Best Things to Do in Tallinn Old Town

Tallinn's Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval city centres in Europe — and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason. Cobblestone streets, limestone towers, Gothic spires, and centuries of Baltic history are packed into a walkable area that you can explore entirely on foot. Here's our local guide to making the most of it.

1. Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats)

The heart of the Old Town and one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Northern Europe. The Gothic Town Hall dates from the 15th century. In summer, the square fills with café terraces; in winter, it hosts one of Europe's most atmospheric Christmas markets. Start your Old Town exploration here.

2. Toompea Castle & Viewpoints

Toompea Hill rises above the Lower Town and offers the best panoramic views of Tallinn's red-tiled rooftops. The two main viewpoints — Kohtuotsa and Patkuli — are free and open at all times. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Estonian Parliament building are also on Toompea Hill.

3. Olde Hansa — Medieval Dining

For a truly immersive experience, dine at Olde Hansa, a medieval-themed restaurant near Town Hall Square. Staff dress in period costume, the menu features dishes from the 15th century, and the atmosphere is unlike anything else in the city. Book in advance — it's popular with good reason.

4. Katariina Passage

A hidden medieval alley connecting Vene Street and Müürivahe Street, lined with artisan workshops selling handmade jewellery, ceramics, quilts, and glasswork. One of the most charming spots in the Old Town — easy to miss if you don't know it's there.

5. The Town Wall & Towers

Tallinn's medieval town wall is one of the most intact in Europe. You can walk along sections of the wall and climb several of the towers for views over the Old Town. The Kiek in de Kök tower museum is particularly worth a visit.

6. The Oldest Pharmacy in Europe

The Raeapteek on Town Hall Square has been operating as a pharmacy since at least 1422, making it one of the oldest continuously operating pharmacies in the world. Today it's still a working pharmacy with a small museum section.

7. Balti Jaam Market

Just outside the Old Town walls (5 minutes on foot), Balti Jaam Market is a lively indoor-outdoor market with local produce, street food, vintage clothing, and crafts. A great place to experience everyday Tallinn life away from the tourist trail.

8. Kumu Art Museum & Kadriorg Park

A 20-minute walk (or short tram ride) from the Old Town, Kadriorg Park is a beautiful baroque park built by Peter the Great. Within it sits Kumu, Estonia's main art museum, with an impressive collection of Estonian art from the 18th century to the present.