Nestled in the north-eastern part of the Baltic Sea area, Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, has to be one of the best preserved medieval towns in the whole of Europe. The Old Town area has been on UNESCO's World Heritage List since 1997, and as soon as you've glimpsed its quaint architecture and unique atmosphere you'll understand why. Merchants homes, churches, state buildings and even barns and warehouses have all survived intact since the medieval period.
Constructed mainly between the 11th and 15th centuries, Tallinn had built up its reputation across the Baltic region because of its membership of the Hanseatic League during the 15th and 16th century. The League was formed around the middle of the 12th century by German and Scandinavian seafaring merchants. As there were no navies to protect valuable cargoes, and no international bodies to regulate tariffs and trade, the merchants worked together to establish tariffs, provide for common defence and to make sure ports were safely maintained. This security meant that Tallinn grew to be a major port and its The Hanseatic League (Hansa) was formed around the middle of the 12th century by German and Scandinavian seafaring merchants. Since there were no navies to protect their cargos, no international bodies to regulate tariffs and trade, and few ports had regulatory authorities to manage their use, the merchants banded together to establish tariff agreements, provide for common defence and to make sure ports were safely maintained. New economic power boosted artistic and cultural activity there with a lasting effect.
Taking a walking tour around the city is a must, and will help you soak up the historic atmosphere of the old town at its best as you stroll through the picturesque backstreets and absorb the bright activity of its bustling, cobbled squares.
Another tip is to get hold of the all-inclusive city card, issued by Tallinn City Tourist Office, early in your stay. The card is the easiest way explore the Capital's cultural and historical heritage without having to worry about entrance fees and fares. It entitles you to admission to all museums and main sights in Tallinn, sightseeing tours, free use of public transport and discounts in restaurants and shops, as well as other offers.
The weather in Tallinn is marked by a fairly cold winter, a cool spring with little rain, a fairly warm summer and a long, rainy autumn. Some summers have weeks at a stretch of temperatures above 80F, and a warm, bright summer can keep autumn back until mid-October. The best time to visit is probably between April and August, before any autumn rains set in, and when most concerts, festivals and outdoor events take place.
