Ulemiste Arpt

Tallinn city breaks make an inviting option for those looking for something really special. The theme chosen for the cultural celebrations is ‘Stories of the Seashore’, a tribute to the cultural, historical facts and legends that have shaped the area. To say that Tallinn is steeped in history puts it mildly. A current population of 412,144 has grown somewhat since the earliest written records of Tallinn as a castle-like structure on the banks of the Gulf of Finland in 1154. Tallinn has had a turbulent history; following its founding (in around 3000 BC) it has been: an important trading port for Teutonic Knights, sold by the Danes, taken over by the Russians, given independence, and occupied by the Germans during the Second World War. Hotels in Tallinn are well placed for exploring the wonderful city and its old town, which has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pikk is the oldest medieval street but there are many to amble along as you absorb the history and the wonderful sights, sounds and smells that make Tallinn holidays so unique.Geographically Tallinn is in the north-west of Estonia, on the Gulf of Finland. A stunning limestone cliff runs across the city and many hotels in Tallinn can offer trips to the local lakes and scenic tours of the local coastline as part of a sightseeing package. Mondays are the quietest days, with some museums and shopping districts being closed, but there are still plenty of things to do and see as more modern attractions cater for the growing tourist influx. Tallinn holidays offer you everything; history, cultural insights into Eastern Europe, fabulous cuisine with good local restaurants in abundance, and the more recent additions, including a spectacular state-of-the-art Sea Experience Centre and Tallinn TV Tower, the tallest building in Estonia.

About Tallin

Eating out in Tallinn is a memorable experience. Choose from wooden benches covered in boar skin to designer glass tables and stunning water features. Your traditional Estonian meal will be a hearty affair with plenty of meat, fish and potatoes with a side dish of sauerkraut and a wedge of the local black rye bread. Hotels in Tallinn often have restaurants catering for the modern tourist and serve a fusion of traditional and Western European cuisine.
People in Tallinn are friendly and many speak English, so getting about is easy and you will find the locals eager to recommend you to their favourite places and restaurants. An evening out in the medieval old town would be top on the list.
An international fusion of flavours from all the countries that have influenced Tallinn’s status as a Capital of Culture is the norm. Estonian history and seashore geography inspire the dishes on offer and you’re sure to find something you like as restaurants and cafes are plentiful.
Tallinn is not the cheapest place in Eastern Europe but it is by no means the most expensive either. Food in side street venues is cheaper and just as good as those in more prominent areas. Expect to haggle and remember to be polite but firm.
Where to Visit
You are spoiled for choice when it comes to planning Tallinn city breaks. A great place to start is the Estonian History Museum. Founded in 1842 by the Estonian Literacy Association with the aim of preserving an accurate record of life in Estonia, this museum is packed with gems from the past that explain how the present situation of peace came about.
Nautical history fans can enjoy the brand new Maritime Museum’s Seaplane Harbour exhibition. A huge collection of historical port life resides within a modern setting where you can observe the exhibits, and even be part of one! Visitors can also take a ride in the flight simulator that is new for 2011.
The town hall is called the Raekoda and has a spire that frames the setting for the picturesque square it overlooks. It’s worth checking out the programme of events here as in the evenings the building makes the most of the fabulous acoustics and hosts regular concerts. On the lower floor is an exhibition centre with changing exhibits of local interest.
Other places worthy of note are the Occupation Museum with its stark reminder of modern history and the many small museums and art galleries that can be found in the medieval old town.
When to Go
Tallinn is a great place to visit all year round as its lively atmosphere doesn’t change during the colder months.
Summer is warm but not too hot and the central square and numerous side streets play host to plenty of open air music, street theatre and various festivals of food and local beer.
Winter sees the beautiful ancient streets decorated with picture perfect lanterns and despite the cold temperatures, there are wonderful winter markets. The festivities start in November providing tourists with the smell of freshly baked gingerbread and unusual trinkets to take home for Christmas presents.