Tallinn is an epic town. After being there for just a few hours, it quickly became one of my favorite cities in all of Europe. It has a bit of the Western Europe feel while belonging to the area of Scandinavian countries. The culture and architecture are such an incredible mix of the rest of Europe; I truly have never been anywhere like it!
There is a ton to see in Tallinn! It can be a little overwhelming, so I made you this list of the best things to do, to see, as well as the best places for food and drink! And, as usual, all on a budget! I’m super excited for you guys to adventure through this epic city. I feel like I’ve become the biggest advocate to those around me for this incredibly UNDERRATED country!
Old Town and Main Square
The entire Old Town of Tallinn is awesome. There is SO much to see that you could truly just wander around for hours. However, here are the highlights that you just can’t miss!
- Toompea Hill: Walk up to the hill to get a great view of the city!
- St. Olaf’s Church
- Kadriorg Palace
- This palace is open pretty much every day; before visiting, however, do a quick Google search to be make sure it’s open! It depends on the day and season!
- It’s 9 euros to enter as an adult, but there are reduced fees for students and seniors, and children under a certain age can enter for free.
- Town Hall Square
- This is simply the greatest spot to hang out. You’re surrounded by beautiful architecture, restaurants with great food, and tons of local shops!
- Tallinn Town Hall
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- You can go inside sometimes; check before you visit! However if you can only see the outside, it’s still worth checking out!
Olde Hansa
I’m a huge fan of this restaurant. Pretty much every website you look on will tell you to eat here; and I am here to agree with all of them. It really takes you back in time through the incredible decorations, the waiters and waitresses in costume, and the EPIC food and drink. Some people may not be a fan of this intense of a theme inside a restaurant, but it is truly fun to experience. While some dishes are *not budget friendly at all*, you can find little dishes that won’t break the bank.
Antique Store in Town Square
In the Town Square of Tallinn, there is a tiny antique store; it holds so much history (and very authentic history) and is truly incredible to explore. This is kind of a random spot, but I was fascinated by this experience!
Kehrwierder Tea and Chocolate
I stumbled upon this spot near the Town Square and loved it! It kind of feels like a hobbit hole… with low ceilings and fun tables and low lighting. They have great teas and coffees and chocolates (including some funny and off-color chocolates lol).
Governors Garden
This is a lovely spot to just walk through. The trees and the grass, as well the towers and architecture, are so peaceful and just blew me away.
Explore Surrounding Area!
If you head to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Governor’s Garden, you will also see a ton of other incredible sights. For example, keep an eye out for the 3 Monks of the Danish Garden, Maiden Tower, Tallitor’s Tower, and the Danish King’s Garden! You can also see the Estonian Parliament building next to the Cathedral!
Stroll Down Pikk Street
Pick Street is one of the most famous streets in Tallinn. It’s full of restaurants, cafes, galleries, and museums! It also has beautiful old buildings you can check out. It’s Tallinn’s main shopping street, and no trip to this city is complete without your walk down Pick Street!
The Deer Sculpture in Kitseaed Park
That’s all. Just a cool deer.
Estonian House Local Crafts
I am not usually someone who is too interested in little souvenir shops. HOWEVER! This spot is so cool!!! I probably spent an hour looking around in here; it’s full of incredible and exquisitely created crafts, books, knick knacks, and more!
Sessel Speakeasy above Craft Store
After exploring some local crafts, DON”T MISS the speakeasy right above! Head up the stairs to a colorful room with cool tables and ceilings overlooking the main street! Try one of their iconic beers and watch the passersby wander on through the town.
Viru Gate at the Entrance of the Old Town
This giant gate is super iconic to Tallinn. It’s the entrance to the Old Town. You can walk around and explore the area as well as walk alongside the wall!
Walk Along the Top of the Wall!
If you make it to Viru Gate and start walking down by the wall, you’ll see little rooms in the wall where you can enter, climb some stairs, and walk on the top of the wall around the city! It’s super cool and has random little “museum” type rooms with history and photos. You do have to pay, however, so be sure to have CASH on hand. It’s usually around 2-5 euros.
If You’re Feeling Boujee… Eat Here!
Rataskaevu 16 was a local recommendation, and it did not fail us! The food and drink were phenomenal! However, it is a little on the pricier side, so this is not a budget spot! If you do go, be sure to look at the floor in the bathroom that’s inside around the corner… it has a crazy surprise!
Looking For a Cheap Place to Stay?
If you’re ballin on a budget for your accommodation, below is my favorite website to find a cheap place to stay!
Take It a Step Further!
The great thing about Tallinn is that you’re just a stone’s throw away from a ton of other cool places. You can take a ferry ride to Helsinki, Finland, or hop on a train to Latvia or Lithuania. There are also some national parks and crazy nature views right by Tallinn! You can explore these on your own for sure, but for your convenience, I’m dropping some tours, day trips, and other fun adventures below!
Ferry from Helsinki, Finland, to Tallinn, Estonia… click HERE!!!
Half-Day Tour of Rummu and Coastal Cliffs… click HERE!!!
Lahemaa National Park Day Trip… click HERE!!!
Estonian Seaside Tour… click HERE!!!
Take a (SUPER CHEAP) Bus or Train to Riga, Latvia… click HERE!
JOIN THE FAM!
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