Private 5-hour tour of Tallinn by car and on foot

Join us on a tour where we introduce you to Tallinn's and Estonia's past and present. We will walk along the medieval streets of the Old Town, the pathways of Kadriorg park and see the spectacular views of the Song Festival Grounds. Tallinn and Estonia have long been at the meeting point of two very different worlds. Since the viking age and through the medieval era this location has served as a vital trade route between east and west. For centuries it was seen by many as the very edge of civilisation. From German crusaders to Russian czars and communist occupation, Estonia has never forgotten its culture, language or identity. Come and find out what makes this country unique. How a once thriving center of trade fell by the wayside; how a land held by foreigners for centuries won its War of Independence; and how a small occupied nation defied the Soviet Union to not only restore its own freedom and destiny but also become the Silicon Valley of Europe. This is the story of Estonia.

Itinerary

1. Dating back to the early 1700s, the park has been home to Russian czars, Estonian presidents, writes, poets and artists, as well as occupying forces during WW2. (20 min)
2. The Song Festival plays an instrumental role in Estonian culture and history. From preserving our language to restoring our independence, this huge festival led to the Singing Revolution and still holds an important place in the hearts of Estonians to this very day. (15 min)
3. The 14th century castle is situated on top of Toompea hill. As we ascend the hill, we will learn it's history, who built it and what lies there today. (5 min)
4. This 18th century palace is now the home of the parliament of the Republic of Estonia, but many powers of ruled from this very location for centuries. (5 min)
5. This powerful Orthodox church was finished in 1900 and is one of the most iconic sights of the Old Town skyline. (5 min)
6. The oldest church in Estonia, this Lutheran (originally Catholic) cathedral has had a long and rich history. Inside we will see the over 100 coats of arms of the nobles families of Tallinn's Upper Town and hear the story of religion in Estonia. (15 min) Admission included
7. This is a wonderful little photo-stop where you can take breathtaking pictures of Tallinn's Lower Old Town from an elevated position as well as view of the Baltic sea and the surrounding area. (10 min)
8. Legend claims this location is the birthplace of the flag of Denmark and the culmination of a massive battle from over 800 years ago (10 min)
9. Our descent to the Lower Town though the picturesque Lühike Jalg (Short Leg) street. (2 min)
10. As we reach Niguliste church, it is time to get acquainted with the Lower Town and its colourful history. (5 min)
11. Here our guide will explain how the city's water system used to work centuries ago. (5 min)
12. As you see this 15th century guild hall, you will learn from our guide how the city's economy functioned and who truly ruled in this city focused on trade. (5 min)
13. Reaching the House of the Blackheads, our guide will explain what role this Brotherhood played in medival Tallinn and what role they still have today. (5 min)
14. Tallinn's 15th century Town Hall is the oldest surviving town hall in all of Northern Europe and a great example of Gothic architecture in the city. Discover who worked there, who stands at the top of the spire today and what does "city air makes you free" really mean. (15 min)
15. This pharmacy, dating to 1422, is the oldest continuously functioning pharmacy in the world and has quite a few tales to tell from medicines, to plagues and to shrewd business practice. Our guides will happily share these tales with you. (10 min) Admission included
16. A most picturesque street, situated next to the old Dominican monastery, with tomb stones covering the wall of the monastery. Our guide will explain why. (5 min)