Tallinn, Estonia’s charming capital, is a city where medieval history meets modern innovation. With three days to explore, you can immerse yourself in its rich past, vibrant culture, and beautiful green spaces. Here’s how to make the most of your Tallinn adventure.
Day 1: Old Town Exploration
- Morning:
- Start at: Tallinn’s Old Town (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Description: Begin your journey with a stroll through Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, exploring cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and picturesque courtyards. Key sights include Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square), the Gothic Town Hall, and the oldest continuously operating pharmacy in Europe.
- Cost: Free; Town Hall tour approximately €5
- Afternoon:
- Lunch at: A traditional Estonian restaurant in the Old Town (12:15 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Visit: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral & Toompea Castle (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
- Description: Climb Toompea Hill for stunning city views, the grand Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the historic Toompea Castle, home to Estonia’s parliament.
- Cost: Free; small donation recommended at the cathedral
- Evening:
- Dinner: Return to the Old Town (6:00 PM onwards)
- Description: Enjoy Estonian or international cuisine in one of the many restaurants within the Old Town.
Day 2: Culture and History
- Morning:
- Visit: KUMU Art Museum (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Description: Explore Estonian art from the 18th century onwards at KUMU, the flagship of the Art Museum of Estonia and a piece of modern architectural art in itself.
- Cost: €10 per adult
- Afternoon:
- Lunch: Near KUMU in Kadriorg Park (12:15 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Discover: Kadriorg Palace and Park (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
- Description: Stroll through the beautiful Kadriorg Park to visit the baroque Kadriorg Palace, built by Peter the Great for Catherine I of Russia. The palace now houses the foreign art collection of the Art Museum of Estonia.
- Cost: €6.50 per adult for the palace
- Evening:
- Explore: Telliskivi Creative City (6:00 PM onwards)
- Description: Dine and unwind in Telliskivi, the vibrant heart of Tallinn’s creative scene, with restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries in a repurposed industrial complex.
Day 3: Seaside and Modern Tallinn
- Morning:
- Visit: Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam) (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Description: This maritime museum in a historic seaplane hangar showcases submarines, ships, and other maritime artifacts. It’s interactive and suitable for all ages.
- Cost: €15 per adult
- Afternoon:
- Lunch: In the Kalamaja district (12:15 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Stroll through: Kalamaja & Patarei Sea Fortress Prison (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
- Description: Discover Kalamaja, known for its wooden architecture and bohemian vibe, and visit the historical Patarei Sea Fortress Prison for a glimpse into Estonia’s past.
- Cost: Free for a stroll; Patarei entrance around €5
- Evening:
- Sunset at: Pirita Beach or Tallinn TV Tower (6:00 PM onwards)
- Description: End your visit with a relaxing evening at Pirita Beach or by admiring the city from the Tallinn TV Tower’s observation deck.
- Cost: Beach is free; TV Tower €13 per adult
Travel Tips
- Tallinn Card: Consider purchasing the Tallinn Card for free entry to many attractions, including museums and public transport.
- Walk or Bike: Tallinn’s center is compact and easily navigable on foot or by bike, with rental stations across the city.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying traditional Estonian dishes, such as black bread, kama, and smoked fish.
This guide ensures you capture the essence of Tallinn, experiencing its historical depths, cultural heights, and the serene beauty of its natural surroundings. Enjoy your Estonian journey!
