History and Culture
Top 10 in Tallinn
Tallinn was born at a crossroads of medieval trade and is now more than ever a treasure of the Baltic. Experience traditional 18th century Estonian life, sample handmade chocolates or jump into the contemporary art scene - these activities and sights showcase the city's best.
Streets of Tallinn’s Old Town
Tallinn’s number one attraction is undoubtedly the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, with its medieval ambience and exceptionally well-preserved street network and city walls. Take your time and stroll along the narrow, cobbled streets, admire the centuries-old architecture, climb towers, and peek into mysterious courtyards and archways – some of which hide romantic cafés, cute shops, or secret gardens.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda
Town Hall Square and Town Hall
At the heart of the Old Town is the Town Hall Square, once a market square and the centre of the city’s government. Today, it is a main meeting spot for townspeople and a venue for a variety of events, from the Old Town Days in summer to the fairy-tale Christmas Market. Incidentally, the world’s first public Christmas tree was erected here in 1441.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda
Toompea Castle
Towering above the rest of the Old Town, Toompea hill has always been a seat of power. Toompea Castle is the seat of the Estonian Parliament. The castle’s tallest tower of the, Pikk Hermann, is a leading symbol of Estonian statehood; the blue-black-white Estonian flag is raised every day at sunrise from the tower to the tune of the national anthem.
Photo: Ain Avik
Kadriorg Palace and Park
The centrepiece of Kadriorg is Estonia’s only Baroque Palace and park ensemble, built more than 300 years ago on the orders of Russian Tsar Peter the Great. Enjoy views of the swan pond, take time out in the rose garden, or admire the landscaping of the Japanese garden. In the majestic halls of Kadriorg Palace, you can get acquainted with the Estonian Art Museum’s collection of foreign art.
Photo: Kadriorg Palace
Seaplane Harbour
Built in a unique seaplane hangar, the Seaplane Harbour is without exaggeration the most impressive maritime museum in the region. Step aboard the 1930s submarine Lembit, explore a variety of naval crafts, and try out interactive exhibits on topics ranging from ships to fighter aircraft.
Photo: Paul Kuimet
Noblessner Seafront Quarter
Just a short walk from the Seaplane Harbour is the Noblessner seafront quarter, a former submarine factory named after its founders Emanuel Nobel (nephew of Alfred Nobel, founder of the Nobel Prize) and Arthur Lessner. Now, you will find a modern urban space, galleries, design shops, a marina, and restaurants where you can enjoy the sunset.
Photo: Martin Dremljuga
Telliskivi Creative City
Telliskivi Creative City is one of the locals’ favourite places to hang out. The former factory site is now home to numerous design shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. Telliskivi is also home to Fotografiska Tallinn, a photographic art centre and satellite-gallery of the internationally renowned photography museum founded in Stockholm.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda
Rotermann Quarter
Founded in the nineteenth century by industrialist Christian Abraham Rotermann, this industrial centre has grown into one of the city’s most prominent oases of modern architecture where old and new are skilfully blended. The quarter offers a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants, and leisure facilities, from beauty salons to sports clubs and cinemas.
Photo: Karel Koplimets
Maarjamäe History Centre
The permanent exhibition at the History Museum in the picturesque Maarjamäe Palace tells the history of the Republic of Estonia from its birth to the present day. The Film Museum, located in the same complex, offers a glimpse into the history of cinema. A selection of Soviet-era monuments has also been assembled in the park surrounding the palace.
Photo: Maarjamäe Palace
Tallinn TV Tower
The 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow included a sailing regatta in Tallinn, and the 314-metre TV tower – the tallest building in Estonia – was completed for the occasion. Today, the tower is home to an experience centre where you can enjoy stunning views, indulge in a cup of coffee or a light meal, visit an interactive exhibition, and even walk suspended on the edge of the tower.
Photo: Tõnu Tunnel
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