Hello, Tallinn! After visiting Riga in Latvia during our trip across the Baltics, Z and I headed to Tallinn by coach. The capital city of Estonia is similar to Riga in its division between the Old Town and newer establishments, but its Old Town is by far a grander affair. Encompassed by a city wall, with many diplomatic buildings, churches, and terracotta-roofed buildings, it’s a beautiful sight. Here’s where we recommend to visit after our trip to Tallinn…
1. Røst Bakery
Rotermanni 14, 10111 Tallinn, Estonia
To start my day off right, I like a good coffee, usually accompanied by fruit, and on extra-special days, with a pastry. Røst Bakery certainly makes mornings extra-special, with its delicious croissants, pains au chocolat, and more traditional cinnamon buns too. This was the best breakfast I had all trip, and we were lucky enough to score a couple of stools to sit on and leaf through the nearby magazines.
2. Telliskivi, Tallinn
Telliskivi 60M, 10412 Tallinn, Estonia
Now onto a district rather than a particular place – Telliskivi! Telliskivi is Tallinn’s equivalent of London’s Shoreditch. Filled with graffiti, art studios, vintage shops, and cafés, it’s a great spot to visit and discover Tallinn’s modern edge. We especially enjoyed popping into The Brick Roastery for a strudel and tea top-up, as well as returning in the evening for excellent quality Americana-style food at One Sixty Smokehouse, a hybrid between a biker bar and restaurant.
3. Rataskaevu 16
Rataskaevu 16, 10123 Tallinn, Estonia
…However, if we’re talking restaurants, it’s Rataskaevu 16 that has to sit top of your list. Back in Tallinn’s Old Town, this nameless restaurant is home to high quality traditional Estonian food. Pumpkin loaf, asparagus soup, and even elk… It’s a homely retreat from the snowy outdoors. Make sure to book ahead of time, or you may have to do as we did and commit to eating within a slightly shorter time-frame (not the say that the staff weren’t super accommodating!)
4. Raekoja plats, Tallinn
Raekoja plats, Tallinn, Estonia
Once you’ve dined, be sure to head to the Town Square (or Raekoja plats in Estonian) to visit the Christmas Market! There’s something for everyone at the market – traditional sweets, mulled wine, and souvenirs – as well as an odd little corner that serves just three items: beer, ox sausage, and gherkins you spear directly from a barrel. It’s a great time!
