Tallinn, a leap into the Middle Ages
Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, one of the three Baltic Republics, and in 2023 it was also awarded the title of European Green Capital for its commitment to sustainability.
Its medieval Old Town became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and is definitely a must-to-see of the city. Tallinn is a real gem, so much so that it has been nicknamed 'The Pearl of the Baltic'.
The city can be visited all year round, but I recommend Tallinn during the Christmas Markets period, because you will find a fairytale and magical atmosphere to say the least. Especially if it snows, as it happened when we were there!
I arrived in Tallinn buy a wonderful Baltic cruise departing from Helsinki, it was incredible, the views I had in front of me were magical, you could see every little facet of the Baltic Sea and its icy waters.
Tallinn medieval tower
Church in Freedom SquareTallinn, what to see in 1 day
TALLINN OLD TOWN
My visit to Tallinn began in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Medieval Old Town, with its colourful cottages that look like marzipan.
Get lost in the costled alleys and let yourself be transported to another era, discovering instagrammable and local corners where you can try the typical cuisine.
In Raekoja Plats, the Old Town's main square, you'll find the city's most photographed mansions, cafes, restaurants and the oldest Town Hall in Northern Europe, which houses the city's museum and can be visited in July/August.
During the Christmas period the square hosts the Christmas Markets of Tallinn (Jöuluturg), among the most beautiful in Europe, while in the first week of July the Medieval Days, the medieval re-enactment of the city, takes place.
ALEXANDR NEVSKIJ CATHEDRAL
The real jewel of Tallinn, The well-maintained cathedral is one of the most monumental examples of Orthodox sacral architecture in Tallinn.
Tallinn’s most powerful ensemble of church bells is located in the church towers.
The interior, which is decorated with mosaics and icons, is worth a visit.
PANORAMIC TERRACE OF KOHTUOTSA
At the eastern end of Toompea Hill, past Aleksandr Nevski Cathedral, is the magnificent Kohtuotsa viewpoint.
This beautiful terrace offers spectacular views of the entire city of Tallinn, including the modern area with its imposing skyscrapers.
This place represents one of the most romantic corners to explore in Tallinn in 1 day and admire the panorama of the sunset roofs.
PIKK STREET
If you want to explore Tallinn in a day, after concluding your visit to the striking St. Nicholas Church, I recommend heading to the historic center through Pikk Street, also known as the Long Road.
This passage is one of the most beautiful and renowned streets in the city, offering numerous glimpses that are worth capturing with a few photos!
In particular, Pikk street is famous for being the seat of the ancient guilds, the guilds that once welcomed representatives of various professions.
Don't miss the Gilda Maggiore, located at number 17, and the Gilda S. Olaf, at number 24, which is even the oldest in the city!
This experience will allow you to discover some of the must-see attractions when you decide to visit Tallinn in one day.
TOWN HALL
In the centre of the old town is Raekoja Plats, the town hall square that dates back to the medieval period.
Raekoja Square, home to the city market and becomes the essential point of Christmas decorations in December, with the preparation of the Christmas tree. The Town Hall Square is surrounded by lively, tall, slender buildings that were once the residences of local merchants.
SAINT OLAV’S CHURCH
In between walks, be sure to visit St. Olav Church, known in Estonian as Oleviste kogudus.
This centuries-old building is one of the oldest in the city and is located less than 10 minutes walk from the suggestive Passage of Santa Caterina, perhaps along the fascinating Vene street dotted with shops and clubs.
Alexandr Nevskij Cathedral
Raekoja Plats
St. Nicholas Church
Typical street food “Glögg” in Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn Old Town with Alexandr Nevskij Cathedral
Where to stay in Tallinn
Tallinn, despite being a small town, offers some really amazing hotels, Airbnb and holiday homes and some even quite cheap, a bit like the whole city itself.
Below I will list the best sites where you can easily book.
Hotels in Tallinn
Holiday homes in Tallinn
When is the best time to visit Tallinn?
From a climatic point of view, if you want to visit Tallinn in the winter aspect the ideal month is March, in which there is still snow, the days are quite long and the weather is more lenient, otherwise the best season is summer.
Tallinn, entrance to the Old Town 
Tallinn souvenirs shop
Old mediaeval entrance to the city
Tribute statue of the estonian writer Anton Hansen
Eesti Panga muuseum hall
Eesti Panga Muuseum in Sudällinn
Eesti Panga muuseum human statue
Peppesack medieval restaurantDiscover the best tours in Tallinn!👇🏼
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