A Walk through Tallinn’s Old Town - One of Europe’s Best, Tallinn, Estonia

When thinking of red roofs, windy cobble stoned roads, and towering city walls, Tallinn doesn’t come to mind…but it should. As I found on my recent walk through Tallinn’s old town, this area is full of character and quickly became one of my favourites in Europe.

When I think about medieval fortified cities, Tallinn doesn’t come to mind. Rhodes, Valletta, and Dubrovnik - yes. Estonia’s capital, not so much. That’s why on my walk through Tallinn’s old town I was surprised by 12th century old guard towers and walls - most of which are in original condition. This is why, and to my continued surprise, a walk through Tallinn’s old town is a walk through a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During my walk through Tallinn’s old town I felt as if I was transported back in time. The cobblestone roads. The arched entrances. The open squares. These highlights were unexpected and helped set a medieval tone to the most unexpected day of my journey. The grey and overcast last day when I strolled the quiet streets only magnified this feeling in a very cool way.

What I like most about this medieval town are the beautiful vantage points it gives you. Although the city walls were closed during my visit, a walk through Tallinn’s old town does offer plenty of places to enjoy the views. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).