Places to visit in Tallinn

History & architecture

Kadriorg Palace and Park

Kadriorg is one of Tallinn's most expressive palace and park ensembles, established over three centuries ago by order of Peter the Great. At the center of the ensemble is a Baroque palace surrounded by formal gardens and a large green park. Today, the palace houses an art museum with a collection of foreign art, and the walking route around it continues through flower beds, alleys, the Swan Pond, and the Japanese Garden. Kadriorg is interesting precisely for its combination of architecture, art, and landscape: in a single walk, you can see the formal part of the palace, quieter park areas, and the historic buildings of the surrounding district. Located in the immediate vicinity are Kumu and several other museums, making Kadriorg suitable for both a short stroll and a dedicated cultural itinerary lasting several hours.

Indicative price: Park is free. Palace museum: adult ticket — 15 €/person; concessionary — 10 €; family — 30 €.

A. Weizenbergi tn 37, 10127 Tallinn

History & architecture

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral on Toompea is one of the most recognisable landmarks of Tallinn's Old Town. The Orthodox cathedral was completed in 1900, when Estonia was part of the Russian Empire, and its construction was closely tied to the Russification policy of the late 19th century. The richly decorated façade, dark domes and mosaic panels contrast sharply with the medieval buildings of the Upper Town. Its towers hold 11 bells, including Tallinn's largest bell, which weighs about 15 tonnes. The cathedral stands directly opposite Toompea Castle, so it is easy to include in a walk around the Upper Town together with the viewing platforms and historic streets.

Indicative price: Visiting the cathedral is free. Check the terms and prices of guided tours with the organiser.

Lossi plats 10, 10130 Tallinn

History & architecture

Padise Monastery

Padise Monastery in Padise village, Harju County, offers the chance to walk through the restored rooms of a medieval monastery. The Cistercians began building the complex in the 14th century; construction went on for a long time, and the surviving walls show different building phases. The church hall is known for its acoustics and also hosts cultural events. A visit gives insight into both the monastery's architecture and the history of the area. Admission is charged and opening hours depend on the season, so check the day's schedule before setting off from Tallinn.

Indicative price: Adult ticket €10; reduced €7; family ticket €22; guided tours at extra cost

Kloostri, Padise küla, Lääne-Harju vald, Harju maakond

History & architecture

Saha St. Nicholas Chapel

Saha St. Nicholas Chapel is a surviving medieval stone chapel and architectural monument in Saha village, Harju County. Its simple limestone volume, buttresses and Gothic forms reflect the building tradition of the 15th century. The chapel's surroundings show how the old sanctuary sits within the village landscape, away from Tallinn's dense townscape. The building is currently locked to ordinary visitors and can only be viewed from outside; do not expect to visit the interior. As a quiet historical stop it fits well into a longer trip around the Jõelähtme area.

Saha kabel, Saha küla, Jõelähtme vald, Harju maakond

History & architecture

Tallinn St. Mary's Cathedral and bell tower

Tallinn St. Mary's Cathedral and bell tower are located on Toompea on Toom-Kooli street. Inside the medieval church are historic gravestones and noble coat-of-arms epitaphs that help understand Estonia's earlier social and cultural history. The church's Baroque bell tower is a separate experience: weather permitting, you can look out over the roofs of Tallinn. Tower visits may not be possible during concerts, services or worship. The church entrance donation and the paid tower ticket must be distinguished. This is an independent historical sanctuary, not the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Indicative price: Church entrance by donation; bell tower full ticket 7 €, student ticket 3 €.

Toom-Kooli tn 6, Tallinn

History & architecture

Holy Ghost Church

The Church of the Holy Ghost is a medieval sanctuary in the Old Town of Tallinna on Pühavaimu Street. The exterior of the church features an octagonal tower and a historic clock, while the interior boasts wooden furnishings and a cabinet altar associated with Bernt Notke's workshop. The history of the building is connected to the development of the city's Estonian-language spiritual life: after the Reformation, Estonian-language sermons were held here. Upon entering the small church interior, visitors can explore the artistic heritage preserved over the centuries. This is an active place of worship, so services and other church events may affect tourist visiting hours.

Indicative price: Full ticket 3 €; student ticket 2 €.

Pühavaimu tn 2, Tallinn

History & architecture

Pirita Monastery Ruins

The Pirita Monastery Ruins are located in Tallinn, in the Pirita district, and their history dates back to 1407 when the largest nunnery in Livonia was established here. The monastery, named after Saint Bridget, who founded the mother monastery in Sweden, remained in its original form until 1577 when it was destroyed by the forces of Ivan the Terrible. Today, the monastery ruins are popular visiting sites where concerts are held in the summer. The ruins, including the massive facade, walls, cellars, and cemetery, are well-preserved and are managed by the Bridgettine sisters. The location of the monastery by the Pirita River offers a beautiful view and is an ideal place to enjoy history and architecture.

Merivälja tee 18, Pirita, Tallinn