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Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia

Discover the charming city of Tallinn with Firebird Tours. Explore its stunning medieval architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Let Firebird Tours plan your perfect Estonian adventure.
Tallinn

About Tallinn

Why Visit the Capital of Estonia, Tallinn

Without a doubt, Tallinn is one of the Baltics' most wonderful cities, lying on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland and just 70 km (43 mi) away from Helsinki. By all means, Tallinn is a historic city dating back to medieval times (it was first recorded on a world map in 1154, although the first fortress was built on Toompea in 1050). Later, it became a pawn in the geopolitical games of its big neighbors, passing into Swedish hands in 1561 and then to Russia under Peter the Great in 1710.

Today, Tallinn is a bustling, gleaming metropolis of over 430,000 people. However, among the tall glassy buildings and corporate headquarters, Tallinn retains an inner charm seldom found anywhere else. Estonians consider themselves to be living in a Northern European/Scandinavian or an Eastern European country depending on who you ask, with very close ties to Finland (ethnic, linguistic, and cultural).

Visiting Tallinn, you will find a mixture of at least three styles of architecture in this very visual city: old Europe (the city walls with rustic buildings and charming living areas with well-preserved and colorful wooden houses of bourgeois taste from the 1920s), Soviet brutalist (concrete apartment blocks), and modern Europe (including McDonald's next to the city walls!).

Start off your Tallinn sightseeing exploration at the Hill of Toompea and descend down to explore classic European cobblestone streets through medieval houses and alleyways. Continue your Tallinn tour past the foot of the hill into the city wall of the lower town or explore the wonderful greenery in the handful of surrounding parks. You will certainly stop at the zoo and explore the copious live exhibits of mountain goats and sheep, elephants and crocodiles, or the lake-sized ponds housing birds of all types.

Past the zoo, just 15 minutes away, is the Open Air Museum hosting 72 buildings of Estonian vernacular architecture and the dark, mysterious forest of Tsarist-ruled village life. Get there before 11 am, and you might be lucky enough to catch one of the free Estonian dance performances each Saturday and Sunday.

Fill your fancy for museum exploration by adding the National Art Museum to your Tallinn itinerary. You can either go inside or simply stand in awe of its exterior. The architecture of this museum alone is, in and of itself, a worthy sight, including a cyclopean house that is partly cut out of limestone.

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Best Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn

There's so much to explore in Tallinn. Take a look at the list below and get inspired to plan your journey.

  • Visit the iconic Tallinn Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Explore the bustling streets of Viru Street, known for its shops, cafes, and lively atmosphere.
  • Discover the rich history at the Tallinn City Museum, featuring exhibits on the city’s past and cultural heritage.
  • Stroll through the picturesque Toompea Hill, offering beautiful views of the city and historic landmarks such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
  • Visit the stunning Kadriorg Palace, a Baroque palace with beautiful gardens and art museum.
  • Experience the vibrant local culture and cuisine at the Tallinn Old Town Days Festival, celebrating Estonian traditions and culture.
  • Savor traditional Estonian dishes, including kama and black bread, at local restaurants and cafes.
  • Take a day trip to the nearby Lahemaa National Park, known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Explore the art and culture at the Kumu Art Museum, featuring contemporary artworks by Estonian and international artists.
  • Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tallinn Seaside Promenade for views of the city’s natural beauty and coastal charm.