| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Sightseeing type | Historic site tour |
| Transport | Walking |
Please refer to your voucher for final information regarding meeting points, pick-up locations, and pick-up time
Meeting point description: Meet your guide in the Town Hall sqaure. They will be holding a Discover Estonia sign.(Tallinna raekoda, Tallinn, Estonia)
Infants (age 0-4) can join the tour for free
Tallinn Old Town is renowned for its remarkably preserved medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, reflecting centuries of history as a vital Hanseatic trading hub. It showcases Gothic churches, merchant houses, and defensive walls from the 13th to 16th centuries. Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site underscores its exceptional universal value and cultural significance, offering a unique glimpse into Northern European medieval life.
Key attractions in Tallinn Old Town include Toompea Hill, home to Toompea Castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral; Raekoja Plats (Town Hall Square) with the historic Town Hall; St. Olaf's Church, once the world's tallest building; and the defensive city walls with their iconic towers like Kiek in de Kök. Exploring the Lower Town's merchant houses and narrow lanes also reveals hidden gems.
To effectively explore Tallinn Old Town, a full day (6-8 hours) is recommended to cover the main sights in both the Upper and Lower Towns at a comfortable pace. This allows time for visiting museums, climbing towers, enjoying meals, and soaking in the atmosphere. A shorter visit of 3-4 hours can cover key highlights, but a deeper experience requires more time.
The most convenient ways to reach Tallinn Old Town from the ferry terminal are by taxi, ride-sharing apps, or a short walk. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. Walking takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on your gate and destination within the Old Town. Public transport, like tram line 2, also connects the terminal area to stops near the Old Town.
For tourists, Tallinn public transport is generally not free. However, visitors staying in licensed accommodation may be eligible for a Tallinn Card, which includes unlimited free use of public transport, along with free entry to many attractions. Standard single tickets or daily passes are available for purchase for those without the Tallinn Card.
For trams and other public transport in Tallinn, you can pay using a contactless bank card by tapping it on the validator inside the vehicle. Alternatively, purchase a Smartcard (Ühiskaart) and load money onto it, or buy single-use QR tickets via the Pilet.ee website or mobile app. Cash is not accepted onboard.
Tallinn Old Town primarily showcases Gothic architecture, a testament to its medieval Hanseatic League prosperity. This is evident in its churches, such as St. Nicholas Church and the Dome Church, and the historic Town Hall. The defensive city walls and merchant houses also exhibit characteristic medieval building techniques, contributing to its distinct historical aesthetic.
Tallinn Old Town is highly pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot. Its compact size, cobblestone streets, and car-restricted areas make it ideal for walking. Many guided walking tours are available, helping visitors navigate its winding lanes and discover key historical sites. Wear comfortable shoes due to varied terrain and occasional uphill climbs.