Tallinn

Tallinn, the gateway to Estonia, is a burgeoning destination for holidaymakers and weekenders. And no wonder: with a fascinating medieval Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and an ever-increasing array of stylish bars and contemporary hotels, the city boasts both a proud heritage and a great party scene.

Cultural events run throughout the year and there are around 30 museums and a multitude of art galleries, theatres and music festivals to enjoy. Tallinn is also a big clubbing town, with an impressive number of venues, which really comes to life at weekends.

For food-lovers, there is plenty to tempt the palate: an eclectic range of restaurants serves everything from medieval-themed cuisine (wild boar) to Russian (red caviar) and even Tex-Mex. Many cafés, pubs and restaurants are found among the winding, cobbled streets, ancient turrets and tall spires of the delightful Old Town, which also offers a variety of handicraft shops and boutiques selling souvenirs.

In summer it is worth a walk to Kopli, a district by the sea in the north of the town. Here you can experience a different side of Tallinn, including ramshackle wooden houses, small, friendly stores and second-hand clothes shops selling weird and wonderful outfits.

Highlights in Tallinn’s events’ calendar include the Baroque Music Festival in February, April’s International Jazzkaar Festival, and the popular summer beer festival in July.