Copyright theage
Tallinn, formerly known as Reval, has Danish, Swedish, German and Russian influences, all reflected in the architecture (and cuisine) of one of Europe’s most intact old towns with a medieval core that sits atop a baroque outer ring. Get walking and enjoy the heritage. The two best churches are St Mary’s, which dangles with medieval coats-of-arms, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, ornate with Russian Orthodox decoration. KUMU art museum is excellent and focuses on Estonian works. To see how modern Estonians live, head to lively Rotermann Quarter and its repurposed factories. The Estonian Open-Air Museum is one of the best of its kind, bringing together 80 historical buildings relocated from across the country, such as a tavern, church, school, fire station, windmill and farmhouses. Staff in traditional costume demonstrate old crafts such as blacksmithing, and plenty of entertainment and activities will suit children. You can try traditional Estonian dishes too. You can get there on bus 21 from the train station. Despite the unpredictable Baltic weather, Tallinn is a rather outdoorsy, active city with many cycle paths and outdoor gym equipment put to good use by passing joggers and children. You’d have to be a lover of cold-water swimming to appreciate the beaches, however. A 50-minute walk takes you to arty seaside neighbourhood Põhja-Tallinn via the Beeta Promenade.
