Must See in Tallinn: 10 Unmissable Sights in Estonia’s Capital

Tallinn, the charming capital city of Estonia, blends medieval history with modern creativity. Whether you're strolling the cobbled streets of Tallinn Old Town or exploring vibrant cultural hubs, every corner of the Estonian capital tells a story. If you're visiting Tallinn, here’s a guide to the must see in Tallinn attractions that promise to make your trip unforgettable.

1. Tallinn Old Town – A Magical Medieval Gem

A true highlight of Northern Europe, the Old Town of Tallinn is one of the best-preserved in Europe. Surrounded by old town walls and towers, the district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a free walking tour or wander solo to explore narrow streets, colorful old buildings, and hidden alleys like Catherine's Passage. It’s a magical old town that feels frozen in time.

2. Town Hall Square – Heart of the City

At the center of the old city, the Town Hall Square (also known as Tallinn Town Hall Square) is a vibrant gathering place filled with cafes, restaurants, and seasonal events like the famous Christmas markets. The 13th-century Town Hall, with its unique spire and main hall, is the oldest of its kind in Northern Europe and is well worth visiting.

3. Toompea Hill & Toompea Castle – Tallinn’s High Ground

Climb Toompea Hill for panoramic views of the city and the imposing Toompea Castle, now home to Estonia’s parliament. This area is steeped in Estonian history and also home to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a grand structure symbolizing the era of Soviet rule.

4. St. Olaf’s Church – A Sky-High Experience

St. Olaf’s Church once claimed to be the tallest building in the world. Today, it offers one of the best views of the Baltic Sea and Tallinn Old Town from its tower. The climb is steep, but the stunning views are more than worth it.

5. Kadriorg Park – Art, Gardens, and Peace

Founded by Peter the Great, Kadriorg Park is a beautiful garden space that houses the Estonian Art Museum, Japanese Garden, and several historic villas. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy city centre, especially perfect in summer.

6. Telliskivi Creative City – Where Tallinn Gets Trendy

A hip hub for artists and locals, Telliskivi Creative City is full of local shops, galleries, cafes, and events. From pop-up exhibits to artisan stores, this is Tallinn’s most modern neighborhood, proving the country’s creative pulse is just as strong as its historic one.

7. Kiek in de Kök & Bastion Passages – Step Below the Surface

The Kiek in de Kök tower is part of Tallinn’s ancient defenses and connects to a network of underground passages. These tunnels are both historical and atmospheric, giving you a unique look at the city walls and its military past.

8. Freedom Square – A Symbol of Independence

Located on the edge of the Old Town, Freedom Square is where Estonian history and modern pride meet. A stroll here reveals memorials, fountains, and the St. John’s Church, along with easy access to public spaces and the city museum nearby.

9. Song Festival Grounds – Where Estonia Sang for Freedom

A lesser-known but culturally significant must see in Tallinn is the Song Festival Grounds. This massive amphitheater played a central role in Estonia’s Singing Revolution and continues to host major concerts and festivals today.

10. Seaplane Harbour Maritime Museum – Family-Friendly Fun

Set in an old hangar by the sea, this maritime museum is interactive and educational. See submarines, old ships, and naval artifacts — a great stop for all ages. Best of all, it’s just a short walk from the harbor, making it ideal if you're arriving via cruise ship or on a Baltic cruise.

FAQs

What is Tallinn best known for?

Tallinn is best known for its enchanting Old City, a UNESCO-listed area of cobbled streets, medieval towers, and colorful buildings. Located in Northern Europe, Tallinn, Estonia, also stands out for the Town Hall Square, the Estonian History Museum, and striking landmarks like Toompea Hill and Kiek in de Kök. The Christmas markets here are among the most magical in Europe, drawing visitors with festive lights and warm mulled wine. It's a city full of charm, culture, and history that's truly worth visiting.

What should we see in Tallinn?

When planning your trip to Tallinn, be sure to visit the Old City, explore the historic Viru Gates, and walk through Catherine’s Passage, a hidden gem filled with craft shops and galleries. Climb Toompea Hill to see Toompea Castle, and don't miss the Freedom Square, a powerful symbol of Estonian independence. Art lovers should check out Tallinn museums, including the Estonian Art Museum and the Estonian History Museum. If time allows, take a walk along the streets of Kadriorg Park and admire its baroque beauty. Using Google Maps or a local guide can help you make the most of your day.

What to avoid in Tallinn?

While Tallinn is generally very safe and tourist-friendly, try to avoid tourist traps in overly commercialized restaurants around the main square—especially those that don’t display prices clearly. Also, in peak summer, popular spots can get crowded, so plan to visit early in the day. Relying solely on taxis isn’t ideal—public transport is affordable and more efficient in this compact city. If you're considering a trip to Lake Peipus, check the schedule in advance, as buses can be infrequent.

What to see in Tallinn in a day?

If you only have one day in Tallinn, start with a walk through the Old City and Town Hall Square. Visit Kiek in de Kök, explore Toompea Hill, and stop by Catherine’s Passage for a taste of local crafts. Snap photos near the Danish flag monument and make time for the Freedom Square. Art enthusiasts can fit in a quick visit to the Estonian Art Museum. In winter, don’t miss the Christmas markets with a warm cup of mulled wine. If you plan your route with Google Maps, you’ll hit all the major tourist attractions and hidden gems in a single day.

Final Thoughts: What’s a Must See in Tallinn?

Whether you’re exploring Town Hall Square, admiring old town walls, taking a walking tour, or relaxing at Kadriorg Park, Tallinn offers wonderful things to discover at every turn. This lovely place seamlessly blends the old with the new, making it one of Europe’s most underrated gems.

From the creative city vibes of Telliskivi to the timeless charm of the Old Town Square, every traveler will find something worth cherishing in Tallinn, Estonia. So grab your Tallinn Card, plan your day trip, and set off to explore the very best this country has to offer.