Tallinn Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Gothic spires rise above red rooftops, and cobbled lanes wind between pastel merchant houses. Meanwhile, stone walls and towers still circle much of the centre. So, this guide covers the best things to do, plus how to get there and when to go.
Quick Facts About Tallinn Old Town
| Country | Estonia |
| Region | Harju County, on the Gulf of Finland |
| Known For | Town Hall Square, medieval city walls, Toompea Hill and Gothic church spires |
| UNESCO Status | UNESCO World Heritage Site, Historic Centre (Old Town) of Tallinn, since 1997 |
| Founded | First mentioned in 1154, later a powerful member of the Hanseatic League |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September, or December for the Christmas market |
| Getting There | Fly into Tallinn Airport or take a ferry from Helsinki |
| Time Needed | One to two days |
| Continent | Europe |
Where Is Tallinn Old Town?
Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, on the northern coast of the country. It faces the Gulf of Finland, and Helsinki lies just across the water. The old town sits right in the city centre, a short walk from the ferry port.
The old town has two parts. First, there is the Lower Town, once home to merchants and craftsmen. Above it rises Toompea Hill, where nobles and church leaders lived.
Why Visit Tallinn Old Town?
Few capitals keep their medieval core so complete. In fact, much of the street plan dates back hundreds of years. Tallinn grew rich as a member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful network of trading towns. As a result, its merchants built grand houses, guild halls and churches.
Also, the old town is compact and easy to explore on foot. So, you can see the main sights in a single day, then stay longer to enjoy cafes, museums and quiet courtyards.
Things to Do in Tallinn Old Town
Start at Town Hall Square
Town Hall Square is the heart of the old town. Here, colourful houses surround the Gothic Town Hall, completed in the early 1400s. In summer, cafes fill the square. In winter, it hosts one of Europe’s most charming Christmas markets.
Also, look for the Town Hall Pharmacy in the corner of the square. It is one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe still in business, and part of it is now a small museum.
Walk the Medieval City Walls
Large sections of the old city walls still stand, along with around two dozen towers. For example, you can climb a short stretch near the Nunne, Sauna and Kuldjala towers. From there, you look down over the rooftops and spires.
Climb Toompea Hill
Next, walk up to Toompea Hill. At the top, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral shows off its onion domes. Opposite stands Toompea Castle, which now houses the Estonian parliament. Then head to the Kohtuotsa and Patkuli viewing platforms for the classic view over the Lower Town.
See St. Olaf’s Church
St. Olaf’s Church has a very tall spire. In fact, it is said to have been the tallest building in the world in the 16th century. In the warmer months, you can climb the tower for wide views over the city and the sea.
Enter Through the Viru Gate
The Viru Gate is a popular entrance to the old town. Its twin round towers once formed part of a larger gate system. Today, flower stalls and shops line the street behind it.
Explore St. Catherine’s Passage
St. Catherine’s Passage is a narrow lane lined with old tombstones and craft workshops. For example, you can watch artisans making glass, ceramics and jewellery. It is one of the most atmospheric corners of the town.
Tips for Visiting Tallinn Old Town
- Wear comfortable shoes, because the cobbles are uneven
- Visit early in the morning on days when cruise ships are in port
- Buy a Tallinn Card if you plan to visit several museums
- Try local dishes such as black rye bread and smoked fish
Day Trips From Tallinn
Kadriorg Park and Palace
Kadriorg is a short tram ride from the old town. Peter the Great built its Baroque palace in the early 18th century. Today, it houses an art museum, surrounded by gardens and fountains.
Lahemaa National Park
Lahemaa National Park lies about an hour east of the city. It is known for forests, bogs, quiet beaches and old manor houses. So, it is perfect for a day of hiking and fresh air.
Helsinki
Also, ferries cross to Helsinki in about two hours. As a result, many travellers visit both capitals on the same trip.
One Historical Fact About Tallinn Old Town
According to local tradition, one of the first public Christmas trees in Europe stood on Town Hall Square in 1441. A merchant guild called the Brotherhood of Blackheads is said to have set it up. However, the nearby city of Riga makes a similar claim.
How to Get to Tallinn Old Town
- Flying in: Tallinn Airport is only about 4 km from the city centre.
- Ferry: Fast ferries link Tallinn with Helsinki many times a day.
- Bus and train: Long-distance buses connect Tallinn with Riga and other Baltic cities.
- Getting around: The old town is mostly car-free, so walking is best.
Best Time to Visit Tallinn Old Town
May to September is the most popular time to visit. During these months, days are long and the weather is mild. In midsummer, it stays light until very late. December, by contrast, is cold and dark. However, the Christmas market makes the old town feel magical.
Is Tallinn Old Town Worth Visiting?
Yes, definitely. Tallinn Old Town is one of the finest medieval centres in Europe. Also, it is compact, walkable and easy to reach. If you enjoyed our guide to Český Krumlov, you will love Tallinn too.
Final Thoughts on Tallinn Old Town
First, sit on Town Hall Square with a coffee. Then walk the walls and climb Toompea Hill for the view. Finally, wander the lanes after the crowds leave. Much like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Tallinn feels like a medieval town that never stopped living.
Image Credits
Unsplash
- Rasmus Andersen: Church spires rise above the rooftops of the old town, Unsplash License
- Judith Prins: Colourful merchant houses line the cobbled streets, Unsplash License
Wikimedia Commons
- Cayambe: Raekoja plats Tallinn 2015, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Cayambe: City wall Towers Tallinn 2015, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Diego Delso: Catedral de Alejandro Nevsky, Tallin, Estonia, 2012-08-05, DD 20, CC BY-SA 3.0
- kallerna: Viru Gate 2, CC BY-SA 3.0
