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The Old Town of Tallinn
by Andy / FarAndFurther-team
Tallinn on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland is the capital of Estonia, the northernmost and smallest of the Baltic States. Its main attraction for most travelers is without a doubt its well-preserved medieval Old Town.
The Old Town is a charming combination of narrow cobblestone lanes, beautiful historical buildings, traditional Estonian restaurants and small artisans' shops. It's not tacky or overly chic, neither does it get overly crowded even in the busiest months of June to August. Compact enough to explore superficially in a day on foot, it is a real treat to enjoy its easy-going and friendly atmosphere, hearty food and good beer even for a week.
Viru Hotel in the New City seen through Old Town's main gate. Opened in 1972, Viru Hotel was Tallinn's first skyscraper and the most prestigious hotel during Soviet Russian occupation.
Much of the Old Town wall has survived and been beautifully restored.
Typical narrow lane in the Old Town.
Terrace on Town Hall Square. It is somehow unreal to think markets begun here as early as the 11th century. This is definitely the place to see and be seen!
Circle dancing youth dressed in national costumes on Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square).
Girls in funny costumes. Wonder what this is all about? Hen party sans the alcohol?
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a fine example of
Russian
Orthodox Churches is on the Toompea Hill.
However, if you stroll along some quaint cobblestone lanes...
... you are awarded with some great views over the city.
Skyscraper skyline of modern Tallinn.
Walking down you might come across this dramatic wall...
...complete with Alien graffiti.
Beautifully detailed Druggist's House.
This black panther statue is just one of the ornaments decorating
the The Druggist's House.
Stylish Italian embassy.
Church tower and clock.
A reproduction of medieval armor.
Liz of the FarAndFurther-team being lured into a "Medieval shoppe".
Olde Hansa Restaurant's advertising cart. Tallinn's merchants sure know
how
to utilize the medieval aspect.
Soviet Russian memorabilia is sold on the streets and in antique shops. Judging from the huge number of decorations still unsold two decades after the collapse of Soviet Union every citizen and their dog must have received a hand/pawnful of these.
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Kihnu on Estonia's West Coast - The Island time forgot |  |
Pärnu - Historical Spa Town on the Baltic Sea |
You can find all our photos and stories on Estonia at
Estonia photo series and travel stories
