Tallinn, the charming capital of Estonia, is one of Europeu2019s best-preserved medieval cities and a destination that perfectly blends old-world charm with modern Nordic cool. From its cobblestone streets to its thriving tech scene, Tallinn offers a uniquely memorable travel experience.
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Tallinn Old Town – A UNESCO World heritage Masterpiece
The heart of Tallinn is its beautifully preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World heritage site that looks like something out of a fairytale. The area is ringed by medieval city walls with twenty-six original defensive towers, many of which can still be climbed today. The main square, Raekoja Plats, has been the centre of city life since the thirteenth century and is surrounded by colourful merchant houses and the Gothic-style Town Hall, the oldest in Scandinavia and the Baltic region. The square is particularly magical during the Christmas season, when it hosts one of Europeu2019s oldest Christmas markets. Wandering through the narrow cobbled streets, you will discover hidden courtyards, ancient churches, and artisan workshops selling everything from amber jewellery to hand-knitted woollens. The Old Town is compact and easily walkable, making it perfect for a day of exploration. As of 2026, entrance to the Old Town is free, and many of its churches and museums offer affordable entry fees, making it an excellent destination for budget-conscious travellers who love history.
Toompea Hill and the Castle
Rising above the Old Town is Toompea Hill, the historic seat of Estonian power. This limestone hill has been inhabited since at least the ninth century and is home to Toompea Castle, which houses the Estonian Parliament. The castleu2019s pink baroque facade is one of Tallinnu2019s most photographed sights, and the buildingu2019s history reflects the many powers that have ruled Estonia over the centuries, from Danish kings to Russian tsars. Also located on Toompea Hill is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an ornate Russian Orthodox cathedral built in 1900 during the period of Russification. Its onion domes and intricate mosaics make it a striking contrast to the more austere Lutheran churches nearby. The viewing platforms on Toompea Hill offer some of the best panoramic views of the city, with the red-tiled roofs of the Old Town stretching out below and the port and sea beyond. As of 2026, the platforms are free to access and are particularly beautiful at sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light.
Kadriorg Palace and Park – A Baroque Gem
A short walk or tram ride from the city centre brings you to Kadriorg Palace and its magnificent surrounding park. The palace was built by Peter the Great of Russia between 1718 and 1725 as a summer residence, and it is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in Northern Europe. The palace now houses the Kadriorg Art Museum, featuring a superb collection of Russian and European art from the sixteenth to the twentieth centuries. The surrounding park covers 70 hectares and includes formal French-style gardens, woodland paths, ponds, and fountains. It is a popular spot for locals to relax, picnic, and enjoy the outdoors. The park also contains the Mikkel Museum, which displays a private collection of art and artefacts, and the Presidential Palace, the official residence of the Estonian President. As of 2026, entry to the park is free, and the palace museum offers discounted tickets for students and seniors, as well as free entry on certain days of the month.
Telliskivi Creative City – Tallinnu2019s Hipster Hub
For a taste of modern Tallinn, head to the Telliskivi Creative City, a former industrial complex that has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and culture. This area is home to dozens of independent boutiques, art galleries, design studios, and some of the best restaurants and cafes in the city. The walls are covered in colourful street art, and the atmosphere is lively and innovative throughout the year. Telliskivi also hosts regular markets, live music events, and food festivals, making it a great place to experience contemporary Estonian culture. The nearby Balti Jaama Turg, or Baltic Station Market, is a must-visit for food lovers. Housed in a former railway station building, this modern market offers fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and a fantastic food hall serving dishes from around the world. As of 2026, Telliskivi remains one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving parts of Tallinn, and it is the perfect place to see how Estoniau2019s creative scene is thriving in the twenty-first century.
Seaplane Harbour Maritime Museum
One of Tallinnu2019s most impressive modern attractions is the Seaplane Harbour, part of the Estonian Maritime Museum. Housed in a stunning 1916 hangar built for seaplanes, this museum tells the story of Estoniau2019s maritime history through a series of spectacular exhibits. The centrepiece is the EML Lembit, a century-old submarine that visitors can explore from bow to stern. There are also full-scale replicas of historic ships, interactive simulators that let you try your hand at piloting a ship or flying a seaplane, and fascinating displays about underwater archaeology and naval warfare. The building itself is an architectural marvel, with its massive arched concrete roof supported by a network of slender pillars. The museum is highly interactive and child-friendly, with plenty of hands-on exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. As of 2026, the Seaplane Harbour consistently ranks among the top attractions in Tallinn on review sites, and it is well worth allocating at least half a day to explore everything it has to offer. Combined tickets with the nearby Lennusadam seaplane port are available at a discount.
Would you rather explore Tallinnu2019s medieval Old Town or its modern creative districts on your first visit?
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