.

However, you can check out availability and prices of other great lodging options on this map*:

Booking.com

Traditional Food and Artisan Drinks

There are tons of restaurants to choose from – whether in the Old Town or around. However, some of the best….yes: fast food is to found at the newly-restored market complex right next to the Balti Jaam, the main train station.

New Cuisine at the Old Market

It’s a covered market where you can buy everything you expect from a farmers market – and more: We bought fantastic artisan cheese, dark Estonian bread, huge fresh eggs and some succulent fruits for our breakfast – we had rented an apartment and cooked our own breakfast.

But we also browsed the stands selling everything from clothes to antiques.

Burgers at Humalakoda
Exotic Burgers….

Finally, we crashed at the Humalakoda Brewery on the first floor and ordered beer. To be honest, we ordered four beers – you see them on the picture below.

Beers at Humalakoda
….with a choice of beers.

I find this is such a cool idea: You can sample four small glasses from their endless beer menu. By the way, we loved them all!

Humalakoda
Kopli 1,
Tallinn 10149
Phone: +372 – 699 99 60
Email: info@humalakoda.ee

Although the tempura shrimps and the artisan burgers were delicious and the beer a truly gourmet experience, the next day, we opted for grandma’s cuisine – with a twist.

Traditional Cuisine at a Modern Joint

A restaurant and bar located in one of the old structures at the above mentioned Telliskivi district offers traditional cuisine like stuff dumplings in creamy sauces – just so good.

Traditional dumplings in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
Filled dumplings in a creamy mushroom sauce

If you also have a craving for something more exotic, you can even mix it up a bit since they have a variety of Asian dishes, too. Combine your very own fusion cuisine – you’ll love it either way.

Kivi Paber Käärid
Telliskivi 60a/7
Tallinn
Phone: + 372 – 600 36 26

Language

After independence, Russian was replaced by English as the first foreign language. Often the English lessons start already in kindergarten.

Since English TV is broadcasted unsynchronized, learning English is greatly enhanced.
Therefore, you absolutely shouldn’t have any problems making yourself understood.

The Russian minority speaks, obviously, Russian.

Russians in Tallinn, the city between the poles of history and creativity
The Russian minority usually does not dress like a Russian minority – there must have been something special on. However, clichés sometimes illustrate quite well.

We often refer to Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia as the Baltics and I’ve stressed the point how similar the history was. Notwithstanding, they are not just three versions of the same country. There are many differences and one of the most obvious is the language: While for instance, Latvian is a Baltic language with very slight Slavic traces, Estonian is so similar to Finnish that they were able to understand Finnish TV when they were able to get it behind the iron curtain. I personally find this also reflected in the people’s physiognomy: In general, Estonians look more Scandinavian while Latvians have often a rather Slavic appearance.

Money

Until now, 20 European countries replaced their former local currency with the €uro starting in 2002. On 1 January 2011, Estonia was the first of the Baltic States to replace the national currency with the €uro. The exchange rate is 1 US$ = 0.94 EUR as of January 2023. However, you can check today’s conversion rate on this page.

Euro coins and bills as well as credit dards
Besides €uros, credit cards are widely accepted in Estonia.

Nonetheless, credit cards are widely accepted, and there are ATMs all over the place.

Tours, Information, and Deals

As I wrote above, there is a tourist information point about three minutes from the town square where the very knowledgeable and friendly staff is at your disposal.

Statue of an angel holding a cross on a granite base memorializing victims of the Rusalka shipwreck.
Statue of an angel holding a cross on a granite base memorializing victims of the Rusalka shipwreck. If you take the hop-on-hop-off-bus – see options below – you also get to see this landmark from close.

Highly recommended is the Tallinn Card that grants you free public transportation, free access to many museums as well as many perks at stores and restaurants. If you opt for the plus-version, there is even a ride on one of the hop-on-hop-off-busses included.

 24 hours48 hours72 hours
adult28 €42 €51€
adult plus*36 €49 €58 €
child under 17 **16 €21 €26 €
child under 17 **
plus*
21 €29 €35 €

*  includes a hop-on-hop-off
**an adult card includes two children under 7 years of age

Tallinn Tourist Information Centre
Niguliste tänav 2
Tallinn 10146 |
Phone: + 372 – 645 77 77
Email: visit@tallinn.ee

The center is open every day from 10 a. m. to 6 p. m.

I’m an avid solo-travelling woman. Since solo-travel doesn’t equal solitude, I love to join organized tours here and there. They allow me to meet fellow travellers – for just a short moment or a lifelong friendship.

Especially if you have only a short time for exploring the city of Tallinn, an organized trip will enable you to make the best of it*:

Map

On this map, you’ll find all the wonderful places I’m introducing in this post.
Clicking on the slider symbol at the top left or the full-screen icon at the top right will display the whole map including the legend.

Pinnable Pictures

If you choose to pin this post for later, please use one of these pictures:

Note: I’m completing, editing, and updating this post regularly – last in January 2023.

Did You Enjoy This Post? Then You Might Like Also These:

Disclaimer: I’d like to thank Tallinn Tourist Information Centre for supplying us with Tallinn Cards Plus to experience the city’s tourist attractions. The opinions and recommendations, however, are mine and weren’t by any means influenced by my cooperation partner.
* This is an affiliate link. If you book through this page, not only do you get the best deal, I also get a small commission to run this blog. Thank you so much for supporting me!

52 Replies to “TALLINN – between the poles of history and creativity”

  1. Given the cultural diversity of Europe, and the inextricable link between culture and creativity, creative industries also represent a great asset and a source of global competitive advantage. In this regard, the EU launched the project Cross Innovation, aimed at identifying and sharing innovative experiences among the participating cities, and more specifically seeking to identify how the creative industries can interact with other industries in other sectors. This project was taken part in 11 European cities such as Amsterdam, Berlin, Birmingham, Stockholm, Linz, Lisbon, Pilsen, Vilnius, Warsaw, Rome, and Tallinn. The purpose is to describe the process performed in Europe and show that this can be used by other cities and even other regions to leverage the innovation process using the potential of the creative industry. When researching the results of this project, specifically in the city of Lisbon, it is seen that there was learning in the sense of how the city can arrange a mediation policy from this process of rapprochement between the sectors of the economy of a region and Creative Industries, and the results in terms of knowledge generation are visible.

  2. I would love to visit Tallinn one day – though a small city but it appears to offer a lot to do. Your guide is comprehensive and has everything I need to know for my first visit. I will surely return to this before I travel.

  3. We visited Tallinn a few years, but only for two days – we would have loved to do the KGB Museum & Tallinn Legends and more but we just didn’t have enough time.

    We really enjoyed Tallinn. We didn’t have any expectations and it was pretty, interesting and had fabulous food! We definitely want to go back & also explore Estonia’s fabulously green countryside! Did you know that more than half of Estonia is made up of rural villages, farmland and forests?

  4. Estonia has been top of my list for the past few years and I regret not tacking on several days there when I visited Helsinki. The vibe of the historic old town and the wall are just so pictueresque and stunning. The Museum of Estonian Drinking Culture sounds like an unusual place and I’d love to include that on a future itinerary!

  5. I really regret not stopping in Talinn from our ferry tour from Helsinki to St. Petersburg. I would have loved seeing the classic medieval city, especially the Nevsky Cathedral and the great palace, sampling purukook and other foods, and feeling the vibe of the Creative City.

  6. I had a trip planned for Estonia last September, which, of course, didn’t happen. I have wanted to visit for a very long time and this will likely be my first international trip when I’m able. I knew some of the history but not the progress. I love that citizens are guaranteed internet access, knowledge is power. I hadn’t realized there is an upper and lower town, great information for travel planning. I definitely want to start up and walk down! And I for sure want to spend time exploring the creative center and street art in the area.

  7. Fab blog – was hoping to be in Estonia last year or this year but alas was not to be because of the world coming to a grinding halt on travel. Have made a few reminders to myself to come back to you blog for when I do visit. Learning about the new side of the city of Tallinn was something new for me, thank you for the reminder that I don’t want time slip away and not visit – high on my travel radar.

  8. Ok, Tallin has been on my list for a while now, especially since it’s been moving up the ranks as the new digital nomad hotspot in Europe. But the food?? I didn’t have any concept of what Estonian food is before today but those dumplings and the purokook look delicious! All the more reason to visit.

  9. A delight to read through this stunning Estonian Capital! I have always equated Talinn to a cold winter city, The architecture of the city is truly lovely, and all the more reasons to visit them!

  10. I haven’t been to Tallinn yet and loved getting a virtual introduction to this beautiful city through your comprehensive post. The view from the walk along the city walls is amazing, kind of reminded me of walking along the walls of Rothenburg in some ways. Would love to sample some of that famous marzipan at Maiasmokk and the traditional foods served at Old Market.

    1. Well, guys, we all have places we were supposed to be in 2020….mine was for instance Oslo. Let’s hope we can catch up asap 😉

  11. I am planning a road trip to Estonia this year. I’d love to use your tips about Tallinn. A handy, detailed, and interesting guide. Great tips for trip planning!

  12. Wow thank you for sharing all this information, there is so much to do here. I watched a tv show the other day and they were in Tallinn too. The architecture alone is enough to draw me but all these other things to experience just look great. I think I’d like to visit in winter.

  13. Love Tallinn! It’s such an interesting & pretty city. I spent a few days there enjoying the Christmas markets in November. It was perfect at that time of year as there were very few visitors but it was freezing! Unfortunately, I didn’t get to explore the newer, hip areas so it was great to see your photos & clearly I missed something. Instead, I got the ferry for a couple of days in Helsinki. Great post as always!

  14. We had one short day stop in Tallin on a cruise. But we loved this charming city and would love to go back and explore more of Estonia. The panoramic views from the lookout points over the red roofs showed some many spots we would have like to spend more time in. It would be great to be able to see more of the fascinating architecture. Especially the insides!

  15. Wow, Estonia has so much history! I can’t remember what it’s called, but I watched a documentary on Netflix talking about Estonia and how technologically advanced they are, it was super interesting. I’ll definitely have to put this place on my bucket list!

  16. We were supposed to visit Tallin last year – guess what, never got there! But this post has made me determined to try again. Seeing the blue skies, I think I’m going to try when the weather is better. We were booked to go in December. Wasn’t aware of the e-residency, that’s interesting as we like to move countries every few years.

    1. Yes, we all have a place where we were supposed to be last year 😉 I’m sure you’ll love Tallinn, but I’m not sure if I’d go there in December. It will certainly be Christmassy – but I’m sure it will be freeeeezing 🙂

  17. I had mostly known about Estonia due to the Tallin Christmas market that occurs there, but learned so much due to the thoroughness of this post! I liked learning about the Russian influences and history of this country since it doesn’t get enough recognition- definitely still on my bucket list!

  18. Estonia is one of those countries that I just never got to, even though I was visiting countries around the area. It looks beautiful so I will need to plan a return trip!

  19. You make me so restless to travel again with such incredibly indepth posts. One of my good friends is from Estonia and I have always wanted to visit – there is so much history and culture here and I love how you have documented all the unique things to see and do.

  20. It’s so interesting that there are SO many churches and religious buildings, and over 70% of the population isn’t religious! I loved your pictures of churches. I keep reading more and more about Estonia – so I think I might just have to see for myself sometime soon!

  21. I visited Tallinn in November a couple of years ago & found it to be just beautiful, a real fairytale town. However, it was bitterly cold & had the Christmas Market in the main square. I didn’t get to explore much beyond the Old Town as I loved it there so much so it was interesting to read about your experiences & see the interesting art too. Thanks for sharing – a very comprehensive guide!

  22. I would love to visit Estonia and its beautiful city Tallinn though small but looks like a lively city. Good to know that Estonia is the northernmost of the three Baltic States and it is influenced by many countries who are its neighbors. It is interesting that they have cultural ties with Finland and historic ties with Germany.

  23. This is one of the most beautiful introductions to a city I have ever read. The first few lines summarise what Tallinn is all about. The city looks undoubtedly beautiful with some brilliant architecture. And there are so many churches! Loved reading about the history of Estonia and also about the present. Whenever I am planning a trip to the Baltic countries, I would keep Estonia in my itinerary. I have actually fallen in love with Tallinn just by reading about it.

    1. Thank you, I’m so glad you like it! It’s actually quite easy to describe something you love so much in beautiful words 😉 <3

  24. This is such a helpful post Renata, thanks for sharing the history and top attractions of Tallinn. From your photos the old town architecture and views look lovely. I’m actually planning to get the ferry from Helsinki for a day trip next year (assuming we’re allowed to travel by then). I’ll definitely pin this for later!

    1. Wow, taking a ferry from Helsinki would be a cool think to do. We got there from Riga – flying in and going back by bus. Very comfortable. Ah, there are still so many great things I haven’t done yet 😀

  25. What a beautiful city! I have never heard of Tallinn. This post has inspired me to go to Estonia!! I will use this post as a guide!

  26. Fascinating post! I wasn’t aware of Tallinn’s vast history. The photos look beautiful with the blue sky so often I only see photos of Tallin in the winter. Supposed to be visiting there this summer, still not sure if that’s going to happen, but I really hope so!

    1. Yes, we were very lucky that the skies were so blue – in Tallinn as well as in Riga.
      I also hope to travel end of Summer – just can’t wait for this mess to be over!

  27. I have to say that for a Country that is primarily non-denominational there are a massive amount of churches. The architecture of them is certainly beautiful! I also find it interesting that Estonia also has the most internet per capita in the world. This is fascinating as it is a fairly newly established Country.

  28. I have never been to Tallinn before, but you have given a good insight into what I should expect when I venture to the Baltics. My highlight would be to explore the different churches especially the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral it really stands out from the others you have described, and The Olde Hansa, I love the idea of experiencing old traditions during the Hanseatic period and the way of life especially in this authentic restaurant with delicious sounding food and music.

    1. Oh, you would love visiting Lübeck, the Queen of the Hanse then. They have a fantastic museum on the topic. It’s really absolutely fascinating that they had sort of a European Union already back then.

  29. I have been to Tallinn twice. A fair tale town as any fable book can paint it! Great guide on on the city, couldn't compile it better myself. Appreciate the little history bit you put together. This is a wonderful resource for first timers and seasoned travelers alike!

  30. What a great comprehensive post on Tallinn. It is on my list, and I look forward to one day visiting. I am a fan of churches, so it was interesting reading about the lack of worshippers these days. I love the look of the Purukook cake, and the Museum of Estonian Drinking Culture sounds right up my alley!

  31. Loved learning about the culture. Estonia has the most Internet connections per capita worldwide!And free transportation. Amazing.

  32. I loved this thorough post on Tallinn, as its a place I'd like to visit, and still want to know more about. I particularly resonated with your section about churches. I always explore the churches in cities I visit, and I am quite saddened by the fact that so many of them are not centers of worship any longer. I hope they will still be preserved for their architectural, historic, and artistic qualities.

  33. What a great post. Thank you for all the information.I met a number of people in Bulgaria this Summer who raved about Estonia and the digital residency. That definitely got us intrigued and reading about the city from your broader perspective is helpful. We plan to visit next year and good to know about the buses options. Great read. Thanks!

  34. It has been ages since I've been in Tallin, and I love that it looks to be thriving from your article. In fact, you may have inspired me to go back! Lower Old Town tempts me the most, but I'm super curious about some of the hipper, new neighborhoods, and the food. It's all changed so much since 1990!

  35. We have such great memories of our visit to Tallin. We only had a short stay. Your blog post showed me so many reasons why we need to return. The churches look like such an interesting variety. But our favourite spot was those great panoramic views over the city. Thanks for some restaurant suggestions. We only had a quick coffee stop. We will definitely check out the Tallin Card.

  36. Wow such a complete post, fill with so much information. Love the architecture of Tallinn and would love to explore some of its museums, specially the chocolate one 😉

  37. Good blog post on my neighbors (half-Latvian here). Great starting points for those first timers to the beautiful city. I been here several times and I love visiting it in the winter after a heavy snowfall and taking a photo from the top of Toompea Hill. The photo looks like a scene from a Christmas Card 🙂

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