The Kalamaja district is a former industrial area that has been transformed into a vibrant neighborhood filled with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a laid-back, local experience while still being close to the city center.There are many unique and stylish accommodation options in Kalamaja, from cozy guesthouses to modern apartments. Staying in this neighborhood gives you the chance to experience Tallinn like a local, with easy access to the trendy Telliskivi Creative City and the lively Balti Jaam Market. While I was in Tallinn I stayed in Hektor Container hotel.
Staying in the Hektor Container hotel in Tallinn is a unique and memorable experience. The hotel is housed in a former industrial complex that has been converted into a trendy and modern space with a focus on sustainability. The rooms are actually shipping containers that have been converted into comfortable and stylish accommodations, each with its own unique design and theme. The hotel also features a communal lounge area, a bar, and a restaurant that serves organic and locally sourced food. Staying at Hektor Container offers a glimpse into Tallinn’s industrial past while providing a sustainable and eco-friendly lodging option for visitors. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in this charming city.
Walking around the Old Town of Tallinn is like stepping back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, with winding cobblestone streets, ancient walls and towers, and a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. The Old Town is divided into two main parts, the Upper Town and the Lower Town, each with its own unique character and attractions. In the Upper Town, you can visit Toompea Castle, the seat of the Estonian parliament, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an ornate Russian Orthodox church. In the Lower Town, you can explore the Town Hall Square, the heart of the city, and the Gothic-style St. Olaf’s Church, which offers panoramic views of the city from its tower. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden courtyards, quaint cafes and restaurants, and charming shops selling local handicrafts.
Located in the heart of Tallinn, the KGB Museum in Hotel Viru is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the history of Estonia and the Soviet Union. The museum is housed in the basement of the Hotel Viru, which was the only hotel in Tallinn that was allowed to host foreign guests during the Soviet era.
The museum offers a fascinating look at the KGB’s surveillance activities in Estonia during the Soviet era. Visitors can see original KGB equipment and artifacts, including a secret listening device disguised as a pack of cigarettes. You can also see a replica of the KGB interrogation room and learn about the methods used to extract information from prisoners.
The guided tour of the museum is led by a former KGB agent, who shares personal stories and insights into the KGB’s operations in Estonia. It’s an eye-opening experience that offers a glimpse into a dark period of Estonia’s history.
No visit to Tallinn is complete without indulging in one of its most beloved treats, the cinnamon pastry. Known locally as kaneelirull, these mouth-watering pastries can be found in bakeries and cafes throughout the city, but the best ones are said to be found at the iconic Maiasmokk cafe. The pastry consists of a sweet dough rolled up with a generous amount of cinnamon and sugar, creating a warm, gooey filling. It’s then baked to perfection and topped with a generous drizzle of icing. The result is a deliciously fragrant pastry that is both crispy and soft at the same time, with a comforting aroma and a sweet, cinnamon flavor.
Exploring the graffiti in Kalamaja, Tallinn is a must-do activity for anyone interested in street art and urban culture. Kalamaja is a trendy and artistic neighborhood in Tallinn, known for its colorful street art and murals that can be found on nearly every corner. The graffiti in Kalamaja is a mix of styles and messages, ranging from political and social commentary to whimsical and humorous designs. The murals are painted on the walls of buildings, alleyways, and even on abandoned factories, adding a vibrant and creative touch to the neighborhood.
