Where to stay in Tallinn. Estonia, Tallinn - “Tallinn, I fell in love! Rest in the capital of Estonia. My advice: where to eat in Tallinn? How to see a bunch of attractions and save money? How do they treat Russians? Where is the best place to stay in Tallinn in summer

Tallinn is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval cities in Europe, and the low prices for food and accommodation, plus good transport links to Moscow, St. Petersburg and other Russian cities make it an ideal option for a weekend trip . For the duration of the trip, it is definitely worth staying in the center of Tallinn - the prices of hotels here are quite sparing (it is quite possible to live in the very center of Tallinn with views of the Town Hall Square for the same amount that a closet with a broken shower in Paris would cost you). The main hotel feature of Tallinn, perhaps, is related to the local climate: the winters here are relatively mild, in spring and autumn it is poured with fine slanting rain, and the summer is rather short, and for some reason it is considered that it is ideal to go here in the summer (how else to explain the fact that the prices of some Tallinn hotels in the summer become similar to some Parisian ones?). In my opinion, the city is good at any time of the year. It is unlikely that you come here to swim, so for a study trip to Tallinn, you can safely choose both spring and autumn, when hotel prices drop sharply, and for 50–60 euros per day you can book a four-star hotel in the center, in an old building, and in this price will include an excellent breakfast. Tallinn experiences another price peak at Christmas and New Year holidays - in last years it has become fashionable to meet here New Year Therefore, for this period, hotels must be booked in advance.

Where is the best area to stay in Tallinn?

Hotels in the Estonian capital are located quite compactly, and since the Middle Ages they have gravitated towards the hill on which stands the stern Toompea castle (Toompea loss). Literally across the road from the castle hill there is a railway station where trains from Moscow arrive, however, unlike many European capitals, there is no pronounced cluster of hotels near the Tallinn railway station, because who will live near the station when you can stay in the center for reasonable money in a real old house and listen to the chiming of the clock in the morning, and look out the window at the red tiled roofs and towers.

Old Town (Vanalinn)

Most of the Tallinn hotels in the center exploit a medieval theme: the design of the rooms here includes stonework, and heavy antique oak furniture, and wooden floors, and heavy ceiling beams, there are certainly some details that create mood and atmosphere, for example, a heavy a forged key, a leather-bound book of reviews and a goose quill, knightly armor, or engravings with views of Old Tallinn. In most cases, hotels in the center are real old buildings, some were hotels already in the 16th-17th centuries, they usually have nice courtyards that are decorated for Christmas and national holidays, and under the very roof in such houses, as a rule, they equip attic rooms. Breakfasts in Estonian hotels are traditionally plentiful, varied and hearty - local fish is often served (herring in various marinades), boiled young potatoes, various pickles and salads (including Olivier). The local grain bread and sprats are especially tasty, for dessert guests of the hotel can be treated with “specialties” - for example, marzipan from the Kalev factory. The hotel staff usually speaks good Russian and willingly advises on sights and restaurants. All of these are pluses. But there are also disadvantages. For example, if you plan to travel to Tallinn by car, you should clarify in advance how to get to the hotel and where to park, since the entrance to Old city closed for non-residents. Also keep in mind that many hotels practice depositing a certain amount on the card (as a guarantee in case of damage to the room or an unpaid mini-bar). This should be treated philosophically: if tourists did not often try to deceive the hotel and leave without paying for the mini-bar, this practice would not exist.

Since Tallinn was one of the Hanseatic cities, a lively and rich trading port, its medieval part quite large and is divided into two regions: Upper City, or Vyshgorod, where is the hill with the castle, and lower city, separated from the Upper fortress wall, where, in turn, one can distinguish areas around the Town Hall Square, Viru Gate, near the Fat Margaret Tower, at the foot of the castle hill.

Directly in Vyshgorod there are no hotels - they say, because almost all buildings here are protected by the state and it is forbidden to change something both inside and outside, and the arrangement of the hotel is nothing more than a radical re-equipment of the building. It can be noted that the small guest house Olematu Rüütel. But there are a number of apartments, for example, on Toom-Rüütli Street (here, in particular, one of the apartments of the Tallinn City Apartments Old Town Toompea apartment chain is located). The advantage of the apartments here is the location - the atmosphere of the medieval city is especially felt here, plus there are a couple of observation platforms nearby, from where amazing pictures of Old Tallinn are obtained in clear weather. The downside can be the remoteness of the castle hill from shopping and parking (entrance to the castle hill is prohibited), as well as the very fact that the apartments are located at the top - climbing the hill on foot may not be very convenient, especially if you have luggage. It should also be taken into account that there is practically nowhere to have breakfast in Tallinn early in the morning - everything is closed, and if you do not live in a hotel or have not bought groceries in a supermarket, you can easily be left without food. So, if you are planning an early arrival in Tallinn, you should save some rations, or check with the hotel if it is possible to have breakfast on the day of arrival for a fee (for many hotels this is a common practice).

Alternatively, you can consider hotels located at the foot of the castle hill , for example, Hotel Imperial. It is within easy reach from here to the Town Hall Square and the railway station, and at the same time there are a couple of grocery stores nearby, including the Kalev marzipan factory brand store. The main thing is that with maximum proximity to Vyshgorod, you do not need to climb the hill several times a day.

CC BY-SA 3.0). Source: commons.wikimedia.org.">

Town Hall Square(Raekoja plats) good for living if you like to be in the center of city life: for Christmas everyone decorates and puts up a Christmas tree here, this is where the Christmas market takes place, in the summer local artists exhibit their work here. All sights are within walking distance: 5 minutes walk to the castle, 10 minutes to Fat Margaret tower, 5 minutes to Viru gate. Most of the city's restaurants, cafes and pubs are concentrated in the Town Hall Square area, including the cult medieval tourist restaurant "Olde Hansa" or the no less iconic cafe "Majasmokk", shops selling Estonian linen, amber products and cute souvenirs are also concentrated here. The downside of the local hotels can only be the noise coming from the square during any celebrations, relatively high prices and limited parking opportunities. In a number of hotels, parking lots are small, for 10-20 cars, and places must be booked in advance, plus leaving the hotel is not always convenient - often the garage doors do not open automatically, and you need to get out of the car and ring the intercom to open the gate. An interesting option here, in my opinion, is Hotel Telegraaf, located right in the building of the former telegraph office around the corner from the square. Here you can only find fault with the high cost of the restaurant and spa services - in Tallinn you can find cheaper ones.

A nice alternative to the hotels of the Town Hall Square are local apartments equipped with last word technology, but at the same time located in ancient buildings, including those that face directly onto the square. The advantages of the apartments are obvious for those who prefer to cook on their own and do not like crowded places like hotels: at least the apartment has a kitchen, dishwashers are often found and even washing machines. It is good to settle in apartments for large companies or families - there are apartments with 2-3 bedrooms. In this area, I advise you to pay attention to the apartment complex Raekoja Residence.

CC BY-SA 3.0). Source: commons.wikimedia.org.">

From the Town Hall Square in all directions they diverge amazingly authentic streets of the Old Town where merchants once lived. The main plus of living here is the atmosphere: you can feel like a traveler who arrived in Tallinn on some kind of Hanseatic business. If you're lucky, then the views from the window will be appropriate: maybe the Church of Oleviste, or a narrow alley with crooked walls and an arch, or a fragment of the fortress wall, at least it will be a nice courtyard or a string of picturesque roofs. Near Fat Margaret tower stands, perhaps, the most famous Tallinn hotel - The Three Sisters Boutique Hotellocated in three adjoining buildings of the 15th century. There is another nice option on Lai Street - St. Olav Hotel, where for reasonable money you can get both a wonderful breakfast and an originally decorated room with masonry. Possible disadvantages of the local hotels can be the usual problems with parking (usual for those who have already been to ancient cities) and small rooms, however, quite comfortable, where every centimeter is used properly. Also, if the hotel is located in several buildings, there may be some loss of orientation, because sometimes the transitions between buildings are on different floors, but it is quite possible to get used to it.

Viru Gate, or Viruskie (Viru väravad)- This is the medieval gate of Tallinn, located a few minutes walk from the Town Hall Square. This area is good in its own way: on the one hand, the old city wall and buildings have been preserved here - also far from being a new building, on the other hand, there are quite a large number of shops, including the Rimi supermarket, where you can buy all the same sprats, grain bread, marzipans and Vana Tallinn liquor (remember that alcohol in Estonia is sold strictly until 10 pm and only from 10 am and that drinking alcohol in in public places severely punished). Leaving the gate outside the fortress walls of Tallinn, you immediately find yourself in the area of ​​skyscrapers (more on this area will be discussed below), where the main Tallinn shopping begins and where numerous European brands and a little Estonian are represented. Here, near the Virki gate, I advise you to pay attention to Taanilinna Hotel, which stands quietly and inconspicuously in the back of the courtyard - this hotel has inexpensive, but very nice rooms and excellent breakfasts.

Spa hotels in Tallinn

A 5-minute walk from the Viru gate is one of the first spa hotels in Tallinn - Kalev Spa Hotel & Waterpark. The hotel has a very good spa and a spacious swimming pool, but the rooms are quite cramped and the hotel itself is large and crowded, so it's up to you to decide if it's worth your attention or not. Alternatively, you can sign up (in advance!) For various procedures at the hotel, and live somewhere nearby, in the same Taanilinna Hotel.

In my opinion, spa in Estonia- an ideal combination of price and quality for a Russian-speaking tourist: the procedures are inexpensive, they turn out to be of high quality and almost no language barrier between visitors and staff (in any spa, someone speaks Russian). Given the popularity of spas in Tallinn, where people come not only from Russia, but also from neighboring Finland, for these purposes, in any hotel or spa center, you need to book procedures such as massages and body wraps, as well as cosmetic services in advance, immediately after booking the hotel, otherwise, you can stay without spa treatments, content with swimming in the pool.

New spa hotels built in Tallinn in recent years are located closer to the port area . These are modern buildings, during the construction of which, in particular, the needs of motorists were taken into account, so there are no problems with parking. The center is only a 10-15 minute walk from here. True, the choice of food establishments here is much smaller than in the center, but there are a couple nearby. shopping centers. The undoubted advantage is the proximity of the passenger port, from where ferries leave for the Scandinavian countries and St. Petersburg. In my opinion, another representative of the well-known chain Tallink Spa & Conference Hotel can be considered the most interesting accommodation option in this area of ​​​​Tallinn.

Hotels outside the historical center of Tallinn

Sadama area: port and skyscrapers

To the east of the Old Town of Tallinn is located ultra-modern skyscraper district : a large number of offices and shops are located here, at the same time it is only a 10-minute walk from here to the Viru gate, and 15–20 minutes to the Town Hall Square. The local hotels are located, as a rule, in modern buildings, equipped with parking lots and one or two restaurants. Here, the chain Tallink City Hotel seems to me the most attractive option. The conditional disadvantages of hotels in this area include their crowdedness, especially during the New Year holidays, when many tourist groups come here.

Pirita area: beach and pine groves

Live outside the historical center of Tallinn hardly worth it- despite the fact that the city is small, driving through traffic jams, losing precious light time (which is especially true if you came here in autumn or winter), is irrational. True, here, as in any rule, exceptions are possible: for example, if you definitely want to live near the Pirita beach, in a pine forest, you are by car and the distance from the Old Town does not scare you, then interesting options can be found here - to for example, the Pirita Spa Hotel i-TicketsFinder.ru : search for flights, compare prices of airlines and online ticket agencies

i-Traveler.ru : details about self-standing travel - where to start, where it is better to book hotels, how to plan an itinerary and other important questions

Aircraft hangars in Lennusadam. Photo: lennusadam.eu

After the cramped floors of Fat Martha (you really already know old Tallinn like the back of your hand, right?), the dark space in the Seaplane Harbor will seem endless to you. Of course, after all, planes were built here at one time! They are still inside, peacefully adjacent to deep-sea mines and even a real submarine, inside which you can easily check yourself for the presence of claustrophobia. The place is ideal for parents with children - here you can touch, drink, twirl everything you see. lovers Naval battle can test their skills on open water, although the boats will be no more than 20 cm in length. And thrill-seekers in the sky will be able to make a 3-minute flight on the simulator.

Rocca al Mare Open Air Museum

If you move 8 kilometers from the center of Tallinn in a southwestern direction, you will find yourself in the Rocca al Mare area - it has nothing to do with squid, but translates as “cliff on the sea”. The Estonian Ethnographic Museum is located here in the open air. Immediately after the gate you find yourself in a real Estonian village from the times of windmills. Each building is a museum exhibit with an old "stuffing". And if in the houses of farmers they ask not to touch the fake irons and spinning wheels, then in the local tavern all the food has nothing to do with the props, as evidenced by the wonderful smell that spreads a few meters from this rustic wooden building.

Monastery of the Order of St. Birgitta

The triangle of the façade of the monastery with the gaping gaps of the windows is visible from afar. You will never miss it when you drive from the city to the northeast. Immediately behind the river Pirita, whose name gave the name to the whole area, there is a dilapidated, but with a perfectly preserved facade and walls, the monastery of the Order of St. Birgitta. This nunnery is special: male priests were allowed to conduct services here. They also say that earlier secret passages to the city were led from it. Be sure to try to find one of them.

Pirita beach

Not a hindrance to vacationing tourists and local residents who enjoy morning and evening jogging along the promenade. And even if you don't consider yourself an amateur physical activity on vacation, you can just sit on sandy beach with a magnificent view of the towers of the Old Town.

Kumu Art Museum

Museum courtyard. Photo: commons.wikimedia.org

This modern, gleaming glass building on the edge of Kadriorg Park is more of an entertainment and educational center than a boring museum. The KUMU Art Museum houses works of art dating back to the 18th century on several floors - the higher the floor, the more modern art. But the main emphasis here is on working with young artists. Two years after the opening, in 2008, the museum was recognized as the European Museum of the Year. It inspires respect, doesn't it?

Mecca of film lovers “Solaris”

Hall with cinema box office. Photo: solariskino.eu

If you have already been around the neighborhood and don’t know what else to see in Tallinn, your legs are begging for mercy, and you still don’t want to return to the hotel, then you have a direct road to the Solaris Kino cinema, which is located on the top floor of the Solaris shopping center . Despite the fact that Estonians speak less and less Russian, films here are still broadcast in the original language with Russian and Estonian subtitles at the same time. Where else in Europe does this happen? So feel free to choose a movie and relax in comfortable chairs after a day full of walks.

“Compressor”: more than 20 types of pancakes with fillings

And finally, one very tasty and satisfying advice. Having decided to go around the outskirts of Tallinn, you should think carefully about a hearty breakfast or lunch at the Compressor. Despite the strange name, here you will find a belly feast and the opportunity to compare our traditional Russian pancakes with local Estonian pancakes. Pancakes here are dense, lush with a diameter of a large plate, and the assortment of toppings will please any gourmet. The main thing is not to be greedy: you can’t master more than one pancake at a time.

Where to stay in Tallinn:

• Hotel

As the name suggests, this hotel is for those who prefer budget accommodation to spend more on experiences. Here you will have the necessary minimum of amenities for a comfortable stay. Trains in Tallinn are quiet, so don't worry if the windows face the station - the noise won't bother you.

• Hotel

This hotel will appeal to lovers of seascapes. Large rooms, stylish interiors and a gourmet restaurant distinctive features hotel Europa. The fact that you have to walk 10 minutes to the Old Town on foot more than compensates for the morning view of the sea.

• Hotel

The presence of a more complete range of amenities in one hotel is difficult to imagine - the hotel itself high level, located right in the Old Town, there is also a water park on site. And that's not counting the spa, swimming pool, gym and a restaurant.

• Hotel

There is no traditional Baltic minimalism in the interior here - everything is decorated with royal grandeur. Gilded frames, fur bedspreads, two restaurants of Russian and Estonian cuisine and all this in the heart of the Old Town of Tallinn.

In Tallinn, everyone will find suitable activities for themselves. It is a fascinating city with numerous historical sights.

Most of the best restaurants in Estonia are located here. There is great shopping and a lot of opportunities for leisure activities. At the same time, a large amount of money is not required for a holiday in Tallinn. And we will tell you about how to spend time in the capital of Estonia, so as not to leave here with a song in which finances sing romances.

Free walking tour

In Tallinn, you will surely notice numerous groups of tourists slowly wandering along the cobblestone pavements and listening to the guide with varying degrees of interest. You might think that such a walk with an expert who gives out a lot of amusing historical facts, may be boring and very expensive, but in fact it is not.

The youth association Tallinn Traveler Tours organizes free tours of the Old Town every day at 12:00. Young, energetic guides, who, it seems to us, always good mood, lead a group around the city for two hours for free (tips are welcome). The group gathers at the Old Town and then goes for a walk around all the main attractions. Among other things, you will learn why the Danes thank Tallinn for the flag of their country and when Tallinn had its own mummy.

View of a million (almost) free

Instead of spending hundreds of euros on luxury hotels in Tallinn skyscrapers, you can enjoy and even admire the magnificent view of the city for free - you just need to visit one of the viewing platforms on Toompea Hill. An unforgettable view of the Old Town and the sea opens from the observation platforms of Patkuli and Kohtuotsa.

If you're willing to spend a few euros, you can climb the narrow stairs to the base of the spire of St. Olaf's Church or the Tower of the Dome Cathedral for an even grander view.

Attractions

During a normal walk through the streets of Tallinn, you will see many sights without even looking at museums. In fact, the entire Old Town is a large museum, walking along the cobblestone pavements of which you can get acquainted with the history of medieval Tallinn.

The Garden of the Danish King is associated with the legend of how the Danes got their state flag.
On the roof of the building of the Russian Embassy in Estonia at Pikk 23/25, you can try to find the famous spy, who comfortably perched on the ledge and, through an elegant pince-nez, watches the windows of the opposite house. People also call it the Monument to Curiosity and many fascinating legends and stories are associated with this figure. Around the corner of the same building, a black cat "wanders" on the roof.

You can sit at the Cat's well on Rataskaevu street. This place really has enough sad story.

Sometimes an entire street is an attraction in itself, such as Katarina Lane.

The oldest operating pharmacy in Europe, located on the Town Hall Square, can be visited free of charge.

The Museum of the Bank of Estonia, located not far from the Old Town, will help to change the situation. Although it is somewhat of a banking institution, the exhibition on the history of banking and money is free to view.

If museum trips are ideal for you, consider purchasing a tourist card. With it, you will minimize the cost of entrance tickets, because all 40 museums and sights of Tallinn are included in the offer of the card, and - attention - it allows you to use public transport for free during the period of its validity.

If you are not planning to buy a Tallinn Card, explore Tallinn in advance. Most of them have at least one day a month for free admission.

The most important thing is food!

Tallinn is rightfully proud of first-class restaurants. Fresh seasonal products, tastefully decorated interiors, great location - all this unites the best restaurants in the city. Tallinn also has a lot to offer, even for those who want a quick bite to eat and do not agree to pay 10 or even 5 euros for lunch.

The Kompressor is a student favorite and is famous for its huge (ask anyone) servings of savory and sweet pancakes. One pancake is enough to satisfy a hungry traveler. Most importantly, all items on the pancake menu cost less than 6 euros.

Cheap meals Italian cuisine Vapiano chain restaurants are waiting for you, there are two of them in the city center. Pasta, risotto, pizza - everything is freshly prepared on site and any dish costs less than 10 euros, and you will have to pay extra for drinks.

The Reval Café chain is another option for a quick meal for less than 10 euros. Cafes are scattered throughout the city, including the Old Town and the popular Kalamaja area. The range of cakes, pastries and excellent coffee.

Cafe Sõõrikukohvik (“Donut Cafe”) is a classic place for fans of inexpensive food. Estonian-style donuts are sold by the weight, and the menu also includes soups, salads, pancakes, and main courses.

Kolmas Draakon (“Third Dragon”) is the most budgetary institution on the Town Hall Square. This tiny cafe is located right in the town hall building, but the most expensive dish here costs 3 euros. The legendary elk stew - only 2 euros, and pickles from a huge barrel in the hall can be taken in almost unlimited quantities and "in the appendage", i.e. free with purchase. So don't pass by

On weekdays, many establishments in the center and in the Old Town change their pricing policy and offer lunch menus at a special price. You can usually find a meal in the region of 5 euros, including water and daily bread. And the soup is even cheaper.

How to get there? From Russia there are many options: buses, ferries, trains. Residents of St. Petersburg were the luckiest. We traveled from Prague by plane with a transfer in Riga, because. Unfortunately, there is no direct flight connection between these two European capitals. Perhaps I will write separately about the airBaltic airline.

To visit Tallinn you need a Schengen visa. The Estonian currency is the euro.

Language. In the center almost everywhere they speak Russian and English. So, there will definitely not be any problems with communication.

Tallinn is a very small city. The population is only 450 thousand people. And in the whole country there are barely 1.5 million people. The people are small, but very proud of their culture and language. Despite all historical events they retained their identity.

Climate. It is often windy and cool in Tallinn. But we were lucky, almost all days it was warm and sunny, it rained only once and then early in the morning. In any case, even in summer it does not hurt to take a jacket with you for evening walks, especially by the sea.

How are Russian tourists treated? Many people have this question. I speak only from my own experience. Russian tourists are treated the same as the rest. If you behave adequately, then you will be treated well, no matter where you are from. Moreover, there are very, very many Russians in Tallinn. During my stay, I saw only kindness. In general, there are a huge number of tourists in Tallinn! Most are Finnish.

Where to live? in Tallinn huge selection hotels and apartments. We are lucky as never before! Highly recommend Tallinn City Apartments Residence! The house is in the very center, spacious apartments, there is everything you need. So, if you choose an option, then it's definitely proven and definitely cool.

Public transport. Trams, buses, trolleybuses, trains. And everything is free! But not for us, but for the inhabitants of Tallinn, can you imagine? Tallinners, you are great, this is very cool, I envy you in a white way! And for tourists, the fare is 2 euros, you can buy a ticket from the driver. The Tallinn Card is free of charge (more on that below). More information

Prices. The city seemed quite expensive to me. Especially after the Czech Republic. The level is somewhere like in medium-sized German cities. The highest prices are in the historical center, which is logical.

How to save? My favorite trick is to buy a city card. Many cities have such a system. You buy a card for a certain number of hours (the more, the more profitable) and visit a bunch of museums on it, ride transport for free and a bunch of other goodies. I already wrote about the same in Amsterdam. In Tallinn, this is the Tallinn Card. She gives:

Free admission to over 40 museums and attractions

Free public transport

Discounts on excursions and entertainment, in shops and restaurants

With the Tallinn Card PLUS you also get free travel on Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing buses

We bought the plus option for 72 hours. As a result, the card paid off approximately 2 times (and in Amsterdam, 4 times, and even more in Innsbruck, well, it doesn’t matter ...). You can buy in information center, they will also give a detailed brochure.

The only point that is important to consider: Many museums are closed on Monday and Tuesday. Therefore, it is better to buy such a card not these days. So we flew over with the museum of stones and with the catacombs (it’s generally better to find out in advance what time the group is there).

Of. site in Russian with complete information about the map -.

Where to go?

Attractions, what to see?

old center incomparable. I have already seen so many things in different cities, but Tallinn is still fascinating. I want to look at all these quaint streets, houses ...

In addition, you should definitely visit other areas and see Tallinn in a completely different way. For example, the bohemian Kalamaja. I wouldn't believe he was bohemian either.

In this area there is a railway station, and there are many antique shops and various markets nearby. Everything is sold there: from Soviet dishes to modern designer items from Scandinavia.

A separate topic is street art. There is a lot of it, there is something to see.

If you follow my advice and buy the Tallinn Card, the walk will become even more enjoyable, because you will be able to look into different churches and museums along the way for FREE, as well as climb the towers and enjoy the most beautiful bird's-eye views.

✪ Town Hall and Town Hall Tower. I warn you: the ascent and descent is difficult, the stairs are narrow, the steps are high, the next day your legs will hurt.

✪ Church of the Holy Spirit and her oldest watch. And every Monday there are free organ concerts at 18.00. At other times, entrance is paid, with TallinnCard - free of charge.

✪ Oleviste Church and, perhaps, the highest observation deck in the city center (the TV tower does not count).

But the climb is even worse than the City Hall. Very narrow stairs and platform. I'm glad that I went up there, but not the fact that I would repeat it again.

✪ Museum of Orders. I really liked the extensive collection of very rare and expensive orders. And there are very nice and friendly employees, be sure to drop by.

✪ Town Hall Pharmacy. Admission is free, the pharmacy is open, but there is a small exhibition area.

✪ Walk along the fortress walls. There are several open towers, we were near Nunne street.

✪Marzipan room. You can see the production and many sweet figurines. Tallinn Card gives a free sweet gift.

✪ Museum puppet theater . An interactive museum that will appeal to both children and adults. You can arrange performances in the theater of different genres yourself, dress up in costumes, try on masks. I advise!

✪ Church of Niguliste. Now a museum. Be sure to go and see Notke's painting "Dance of Death". And there are various temporary exhibitions, we were lucky to visit the silver exhibition.

✪ Vyshhorod and Toompea Castle.

Be sure to climb Vyshgorod, where you will find beautiful observation platforms, a cathedral and a large Orthodox church.

✪ Museum of Drinking Culture. Museum of wine, in other words. There you can taste various wines and learn about the history of wine in Estonia. With the Tallinn Card, admission is free and we were also given 3 different wines to try.

✪ Flight harbour. I advise you to walk to it along the coast through the territory with an abandoned prison. Don't be afraid, everything is civilized there, but it's breathtaking.

Various ships are displayed in the harbor. There is a steam icebreaker and many other interesting objects.

✪ Ride on open-top sightseeing buses Hop-on Hop-off (free with Tallinn Card +). A great option to see the outlying areas of the city and calmly get to the TV tower.

✪ TV tower.

Modern design, even children will not be bored.

The view from the tower is unreal, in clear weather you can even see Helsinki.

And many, many more interesting things! It is clear that it is simply unrealistic to fit everything in one review, but I talked about the main places that I liked. I think everyone will open and find something of their own in Tallinn!

Where to go to eat?

I'll tell you about a few establishments where we ate. Prices are different everywhere, of course, not very sky-high.

✪ Kaerajaan. Restaurant on the town hall square. Prices are higher than average, but the dishes are very tasty and very beautiful. Not only tourists go here, but also locals (and this is a sign of quality).

And the feature of this place... is in the toilet on the 2nd floor! There's a real old chimney right above the toilet. This is a must see, the photos do not convey the atmosphere to the fullest.

✪ Olde Hansa- medieval entertainment for tourists. Also in the center.

Transport in Tallinn

From the bus station you can get to the Old Town by tram number 2 and 4. The tram stop is 150 m from the station: you need to go along the Odra to Tartu Maantee and go to the other side (if you are standing with your back to the station, then you need to go to the left).

Entering the tram buy a ticket from the driver or attach a transport card to the validator, which can be bought at R-kiosk. The card costs 2 euros, this is a security deposit. You can put money on the card for travel for 1, 3, 5 days, for a month. This is cheaper (approximately 0.50 euros from each trip) than a one-time ticket purchase from the driver. The card is valid for one person. When entering the transport, it must be attached to the reader. Free travel in Tallinn only for residents of the city.

Ride on the tram 4 stops are needed - and you will enter the Old Town through the Viru Gates.

Also from the bus station buses number 17a, 23 or 23a go to the center. If there are few things , from the bus station to the Old Town can be reached on foot in about 30 minutes.

From the bus station to the airport can be reached by bus number 2. The stop is located 200-200 m from the bus station. You need to go along the Odra to Tartu Maantee and without crossing the street go a little to the right. It also goes to the seaport and ferries by bus number 2, but in the other direction. It runs three times an hour according to the schedule, which hangs at the bus stop. Bus number 65 goes from Lasnamäe to the airport.

From the train station Balti jaam airport can be reached by Hansabus bus, which runs twice an hour from 7.00 to 18.00. The fare is 2 euros. It also stops at the bus station. Another option is a taxi, a trip within the city center will cost 3-6 euros.

Route information transport in Tallinn and the schedule can be viewed (in English).

Where to stay

There are quite a lot in Tallinn good cheap hotels. So, a double room in a hotel in the Old Town and 5 minutes from it costs from 40 euros. From inexpensive hotels, we can recommend Park Inn Central Tallinn (a convenient location for those traveling from the bus station and from the airport), L`Ermitage (nice design of the rooms), Shnelli (near the railway station), Oru Hotel (near the airport), etc. There are several spa hotels, where it is especially pleasant in the cold season.

Also in Tallinn there are many hostels, including in the city center. A night in a room for men and women will cost from 16 euros. During the season (July-August), hotels and hostels must be booked in advance, otherwise it is difficult to find an inexpensive room.

If you are traveling with a group, it is very convenient (and inexpensive) to stay in an apartment. For example, OldHouse Apartments & Hostel on Vene Street: this is a two-room apartment in an old house (double bed and sofa) costs 79 euros / day for everyone. Periodically there are discounts of 25%. In this hostel, a double room costs 37 euros, amenities are nearby in the corridor.

Here you can see prices for hotels in Tallinn

Cautions

Do not ride in transport as a hare , fines for ticketless travel - 40 euros, there are no concessions for tourists.

In the city center you can see signs warning that bags are being torn out. How often such incidents happen is not known, but you should be careful.

Cross the road green light, otherwise they may be fined.

Smoking in public places is prohibited in Estonia, otherwise you will also have to pay a fine.

What to buy in Tallinn

Tallinn has many small souvenir shops with magnets, postcards, calendars and other gizmos.

The Old City has several shops and markets (for example, the famous market on Müürivahe, near the Viru Gate) with traditional knitwear, carpets and other handicrafts. Wool is usually pretty good.

For clothes and shoes you can go to Stockman (Liivalaia, 53), Viru Keskus, Tallinna Kaubamaja (Gonsiori,2), Rotermanni Keskus, etc.

In Viru Keskus below isa supermarket where you can buy chocolate, the famous Vana Tallinn liquor, marzipan figurines and much more, the choice is very large, but the prices here are slightly higher than in non-tourist places.

Souvenirs are cheaper buy in hypermarkets like Prisma. The closest one from the bus station is in the shopping center "Sikupilli", up the Tartu Highway.

Lookouts

At least two or three the lookouts are worth a visit. Of the most interesting:

1) Lookouts (Vaterplatvorm) in the Old City.

Patkuli - you can get here from Rahukohtu street, and to the Kohtuotsa site - from Kohtu. All traditional views of old Tallinn are filmed from here.

2) You can also look at the city from the observation deck on the Church of St. Olaf or Olevista on Lai 50. To climb the narrow observation deck you have to overcome 258 steps. You can get here daily from 10 am to 6 pm. A ticket costs 2 euros. You will have to climb a steep staircase, from the top you have a magnificent view of the city and its surroundings. The height of Oleviste is 124 m, it used to be higher and was even considered the tallest building in medieval Europe.

Other options:

3) Nice view also from the upper floors of the Radisson Blu Hotel Olumpia. At the entrance you can say that you are going to Club26.

4) In summer from 11.00 to 18.00 you can climb the tower of the City Hall (the height of the observation deck is 34 m). Entrance at the cafe "Tristan and Isolde".

What to see in Tallinn

FROMwhat time The need for a walk in the Old Town depends on your manner of walking and seeing the city. I can wander around Tallinn and take pictures for hours, looking at the roofs, doors and hatches on the streets, for others a cursory inspection of 2-3 hours is enough.

Old Tallinn consists from Toompea (Vyshgorod) and the Lower City. You can walk from one end of the old city to the other in 15-20 minutes.

The main attractions that can be seen in the Lower City:

Town hall in Tallinn , which is 600 years old. It is the best-preserved medieval town hall building in Northern Europe. Don't pass by. There are many cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops nearby. Be sure to visit the old pharmacy, which is located opposite the town hall.

Church of Oleviste on Lai 50 - the highest in old Tallinn, white - one of the most recognizable sights of Tallinn. The church is active and open to all. For 2 euros you can climb to the observation deck (see above).

The Maritime Museum at the Fat Margaret Tower on Pikk 70. Everything related to by the Baltic Sea: lots and compasses, models of sailboats, vintage cards and much more. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00.

Market for knitwear and souvenirs near the Virus Gates

From the new museums you can see Puppet Museum Nunne 8. This small museum in the city center has about 1,700 puppets, most of them theatrical. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 to 19.00. The ticket costs 5 euros

The main attractions in Toompea (Vyshhorod)

Two viewing platforms (see above)

Toompea Castle with a 48-meter tower "Long German". Now the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) is located here.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral - the largest Orthodox cathedral in Tallinn

The Dome Cathedral - the oldest church in Tallinn. Here, in particular, Ivan Kruzenshtern is buried.

Church of Niguliste . Now here is a branch of the Estonian Art Museum. If you're lucky, you can get to an organ concert.

In the Kik-in-de-Kek tower there is a museum military history Tallinn and its fortifications. The museum is open from 10.30 to 18.00 or until 17.30 depending on the season. The price for the museum is 4.5 euros, for the dungeons (by appointment at the box office or via the Internet) - 5.75 euros.

Close to Old Town

The Occupation Museum is located a few minutes walk from Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. It is dedicated to the Soviet and German occupation. You can watch a 30-minute film in Russian, English, Estonian, a lot of interesting exhibits - from dishes and radiograms to vending machines for soda and cars. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11.00 to 18.00. The ticket costs 2 euros.

Outside the Old City

If you have arrived more than for one day, it is worth taking a ride outside the Old City. Transport links are quite good, so you can safely go to the outskirts.

Kadriorg

Kadriorg- one of the most prestigious districts of Tallinn. Here is the palace of Catherine I in the Baroque style (now the Museum of Foreign Art is located here) and a beautiful park in which the house-museum of Peter I is located.

Located in Kadriorg residence of the President of the Republic of Estonia, many embassies.

From palace to famous monument battleship "Mermaid" - 10 minutes walk along a beautiful alley. Newlyweds often come here. From here you can return by bus to the city center or go the other way to Pirita and the Botanical Garden.

How to get to Kadriorg

From the city center to get to Kadriorg you can take tram number 1 and 3, go about 10 minutes. On buses No. 1, 1a, 19, 29, 29a, 29b, 34a, 38, 44 (the bus terminal is located in Viru Keskus on the ground floor), get off at the J.Poska stop. On foot for 20-30 minutes, from Tolstaya Margarita you go down, past shopping centers and further along the streets with private houses

Pyrite

Pirita is nice in summer, this area is located on the coast of the Gulf of Finland. There is a large beach, several hotels, including spas, restaurants and cafes.

Monastery of Saint Birgitta(Est. Pirita klooster, Pirita) on Merivälja tee 18. There is not much left of the monastery, but in the summer it is very pleasant to wander here. It is located 7 km from the city center. In summer it is open from 9.00 to 19.00, in other months it opens later and closes earlier. Entrance 2 euros.

Maarjamägi Castle(Maarjamäe loss) - the former summer residence of the family of Count Anatoly Vladimirovich Orlov-Davydov. The park contains sculptures and busts of the leaders of the communist movement, collected from all over Estonia.

From Pirita can be reached to the Botanical Garden. The garden is large, large collections of tulips, peonies, roses, and many other plants. In winter, it is worth visiting the greenhouses. In March, there is an exhibition of orchids. The Botanical Garden can be reached by buses 34-a and 38 from the bus terminal in Viru keskus. Get off at the Kloostrimetsa stop.

How to get to Pirita

On buses 34 and 1A from the bus terminal in Viru Keskus. Drive 10-15 minutes.

What to see in the west of Tallinn

Estonian ethnographic museumat Rocca al Mare on Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 12. From Balti Jaam (Baltic Station) by bus no. 21 and 21b, go straight to the gates of the museum. But they go 1-2 times an hour. It is better to take bus number 22 or trolleybuses number 6 and 7 to the Zoo stop (Zoo), then 15 minutes walk along the sea.

Zoo located on Paldiski mnt., 145. Open daily, in May-August from 9.00 to 19.00, in other months it closes at 17.00. You can get from the center by bus number 22 or trolleybuses number 6 and 7 to the stop Zoo (Zoo).

Other museums in Tallinn

Dominican Monastery of Saint Catherine, Vene 16/18

Jewish Museum of Estonia at Karu 16, open on weekdays from 9.00 to 17.00

Museum of Applied Arts on Lai 17 open from Wednesday to Sunday from 11.00 to 18.00. A collection of leather, textile, glass and metal products from the last 100 years. The ticket costs 3.50 euros.

Tallinn City Museum

Tallinn Science and Technology Center

Photo Museum in the Town Hall Prison

Art Museum of Estonia

Mikkel Museum open from Wednesday to Sunday from 11.00 to 18.00. A rich collection of works of art by Western European, Russian and Chinese masters of the 16th - 20th centuries.

Adamson-Eric Museum

Estonian Architecture Museum

Estonian History Museum

Museum of the Estonian People

Estonian Museum of Natural History

Estonian Health Museum

Estonian Sports Museum

Do they speak Russian in Tallinn

In Tallinn, many people speak well and understand Russian, so there are usually no problems in shops and hotels in the city center. Passers-by, as a rule, try to help, even if they do not speak Russian well.

In hotels or museums, not very visited by Russian tourists, they do not always understand Russian. When recruiting, of course, preference is given to candidates with knowledge of several foreign languages, including Russian. And yet, be prepared for the fact that not everyone knows Russian - the state language in Estonia is only Estonian. Pointers, signs and labels on goods are not duplicated in Russian.

Glossary

Avatud- open

Kauplus- score, pood - small shop

Jaam- railway station

bussijaam- bus station

Lennujaam- the airport

sadam– port

Meresadam- sea port

Keskus– center (for example, Viru keskus)

Kaubakeskus- shopping center

Hotell– hotel

restaurant- restaurant

Kohvik- Cafe

Kohv- coffee

Hommikusook- breakfast

Juuksur- salon

Tanav- the outside

Kirik- church

Apteek - pharmacy

Palun- please

Aitah- Thanks

Palun vabandust- sorry

Tere- hello

Tere hommikust- good morning

Terviseks- For health!

Ma ei oska eesti keelt– I don’t speak Estonian

All roads in old Tallinn lead to the town hall.

The Town Hall in Tallinn is over 600 years old.

There are always a lot of tourists on the Town Hall Square.

In the warm season, several summer cafes operate on the Town Hall Square.

Olde Hansa is one of the most popular restaurants among tourists.

A 50-gram bag of almonds with cinnamon costs from 2 euros.

In the center of Tallinn there are many shops with all kinds of souvenirs.

Walking around Tallinn, pay attention to the doors.

These are the photos taken from the observation deck on Toompea.

Weathercocks are one of the sights of Tallinn.

You can climb up to the observation deck on Olevista for 2 euros.

From the Lower Town you need to go to Toompea - the Upper Town.

The Riigikogu, the Estonian parliament, sits in Toompea Castle.

Tower "Long German" - one of the symbols of Estonia.

And in a conspicuous pink building on Toompea is the residence of the president.

There are always a lot of people in the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

In Nigulista, if you're lucky, you can get to an organ concert.

There are many modern hotels near the Old Town.

From Vyshgorod you can go down to Kalamaja - part of Tallinn with wooden houses.

In Kadriorg, in the palace of Catherine I. is the Museum of Foreign Art.

You can spend a couple of hours in the parks of Kadriorg.

From the palace to the famous monument to the battleship "Mermaid" - 10 minutes walk.

If you are going to Tallinn, you should take an umbrella or a raincoat.

From Kadriorg to Pirita - 7-10 minutes by bus.

In Pirita you can see the monastery of St. Birgitta.

There is not much left of the monastery, but in the summer it is very pleasant to wander around here.

New buildings in Pirita, one of the most expensive areas of Tallinn.

Evening in Tallinn is especially romantic.