In July 2026, I stopped in Tallinn for a day while on a 9-day Baltic cruise. It was easily one of my favorite cities on our itinerary! It is one of the best preserved medieval Old Towns in Europe, and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you only have one day in Tallinn, I’d recommend focusing on Vanalinn (Tallinn’s Old Town). You will not be disappointed with how much charm and history this small Old Town can punch. Here is how to spend one day in Tallinn, Estonia!
Read More: Full Review: 9-Day NCL Sun Baltic Cruise
Viru Gate
As you make your way into Vanalinn, Tallinn’s Old Town, there is no more of a grand entrance than through Viru Gate! When you look up photos of Tallinn, these towers are likely one of the first images you see. They are iconic! They originally were built as part of the defense system in Tallinn (part of the City Wall) in the 14th century. Today, they act as a main entrance into Vanalinn. Just before you enter, there are dozens of local vendor stalls selling fresh flowers, snacks, drinks, and handmade goods. Before walking up through the gate, head up to the viewing platform on your left, located here. This is the best spot for photos without the crowds!
Katariina Käik (St. Catherine’s passage)
Just past Viru Gate and on your way to the center of old town is Katariina Käik (St. Catherine’s passage). This alleyway is incredibly quaint and charming, and packs a big punch of history. It was originally a home to monks in the 15th century, and the facades and overall structure of the passage is original. Today, it’s home to many artisan shops. Enter through the yellow archway with the blue flag on the front (can be easy to miss!) and take a slow stroll down. As you keep making your way through the alleyway, you will also notice original tombstones that date back to the 13th century. Insane!
Raekoja Plats (the town square)
Absolutely not to be missed during your one day in Tallinn is Raekoja Plats (the town square). The square is lined with picturesque colorful buildings, tons of restaurants, and is the heart of the old town! Though the real highlight of Raekoja Plats is Tallinna Raekoda (Tallinn town hall). This building was built back in the 13th century, and really feels like you stepped into a real-world fairytale! The town hall is open for visitors during the summer months as a museum and admission is €5 – €7 per person. You can also walk up to the top of the spire for views of all of Vanalinn!
Walk Pikk jalg
Pikk jalg (literally means “long leg” in Estonian) is a charming street that will take you from the “lower” Old Town up to Toompea (the “upper” Old Town). This walled, cobblestone street is so charming and quaint. It’s a bit of an uphill climb, but you’ll want to be taking it slow to enjoy the views ahead of you that are changing as you approach Toompea. While the street itself is cobblestone, there is a paved sidewalk on the side to make for easier walking. Don’t forget to turn around and look behind for stunning views of the lower Old Town!
Toompea Viewpoints
At the top of Pikk jalg, you’ll arrive in the “upper” part of Old Tallinn known as Toompea. Toompea is about 30 meters above the “lower” part of Old Tallinn and is home to the Toompea Castle (which houses the Estonian parliament). This is the political heart of Tallinn! It is also home to not one, not two, but three viewpoints of the lower old town. Each one different and offered unique views!
Piiskopiaia vaateplats (also known as Bishop’s Garden) overlooks the quaint Toompark and the “New City” of Tallinn. It’s peaceful, quiet, and would be an amazing place to catch the sunset. Kohtuotsa vaateplats is arguably the most famous of the three viewpoints in Toompea. This is where you’re going to get the famous “postcard” view of the red roofs, Old Town, spires, and cobblestone streets below. The views are spectacular, but be prepared for crowds! Patkuli vaateplatvorm is the third viewpoint, and my personal favorite. This one was less busy than Kohtuotsa and the view was breathtaking. You’ll get more “postcard” views here with the Baltic Sea in the distance. Chef’s kiss!
Read More: Ranking the 3 Best Viewpoints in Tallinn, Estonia
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
The highlight of Toompea is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This Russian Orthodox church is remarkable, The onion domes tower over the city. I especially loved how you can see it from just about anywhere in Old Town. The church towered over buildings and made for dramatic photos looking down streets. The cathedral is free to enter, and is open each day from 8:00 am – 7:00 pm (with short closures before and after services). Keep in mind that modest dress is required, so women must have their shoulders and knees covered.
Walls of Tallinn
The Walls of Tallinn are another remarkable highlight in the city, and are almost impossible to miss! The original walls date back to the 1200s and helped protect the city so much that they are often credited as to why Vanalinn received its UNESCO World Heritage Site accreditation! One of my favorite places to view and photograph the wall is located here, just outside the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Also just outside of Katariina Käik is a perfect view of the Hellemann Tower and the section where you can walk the wall!
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