3 Days in Tallinn and Helsinki: Medieval Charm and Nordic Culture
I first booked a trip to Tallinn simply because of a cheap flight deal. Yes, I admit it—low-cost flights to Estonia were the reason we ended up there. But now, looking back, I realize what a shame it is that I didn’t choose Tallinn sooner for what it truly is: a city full of charm, history, and soul. With this blog post, I want to be one of those who can proudly say they fell in love with Tallinn at first sight.
The first time I visited was for a romantic weekend getaway with my husband. We loved it so much that we later gifted the trip to my mother-in-law, and her sister and husband joined us too—turning it into a warm and joyful family weekend.
On both occasions, we also made a short trip to Helsinki, not because Tallinn wasn’t enough, but simply because it’s such a common and easy journey. You can just book a ferry ticket online, and after a comfortable two-hour cruise across the Baltic Sea, you arrive at the other capital.
But the reason I fell for Tallinn is because of its unique spirit. Some say it’s haunted—and honestly, I kind of believe it. There’s something about its intact medieval charm that truly blew my mind. At first, I didn’t want to eat anywhere other than Olde Hansa, enchanted by its authentic medieval atmosphere. Luckily, I did explore more, and discovered the incredible culinary culture that this city is proudly developing.
To me, Tallinn might just be one of the coziest capitals in Europe, much like Prague. It’s beautiful, easy to explore, affordable, and absolutely delicious. What more could you ask for?
When to Visit Tallinn
I’ve visited Tallinn twice—both times in winter. The first trip was in February, the second in January. I’ll be honest: I’m not a fan of the cold and tend to suffer in chilly weather. But thanks to my Icelandic-style packing, I was well prepared both times.
Personally, I don’t regret going in winter—it has a magical, almost fairytale vibe with snow-dusted rooftops and cozy cafés. But some friends I recommended the trip to found my cold-weather advice a bit too much! In reality, the temperatures hover around 1–2°C (34–36°F), and while it does snow occasionally, it’s not unbearably cold—especially for travelers used to warmer climates.
Still, I believe that spring and summer in Tallinn must be absolutely delightful. Picture this: tables set outside charming restaurants, blooming flowers in the medieval squares, and locals enjoying long northern daylight hours. If you prefer mild weather and vibrant street life, these seasons are likely the best time to go.
1.day
- Stay in any b&b or hotel you like inside the historical city walls.
- Breakfast at the Chocolaterie Pierre, an institution in Tallin
- Nearby admire St. Catherine’s Passage, the most picturesque place in Tallin
- Turn back towards the Main Square to reserve a table for dinner in Olde Hansa Medieval Restaurant. You could have done this online as well [email protected] This will undoubtly be the best experience in Tallin. This is the most famous Medievel Restaurant in Europe, the decoration, the service and the menu is loyal to its name and in the Medievel Ages, this building was really a tavern!
- Using either “short leg gate” or “long leg gate” walk upon the upper town where the rich German used to rule and live, while Estonians used to live in the lower town.
- Maiden’s Tower and Danish Kings Garden, where, according to the legend, the Danish flag was born.
- Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, richly decorated Russian Orthodox church, entrance free of charge
- St. Mary’s Cathedral (Dome Church) and bell tower, the oldest church in town.
- Walk towards the panoramic terrace of Patkuli Viewing Platform and enjoy the panorama. Check the souvenir shops around this viewing platform.
- Return to the hearth of the historical centre, admire the Main square and Tallin Town Hall, Northern Europe`s best and oldest gothic town hall, open only during spring and summer.
- Under the town hall, have lunch at the Draakon. Ox ribs & beer, ask for the sweet meat pies. Any pickles you will catch from the barrel will be free of charge.
- Visit the antique Town Hall Pharmacy just opposite of the town hall, free of charge.
- Visit the Church of the Holy Spirit in Tallinn (1.5 eur per person and it is worth)
- House of Brotherhood of Blackheads, take a picture of the colorful façade of the building. Free entrance.
- St. Olav’s Church, the biggest medieval building in Tallin. If open, will cost you 5 eur/adult 3 eur/child
- Walk until Fat Margharet’s Tower and Great Coastal Gate
2. day
3. day
- Start your day with a breaksfast in the historical caffe shop Café Maiasmokk
- Follow the Medievel legends of Tallin
- Rataskaevu 6, Tallin’s most famous ghost legend, The Devil’s Wedding
- The Pervert, the building on the corner of Pikk and Hobusepea Streets.
- The Needle Eye
- Lunch at the Pancake House where you can find the most amazing pancake options
- Walk till the Viru Gate and take picture of the town outside the entrance gate
- Take a walk on the towers, a panoramic view of Tallin from another perspective
- Departure in the evening
