Tallinn
Why Tallinn is specialTallinn (the capital of Estonia) is one of the best preserved and interesting Medieval European old towns I've seen. It dates back nearly a thousand years.
Tallinn's top 3 attractions
1. Old Town Square
It's ringed with picturesque merchant houses, outdoor cafes, an imposing Gothic town hall, and a 15th-century pharmacy.
2. St Olav's Cathedral
The steeple of this 13th century Tallinn church was once Europe's tallest. Climb its steps for a fabulous view.
3. Town Towers & Walls
Over time, they guarded the Medieval townfolk from invading armies from many lands.
Other leading Tallinn attractions
They include:
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Cathedral of St Mary
- Toompea Castle
- Follow your curiosity down the many narrow, winding, cobblestone streets lined with Medieval buildings.
- See sweeping vistas of Tallinn and beyond from all the Upper Old Town outlooks.
- Relax over lunch at one of the Old Town Square outdoor eateries. Great for architecture and people watching.
- Tallinn has two parts: a small Old Town and a large, sprawling modern-day town. It's the first that draws tourists and has two sections: Upper and Lower.
- Old Town is best explored by foot - and with good walking shoes.
- You'll likely see many Finn day-trippers because Helsinki is only 2 hours away by ferry.