Explore the Charms of Tallinn: The Hidden Gems of Estonia’s Capital City
Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is one of the most charming cities in Europe. With a rich history and a plethora of hidden gems, Tallinn has something for everyone. The Old Town of Tallinn is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the most popular tourist spot. However, there are many hidden gems that await your exploration. In this travel blog, we will explore the hidden gems of Tallinn, and all you need to know to make your trip memorable.
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HTML Headings:
– Old Town
– Kadriorg Palace and Park
– Telliskivi Creative City
– Estonian Open Air Museum
– FAQs
Old Town
The Old Town of Tallinn is a walled city and is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in Europe. It has a rich history, and every corner of the old town boasts of significant architecture, narrow cobble-stoned paths, and various quaint cafes and shops. You can start your visit to the Old Town at Toompea Hill, which is the highest point of Tallinn’s old town. From here, you can visit the Toompea Castle, St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the 13th-century Gothic-style St. Mary’s Cathedral. The town hall square has cafes and restaurants, and is the perfect spot to relax and people-watch. The popular sites of the Old Town are:
– Town Hall
– St. Olav’s Church (a medieval church, to get to the top of the tower)
– Tallinn Town Wall
– Viru Gate
– Fat Margaret Tower
– House of the Blackheads
– St. Catherine’s Passage
– Three Sister’s Boutique Hotel
You can easily spend a full day in the Old Town as there is so much to explore.
Kadriorg Palace and Park
Kadriorg Palace is a baroque palace built in 1718 by Peter I of Russia for his wife Catherine the Great. The palace is hosted by the Art Museum of Estonia, and the park surrounding the palace is free to visit, and it’s ideal for a stroll or picnic. The palace has various art exhibitions, and guided tours provide insight into the palace’s history. The palace’s collection includes pieces of art from the 16th century to the 20th century, and it has over 13000 pieces of art in its collection. The palace grounds are adorned with stunning gardens, fountains and sculptures. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic stroll or family outing.
Telliskivi Creative City
Telliskivi Creative City is a former industrial park that has been renovated and converted into a cultural hub for artists. It has become one of the most lively spots in Tallinn, and it’s perfect for those seeking some offbeat fun. The area is a hub for musicians, artists, and designers, with various shops, galleries, and restaurants dotted around. It’s the perfect spot to capture a glimpse of Tallinn’s street art, and there is always something happening, including concerts, flea markets, street food festivals, and open air cinema screenings.
Estonian Open Air Museum
The Estonian Open Air Museum is an ideal spot to learn about the Estonian way of life. It’s located in a beautiful forest area, and it has over 70 reconstructed peasant farmhouses, windmills, and churches from the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s a great spot to experience the Estonian rural life and culture from past centuries. Visitors can experience handicraft demonstrations and learn about traditional Estonian food. The museum also has various events throughout the year, including traditional Estonian music performances and festivals.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Tallinn?
A: The best time to visit Tallinn is from May to September as the weather is comfortable, and the city is livelier with various festivals happening.
Q: Is Tallinn expensive?
A: Tallinn is relatively affordable compared to other European capitals, but prices depend on your budget and preferences.
Q: What is the currency used in Tallinn?
A: The currency used in Tallinn is Euro.
Q: Is English widely spoken in Tallinn?
A: Yes, English is widely spoken in Tallinn, and most locals are fluent in it.
Q: Is Tallinn safe?
A: Tallinn is considered a safe city, but you should always be aware of your surroundings.
Tallinn Safety Tips:
– Keep your belongings close to you and never leave them unattended
– Try to avoid isolated areas after dark
– Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas
Tallinn Public Transportation:
Tallinn has an extensive public transport network that includes trams, buses and trolleybuses. The public transport network is efficient and affordable. You can also use the Tallinn Smartcard, which provides discounts and can be used on all public transport.
Tallinn Hidden Gems:
– Cafe Suhkrumoll (a cozy cafe with delicious cakes and live music)
– Patarei Prison (an abandoned prison that offers an eerie glimpse of Tallinn’s dark history)
– Stroomi Beach (a beautiful beach to relax and take a dip in the summers)
– Kalamaja (a bohemian district with charming wooden houses and unique street art)
In conclusion, Tallinn has many hidden gems that are worth exploring. From the Old Town to the Estonian Open Air Museum and the Telliskivi Creative City, there is something for everyone. Do not miss out on the beautiful landmarks and areas worth visiting. Ensure you stay safe and utilize the public transport network to make the most of your visit. Explore the hidden gems of Tallinn, and create a lifetime of memories.