Tallinn Old Town
Pärnu is a city where time seems to stand still as soon as your toes sink into the sandy beach, you relax in the warmth of a sauna, or share memories with loved ones at a cosy café
Book a trip to tallinnDiscover the Old Town of Tallinn
Step into a real-life medieval fairytale as you explore Tallinn’s Old Town. It’s just a short journey from the D-terminal at the Port of Tallinn – about 25 minutes on foot through scenic city streets. Prefer public transport? Simply hop on tram 2 or take bus 20 for a quick and easy ride closer to the heart of the Old Town.
4 fascinating facts about the Old Town
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
1. It was once called Reval
Before becoming known as Tallinn, the city was called Reval for centuries. The name dates back to the time of Danish and later German rule.
2. A UNESCO World Heritage site
Since 1997, Tallinn’s Old Town has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered the best-preserved medieval city in Northern Europe, having remarkably survived both World Wars with its historic core nearly untouched.
3. One of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets
Every December, Town Hall Square transforms into a magical winter wonderland. Tallinn’s Christmas market is regularly ranked among the most beautiful in Europe.
4. Celebrated with Medieval Days
Each summer, the Old Town hosts Medieval Days – a lively festival that brings the Middle Ages to life with costumes, crafts, performances, and market stalls, turning the city into a scene straight out of history.
Top places to visit in Tallinn Old Town
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Viru Gate
Viru Gate marks the entrance to Tallinn’s Old Town and leads straight into the lively shopping streets. Once part of the city’s medieval defences, it’s one of 26 remaining towers from the original 45. Nearby towers have colourful names like Fat Margaret and Kiek in de Kök.
Viru street, Müürivahe 31
Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam / visittallinn.ee
St Catherine’s Passage
St Catherine’s Passage (Katariina käik) is a charming medieval alley just a short walk from Viru Gate, connecting Vene and Müürivahe streets. Named after nearby St Catherine’s Church, which dates back over 700 years, the passage features well-preserved buildings from the 15th to 17th centuries
Katariina käik
Photo: Kadi-Liis Koppel / visittallinn.ee
Tallinn Town Hall Square
Tallinn’s best-known square is Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square), a favourite photo spot and lively gathering place during Christmas and festivals. It’s home to the historic Town Hall and one of the world’s oldest pharmacies, Raeapteek. Once you arrive at Raekoja plats, you’ll quickly see why it’s one of the city’s most beloved places to visit.
Raekoja plats
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Nun’s Tower and City Wall Platform
Tallinn’s city wall stretches 1,850 metres, stands 16 metres high, and dates back to the 13th century. Once one of the most powerful fortifications in northern Europe, parts of the wall are open to visitors. For a small fee, you can climb the wooden walkways where guards once kept watch over the city.
Väike-Kloostri tn 1
Foto: Kaupo Kalda / visittallinn.ee
Toompea Castle
Toompea Castle has been home to Estonia’s parliament, the Riigikogu, since 1922. Located on Toompea Hill, the castle is rich in history, with roots going back to the 9th century. Its elegant Baroque façade and the tall Pikk Hermann Tower, where the Estonian flag is raised daily, make it both a symbol of national pride and a striking architectural landmark. A visit to Toompea Castle offers a meaningful look into Estonia’s political history and cultural heritage.
Lossi plats 1a
Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam / visittallinn.ee
The best viewing platforms
Tallinn’s Old Town offers several fantastic viewpoints. Start with Patkuli (pictured), known for its iconic photo opportunities. Then head to Kohtuotsa for sweeping views over the city’s rooftops. For a quieter, more intimate experience, finish your visit at the Tallitorn platform.
Rahukohtu tn 5What else to explore
Museums in the Old Town
Tallinn’s Old Town is home to several fascinating museums. At Kiek in de Kök, explore underground Bastion tunnels, climb medieval towers, and learn about the city’s defences. Nearby, Paks Margareeta houses the Maritime Museum, where you can see historic ships, maritime artefacts, and enjoy views from the rooftop. For a look into Estonia’s 20th-century history, visit the Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom, which shares powerful stories from the Soviet and Nazi eras.
Club One members enjoy discounts on entry tickets in all those museums!
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Photos: Kadi-Liis Koppel / visittallinn.ee
Photos: Kadi-Liis Koppel / visittallinn.ee
Photos: Kadi-Liis Koppel / visittallinn.ee
Churches and cathedrals
Tallinn has a long history of foreign rule dating back to the Middle Ages, which has brought a diverse blend of Western religious traditions to the city. As a result, you’ll find a wide range of churches and cathedrals, each with its own unique architecture and story.
Highlights include the beautifully preserved St Nicholas’ Church (Niguliste) where you can climb the tower for great views, the striking Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the towering St Olaf’s Church (Oleviste).
3 old town favourites for food and drinks
Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam / visittallinn.ee
Freshly roasted coffee at Kehrwieder
If you enjoy cosy cafés and freshly brewed coffee, Kehrwieder is the perfect stop. Tucked away in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, this local roastery, chocolate maker, and café is also Estonia’s oldest coffee spot, dating back to the late 17th century. Sip a hot cup of coffee paired with a handmade chocolate praline – all beneath charming medieval stone arches that make it hard to leave.
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Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam / visittallinn.ee
Medieval experience at Olde Hansa
If you’re curious about how Tallinn once tasted, Olde Hansa is the place to go. This beloved medieval restaurant serves dark, spiced beer brewed on-site in brass tanks, with flavours like herbs and honey. For the full experience, try the Grand Feast – a two-hour culinary journey inspired by the Hanseatic era. It’s a step back in time.
See menu & opening hours
Photo: Silver Raidla
Thai kitchen at NOK NOK
If you like spices and authentic Thai food then NOK NOK is a must-visit. Featured in the Michelin Guide, it offers bold, flavourful dishes in a stylish Nordic-inspired setting. Also, their cocktail menu is just as impressive, with drinks crafted to match the vibrant cuisine. Club One members get a special discount.
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