Tallinn, Estonia. Without much notice, I found myself on a plane bound for the Baltic city because of work, but it turned out to a super interesting experience. I was booked to stay in the Old Town which would allow me to focus any spare time I had for sightseeing around there. It proved a wise choice.
I was never going to cover a lot of ground in the time I had but I tried to cover as much of the Old Town as I could. Armed with a map, I proceeded to pound the streets. Some highlights for me in the Old Town included:
- The churches including St Alexander Nevsky’s Cathedral, a truly stunning Russian Orthodox Church.
- Walking the city walls, feeling like I stepped back into the middle ages
- The viewing platforms which give a bird’s eye view of the city from various angles which is amazing.
- Town Hall Square – watching tradespeople set up their stalls in the early morning and then seeing them in full action later on in the day – super cool!
- Balti Jaam Turg – a huge market where you can get anything from fresh produce to the most amazing arts and crafts to gorgeous vintage fashion and antiques. Incredible!
Foodwise, I had some fantastic experiences in Tallinn. Top TOP(!!) highlight on the culinary front was dinner at NOA Chef’s Hall. It’s one of the first Michelin star restaurants in Estonia (the other being 180° by Matthias Diether) and honestly, it was just amazing. I’m not gonna lie, I was really nervous about the fact I was going to this place solo, but I had nothing to worry about. I was seated “face to face” with the chefs so got to see them at work up close and personal. The staff were so friendly and attentive, I really felt like a VIP rather than a loner diner! The food was incredible, so many combinations that in theory should not work like black caviar brulee that was insanely delicious and the simple leek transformed into a culinary delight. Every course was better than the last, and by the end, I was stuffed but on cloud nine.
The Stenhus Restaurant in Hotel Schlossle also delivered on delicious fare but for the amount paid, the portion size of my main course was laughable. I also had dinner at Olde Hansa, a medieval experience restaurant. This place was giving Lord of the Rings, the Shire vibes for sure. From the decor, to the costumes and live music, and definitely the menu, they had medieval down! I can’t say I loved the food though and it’s way too expensive for the experience IMHO.
Lastly, my accommodation was nothing short of a delight. Hotel Schlossle is a different level. Then again, Prince Charles has stayed there so if it’s good enough the British incumbent king, it’s good enough for me! Absolutely amazing service, beautiful facilities, super comfortable, terrific and attentive service. My room was spacious and cosy but also elegantly laid out. I lived in my robe every time I set foot in my room. I can’t get over the fact that the staff set out my toiletries just so. Truly a delight!
All in all, Tallinn, you were lovely and I’m sad I didn’t have more time. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and wouldn’t mind another visit; maybe in the winter because I imagine the Christmas market would probably be incredible. Ooooh, let me get to planning!
