Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Tallinn is a rising star in the tourism world, thanks to its strategic location (an easy boat
ride from Stockholm, Helsinki, and St. Petersburg); its perfectly preserved, atmospheric Old
Town, bursting with quaint sightseeing options; and its remarkable economic boom since
throwing off Soviet shackles just over two decades ago. Easily the most accessible part of
the former USSR, Estonia was only the third post-communist country to adopt the euro (in
2011) and has weathered recent Europe-wide economic crises like a champ. While the city
still struggles to more effectively incorporate its large Russian minority, Tallinn feels ages
away from its Soviet past—having eagerly reclaimed its unique Nordic identity. Estonian
pride is in the air...and it's catching.
If you're pondering a cultural detour on your Nordic vacation, Tallinn is a logical
choice—Estonia is quite different from the Scandinavian countries, and Tallinn is easily
reached on a night cruise from Stockholm, a fast boat ride from Helsinki, or a quick flight
from any Scandinavian capital. Tallinn has great restaurants, affordable shopping (rare in
this expensive corner of Europe), and atmosphere in spades. While it can be seen on a quick
side-trip from Helsinki, Tallinn is mobbed with day-trippers (mostly cruise passengers) and
rewards those who spend the night. While its Old Town is (understandably) a magnet for
visitors, there's also a lot to see outside its ancient walls. Give yourself a few extra days for a
stopover in Tallinn, or do both Tallinn and Helsinki as a triangular side-trip from Stockholm.
