To experience Tallinn in 2 days, you’ll need to focus on the city’s must-see highlights, blending its medieval charm with modern culture. Here’s a streamlined itinerary to help you make the most of your brief stay.
Day 1: Old Town and Medieval History
- Morning:
- Explore Tallinn’s Old Town (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Description: Start your journey in the heart of Tallinn. Wander the cobblestone streets, marvel at the medieval architecture, and visit key landmarks like Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square), the Gothic Town Hall, and St. Catherine’s Passage.
- Cost: Free; Town Hall tour approximately €5
- Afternoon:
- Lunch in the Old Town (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
- Visit: Toompea Hill, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and Toompea Castle (1:30 PM – 3:30 PM)
- Description: Absorb panoramic views of the city, visit the grand Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and see the exterior of Toompea Castle.
- Cost: Free; small donation recommended at the cathedral
- Stroll: Through the Danish King’s Garden (3:45 PM – 4:30 PM)
- Description: Uncover this hidden gem, filled with medieval lore and offering one of the best views of Tallinn.
- Cost: Free
- Evening:
- Dine and Explore: Telliskivi Creative City (6:00 PM onwards)
- Description: Experience the contemporary side of Tallinn with dinner in Telliskivi, the epicenter of the city’s creative and culinary scene.
Day 2: Culture and Seaside
- Morning:
- Visit: KUMU Art Museum (9:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
- Description: Discover Estonian art from the 18th century to the present in this modern architectural marvel.
- Cost: €10 per adult
- Afternoon:
- Lunch: Near Kadriorg Park (11:45 AM – 12:45 PM)
- Explore: Kadriorg Palace and Park (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM)
- Description: Enjoy the baroque beauty of Kadriorg Palace and the surrounding gardens, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk.
- Cost: €6.50 per adult for the palace
- Visit: Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam) (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- Description: Engage with maritime history in a historic seaplane hangar, featuring interactive exhibits, ships, and a submarine.
- Cost: €15 per adult
- Evening:
- Sunset and Dinner: At Pirita Beach or a restaurant with a sea view (6:00 PM onwards)
- Description: Conclude your visit with a serene sunset at Pirita Beach or enjoy dinner overlooking the Baltic Sea.
Travel Tips
- Tallinn Card: For extensive sightseeing, consider the Tallinn Card, which offers free entry to top attractions and public transport.
- Comfortable Footwear: With much of your exploration done on foot, especially in the Old Town’s cobblestone streets, comfortable shoes are a must.
- Cuisine: Make sure to try local Estonian dishes, which are a blend of Baltic and Scandinavian influences, with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients.
This itinerary ensures you experience the best of Tallinn’s rich history and vibrant culture, all while enjoying some of the city’s beautiful natural settings.