Tallinn: The Historical Capital City of Estonia

Reinier van der Windt

May 15, 2023

2 min read

Tallinn is known for being the capital and largest city of Estonia and has a population of around 450,000 people. Situated on the coast of the Gulf of Finland Tallinn possesses a rich and fascinating history that can be observed in its stunning architecture. Walking around the Old Town of Tallinn can feel like traveling back in time due to its Gothic spires, colorful facades, and ornate detailing that are everywhere you look.

• Table of Contents
  • UNESCO Heritage in Tallinn's Old Town
  • Tallinn's Historic Town Hall
  • Tallinn's Unique Blend of Heritage, Creativity, and Innovation
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • What is the capital of Estonia?
  • What currency does Estonia use?
  • Are credit cards accepted in Estonia?
  • What is the best time to travel to Estonia?
  • What is the population of Estonia?
  • What language do they speak in Estonia?
  • Do I need a visa for Estonia?
  • Is Estonia a safe country?
  • Hotels in Tallinn
  • Restaurants in Tallinn
  • Activities in Tallinn

UNESCO Heritage in Tallinn's Old Town

The city has one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe - it's no surprise that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its narrow alleys and discover quaint cafes and boutique shops to wander hours away. Make sure to visit St. Catherine's Passage as well to check out its hidden gem artisan workshops. The town hall in Tallinn still serves as the seat of government after being built back during the 1400s - it's also a common location for events and ceremonies. If you climb up to its tower you will experience some breathtaking views of both the city center and surrounding area.

Tallinn's Historic Town Hall

An interesting fact about the town hall is that it is home to what is said to be Europe's oldest weather vane in the shape of a little old man. Despite being steeped in history, don't overlook Tallinn's vibrant modern culture! The Kalamaja district offers trendy spots such as street art exhibits as well as quirky cafes and vintage stores where you can enjoy coffee while browsing vinyl records that take you back down memory lane. Contemporary art enthusiasts should make their way over to Kumu Art Museum - which houses an impressive collection showcasing not just local Estonian contemporary works but temporary exhibits from international artists.

Tallinn's Unique Blend of Heritage, Creativity, and Innovation

What makes Tallinn so special is how it manages to balance both tradition and heritage with new ideas and trends impeccably well! The creativity in Tallinn runs deep with artistic geniuses pushing boundaries in music, writing, and art at every turn. And it's no wonder that opportunities abound with the Telliskivi Creative City leading the way as an old industrial complex turned artsy hub for innovators and entrepreneurs alike. The variety of funky restaurants, and engaging shops all complemented by amazing galleries and design studies make this an experience not-to-be-missed place to be in Tallinn. This Estonian city is one-of-a-kind where bicycles merge harmoniously into daily life thanks to dedicated biking paths along most streets crisscrossing the lush municipality aiding commuters from all walks of life while offering great exercise routines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Estonia

• What is the capital of Estonia?

  The capital of Estonia is Tallinn. Tallinn is known for being largest city of Estonia and has a population of around 450,000 people. Situated on the coast of the Gulf of Finland Tallinn possesses a rich and fascinating history that can be observed in its stunning architecture.

• What currency does Estonia use?

  Estonia uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.

• Are credit cards accepted in Estonia?

  Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Estonia, especially in urban areas and popular tourist destinations. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly used credit cards.

• What is the best time to travel to Estonia?

  The best time to travel to Estonia is during the summer months, from late May to early September. This is when the weather is relatively mild and the days are longer, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the country's natural beauty. The winters can be quite cold, but they also offer a unique experience if you're interested in winter sports and festive celebrations.

• What is the population of Estonia?

  The population of Estonia is around 1.3 million people.

• What language do they speak in Estonia?

  The official language of Estonia is Estonian. It is a Finno-Ugric language and is unrelated to most other European languages. English is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among younger generations.

• Do I need a visa for Estonia?

  Visa requirements can vary based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of many countries within the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days) in Estonia. However, it's essential to check the latest visa requirements and regulations based on your specific situation before you travel.

• Is Estonia a safe country?

  Estonia is generally considered a safe country to visit. Crime rates are relatively low, and the country has a stable political and social environment. However, like in any destination, it's recommended to exercise basic precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or tourist areas.

Hotels in Tallinn

Restaurants in Tallinn

Activities in Tallinn