Bounded by the remnants of the city walls, Tallinn’s Old Town has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997. Take the short walk from the harbour and admire the quaint fifteenth-century houses and the city’s stunning fourteenth-century town hall. Grab a coffee from one of the cafes on the lively Raekoja Plats square before continuing your sightseeing tour. Unmissable highlights include the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the breathtaking city views from the nearby Toompea Hill.
Situated in the middle of a lush park in the east of the city, the grandiose Kadriorg Palace is as pretty on the outside as the artwork you’ll find within. Built by Italian architect Niccolo Michetti for Tsar Peter the Great in 1718, the Palace has been incredibly well preserved and houses paintings from the sixteenth to twentieth centuries by both Russian and Western artists. Once you’ve strolled around the gallery, spend a few hours wandering through the beautiful gardens. From trendy boutiques to cheap and cheerful market stalls, Tallinn’s Viru Street and the surrounding area are great for shopping. Whether you’re after arts and crafts made with local amber and crystal or souvenirs for friends and loved ones back home, you’re sure to find something unique here. The Rotermann Quarter, meanwhile, is where you’ll find the high-end department stores and independent fashion shops.
There are some great dishes on the menu in Tallinn, whether you want to sample traditional flavours or try some of the world-class cuisine in the city’s top restaurants. Local favourites include pannileib, a kind of tart made from potatoes, onions and smoked ham and a sweet soup made with berries and beer. If you are in the mood to eat out, you’ll find plenty of options, with Alexander at the Padaste Manor and F-Hoone in the Kalamaja district coming highly recommended.
Which cruise lines sail to Tallinn?
