Why do I book a flight to Tallinn every year ?

Tallinn was a total surprise for me. I arrived with some friends early in the morning, exhausted and somewhat sleepy. All my mind could register is the Medieval aura that was all around me. That was December 2004 and since then I visited Estonia at least once a year.

Tallinn Old Town is amazingly well-kept and thanks to the friendly, English-speaking population, it is very easy to discover the details that make this city such a jewel in the Baltics. I love going through the narrow alleys, with those walls which have witnessed hundreds of years of Estonian history. Strolling across Town Square to settle down in a cosy cafe off the beaten track.

One of my favourite places is Scotland Yard. This is a English-pub style venue that proves how innovative Estonians are. Welcomed by a bobby, inside looks like a movie set with authentic books, furniture and fittings. I will only recommend one thing: do pay a visit to the bathroom!

The Old Town is also rich in architecture. From Medieval to Russian Orthodox, the mixture blends amazingly with the heartbeat of the city. Do not miss climbing up St' Olaf Church as the view from there is breathtaking. Visit also the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a 19th century Russian Orthodox cathedral featuring those amazing onion-shaped domes.


Eating out is also another thing I look out for in Tallinn. Apart from the expected local cuisine, one can find anything from American bistros to African restaurants, from authentic Italian Pizza to a spicier Indian palate. If you love discovering the joys of food, then Tallinn will not disappoint you.

At night the city transforms into a vivid place with bars and pubs catering for all tastes. Clubs offer world-standard DJs and the venues are usually full of friendly locals. Off Town Square there is a place called Class. If you are in for some jazz, then do check it out as quite often they have some truly talented artists. Last time I was at Class there was this 14 year old boy on the piano who astounded all of us as his fingers improvised a melody on the ivory keys.

Transport in and around Tallinn is of high quality and very punctual. There is a choice of buses, trams and trolleys, but no underground. Taxis, on the other hand, are not abusively expensive.