Excursion Historic tallinn tour at Tallinn

Experience the history and architecture of Tallinn during a scenic sightseeing drive through the city, and a walking tour of the Upper Old Town.

Orientation Drive

Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive out of the city centre and past Kadriorg Park, the main recreation area of Tallinn. An Italian architect designed the park for Peter the Great by following the Tsar's conquest of Estonia in the Great Northern War. A photo stop is then made at the grounds where the popular Estonian Song Festival is held every five years (photo stop not available during major events of the Song Festival Ground). Then continue with a drive through Lasnamäe residential area to hear about country´s Soviet period and different cultures living side by side in Estonia.

Upper Old Town Walking Tour

Afterwards, proceed for a visit to the Old Town. Upon arrival, leave your coach at the foot of the 'Tall Hermann' Tower; then commence your guided walking tour along the cobblestone lanes and narrow alleys. Pass by Medieval houses, towers and bastions en route to the Upper Town of Toompea Hill. During your stroll through the Upper Town, see the pseudo-Baroque Toompea Palace, which houses the Estonian Parliament, the Russian Orthodox Church of St. Alexander Nevski and the 'hate wall' separating the nobility's and the merchants' towns.

The walking tour continues past the oldest school in Estonia, which dates from 1319. Before reaching the famous 13th-century Dome Church, St. Mary's Cathedral, which dates from 1233 A.D. and features more than 100 coats of arms of former noble families. Proceed for a stop at a scenic viewpoint for panoramic vistas over the Lower Town, which is highlighted by seaside towers and steeples rising above the cluster of red-tiled roofs.

Afterward, walk back to your coach for the brief return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Upper Old Town, 'Tall Hermann' Tower, Medieval Houses, Towers, Toompea Palace, Russian Orthodox Church.

Note

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately two miles (3.2 kilometres), mainly on cobblestone streets, with 20 steps to negotiate. The visit to the Old Town is entirely on foot. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. An inside visit to the St. Mary's Cathedral is not possible during services or other religious functions or on late afternoon departures. The tour sequence may vary. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme. It is recommended to bring local currency for any purchases made and water from the ship.