A History Buff's Guide to Tallinn's Old Town
People already lived in the area of Tallinn 5,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest cities in Northern Europe. Throughout the years, many different nations controlled Tallinn and added some of their culture’s most iconic attributes to the city. Today, it is an example of a perfect mix of rich culture, stunning nature, and breathtaking architecture. Let us help you better get a sense of the spirit of Tallinn and guide you through the history of this extraordinary city.
Historical names of Tallinn
Tallinn has belonged to many different nations, from Russians to Danes to Germans to Estonians. Naturally, the name of Tallinn has changed throughout the years as well. It has been known as Qalaven, Kolyvan, Lindanisa, Rafala, and Reval before becoming Tallinn.
Estonian History Museum
World’s first Christmas Tree
There is no clear evidence if this is true, but Tallinn claims that they erected the world’s first Christmas Tree in 1441. The whole city is proud of this achievement, and every year, during Christmas season, the streets of Old Town are decorated with the most colorful lights and garlands, which creates a festive atmosphere and attracts guests from all over the world.
Gothic architecture
Tallinn is the best preserved medieval city in the whole of Northern Europe, attracting fans of Gothic architecture from all over the world. In the Old Town, you’ll be able to see authentic cobblestone streets, old churches, and enormous merchant houses, which date back to the early Middle Ages. Tallinn’s Old Town, without any doubts, is the best place to get familiar with the Gothic architecture.
Tallinn Town Hall
Located in the heart of Tallin’s Old Town, Tallinn Town Hall is the best-known architectural monument in the whole Estonia. It is also the only remaining Gothic Town Hall in Northern Europe. First mentioned in 1322, Tallinn Town Hall was the seat of a local government up until 1970. Today, it is still used for special and festive occasions.
Local bars for local drinks
Estonia is well-known for its tasty beer and strong liquors. You cannot claim that you have visited Tallinn if you have not tried Saku beer and Vana Tallin liquor. Good thing, there are plenty of authentic bars in Tallinn’s Old Town where you’ll be able to enjoy the classic spirit of Estonia (pun intended).
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
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