We woke up early in Helsinki for a day trip across the Gulf of Finland. The ferry ride to Tallinn was half the fun—first‑class tickets gave us access to a quiet lounge, complimentary snacks and panoramic views as we sailed past the archipelago.
The crossing was smooth and quick. Soon the medieval skyline of Tallinn came into view, its church spires and red roofs rising above the sea. We disembarked and walked straight into the UNESCO‑listed Old Town.
First we headed up to Toompea Hill. The cobbled path was lined with pastel houses and ivy‑covered walls. At the top, we found the impressive Toompea Castle and the Russian‑orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral with its onion domes.
From the Patkuli viewing platform we had a sweeping view over the lower town—stout towers with conical roofs, church spires and the Baltic Sea beyond. It’s a picture‑perfect panorama.
Wandering back down into the lower town, we explored the maze of medieval streets. The Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) was bustling with outdoor cafés and market stalls. The Gothic town hall itself is one of the oldest in Europe.
We ducked into the colorful passageways of St. Catherine’s Passage, where local artisans sell glassware, ceramics and textiles. It feels like stepping back centuries.
Lunch was at a cosy tavern serving hearty Estonian fare—elk stew, black bread and a warming mug of mulled wine. We lingered over the meal, enjoying the atmosphere.
In the afternoon we walked along the old city walls. Climbing one of the surviving towers gave us another angle on Tallinn’s fairytale skyline and the harbor beyond.
We made time to visit the Kiek in de Kök tower and museum, which tells the story of Tallinn’s fortifications. The name means “peek in the kitchen” because guards could supposedly see into the kitchens of nearby houses from its high windows.
As the day wore on, we found ourselves popping into small boutiques and coffee shops, savoring every corner of the Old Town. Street musicians played and locals went about their day, giving us a sense of modern life within these ancient streets.
We ended our sightseeing at the Viru Gate, one of the most photographed spots in Tallinn with its twin towers flanking the entrance to the Old Town. Flowers spilled from hanging baskets and the late‑afternoon light was perfect for photos.
Before boarding our return ferry, we grabbed a quick bite at a market near the terminal and watched the sun begin to set over the harbour.
The ferry back to Helsinki was just as pleasant as our morning trip. Relaxing in the lounge, we reflected on how much history and charm we’d packed into a single day.
Tallinn’s Old Town is remarkably well‑preserved and easy to explore on foot. For anyone visiting Helsinki, a day trip across the gulf is well worth the effort, especially if you treat yourself to those first‑class ferry tickets.
