Tallinn Estonia 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Tallinn Itinerary: Exploring the Medieval Charm

This itinerary focuses on Tallinn’s historical charm and vibrant culture. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests!

Day 1: Old Town Immersion

  • Morning: Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Tallinn, starting with a walk along the cobbled streets of St. Catherine’s Street.

    • Admire the medieval architecture and charming shops.
    • Visit the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral for its stunning Russian Orthodox design and history.

  • Afternoon:

    • Lunch: Grab a delicious Estonian meal at Olde Hansa, a restaurant known for its medieval atmosphere and traditional cuisine (beware of high prices).
    • Where to stay: Opt for a hotel within the Old Town for easy access to the main attractions. For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the historic guesthouses or hotels with a medieval theme.

  • Explore: Wander through the ancient streets and discover the historic Old Town.

    • Stroll through the medieval alleyways, exploring the cobbled streets and hidden courtyards.
    • Visit the Tallinn Town Hall, the oldest and most iconic building in the Old Town.
    • Climb the tower of St. Olaf’s Church, offering breathtaking views over the city.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Estonian dinner at ** Leib Resto & Cafe** with its charming medieval decor and atmosphere.
    • Experience Tallinn’s nightlife: Explore the vibrant bars and clubs in the Old Town, or head to the Telliskivi Creative City for a more alternative vibe.

Day 2: Beyond the Walls

  • Morning:

    • Breakfast: Indulge in Estonian pastries like kohuke (curd curd) and fresh coffee at Kohvik “Põhjakaare”.
    • Explore the Kadriorg Palace and Park: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this baroque palace and its beautiful gardens.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a modern twist on Estonian cuisine at F-Hoone, a restaurant with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

  • Experience: Visit the Kadriorg Art Museum housed within the palace for a diverse collection of art and artifacts.

Day 3: History and Culture

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Lahemaa National Park, Estonia’s oldest and most beautiful national park, with its picturesque manor houses, forests, and bogs.

  • Lunch: Stop by Kalamaja Kelder for a taste of traditional Estonian food in a cozy setting.

  • Explore the history:

    • Visit the KGB Museum: Explore the chilling history of the Soviet occupation within a former KGB building.
    • Explore the Kadriorg Art Museum, showcasing Estonian and international art from the 16th to 20th centuries.

  • Enjoy: A scenic stroll through the Kalamaja district, exploring its quirky cafes, shops, and street food vendors.

  • Celebrate your last evening: Have a farewell dinner at one of Tallinn’s many acclaimed restaurants.

Things to know:

  • Currency: Estonian kroon (EEK) was replaced by the Euro (€) in 2011.
  • Language: The official language is Estonian, but English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism industry.
  • Language: English signage and menus are common in the Old Town.

Transportation:

  • Walking: Tallinn’s Old Town is best explored on foot.
  • Public Transport: The city has a well-developed public transport system with buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Purchase a Tallinn Card for unlimited access to public transport and free entry into many museums and attractions.

Tips:

  • Get the Tallinn Card: This card offers free travel on all public transport, free entry to many museums and attractions, and discounts on others. It’s a great value if you plan on using it extensively.
  • Explore beyond the Old Town: While the Old Town is charming, don’t miss out on the rest of Tallinn!

Things to do in Tallinn:

  • Visit the Estonian History Museum: Learn about the rich history of Estonia, from its ancient roots to modern times.
  • Explore the Kadriorg Palace and Park: This beautiful park offers a glimpse into the country’s historical past, with stunning gardens and a museum showcasing traditional Estonian art and culture.

For your last night in Tallinn:

  • Dinner at Leib Resto & Aed: Enjoy a final meal with a view of the Old Town, indulging in traditional Estonian cuisine.
  • Drinks at Olde Hansa: Experience a medieval tavern atmosphere while sipping on local brews.
  • Sunset stroll at Kadriorg Park: Enjoy a breathtaking sunset walk through the beautiful park and admire the architecture of the Kadriorg Palace while you’re there.

Enjoy the best of Tallinn:

  • Experience the medieval charm: Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, marvel at the historic buildings, and imagine life in a bygone era.
  • Visit the Kadriorg Art Museum, showcasing the art and history of Estonia and its connection to the arts.

For your journey:

  • Enjoy the local culture: Experience the charm of traditional Estonian markets, explore the vibrant Kalamaja district’s nightlife for an evening out with a local twist.
  • Explore beyond the Old Town: Take a day trip to Laheorg and discover the beauty of the Baltic Sea.

For a truly memorable experience, consider:

  • Taking a cooking class at the Kalamaja Koda: Learn to make traditional Estonian dishes like kama (a type of dried milk dessert) or black bread.
  • Enjoy a meal: Try new and unique Estonian cuisine and enjoy the atmosphere of the historic city.

Other things of interest:

  • Explore the Tallinn Town Hall Square: This is where you’ll find the iconic Old Town Hall, the Raekoja Köök (Town Hall Square Restaurant), and the Kiek in de Köök museum for a taste of history.
  • Visit the Kadriorg Palace: Explore the beautiful gardens and discover the charm of this 18th-century palace.

Remember: This is just a starting point - you can tailor your itinerary based on your interests and travel style!