Tallinn is only just now being discovered as a backpacker’s destination, which is pleasantly surprising, as while this city has been free of Soviet rule and hence open to visitors since 1991, the lack of people who have been here means it maintains an authentic, untouched feel.
In many ways, much of what makes Tallinn interesting is its situation. The capital of Estonia, it’s both geographically and politically sandwiched between the East and West – explore Tallinn today and you find the hallmarks of Soviet rule sitting alongside new examples of globalization. As a result, there’s something joyously youthful and excitable about Tallinn; it’s the type of destination that can offer you an educational vacation and a hedonistic one rolled into one.
Accommodation
While Tallinn is particularly expensive in European terms, it is expensive in worldwide terms (Europe, after all, is probably the world’s most developed continent). Luckily for the incoming traveler, there are plenty of excellent Tallinn hostels to be found here – they offer welcoming and comfortable surroundings for peanuts when compared with hotels in the city.
A great Tallinn hostel is called Viru backpackers, which is situated in the very heart of the city. A personable and clean place, it’s great for those who want to get a good night’s sleep but still be in the heart of the action.
For something a little more boisterous, Tallinn Backpackers is a great option. This is a hostel that is proud of its backpacker’s spirit, and you’ll find many likeminded travelers kicking around here should you decide to book a room for the night. Facilities include a kitchen, a TV room, and a sauna.
For people traveling in a group or as a family, NovoStay Apartments prove a good bet. These swanky apartments are available at an incredibly decent rate, and mean you can truly enjoy Tallinn as an ‘insider’ with your own flat and all!
Sightseeing
Tallinn’s Old Town is its main attraction in terms of sightseeing. This excellently preserved area presents a wonderful mix of architectural styles – it dates back to the 13th Century, but additions and alterations have been made to it ever since.
One of the must-see things to do here is the splendiferous Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which is about as good an example of Russian Orthadox architecture as you’ll find anywhere in the world.
Another important thing to do is spend time at Raekoja Plats – a square of important buildings, cafes and restaurants at the very heart of the Old Town. Hours can be happily passed here, sipping on a coffee (or something a little bit stronger) while watching the world go by.
Nightlife
Tallinn’s nightlife is slowly becoming famous for its hedonistic ways, and the inevitable stag parties and weekend getaway crowds are consequently moving in. Going out on the town here certainly is fun – the locals like to drink and party as much as the tourists do. Beware the prices around the Old Town however, as they can burn a hole through even well protected pockets.
Before settling down and becoming a copywriter for HostelBookers. Jonny Cooper did a backpacking tour of Estonia, and stayed in Tallinn hostel.
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