Tallinn's sights for slow travelers and foodies

Top sights in Tallinn: insider tips for your trip

Which Tallinn sights in Estonia can you discover on a short visit? We were in the Eastern Baltic States for the first time in the spring. Therefore, Baltic Sea places like Tallinn were particularly interesting for us. We were traveling on one Mini Cruise with the Tallink Silja Line. Of Helsinki In about two hours we take the ferry to Tallinn, 80 kilometers to the south. We stay overnight in Tallink City Hotel *, just a few steps away from Tallinn's Old Town. We spend two nights there. We have two and a half days to see the sights in Tallinn, Estonia. Not enough to get to know all the attractions. However, with planning you can easily experience the highlights of Tallinn during this time. Here are our top things to do in Tallinn for slow travelers and foodies who only have a short time to spend in Tallinn. Anda Galffy recommends Tallinn as a winter travel destination.

 

 

Tallinn sights and activities

If you only have one day to explore Estonia's capital, we recommend a walk through the old town. From the ferry port it takes a few minutes by taxi to Viru Street. From there, the old town can be easily explored on foot. Most of Tallinn's attractions in the center of the city are located within the pedestrian zone.

Tallinn's Historic Old Town: The Best Places to Explore

The Old Town of Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants with medieval charm and well-preserved buildings. Discover the Rathausplatz, where one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Northern Europe takes place every year. Stroll through the narrow streets and enjoy the view from the city walls, which have stood since the 13th century. A must-see for every visitor is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which, despite its controversial history, is an impressive example of Orthodox architecture.

We start our tour on Viru Street. This leads past a number of flower stalls and restaurants through the clay gate into the old town to the intersection with Vene Street. There are two restaurants there Olde Hansa and Peppersack Restaurant, both of which are reminiscent of the times of the Hanseatic League. If you want to eat medieval food, these restaurants serve food from the times before there were potatoes or tomatoes in Europe.

 

Historical sights in Tallinn

Saint Nicholai Church

We continue our walk towards Saint Nicholai Church, which now houses the Saint Nicholas Museum, where three works of Estonian art from the Middle Ages are exhibited.

 

 

Visit to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: History and Highlights

It is only a few hundred meters up the mountain Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Estonia's main Russian Orthodox cathedral. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn is an impressive building. It was built between 1894 and 1900. Her style is typically Russian Orthodox.

The cathedral stands on Toompea Hill and is visible from afar. Its onion domes and golden domes are particularly striking. Inside you will find magnificent mosaics and icons. The atmosphere is calm and sublime. It is worth admiring the details of the iconostasis. A highlight is the rich soundscape. The cathedral's bells are among the best in Tallinn. They play several times a day.

Admission is free, but donations are welcome. The cathedral is not only a religious center, but also an important cultural monument.

Kiek in de Kök – one of the insider tips for Tallinn

Anyone interested in the city's defenses, the bastions and the tunnels under Toompea can take a detour to the “Kiek in de Kök” cannon tower. This owes its name to the fact that the guards who served here joked that they could look into the kitchens of the houses below the Toompea.

 

 

Tallinn Town Hall Square: Things to See and Do

From there we go back to Kullassepa street, not without a quick stop in the visitor center on the Niguliste street. At the Town Hall Square (Raekoja Plats) we admire Northern Europe's only gothic town hall. This is used today for state receptions. Here kings and heads of state were guests. In July and August you can visit the town hall. Then the assembly halls, the vaults, wood carvings and the city's art treasures are open to the public. We had to skip it, because we were there a month early. Around the Town Hall Square are restaurants, from which one can watch the bustle on the Town Hall Square.

 

 

Tallinn sights - St. Katharinengasse

Not far from the town hall square is St. Katharinengasse, one of those alleys in Tallinn where the city's flair can be felt particularly well. Workshops of glassblowers, weavers and potters are lined up along this alley, where people still work using methods like those in the Middle Ages. If you want, you can watch the craftsmen at work.

 

 

Tallinn travel tips for slow travelers who have more than one day

If you have two days to spend in Tallinn, you can opt for the hop-on hop-off tours. The buses stop directly in front of the cruise terminal or - in the city - on Mere puiestee street just before the intersection with Vana-Viru street. For 21 dollars (as of June 2015) you can explore Tallinn's sights for 24 hours on the routes served by the buses. You can get in and out as often as you want.

 

 

The Estonian Open Air Museum in Tallinn: The highlights

For the second day, we recommend the Open Air Museum Line (60 minutes), which runs along the coast and offers views of Tallinn and the harbor. On the way you can stop off at the Estonian Open Air Museum, where you can get an insight into rural life in Estonia between the 18th and 20th centuries. The museum displays traditional Estonian buildings and ways of life. The thatched farms are particularly attractive. The historic windmill is also a highlight.

Walks through the extensive grounds are relaxing. You will learn a lot about Estonia's past. There are also craft demonstrations and traditional festivals.

Admission is moderate and discounted tickets are available. A café offers regional specialties. A visit is worthwhile for anyone who wants to experience history up close.

 

 

Kadriorg Palace and Park: Tallinn's Baroque Splendor

Alternatively, you can take the Historic Center and Old Town Tour (50 minutes), which goes to Kadriorg Park. Peter the Great's castle is located there. He had it built in Tallinn for his wife Catherine I.

The Kadriorg Palace and Park in Tallinn is a baroque gem. Tsar Peter the Great had the palace built in 1718. The magnificent architecture and the artfully landscaped gardens are impressive. Today the palace houses the Kadriorg Art Museum. There you will find European and Russian works of art.

Entry is affordable and the visit is worth it. The park is open all year round and offers an enchanting atmosphere in every season. Kadriorg is a must for art and history lovers.

 

 

Maritime Museum of Estonia

On the way, you will also pass the Estonian Maritime Museum, which is housed in the Fat Margaret tower. The history of Estonia's seafaring is shown on four floors. These range from fishing equipment from the Stone Age to a wheelhouse for a trawler from the XNUMXs.

 

 

Our tip for everyone who has a second day in Tallinn: Tips for Tallinn Ryan O'Rourke has it on his blog (in English). It's best to choose one or two sights outside the old town and take a closer look. This is more beneficial than if you take the buses on all three tours, because the routes are repeated, so you only see some new things if you go on all three routes of the hop-on hop-off tours.

Insider tips in Tallinn for foodies who want to try regional cuisine in Tallinn

Tallinn is a true paradise for foodies. The restaurants that offer regional cuisine are particularly exciting. Today I would like to introduce you to two special places that you shouldn't miss.

• The Lee Restaurant

First we have the “Lee”. Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant offers a modern interpretation of Estonian cuisine. The “Lee” is known for its use of fresh, regional ingredients. The dishes are not only delicious but also beautifully presented. The ambience is elegant and inviting, ideal for a special dinner.

A highlight at “Lee” is the tasting menu. Here you can, for example, try dishes in small portions. This allows you to experience the diversity of Estonian cuisine in one evening. The fish is particularly recommended, as it is always fresh and perfectly prepared. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making the experience even more enjoyable. Be sure to check those out too Restaurant Instagram page for visual impressions and current information.

• The Beer House

Next I would like to introduce you to the “Beer House”. This restaurant and brewery is also centrally located and is a must for lovers of hearty, traditional dishes. The menu offers a wide selection of Estonian specialties. The meat dishes and homemade sausages are particularly popular. The portions are generous and the prices are fair.

The Beer House brews its own beer, which goes perfectly with the rustic dishes. There are different types, from light to dark, all brewed with love. The atmosphere is lively and convivial, ideal for an evening with friends.

This is definitely a conclusion to a day that couldn't be more beautiful.

 

 

Questions and answers about Tallinn attractions

How to avoid crowds of tourists in Tallinn Old Town?

For example, visit Tallinn's Old Town early in the morning or later in the evening after cruise passengers have left the city. Explore lesser-known alleyways and hidden cafes to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and escape the crowds.

Where can I find authentic Estonian cuisine away from the tourist restaurants?

Try restaurants like Rataskaevu 16, recommended by locals. This offers traditional Estonian dishes in a cozy atmosphere and is also less touristy.

How do I explore Tallinn without stressing out?

Use the hop-on hop-off buses, but allow enough time for each stop. Alternatively, explore the city on foot and take time to relax in cafes or parks.

Are there quiet, nature-loving places within the city?

Visit Kadriorg Park or the Botanical Garden. Both locations offer quiet retreats to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature.

How can I authentically experience Tallinn culture?

Visit the Estonian Open Air Museum to learn more about Estonian rural culture. In addition, local markets such as the Balti Jaama Turg offer insights into everyday life and the culture of the city.

 

 

 

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Travel Arrangements:

Parking at the airport

Here you can, for example, book your parking space at the airport.

Getting to Tallinn attractions:

Compare and book flights here*. (Advertisement) You can get there by ferry or plane, for example. There are also Flixbus connections from Munich or Berlin. Tallinn also has an airport. Tram line 4 (stop near the terminal) takes 15 - 17 minutes to get to the city center. It also runs daily from morning until around midnight for late arrivals. There is also a ferry port from which the ferry companies' ships depart for the ports on the Baltic Sea. If you want to stay longer in Tallinn and the surrounding area, it is worth booking a rental car for excursions afterwards.

By ferry to Tallinn sights:

For example, compare this one Prices for ferries and departure ports*. (Advertisement)

Car Rentals:

You can book a rental car cheaply here

Tallinn accommodation near Tallinn attractions:

Hotels in Tallinn* You can find it under this link.Travel guide:

If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.

 

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Source: On-site research. We would like to thank the Tallink Silja Line for the invitation to this mini cruise Baltic Sea and the overnight stay in Tallink City Hotel in Tallinn *. However, our opinion remains our own.

Slow Travel Destinations you can find here.

Text Sights in Tallinn Estonia: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos of sights in Tallinn Estonia: © Copyright Monika Fuchs as well as TravelWorldOnline and Pixabay
Video: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline