If you are looking for a unique and charming way to celebrate the holiday season, look no further than Tallinn, Estonia. This year business trips shaped my holiday season, so I spent the first days of 2023 wandering through Tallinn’s old town. This medieval city, with its cobbled streets, old-fashioned street lamps and beautifully preserved buildings, is a perfect destination for a winter getaway. During the Christmas season, Tallinn transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights, festive markets and holiday cheer. Here’s why you should plan a visit to Tallinn’s Old Town during Christmas time.
The Old Town Walk
One of the best ways to experience Tallinn’s Old Town during Christmas time is on foot. The city’s historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is compact enough to be explored on foot, and it’s the perfect way to soak up the festive atmosphere. The narrow, winding streets are lined with traditional buildings, many of which are adorned with festive decorations and lights. You can also take a guided tour of the Old Town to learn about its history and see all the highlights.
Christmas Markets
During the holiday season, Tallinn is famous for its Christmas markets. The most famous one is held on the Town Hall Square, which is transformed into a winter wonderland with dozens of wooden stalls selling everything from handicrafts to hot mulled wine. You can also find traditional Estonian delicacies like gingerbread cookies, marzipan candies and black bread. The market also hosts daily performances by choirs and folk groups, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Tallinn’s Christmas Market is also known for its Christmas tree, which is erected in the center of the square and lit up in a grand ceremony. In fact, Tallinn claims to be the birthplace of the Christmas tree tradition, as the first recorded public display of a Christmas tree was in Tallinn’s Town Hall Square in 1441.
Christmas Concerts
Another way to experience the festive spirit in Tallinn is by attending one of the many Christmas concerts that take place throughout the city. Tallinn is known for its rich musical tradition, and during Christmas time, there are concerts held in churches, concert halls, and other venues. You can expect to hear traditional Estonian music, as well as classical favorites and international holiday tunes.
Festive Food
Estonian cuisine is known for its hearty, warming dishes, which are perfect for the winter season. During Christmas time, you can find a range of festive foods and drinks around the city. In addition to the Christmas market treats mentioned earlier, there are many cozy restaurants and cafes serving up traditional Estonian dishes like pork roast with sauerkraut and black pudding. You can also try traditional Christmas beer or glögg, a spiced wine that is popular in Estonia.
When deciding where to have dinner in Tallinn, I would suggest here – follow the Tripadvisor. I chose no. 1 pizzeria in the center of Tallinn – La Prima Pizza Vanalinn, and had the best Italian experience in Northern Europe… Honestly, the best pizza and brusketas.
Tallinn is a wonderful destination for a winter getaway, and during Christmas time, it’s especially magical. With its festive markets, charming Old Town, and rich musical tradition, Tallinn is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the holiday season. Whether you’re exploring the narrow streets of the Old Town or enjoying a traditional Estonian meal, there’s something for everyone in Tallinn during Christmas time.
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