Sojournicle – Feeling Medieval in Tallinn

A colleague once said “spend no more than a day in Tallinn“, stating that there would be little to do besides visit the Old Town. He also believed that you couldn’t stay in Old Town and reasoned with spending more time in historic Vilnius instead. Given his Estonian heritage, I was open to his suggestions when planning this trip. However, put kindly… this advice was rather outdated. After some research, 3 was the ideal number. Three days of exploring this town at leisure, without that rushed feeling of a cruise ship patron stampede.

Tallinn is Estonia’s beautiful capital and is one of Europe’s most loveable cities. The 1000 year old city blends Medieval with modern, to provide cultural experiences and culinary delights in the most amazing fairytale setting.

Escaping destruction during countless wars, the Old Town remains well-preserved and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The walled, cobblestoned Old Town still stands and is worth more than a day of exploring.

We visited in December when the snow had arrived and the temperature had dropped below freezing. Tallinn was unexpectedly the coldest leg of our trip! Yes, colder than badass Helsinki and much colder than chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø. Tallinn is stunning in any season, however if you can brave the winter, do it!

Here are some fun ways to fill your days in Tallinn:

Go on a Free Walking Tour

Walking tours are a fantastic way to familiarise yourself with a new city. When planning travel, this is one of our favourite activities. Do this on your first day. The local guides have a wealth of knowledge and can provide recommendations and advice. Heli of Tallinn Free Walking Tours did an incredible job of keeping us entertained during our walk in -12°C (felt like -18°C!) in December. Don’t forget to tip generously 🙂

Stand between Viru Gate

Snap a photo of the grand entrance to the Medieval Old Town.

Climb Hellemann Tower and walk along the Town Wall

Visit Raeapteek

Tallinn’s Town Hall Pharmacy is one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies, since early 15th century!

Get festive at the Tallinn Christmas markets

Voted as one of Europe’s best Christmas Market by Condé Nast Travel, Tallinn certainly provides the most charming backdrop for festivities. Gather around the spruce tree, eat, drink and be merry!

Tallinn Christmas market Town Hall Square

Make like a knight on a Tales of Reval Medieval tour

Another great free tour around the Old Town, medieval-style! Be prepared to transform yourself into a knight or merchant. Don your costume and play up your character as you wander the historic streets of the 1300s. Don’t forget to tip generously at the end… these guys are so much fun!

Tales of Reval medieval walking tour Tallinn

Try Olde Hansa’s medicinal liqueur, almonds and fudge!

Enjoy Estonian fare

Try the rye bread, vegan dishes and local cider.

Take in panoramic views over Old Town

Fairytale rooftops always impress at the Patkuli viewing platform… simply stunning, especially after snowfall!

Wander without a map

Get lost in the charming streets of Tallinn.

Stay in the heart of Old Town

We stayed at Hotel Cru, located a short walk through Viru gates over cobblestoned walkways. Being centrally located is ideal as it maximises your chances of seeing as much as possible during a short stay. Hotel Cru is one of the oldest houses (over 600 years!) in Tallinn and each room features original limestone walls and wooden beams that enhance character and ambience. As with most old houses, walls can be thin, so some noise may be audible from adjoining rooms. (Tip: always bring ear plugs if you’re a light sleeper like me).

Hotel Cru offers a great Estonian breakfast and has an awesome restaurant on the lower level. Chef Dimitri and his team whip up delicious dishes that look like art, including some great vegetarian options. The hotel staff are friendly, only too keen to offer advice and assistance. We booked directly with the hotel.

Final tip: If you have time, do a day trip to Viljandi. We visited this cute township en route to Riga. Visit Estonia is a great resource for planning a longer stay in this cute Baltic nation. And Tallinn is will surely delight!