I arrived in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, on 27 March 2024 at 14:30 after a bus journey from Riga. The trip took around four hours and ended at Tallinn Bus Station, a modern and well-organized terminal. From there, I walked to my hotel, checked in, and took a short rest before starting to explore the city.

After resting for a while, I began my first walk in Tallinn from the Hotel Viru & KGB Museum area, heading toward Viru Gate, one of the most iconic entrances to Tallinn Old Town. This route clearly showed the transition from the modern part of the city to its medieval core. Passing through Viru Gate, I immediately found myself surrounded by cobblestone streets, historic buildings and a completely different atmosphere.

I continued walking toward Town Hall Square, the heart of the Old Town, where the impressive Tallinn Town Hall stands. The square was lively, filled with cafés and colorful buildings. I spent some time walking around and enjoying the medieval setting, passing by places like Peppersack, located in a historic merchant building.

Later in the afternoon, I explored Nun Tower and Walls, one of the best-preserved parts of Tallinn’s medieval fortifications. The narrow streets, stone walls and hidden courtyards made the walk especially enjoyable and gave a strong sense of the city’s past.

As evening approached, I continued walking through the Old Town and toward the harbor area. The contrast between historic buildings and modern architecture became more visible, especially with structures like the illuminated Tallink Group Headquarters.

It is worth noting that although the tall spire of St. Olaf’s Church (Oleviste kogudus) was visible from many points in the city, I did not visit it on my first day and left it for later during my stay.

On 28 March, I explored the Kadriorg district. I started the day at Kadriorg Park, one of the most elegant green spaces in Tallinn. The early spring atmosphere, with blooming crocus flowers, made the park especially peaceful. Nearby, I visited Kadriorg Art Museum and the modern Kumu Art Museum, both important cultural landmarks.

Continuing toward the sea, I reached the Russalka Memorial, located right by the Baltic coast. After enjoying the seaside views, I walked along the promenade and stopped near the Tallinn Sign, where the skyline can be seen across the bay. Later, I visited the Maarjamäe Memorial Complex, a powerful and emotional historical site. I ended the day at the illuminated Tallinn Song Festival Grounds, one of Estonia’s most important cultural venues.

On 29 March, I continued exploring the historic center. I began at St. Mary’s Cathedral (Tallinn Dome Church) in the Toompea area, followed by a visit to St. Nicholas’ Church & Museum. I also explored more sections of Nun Tower and Walls, further appreciating the medieval structure of the city.

Later, I visited Balti Jaama Turg, a vibrant market filled with food stalls, cafés and local products. In the afternoon, I went to the Bronze Soldier of Tallinn, a significant war memorial, and also spent time at Freedom Square (Vabaduse väljak), one of the main public spaces in modern Tallinn.

On the morning of 30 March, I traveled by ferry to Helsinki, Finland. After spending time exploring Helsinki, I returned to Tallinn on 1 April at 13:00. After returning, I explored additional parts of the city including the impressive Tallinn TV Tower, which offers panoramic views over the forests, coastline and the city skyline. I also relaxed in Tammsaare Park, enjoying the final moments of my trip.

Finally, I departed Tallinn on 1 April at 10:30, completing an unforgettable journey. Tallinn impressed me with its unique blend of medieval architecture, coastal scenery and modern Baltic culture. During my trip, I also passed by Rocca Al Mare Mall, which appeared very large and modern from the outside, although I did not go inside. In general, for several museums I mostly explored their surroundings rather than entering them.

There were still a few places I did not manage to visit this time, including Keila Waterfall, Eesti Meremuuseum (Estonian Maritime Museum), Tallinn Zoo, Löwenruh Park, Glehn Park, Maarjamäe Castle, Estonian Open Air Museum, Põhjakonna Trepp, and Tallinn TV Tower. These places remain on my list for a future visit, showing that Tallinn offers far more to explore than can be experienced in just a few days.

Overall, Tallinn was a beautiful, historic and very enjoyable city to explore for me. I did not experience any difficulties with food and dining, and everything was easily accessible. It turned out to be a very comfortable and relaxed trip.