Our destinations in December
Tallinn – the heart of Estonia
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a fascinating blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy. Situated on the coast of the Gulf of Finland, it is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities and attracts visitors from all over the world with its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Medieval heritage: Tallinn’s Old Town, also known as Vanalinn, is the jewel of the city. With its cobbled streets, Gothic towers and colourful Hanseatic houses, it transports visitors back to a time when Tallinn was a major trading hub of the Hanseatic League. Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) forms the heart of the Old Town and is the venue for numerous festivals and markets, particularly the famous Christmas market.
Cultural diversity: Tallinn is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its diverse art scene, music and gastronomy. Museums such as Kumu, one of Northern Europe’s largest art museums, offer insights into Estonian and international artworks. The city also hosts a variety of music and film festivals that celebrate Estonia’s cultural heritage whilst welcoming international talent.
One of Europe’s most progressive centres
Innovation and technology: Alongside its rich history, Tallinn is also known as one of Europe’s most digitally advanced centres. Estonia, often referred to as ‘e-Estonia’, has its innovative heart in Tallinn. The city is home to numerous start-ups and is a leader in fields such as digital administration, e-health and cyber security.
Green oases and sea breezes: Despite its urban atmosphere, Tallinn offers numerous green retreats. Kadriorg Park, laid out in the 18th century for Peter the Great, is an idyllic landscape of gardens, ponds and the magnificent Kadriorg Palace. Tallinn’s coastline, with its promenades and beaches, offers relaxation and picturesque views of the bay.
Vision for the future: Tallinn is not standing still. The city is constantly evolving, skilfully balancing the preservation of its history with an embrace of the future. With initiatives promoting sustainability, creativity and technology, Tallinn is setting the standard for a liveable, dynamic capital city in the 21st century.
A reflection of history
Architectural diversity: Tallinn’s architecture is a reflection of its history. Alongside medieval fortifications and Baroque palaces, there are examples of Soviet architecture and contemporary design. The Rotermann Quarter, once an industrial complex, is now a trendy neighbourhood with boutiques, cafés and modern living spaces.
Culinary discoveries: Estonian cuisine in Tallinn is characterised by seasonal ingredients and a revival of traditional dishes. From cosy cafés in the Old Town to award-winning restaurants serving modern Estonian cuisine, there is a wealth of culinary experiences to discover.
Vibrant neighbourhoods: Alongside the Old Town, other districts such as Kalamaja attract visitors with their bohemian flair, historic wooden houses and creative communities. Telliskivi Loomelinnak, a former industrial site, is now a cultural hub featuring studios, galleries and event venues.
Weather - Winter Magic
Winter magic in the Baltic States: Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is transformed into a picturesque winter wonderland in December. The city, renowned for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, experiences typically cold, wintry weather at this time of year, which enhances the charm of its cobbled streets and historic buildings.
Temperatures and snowfall: Temperatures in Tallinn in December are often around or below freezing. Average daytime highs are around -1 to 2 degrees Celsius, whilst night-time lows can drop to -4 to -8 degrees Celsius. Snowfall is frequent and covers the city in a thick white blanket, turning Tallinn into a winter wonderland.
Short days and long nights: December brings very short days to Tallinn, with the sun often not rising until around 9 am and setting as early as 3 pm. The long, dark nights are illuminated by festive Christmas lights, which lend the city’s streets and squares a warm, inviting glow.
Christmas spirit in the Old Town: Tallinn’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly charming in December. The traditional Christmas market on Town Hall Square, one of the most beautiful in Europe, offers handmade gifts, local specialities and the famous mulled wine, which warms visitors during the cold season.
Tips for visitors: Travellers visiting Tallinn in December should dress warmly. Thermal underwear, woollen jumpers, waterproof winter coats, gloves and hats are essential for braving the cold temperatures and the occasional gust of wind from the Baltic Sea. Snow-proof footwear is also recommended for safely exploring the snow-covered or icy streets.
Winter activities: Despite the cold, Tallinn offers a wealth of activities. Ice skating in the Old Town, visits to cosy cafés and museums, or simply a stroll through the historic streets can be magical. The Estonian capital exudes a special tranquillity and beauty, which is further enhanced by the snow.
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Top 10 sights in Tallinn:
- Tallinn Old Town:A well-preserved medieval town centre, renowned for its historic architecture and cobbled streets.
- Toompea Castle: An architectural landmark situated on a hill, which today houses the Estonian Parliament.
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: A magnificent Orthodox cathedral with striking onion domes, situated on Toompea Hill.
- Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square): The heart of the Old Town, surrounded by colourful historic buildings and the Gothic Town Hall.
- Kadriorg Palace: A magnificent Baroque palace, surrounded by a picturesque park, built by Tsar Peter the Great.
- Telliskivi Creative City: A dynamic cultural quarter with studios, shops, cafés and street art.
- Lennusadam (Seaplane Harbour): A unique maritime museum housed in a historic hangar that once accommodated seaplanes.
- Kumu Art Museum: Estonia’s national gallery, showcasing an extensive collection of Estonian art from the 18th century to the present day.
- Pirita: A popular beach area with stunning views of the bay and Tallinn’s Skyline.
- Viru Gate: One of the last remaining gates in the city wall, once part of the Old Town’s defences.
1. Tallinn Old Town
Tallinn’s Old Town – a medieval gem: Tallinn’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an outstanding example of well-preserved medieval Nordic architecture. With its winding cobbled streets, imposing city walls and colourful Hanseatic houses, it transports visitors back to a time when Tallinn was an important trading city on the Baltic Sea.
Architectural masterpieces: Among the architectural highlights is Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square), which, with Tallinn’s Gothic Town Hall and its striking tower, forms the heart of the Old Town. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and St Olaf’s Church, both impressive examples of sacred architecture, tower majestically above the city’s rooftops.
Living history and culture: Tallinn’s Old Town is not only a place steeped in history, but also a vibrant centre of Estonian culture. Small workshops where traditional crafts are practised, cosy cafés and restaurants serving Estonian specialities, as well as a variety of museums and galleries, contribute to the charm of this historic quarter.
Tallinn’s Old Town offers a unique blend of medieval heritage and vibrant culture that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Estonia and a living testament to the country’s rich history and cultural diversity.
2. Toompea Castle
A historical gem: Toompea Castle, situated on the hill of the same name in the Estonian capital, Tallinn, is a place of great historical significance and beauty. Originally built in the 13th century, it has undergone numerous extensions and alterations over the centuries and now serves as the seat of the Estonian Parliament, the Riigikogu.
Architectural diversity: The castle’s architecture is a fascinating mosaic of different styles, ranging from medieval fortification walls to neoclassical façades. The most striking part of the castle is Long Hermann, a tower that dominates the Old Town Skyline. The flag at its summit is a symbol of Estonian independence and is raised daily at sunrise.
Cultural significance: Toompea Castle is not only a political centre but also a cultural one. With its rich history, spanning from the Danish Knights through Swedish and Russian rule to Estonian independence, the castle tells the story of the Estonian people. It is a popular destination for tourists, who can explore the magnificent halls and historic rooms on guided tours.
3. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral stands majestically on Toompea Hill in Tallinn, Estonia. This magnificent building, dedicated to the Russian saint Alexander Nevsky, is an outstanding example of Russian Orthodox architecture in the Baltic region. The cathedral was built between 1894 and 1900, at a time when Estonia was part of the Russian Empire, which also makes it a symbol of Russian dominance.
Architectural features and interior: With its striking onion domes rising against the sky and its rich ornamentation, the cathedral is a striking feature of Tallinn’s Old Town. The interior is equally impressive: mosaics and IKONS adorn the walls, whilst the magnificent chandeliers and golden interior convey a sense of grandeur. The cathedral’s largest bell is one of the heaviest in all of Tallinn.
Cultural and spiritual significance: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is not only an architectural masterpiece but also an active centre of spiritual life. It plays an important role in the religious life of the Orthodox community in Estonia. The cathedral attracts visitors from all over the world and offers a deep insight into Orthodox tradition and Estonian history.
4. Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square)
The heart of Tallinn: Raekoja plats, the Town Hall Square, is situated in the centre of Tallinn’s Old Town in Estonia and is a place steeped in history and culture. Surrounded by colourful Hanseatic buildings, this square has been the beating heart of the city for centuries.
Architectural gem: The square is dominated by the Gothic Town Hall, a 13th-century architectural masterpiece. The Town Hall and its slender tower are a Tallinn landmark and offer a glimpse into Estonia’s medieval history.
A hub for culture and celebrations: Raekoja plats serves as a central venue for numerous cultural events, markets and festivals that take place throughout the year. Particularly famous is the Christmas market, which attracts visitors from all over the world and is known for its festive atmosphere and traditional handicrafts.
A vibrant hub: Today, the square is surrounded by cafés, restaurants and shops offering traditional Estonian cuisine and crafts. It is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the historic atmosphere and experience Tallinn’s vibrant city life.
5. Kadriorg Palace
Kadriorg Palace: Kadriorg Palace, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, was built in the early 18th century by Peter the Great for his wife Catherine. Situated in Tallinn, Estonia, within the picturesque Kadriorg Park, the palace attracts visitors from all over the world with its elegant façade and meticulously designed gardens.
Art and Culture: Today, Kadriorg Palace houses the Estonian Art Museum, which presents an extensive collection of Estonian art from the 16th century to the present day. The palace’s magnificent halls provide a fitting backdrop for the exhibited works and lend the art objects an added sense of grandeur.
A stroll through history: A visit to Kadriorg Palace is like a journey through time. Every room tells its own story, from the intimate chambers once used by the imperial family to the opulent reception halls intended for official occasions. Careful restoration has ensured that the palace’s original splendour is preserved for future generations.
6. Telliskivi Creative City
Telliskivi Creative City – a cultural hotspot in Tallinn: Telliskivi Creative City, in the heart of Tallinn, Estonia, is a dynamic hub of creativity and culture. Once an industrial area, it has evolved into a vibrant neighbourhood brimming with art, theatre, music and design.
A mecca for creatives and visitors: With its colourful graffiti, unique shops and diverse range of dining options, Telliskivi attracts people from all over the world. It is home to artists’ studios, boutiques, start-ups and a range of restaurants and cafés serving local and international cuisine.
Events and culture: Telliskivi is known for its regular events, including markets, festivals and concerts, which provide a platform for local talent and international acts. The FOTOGRAFISKA Tallinn photography centre, a branch of the famous Stockholm museum, is another major attraction and hosts world-class exhibitions.
A hub of innovation: The creative quarter is not only a haven for artists and creatives but also an incubator for innovative business ideas, making Telliskivi a key hub for Estonia’s thriving start-up scene.
7. Lennusadam (Seaplane Harbour)
Lennusadam – a maritime gem in Tallinn: The Seaplane Harbour Museum, known as Lennusadam, is located in the heart of Tallinn, Estonia. It is housed in the historic hangars that were once part of Peter the Great’s military port. This architecturally impressive complex was built in the early 20th century and is now a landmark of the Estonian capital.
An insight into maritime history: Lennusadam offers a fascinating journey through the maritime military history of Estonia and the former Soviet Union. The exhibition covers everything from historic ships to submarines, including the remarkable Lembit submarine, the last surviving warship of Estonia’s pre-war fleet. Visitors can explore the submarine’s cramped quarters and gain an authentic insight into the lives of the sailors.
Interactive and educational experiences: The museum stands out for its interactive displays and educational programmes, which allow visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in the world of seafaring and aviation. In addition to historical exhibits, Lennusadam also offers simulations that allow you to step into the shoes of a pilot or captain yourself.
A cultural hub: As well as being a museum, Lennusadam serves as a cultural venue that regularly hosts concerts, exhibitions and educational workshops. It is a vibrant place that bridges the past and the present, attracting visitors and locals alike.
8. Kumu Art Museum
Kumu Art Museum: Located in the Estonian capital, Tallinn, the Kumu Art Museum is not only an architectural masterpiece but also the largest and most impressive art museum in the Baltic region. Since its opening in 2006, it has served as a central hub for Estonian art and culture and houses an extensive collection of Estonian artworks from the 18th century to the present day.
Architecture and Collections: Designed by Finnish architect Pekka Vapaavuori, the building captivates with its modern architecture, which blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape of Kadriorg Park. Kumu houses a variety of collections ranging from classical to contemporary art, offering a comprehensive overview of Estonian art history and its development.
Educational and cultural centre: Kumu serves not only as a museum but also as a vibrant cultural centre, regularly offering events, workshops and educational programmes for all age groups. It fosters dialogue between art and the viewer and makes a significant contribution to cultural education and artistic exchange in Estonia and beyond.
9. Pirita
Tallinn’s green gem: Pirita, an idyllic district in the north-east of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, offers the perfect blend of nature, history and modern life. Known for its expansive beach, dense forest and the river of the same name, Pirita is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The area is named after Pirita Convent, one of the most significant ruins of medieval architecture in Estonia.
Nature and relaxation: Pirita is particularly renowned for its natural beauty. The long sandy beach is a magnet for sun-worshippers and families in summer, whilst the surrounding forests and the River Pirita are ideal for walks and sporting activities all year round. The extensive green spaces and well-tended gardens offer an oasis of calm and are the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Historical heritage: The historical heart of Pirita is the monastery, built in the 15th century, which, despite being in ruins, still presents a majestic sight. The ruins bear witness to Estonia’s rich history and the significance of monastic life in the Middle Ages. In addition to the monastery, Pirita also offers other historical attractions, such as the Olympic Centre, which was built for the sailing competitions of the 1980 Olympic Games.
Leisure and sport: Pirita is a paradise for sports enthusiasts. The district boasts numerous sports facilities, including tennis courts, a regatta course on the Pirita River and cycle paths through the forest. The beach and the coastline are popular spots for windsurfing and sailing, making Pirita a hub for water sports in Tallinn.
10. Viru Gate
Historical landmark: Viru Gate is one of the few remaining gates in the medieval city walls of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. As part of the city’s former defences, it is a symbol of Tallinn’s rich history and a popular photo opportunity for visitors.
Architectural features: The structure consists of two massive, pointed towers that once marked the main entrance to the Old Town. The Gothic architecture, characteristic of the Hanseatic city of Tallinn, reflects the city’s importance and prosperity in the Middle Ages. The towers are topped with red tiled roofs, which provide a picturesque contrast to the light-coloured limestone of the walls.
Tourist attraction: Today, Viru Gate is an essential part of any visit to Tallinn. It serves as the gateway to the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The surrounding area is lively, with numerous shops, cafés and street performers complementing the historic atmosphere. A stroll through the gate offers a glimpse into the past and the chance to experience the atmosphere of one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns.
