Visit Tallinn Guide 2025
Tallinn Old Town and its Town Hall
Known as one of Northern Europe's best-preserved medieval cities, Tallinn Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997. It features cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, medieval guild halls, and historic merchant houses dating back to the 14th-15th centuries. The Town Hall, a Gothic architectural masterpiece, is the only surviving Gothic town hall in Northern Europe, with its iconic tower crowned by Old Thomas, the city's guardian.
Visitors can capture the medieval ambience through countless photo opportunities of the Town Hall Square, cobbled streets, and colorful historic houses. Enjoy local traditions like the Medieval Days festival in summer and the enchanting Christmas Market in winter.
Entry to the Old Town is free and open all year. The Town Hall is accessible for guided tours, and the square offers many cafes and restaurants to savor local culinary delights. Facilities include public restrooms and visitor information centers.
Toompea Hill
Toompea Hill is the historic stronghold of Tallinn’s nobility and the site of Toompea Castle, home to the Estonian Parliament. The hill offers panoramic views of the city and harbor from various viewpoints such as Kohtuotsa and Patkuli.
Photographers will find stunning vistas of Tallinn’s rooftops, towers, and the Baltic Sea. The area is rich in history, with notable buildings like the pink-hued Toompea Castle and Lutheran St. Mary's Cathedral.
Visitors can explore Toompea Castle via free, guided tours available on weekdays with advance booking. The hill’s viewpoints have a small entrance fee but are included with the Tallinn Card. Facilities include walkways and benches.
Aleksander Nevski Katedraali
This Russian Orthodox cathedral, built in 1900, features striking onion-shaped domes and elaborate interiors. Situated on Toompea Hill opposite the castle, it represents Russian influence in Estonia’s history.
The cathedral’s ornate façade and domes provide exceptional photo opportunities. Inside, visitors can admire stunning frescoes and religious icons (photography inside is often restricted).
Entry is free but donations are welcome. The cathedral hosts regular services and events, allowing visitors to experience local religious traditions.
Tallinna Raekoja Plats
The Town Hall Square is the vibrant heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, lined with colorful merchant houses and bustling with year-round events. It is home to the historic Gothic Town Hall and the famous Old Thomas weather vane.
The square is particularly picturesque during the Christmas Market and Medieval Days festivals. Street performers, local artists, and seasonal stalls create an immersive cultural experience.
Accessible without tickets, the area offers numerous outdoor cafes and restaurants featuring traditional Estonian cuisine. Facilities include public seating and information kiosks.
Kadriorg Park
Founded by Peter the Great in the early 18th century, Kadriorg Park is a beautiful Baroque garden complex housing Kadriorg Palace and art museums. It offers a peaceful retreat with walking paths, fountains, and sculptures.
Scenic photo spots include the palace façade, ornate flower beds, and the Swan Pond. Seasonal events like outdoor concerts and exhibitions are common.
The park is open daily with free entry to gardens; museum tickets vary by exhibition. There are cafes and picnic areas, plus restrooms and playgrounds for families.
Balti Jaam Market
A lively local market near Tallinn’s railway station, Balti Jaam offers fresh produce, vintage goods, local crafts, and street food stalls. It reflects Tallinn's vibrant contemporary culture and commerce.
Photographers will enjoy capturing the colorful stalls and dynamic market scenes. It’s a great place to sample Estonian street food and interact with locals.
Open daily with free entry, the market is easily accessible by public transport. Facilities include covered areas, restrooms, and seating.
Tallinn Town Wall
The ancient Tallinn Town Wall, with its well-preserved towers like Stout Margaret and Kiek in de Kök cannon tower, dates back to medieval times when it defended the city from invaders.
Walking the wall offers unique views of the Old Town rooftops and historic defenses. The towers, now museums, provide insights into Tallinn’s military history and feature authentic cannonballs and armory.
Entry to the wall and towers is ticketed, with discounts available with the Tallinn Card. Facilities include exhibits, cafes, and restrooms.
Tallinna Teletorn
The Tallinn TV Tower is the tallest building in Estonia, offering panoramic views from the observation deck 170 meters above ground. It also features interactive exhibitions about Estonian history and technology.
Visitors can capture sweeping city, sea, and countryside views. The tower hosts various events and has a café for refreshments.
Tickets are required for the observation deck and exhibitions. The tower is wheelchair accessible and includes modern facilities.
St. Olaf’s Church
Once the tallest building in the world during the 16th century, St. Olaf's Church is dedicated to King Olaf II of Norway. It features Gothic architecture and an impressive spire.
The church offers panoramic city views from its tower for those who climb its stairs. It regularly hosts concerts and local religious ceremonies.
Entrance to the church is free, while tower access requires a ticket. Facilities include guided tours and restrooms.
St. Catherine's Passage
St. Catherine’s Passage is a charming medieval lane connecting Vene and Müürivahe streets, famous for its artisan workshops and quaint atmosphere.
The passage provides excellent photographic opportunities with its cobbled streets, medieval arches, and artisanal activities. In summer, outdoor terraces and craft fairs add to its appeal.
Entry is free and open year-round. Visitors can watch or join craft workshops and shop for handmade souvenirs.
Visit Tallinn Summary
Tallinn is a captivating city where medieval charm meets vibrant cultural life. Its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with iconic sights like the Town Hall, Toompea Hill, and Aleksander Nevski Cathedral, invites visitors to step into history while enjoying scenic views and lively traditions. Beyond the Old Town, Kadriorg Park offers elegant green spaces, and Balti Jaam Market showcases local flavors and crafts. Historic structures such as the Town Wall and St. Olaf’s Church provide a glimpse into the city’s rich past, while Tallinna Teletorn offers modern panoramic vistas. Whether exploring cobbled streets, attending festivals, or savoring local cuisine, Tallinn provides an extraordinary experience for all visitors.