Explore the Highlights of Charming Tallinn

As you drive into the centre of Tallinn (on the northern coast of Estonia) on an airport shuttle, you will pass by many of the town’s wonderful monuments and iconic buildings. This fabulously well-preserved city has a warm cultural heart and a truly spiritual atmosphere. Picture postcard streets and medieval merchant houses dominate the Town Hall Square, while castles, churches and a cathedral add to the charm and intrigue of the city.

Shortly after your arrival, your airport shuttle can have you in town and ready to explore in no time at all.

Tallinn’s Main Highlights

You are unlikely to pass the Town Hall Square on your airport shuttle, so make sure you seek it out to explore on foot, as it is a great introduction to the city. Locals and tourists wander the streets and soak up the ambiance, which is energetic, friendly and full of warmth. In spring and summer the outdoor cafes buzz and there are often concerts and craft fairs held here. Christmas sees a market hosted in the square, in a traditional scene that has been played out here since 1441.

Toompea Castle

Toompea Castle was once the residence of Estonia’s rulers but today it stands as the home to the country’s parliament. Dating back to 1227, the castle was rebuilt in the 14th century with a trapezoid style courtyard and towers at each corner. Although only three of these still stand today, the appearance of the castle remains much the same as it did 600 years ago. The castle still functions in an official capacity so visitors are not allowed inside, but if you visit the Governor’s Garden you can see much of the exterior of the castle. You'll also get great views of the Tall Hermann, which is a tower famous for flying the flag relevant to the current ruler of Estonia. Today, the black, blue and white flag is flying, symbolising Estonian independence.

The Dome

The Dome church is the main Lutheran church in the city and in centuries past was the church of the Toompea aristocracy. Originally a wooden construction, it was rebuilt in stone with a white dome in the 1240s, and has been added to at different times since then. The main hall has walls covered with coats of arms dating from the 17th century up to the 20th century; inscribed with epitaphs, they were commonplace in the funeral processions of the rich and significant Baltic German families before being displayed in the church.

St Catherine’s Passage

St Catherine’s Passage is one of the most stunning places in the city. This narrow lane squeezed between what is left of St Catherine’s Church and other dated buildings is an interesting little corner. Home today to St Catherine’s Guild, a group of artisans who have their workshops all along the lane, the passage is open to visitors who are welcome to wander through, browse and buy anything from ceramics to quilts and blown glass to leather.

Tallinn is a memorable city to spend time in; if you prebook an airport shuttle you will be at your hotel in town in a timely fashion, ready to get out and explore straight away.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for an airport shuttle, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

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