Beautiful Old Town of Estonia in the Baltic States! Introducing the UNESCO World Heritage “Historic Centre (Old Town) of Tallinn”

Situated just south of the Nordic countries, the Baltic States line up from north to south, with Estonia at the top. In the heart of Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, lies one of Northern Europe’s most stunning old towns—Tallinn’s Historic Centre—preserved in its entirety as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its winding cobblestone lanes, medieval atmosphere, and beautifully preserved buildings make it a photogenic and deeply atmospheric destination. Let’s explore the timeless wonder of the Historic Centre of Tallinn.

What Is the Historic Centre of Tallinn?

The UNESCO–designated Historic Centre of Tallinn encompasses the entire medieval old town, ringed by its original stone walls and gateways. At its core is the bustling Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats), home to the medieval town hall. Nearby stands Toompea Castle atop the hill, the Russian Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and St. Nicholas’ Church—Tallinn’s oldest church.

Throughout the district, you’ll find museums housed in historic buildings—such as the quirky Health Museum—as well as wide public squares and parks like Toompea and Kanuti. Although compact enough to walk through in a day, the abundance of sights will tempt you into lingering over coffee in a café on a quiet side street.

Getting There

From Helsinki: A ferry from Helsinki arrives at Tallinn Harbor; it’s about a 10-minute walk to the old town. You’ll enter at the “Fat Margaret” tower, a stout turret overlooking the harbor.

From the Airport: Take Bus No. 2 to the “Autobussijaam” stop; from there, the closest old-town gate is the Viru Gate. By Long-Distance Bus: Coaches from other countries also arrive at Autobussijaam.

Highlights of the Historic Centre ① Medieval City Walls and Towers

The defining feature of Tallinn’s old town is its massive stone curtain walls, punctuated by uniquely named towers. The Viru Gate, facing the modern boulevard, is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. Next to it, the “Linnahall” or “Tall Hermann” Tower grants access to walk along the ramparts.

To the north stands the squat “Fat Margaret” tower; to the south, the “Kitchen Witch” tower houses exhibits on the walls’ history and medieval fortifications, including the once-secret tunnels.

Highlights of the Historic Centre ② The “Dance of Death” Mural at St. Nicholas’ Church

A short walk southwest from Town Hall Square in the Tallinn Historic District brings you to St. Nicholas’ Church, the oldest cathedral in Estonia. Inside, you’ll find a beautiful high altar and displayed relics, and in the evenings the church occasionally hosts concerts.

Its standout attraction is the never-before-removed “Dance of Death” fresco. Painted in the late 15th century by Bernt Notke, it depicts kings, queens, and princesses reluctantly dancing with skeletal figures (Death) in a macabre courtly dance.

This theme was common in the turbulent Middle Ages, when plague and war were ever-present. Although only fragments of the original work survive, its large scale still makes for a powerful viewing experience.

Highlights of the Historic Centre ③ Craftsmen’s Courtyard

Branching off nearby Vene Street, the Craftsmen’s Courtyard is a network of lanes where local artisans sell jewelry, knitwear, ceramics, and more. Many workshops include studios where you can watch makers at work.

Estonia is famous for its woodcraft: here you’ll find stylish butter knives, serving trays, and other kitchenware at fair prices. Don’t miss the ivy-draped chocolate café with its outdoor terrace—perfect for sampling hot cocoa or chocolate cake.

Visitor Tips

Tallinn is generally safe, especially in the well-traveled old-town center. However, Toompea Park becomes dimly lit after dark and sees fewer pedestrians, so exercise caution at night. As in many European cities, pickpocketing can occur—stay vigilant in crowded areas.

The pedestrian underpass from the main train station to the old town is lightly trafficked even by day. Finally, when using buses or trams, have exact change ready, as drivers do not give change.

◎ Summary

Tallinn’s Historic Centre, perched on the Gulf of Finland just across from Helsinki, offers marine vistas, medieval charm, and world-class heritage. If you have time, consider a day-trip on the high-speed ferry to Helsinki (1.5–2 hours), or venture by tram about 10 minutes to Kadriorg Palace and the KUMU Art Museum, or explore the open-air Estonian Open Air Museum on the outskirts. Don’t miss this jewel of Northern Europe—walk its walls, savor its café culture, and step back into the Middle Ages in Tallinn’s magnificent old town.

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Beautiful Old Town of Estonia in the Baltic States! Introducing the UNESCO World Heritage “Historic Centre (Old Town) of Tallinn”