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When we think of a weekend break on the continent, it’s normally the likes of Paris and Amsterdam that spring to mind. But with an ever-growing array of European destinations available from UK airports, there are some great alternatives that are well worth considering.
One such hidden gem is the Estonian capital, Tallinn. Rapidly gaining a reputation as the ‘new Prague’, Tallinn is a city immersed in history and architectural beauty and, located on the Baltic coast just 30 miles from Helsinki, it is the embodiment of the phrase ‘East meets West’.
Since gaining it’s independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991, Estonia has readily taken to the ways of the market economy and tourism has been a key element to its new found prosperity and success.
The Old Town, which dates back to the 13th Century, is an ideal base for tourists. A cluster of turrets, spires and storybook red-tiled houses lie within a maze of narrow, cobbled streets, it is a pleasure to explore. In fact, the unsuitability of these winding roads to modern vehicles makes it all the more enjoyable for the tourist to embrace Tallinn’s medieval charm.
One of the most striking features of this Old Town is how, unlike most European cities, Tallinn’s medieval centre remains complete, free of modern architecture. Pass beneath the arches of the city’s ancient stonewalls, and leave behind hustle and bustle of modern life and you‘ll find yourself amidst dim alleys, flickering torches and secret stairways.
The Town Hall Square is dominated by the 15th century Town Hall itself. Northern Europe’s only surviving Gothic town hall is an impressive, rough-hewn building, with spectacular dragon waterspouts. Climbing its tower earns you a commanding view of the city and it’s weathervane-topped spires. Inside, its three-nave cellar hall is also open to visitors.
Overlooking the town, high on the cliffs, sits the imposing Toompea Castle, which dates back to the 13th Century. The castle has seen more than it’s share of conquerors over the years, but today it is home to the Estonian parliament.
One ‘must-see’ on a visit to Tallinn is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This Russian Orthodox building stands out dramatically with its beautiful white walls and multi-spired roof. Inside, the ornate gilt is simply breathtaking.
Eating and drinking in Tallinn is both cheap and fantastically varied – and you’re always guaranteed great service. Try the local, rustic influenced dishes for hearty and traditional cuisine. From smoked fish to spicy sausages to cabbage roll with mushrooms, you will find something for every taste.
Tallinn is home to no less than six theatres and is famous throughout the Baltic for its song festivals, where massed choirs sing to packed audiences in a huge open-air stadium. Sailing, too, is an important recreation. Tallinn-made yachts are renowned, and in 1980 the city hosted the yachting events for Moscow’s Olympics.
Getting around Tallinn is no problem. Taxis are cheap and handy and there are regular buses, trams and trolley buses to convey the foot weary tourist.
Tallinn enjoys a mild climate, with summer ‘white nights’, when sunset blends into sunrise, rivaling those of St Petersburg, to gild this already beautiful city.
It is a city that has enchanting surprises at every turn. Tallinn truly is the jewel of the Baltics.
One thing’s for sure - this ‘best kept secret’ of Eastern Europe won’t be a secret for too much longer.
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