Tallinn Old Town (Vanalinn)
Vannalin, Tallinn, EST
With its largely-intact 13th-century city plan, original cobblestone streets, gothic-spired buildings, and vibrant dining and nightlife, Old Town (also known as Vanallin) is arguably the heart of Tallinn. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors from around the world come to Tallinn to experience the best-preserved medieval city in all of Northern Europe.
Originally surrounded by fortress walls (some of which can still be seen today), Old Town is the jewel of the city housing its art, culture, food, and history. Most tours of the area explore the major sites of Old Town through its winding streets and interconnecting passageways.
Be sure to check out the Tallinn City Museum and the St. Nicholas’ Church, both of which host an extensive collection of medieval artwork. Or consider exploring Toompea Hill for spectacular views of Old Town with a glimpse of the Balctic Sea in the distance. And while you’re there visit the vibrant, onion-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- Old Town is a pedestrian-friendly area of Tallinn.
- Although the winding streets can be confusing, part of the charm of the city is to wander throughout the centuries-old alleys, past ancient architecture.
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes when navigating the cobblestone streets of Old Town.
- Many of the museums, castles, and churches in Old Town are free and open to the public.
Old Town Tallinn can be reached by car from Tallinn Airport which is roughly a 12 minute drive. You can also take a bus from the airport if you are not renting a car or using a taxi. Once in Vanalinn, most of the compact area is accessible on foot.
Tallinn, and Estonia in general, is still a relatively less touristy destination, so you won’t be in the crowds of other major European cities no matter what time of year you go. For warm weather and plenty of fun festivals and city-wide celebrations visit Tallinn during the summer. Or for a fairytale-like wonderland, consider a bundled-up excursion in winter.
One of the best things to do when visiting Vanalinn is to experience the dining and nightlife scene. The main Old Town Square is filled with restaurants and cafes though they tend to be a little pricey. Instead consider wandering the town’s sidestreets to find a smaller place to stop for a bite to eat. And for those looking to mix history with their cuisine, check out Olde Hansa for a medieval dining experience.
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