TALLINN - St. Petersburg, Helsinki and Tallinn - page 176

Orientation to Tallinn
Tallinn's walled Old Town is an easy 15-minute walk from the ferry and cruise terminals,
where most visitors land (see “Arrival in Tallinn,” later). The Old Town is divided into
two parts (historically, two separate towns): the upper town (Toompea), and the lower
town, with Town Hall Square. A remarkably intact medieval wall surrounds the two towns,
which are themselves separated by another wall.
Town Hall Square (Raekoja Plats) marks the heart of the medieval lower town. The main
TI is nearby, as are many sights and eateries. Pickpockets have become a problem in the
more touristy parts of the Old Town, so keep valuables carefully stowed. The area around
the Viru Keskus mall and Hotel Viru, just east of the Old Town, is useful for everyday
shopping (bookstores and supermarkets), practical services (laundry and Internet café), and
public transport.
Tourist Information
The hardworking, English-speaking TI has maps, concert listings, and free brochures. It
also sells Tallinn in Your Pocket and the Tallinn Card, both described later (May-Aug
Mon-Fri 9:00-19:00—until 20:00 mid-June-Aug, Sat-Sun 9:00-17:00—until 18:00 mid-
June-Aug; Sept-April Mon-Fri 9:00-18:00, Sat-Sun 9:00-15:00; a block off Town Hall
Square at Kullassepa 4, tel. [phone], www.tourism.tallinn.ee , [e-mail] ).
Travellers' Tent isn't an official information center, but a creative service offered by
young people for young visitors. Working from a tent in the park immediately in front of
the TI, the friendly staff is a great source for backpacker info, youthful tours, bike rental,
and cheap accommodations (daily June-Aug 10:00-18:00, mobile [phone]). Their free
map is packed with fun tips to enjoy Tallinn down, dirty, and on the cheap. While their
map and information services are free, they appreciate donations. Consider their inexpens-
ive and spirited tours (see “Tours in Tallinn,” later).