Iconic Old town Tallinn

Discover Tallinn’s Old Town on a 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour

This walking tour of Tallinn’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town offers a compact yet immersive experience for visitors eager to see the city’s most iconic sites. For $40.12 per person, the 2-hour tour delivers a thorough exploration, led by a certified, English-speaking guide. The tour departs from Raekoja tn 1, near the historic Town Hall square at 3:00 pm, and is designed for those looking to maximize their time with a well-structured route packed with highlights.

While the tour covers many major landmarks in a short span, it’s especially suitable for visitors with limited time who want a rundown of Tallinn’s medieval charm. The group size is capped at 25 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience, though the moderate physical fitness level is recommended given the walking nature and cobbled streets.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $40.12, this 2-hour walking tour takes you through Tallinn’s historic Old Town.
• Starting Point: The tour begins at Raekoja tn 1, meeting near the Town Hall square under the clock.
• Major Landmarks: Highlights include Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Toompea Castle, St. Olaf’s Church, and the Town Hall.
• Expert Guide: A certified English-speaking guide leads the group, sharing detailed stories and insights.
• Walking Pace: The tour moves through cobbled streets, historic squares, and viewpoints, with some stops lasting around 5-10 minutes.
• Not Included: Entrance fees to some sites, like St. Olaf’s Church and Toompea Castle, are not included.

Starting at the Long Leg Gate Tower and Exploring Medieval Walls

The tour begins at the Long Leg Gate Tower, a historic entrance to the Old Town. From there, the guide leads visitors to Towers’ Square, where the medieval wall with 10 towers extends, offering a glimpse into Tallinn’s defensive past. This stretch emphasizes the city’s medieval architecture and fortifications, all visible without additional entrance costs.

Nearby, the route passes medieval buildings and the fraternity house of medieval merchants, giving insight into Tallinn’s historic commerce and guild systems. The guide points out these structural details, providing context for visitors interested in medieval urban life.

Visiting St. Olaf’s Church – Once the Tallest Building Globally

A standout stop is St. Olaf’s Church, a medieval church notable for being, in the past, the tallest building in the world. Visitors spend about 5 minutes here, enjoying the exterior views and learning about its architectural significance. Entrance fees are not included, but the church’s exterior and history are compelling sights.

The tour then moves to Towers’ Square, the longest section of the medieval defensive wall, featuring 10 towers. This area offers a vivid picture of the city’s ancient fortifications, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Exploring the Historic Streets and Medieval Structures

The guide leads through a medieval street that takes visitors upward toward the Upper Town. This old street is lined with charming cobblestones and historic facades, perfectly capturing Tallinn’s medieval atmosphere.

The medieval street-stairs connecting the upper and lower towns are a distinctive feature of Tallinn’s topography. The guide explains their purpose and history, enriching the experience of walking through the city’s layered history.

The Danish King’s Garden and the Birthplace of the Danish Flag

Next, visitors visit the Danish King’s Garden, a small park that is the birthplace of the Danish flag. Here, a brief 5-minute stop allows for photos and a quick overview of Denmark’s historic connection to Tallinn.

Russian Orthodox and Estonian Castle Landmarks

The tour continues with a visit to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an iconic Russian Orthodox church that dominates the skyline. This 10-minute stop offers exterior views and insights into Tallinn’s diverse religious architecture.

Further, the Toompea Castle, the largest medieval castle in Estonia and seat of the Estonian Parliament, is explored (though admission is not included). The guide explains its historical importance and architectural features.

Historic Churches and Viewpoints with Stunning Vistas

The group then visits St. Mary’s Cathedral, the oldest Catholic/Lutheran church in Estonia. It boasts the world’s largest collection of coats of arms, making it a significant cultural site. The 10-minute stop offers exterior views and a chance to appreciate its historical significance.

Following this, visitors enjoy panoramic viewing platforms at Patkuli and Viru Gates, both offering some of the best photo opportunities in Tallinn. These external viewpoints are free and highlight the city’s picturesque rooftops and skyline.

Exploring Town Square and the Oldest Pharmacy

Next, the tour takes visitors to Tallinna Raekoja Plats, the main square of Old Town, where 15 minutes are spent soaking in the lively atmosphere. Nearby, the Town Hall Pharmacy claims the title of the world’s oldest running pharmacy. This stop offers a glance at Tallinn’s continuous medical tradition, with free exterior views.

The Historic Town Hall and Iconic Gates

The Tallinn Town Hall, the oldest Town Hall building in the world, is explored with a brief 5-minute stop. Its architecture and history are notable, though entry fees are not included.

Finally, the Viru Gates, the medieval gate marking the entrance to the Old Town, serve as a picturesque conclusion to the tour. This 5-minute stop provides a memorable photo finish.

Practicalities and Tour Details

The entire experience is led by a professional guide, and includes many outdoor stops with free access to external sites and viewpoints. However, some interior sites like St. Olaf’s Church and Toompea Castle require an admission fee if visitors wish to explore inside.

The tour is accessible for those with moderate physical fitness due to the walking and cobblestones, with service animals allowed. It begins at 3:00 pm and concludes back at the meeting point, with no transportation involved.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This guided walk is ideal for visitors wanting a timely, comprehensive overview of Tallinn’s medieval architecture, historic landmarks, and breathtaking viewpoints. The small group size enhances interaction, and the knowledgeable guide makes history engaging. It suits those who prefer outdoor exploration with minimal indoor site visits, as some attractions’ entrances are not included.

Final Thoughts on the Old Town Tallinn Tour

The $40.12 price offers great value for a well-rounded, 2-hour introduction to Tallinn’s historic core. While it emphasizes outdoor sights and spectacular views, visitors should be prepared for some walking on cobbled streets and moderate physical activity.

The expert guidance and diverse stops make this tour a smart choice for first-time visitors or those short on time. The personal touches like the city maps and magnets provided by the guide in some reviews reflect the tour’s friendly, informative atmosphere.

In summary, this Old Town Tallinn walking tour delivers a rich snapshot of the city’s cultural and historic treasures, making it a practical and rewarding exploration for anyone seeking to get familiar with Tallinn’s medieval heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $40.12 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The guided walk lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Raekoja tn 1, near the Town Hall square under the clock.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness due to walking on cobbled streets and through historic areas.

Are entrance fees included?
No, for sites like St. Olaf’s Church and Toompea Castle, admission tickets are not included.

What landmarks will I visit?
You will see St. Olaf’s Church, Towers’ Square, Danish King’s Garden, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Toompea Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral, viewpoints at Patkuli and Kohtuotsa, Town Hall, and Viru Gates.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour available year-round?
The data does not specify seasonal availability, but it is bookable in advance with confirmation upon booking.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made online, with tickets delivered as a mobile ticket for easy access.