Your flight to Tallinn takes you to the heart of the northernmost Balkan country, song-filled Estonia, and its perfectly preserved medieval old town. From the Old Town Hall’s octagonal Gothic tower and Europe’s oldest operating pharmacy (opened in 1422), to St Olav’s Church’s 159m spire, Tallinn comes up to date with Soviet constructivism and post-Soviet new build.
Step back in time by exploring Tallinn’s medieval towers or Toompea Castle, which now houses the Estonian Parliament. The living culture of Tallinn is exemplified by Estonians’ love of song with the massive al fresco Song Festival Grounds, where Estonia’s Singing Revolution started in 1988.
Away from the crowds, picnic at the Estonian Open Air Museum or recuperate amidst the wonders of Tallinn Botanical Garden, including summer-night aroma tours. Closer to the old town, visit Peter I’s Baroque Kadriog Palace, set in rolling parkland, including its own Swan Lake.
Locals in Tallinn sup local lagers Saku or Albert le Coq, or vodka (viin in Estonian) brands Viru Valge and Saaremaa. The cuisine is distinctive, so try Marineeritud angerjas (marinated eels), Verivorst (blood and barley sausage) or Silgusoust (Baltic sprats with bacon in sour cream) for a taste of Tallinn. |