I have thoroughly enjoyed my time visiting this UNESCO World Heritage city and exploring the nature that surrounds it. From climbing medieval towers and exploring the subterranean bastions, to wading in the Baltic Sea and everything in between. There is so much to see, experience and learn and I can’t wait to return again soon. For now, I will leave you with these 5 free things to do in Tallinn Estonia.
Festivals
While this does not offer something specific, and not part of the ‘5’, I encourage visitors to look up the Tallinn social media pages on TikTok and Facebook. I have never been to a destination where there are so many festivals, events, music and markets and many are completely free to attend. Tallinites love to get out and have fun when the weather cooperates, and so do we. Have a look at these photos from one of many medieval events in the Old Town. Marvellous!
Linnahall
Built for the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics, Linnahall was a venue constructed for sailing events. Previously this site was a concrete factory and shipyard in the 1950’s. This huge Soviet modernism building was to serve as a sports and cultural venue but that only lasted about two decades.
Inside is a large concert hall and ice rink. Since its closure, the municipality has not decided what to do with it as the structure is not in the best condition. The interior is closed except for the odd guided tour. Climb up the massive front steps and façade and walk towards the water. At the rear is a helipad and what used to be a ferry port too for a short while. In the evenings, it’s definitely a place to hang out and watch the sunset with the locals.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
When Tallinn was part of the Russian Empire, this enormous church was built right at the top of Toompea hill in upper Old Town. A typical Russian Revival style of that period (1895), it is a beautiful example of Eastern Orthodox religious décor. Its eleven bells that were cast in St Petersberg can be heard ringing out over the city. A magical sound when wandering around those old cobblestone streets.
Mustjoe Estuary
A peaceful area for a walk in nature is along the coast near Stroomi Beach. The Mustjoe Estuary at one end is a preserved parcel of natural surroundings. Closest to the beach are paths into the tall grasses and reeds that give you a hands-on experience. Further down is a large wooden tower to climb and get a birds-eye view of the coastline. From there walk the elevated wooden path through the swampy reeds. Its absolutely beautiful, birds flitting around, butterflies and a general feeling of tranquility.
Kalamaja
This neighbourhood was once a medieval fishing port. In the late 19th century, it grew rapidly and housing was needed for the factory workers. These incredible buildings, apartments buildings, were constructed and today they are the iconic ‘Tallinn House’. Anywhere from two to four stories, they have a stone foundation and one central stone staircase inside.
The exteriors are painted a variety of marvellous colours; some have been lovingly restored and others have their original worn patina. The front doors are amazing and often covered by a small roof decorated with elaborate punched tin. Some even have the date of the home inset into that tin design.
This neighbourhood in Tallinn is exceptional and provides a view into the history of the city and today. These homes are a real treasure, and it makes me immensely happy that they are being so lovingly cared for.
Kohtuotsa Viewpoint
Located on the north side of Toompea Hill in upper Old Town is Kohtuotsa. It’s an excellent place, perhaps the best, to get a view of the red rooftops of medieval Tallinn. There is a wide wall that is the iconic spot to sit and have a photograph taken and when its busy, a few food stalls set up shop here too. Looking out, visitors can see the Gulf of Finland and Pirita Beach.
Just down the road, don’t miss pulling into Bishops Garden for yet another fantastic view point. There isn’t much to the gardens themselves, but along the far wall is a panoramic image of beautiful Tallinn.
I had no idea what to expect when I arrived into Estonia and Tallinn specifically. And now? I don’t want to leave. Old Town is an exceptional example of medieval architecture. The natural surroundings are so well cared for and pristine. Tallinn municipality does an incredible job of creating an environment that is clean, safe and a pleasure to explore. This is most definitely a destination I will be returning to, sooner rather than later.
