Estonia was never in my priority list of places to go to... until I walked on the streets of Tallinn's Old Town. The charms of this medieval UNESCO World Heritage site brought me back to the 13th century, and made me feel like I was exploring King's Landing! ... of Game of Thrones ;)
We only spent 12 hours here, though I really wish we have stayed for at least a day more, because half a day was not enough to experience and absorb this very enchanting Hanseatic city.
Here are some of the charming scenes... :)
Just a dainty Coffee and Tea Shop.
Hotel Kolm Öde / The Three Sisters Hotel
These were merchant houses built in 1362, and renovated and joint to become a hotel in 2003.
Just like real sisters, one was chubby, one was sexy, and one was too skinny! :)
The Great Coastal Gate and Fat Margaret's Tower
Built not just to defend the city, but also to impress visitors.
Fat Margaret may have been named after the cook who once worked there.
City walls with colourful windows and doors.
Loved strolling along these streets.
School children.. in pairs and holding hands! :)
House of the Brotherhood of Black Heads
The only surviving Renaissance building in Tallinn, and famous for its eye-catching doors.
No, not blackheads. But, Black Heads! haha :D
That famous door.
Sneaky.. and it was open! But all I could see was another wooden door.
Pretty.
Hidden courtyards.. my favourite!! :)
Here we found art shops and The Pierre Chocolaterie, where we warmed up with hot chocolate.
Draakoni Gallery / House on Pikk 18
An Egyptian themed building.
Vana Toomas, the tour train.
Raekoja Plats / Town Hall Square
During summer, outdoor cafes, concerts, and fairs, are set up here.
In December, it is transformed into a Christmas market.
That moment I thought I was in Game of Thrones! :D
The Tallinn Town Hall
The oldest town hall in the whole Baltic region and Scandinavia.
Olde Hansa
That medieval themed restaurant I highly recommend!
The costumes, the music, the ambiance, even the bathroom... brought us to the past.
The food, the service, the experience, the fun... really worth it!
St. Nicholas' Church
It now houses a branch of the Art Museum of Estonia, and is also used as a concert hall.
Can you see that booth in front? A woman in medieval costume is there, selling candied nuts.
Why I love the Old Town.. How random can they be?
Right beside the 13th century St. Nicholas' Church, a building sprouts.. in purple!
On the way to Toompea Hill.
That wooden stretch on top of the wall? Is a cafe!
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Built during the Russian Empire, in Russian Revival architecture.
Batman's house... Just kidding!! :)
I honestly can't remember what this is, but I really like it.
A wine store. And another booth with a lady in costume selling candied nuts.
Cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin / Dome Church
As seen from one of the viewing points at the Toompea Hill.
And one last look at the enchanting Old Town of Tallinn :)
Also check out: Husky Dog Sledding, Reindeer Sleigh Ride, Northern Lights Over Lake Inari, and First Glimpse of the Arctic Circle. Enjoy!
---------------------------
Full Trip Itinerary and Budget - Finland and Estonia - Northern Lights Itinerary
---------------------------
References:
Full Trip Itinerary and Budget - Finland and Estonia - Northern Lights Itinerary
