Tallinn

My visit to Tallinn was my first to what I refer to as "the area behind the Iron Curtain." The USSR broke up and the Curtain fell while I was growing up so I only thought of Estonia and the other former Soviet-bloc countries in terms of that historical time period with its vastly different economic and political orientation. Today Estonia is part of the EU and it feels like it. Buildings date back hundreds, and sometimes thousands of years. The people are welcoming. The historical context of their lives fascinating.

Even if you only have a day to spend in Tallinn, here are a few of things that I'd suggest you do:

1. Explore Toompea Hill: Start your visit by ascending Toompea Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Baltic Sea from various viewpoints. Don't miss out on attractions like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Toompea Castle, and the Estonian Parliament. The hill is also home to charming cobblestone streets and picturesque houses.

2. Wander through Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square): Head down from Toompea Hill to the heart of Tallinn's Old Town, Raekoja plats. This lively square is surrounded by colorful medieval buildings and is an excellent place to soak up the atmosphere. You can relax in one of the outdoor cafes, visit the Town Hall (Raekoda), or browse the market stalls for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

3. Visit St. Olaf's Church: Make your way to St. Olaf's Church, a striking Gothic masterpiece that was once one of the tallest buildings in the world. Climb the narrow spiral staircase to the viewing platform for another fantastic vantage point of Tallinn. The church's interior is also worth exploring, with its impressive vaulted ceilings and intricate details.

4. Discover the City Walls and Towers: Tallinn's Old Town is encircled by well-preserved medieval city walls, and exploring them is like stepping back in time. Take a leisurely walk along the walls and pass through the various towers, such as Kiek in de Kök and Fat Margaret. You'll get a sense of the city's history and enjoy picturesque views of the Old Town and its surroundings.

There is much more to discover in Tallinn. Take your time to wander the medieval streets, pop into local shops and eateries, and soak up the rich history and vibrant culture of this beautiful Estonian city. If you can, visit with a guide and hear their personal story of how their lives have changed since the mid-1980s. It will bring context to the areas you'll visit; helping you understand that Estonia's time behind the Curtain was relatively brief compared to their time ruled by others and their previous independence.