Discover the highlights of Tallinn through an unforgettable journey through its medieval streets. Spend a day exploring the mysterious Rummu Quarry, surrounded by crystal-clear water. Visit a magnificent Baroque palace just a short distance from Tallinn’s city center. There’s much more to discover. If you visit in summer, you can enjoy additional activities at Rummu Quarry, such as swimming and SUP boarding. If you visit in winter, you can enjoy the Christmas markets in Tallinn.
On the first day you will arrive to your accommodation from the airport. If you have time and energy after checking in, you can visit the unique Kalamaja district and Tallinn City Hall (Linnahall), which was built for the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
First you will arrive to you accommodation from the airport. I recommend taking bus number 120 or 162 to the city center. Follow the sings at the airport to find the busses. Get off at Estonia stop. The tickets for the bus can be bought with contactless payment card at the front of the bus, at ticket machines located at the airport or with Pilet.ee app. With the app you get a qr-code which you will show to the reader in front of the bus.
- You can find the transfer in the city always like this.
- You can purchase tickets for the sights and public transport during the trip by following the instructions provided below in the itinerary.
Tallin City Hall (Linnahall) was built for 1980 Moscow Olympics. Now the building is closed, but it can still be visited from outside. From the top, there are stunning views to the sea and the city. It is important not to enter any restricted areas.
To get to Tallinn City Hall, you can take tram T2 from the A. Laikmaa stop and get off at the Linnahall stop. You can also take bus 102, 114, or 174 from the Mere puiestee stop and get off at the Linnahall stop. It is also possible to walk there. You can buy the tickets the same way as you did when travelling from the airport.
Kalamaja is a fascinating former medieval fishing village that is now one of Tallinn's trendiest neighborhoods. In Kalamaja, you will find many well-preserved wooden houses. Simply wander around the charming streets and get to know this unique district.
From Tallinn City Hall, you can start your walk to Kalamaja and wander around its charming streets. From Kalamaja, you can return by bus 3, which departs from the Kalamaja stop. Get off at the Estonia stop.
Visit Rummu Quarry, a stunning old quarry filled with crystal-clear water with an abandoned prison next to it. You should leave in the morning to have enough time at the quarry, and check the return bus in advance. Bring shoes that are good for walking, water and you can bring snacks too. If you want to go swimming, remember to bring swimwear and towel. Also, check the weather and dress accordingly. There are toilets and a small shop in the area. In the summer you will also find a cafe on site.
Rummu Quarry used to be a limestone quarry. After the mining stopped, the area was filled with crystal-clear groundwater. Some parts of the prison were left partially underwater, but the other parts of the prison can still be visited. The white hills surrounding the quarry are artificial and were formed from limestone waste left over from the mining operations.
The lake is stunning both from the ground and up from the hills, which can be visited following the sings for hiking. Walking up the hills can be strenuous, and you have to be careful near the edges, because the loose limestone can crumble, but the views from the hills are breathtaking.
Walk around the lake and take in the beautiful views. In the summer you can go swimming or rent a SUP board or a canoe and go around the lake.
After visiting the quarry, I recommend visiting the prison museum, where you can explore a former prison, Murru prison. You can see old prison cells, courtyards, and even a sports hall. You can also listen to an audio guide on your phone and learn more about the prison's history.
How to get there:
To get there from the city centre, take bus 136, 146, 148, or 149 from the Vabaduse väljak stop. To buy a ticket, tell the driver that you are going to Rummu and tap your payment card on the card reader. The bus journey takes about one hour. You can check the schedule on Google Maps, Apple Maps or here.
I recommend checking the return bus timetable in advance, because the wait can be long. During the off-season I recommend spending 2-4 hour at the quarry and prison, but during summer you can spend longer if you want to go swimming or SUP boarding.
For information about opening hours and ticket prices check the official cite.
You can buy tickets at the gate. During the off-season, tickets can be purchased using a contactless card reader at the gate, after which you can enter through the turnstile. During the off-season, you have to buy a combined ticket for both the quarry and the prison museum. During the main season, you can buy a ticket for the quarry only or combined tickets, which I recommend.
Explore the picturesque Old Town and Kadriorg Palace. In the morning, start the walking route in the Old Town by walking to Freedom Square. After that, you will visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Mary's Cathedral, Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform, Patkuli Viewing Platform, Tallinn Town Hall, Katariina käik, and Viru Gate. Along the way, you can stop to enjoy a delicious meal at a restaurant or buy souvenirs from a small boutique. After the Old Town you will be heading to Kadriorg Palace and Park. There will be a lot of walking so wear good shoes for that.
At Freedom Square, you will find St. John's Church and the Victory Column, which commemorates the Estonian War of Independence in 1918-1920.
Alexander Nevxky Cathedral is a stunning orthodox cathedral built in 1894-1900, when Estonia was part of the Russian empire. You can also go inside the cathedral for free during the opening hours.
St. Mary's Cathedral is the oldest church in Tallinn (1233). You can visit the church, but a donation is required. Remember to check the opening hours.
Kohtuotsa viewing platform is one of the most famous viewing spots in Tallin. You can enjoy a spectacular view of the Old Town, with some of the newer buildings and the sea in the background.
Patkuli Viewing Platform also offers a spectacular view of the Old Town. Here, you can also see the Old Town Walls. There is also a panoramic view of the city, with the sea in the background.
The Tallinn Town Hall is the oldest town hall in Northern Europe. It was built in the 13th century and is one of the most important landmarks in the Old Town. At the square next to it, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the city, and in winter, you can even visit a traditional Christmas market.
Katariina käik, in English St. Catherine's Passage, is a charming small medieval street and a famous photo spot. The street is surrounded by historic buildings.
Viru Gate is part of the Tallinn City Wall and a symbol of the Old Town. Here you will exit the Old Town.
Kadriorg Palace is a Baroque palace that was built in 1718. It was commissioned by Tsar Peter the Great as a summer residence for his wife, Catherine I. The palace was designed by the Italian architect Nicola Michetti and is known for its richly decorated interior and elegant architecture. Today, it is home to the Kadriorg Art Museum, where visitors can admire a collection of European and Russian art.
You can admire the palace and park from outside and visit the Kadriorg Art Museum inside, where visitors can admire collections of European and Russian art. If you want to visit the museum you can purchase the tickets online or at the museum. Remember to check the opening hours and keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays.
To get to Kadriorg Palace from the city center, you can take tram 1 or 3 from Hobujaama stop and get off at the stop called Kadriorg, where it is only a short walk to the palace. It is also possible to walk there approximately 2-3 kilometers from the center, which takes about 30-40 minutes.
Kadriorg Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Tallinn. From the garden you can admire the palace from outside and then walk aroung the garden or just relax on the benches. In the garden you can find a Japanese Garden, monuments and a Swan pond.
After visiting the park return with the tram 1 or 3 from Kadriorg stop and get off at Hobujaama stop.
If you have time before the flight, I recommend visiting Viru Keskus, where you can do some shopping and buy the last souvenirs (altough the most traditional souvenirs can be found in the old town). You can also visit Kalamaja and Tallinn City Hall (Linnahall) if you did not have time to see them on the first day.
Viru Keskus is a shopping center with over 100 stores and a lot of restaurants, where you will find delicious food.
You can get back to the airport by bus 120 or 162 from the stop Estonia. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home.
Discover the highlights of Tallinn through an unforgettable journey through its medieval streets. Spend a day exploring the mysterious Rummu Quarry, surrounded by crystal-clear water. Visit a magnificent Baroque palace just a short distance from Tallinn’s city center. There’s much more to discover. If you visit in summer, you can enjoy additional activities at Rummu Quarry, such as swimming and SUP boarding. If you visit in winter, you can enjoy the Christmas markets in Tallinn.
On the first day you will arrive to your accommodation from the airport. If you have time and energy after checking in, you can visit the unique Kalamaja district and Tallinn City Hall (Linnahall), which was built for the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
First you will arrive to you accommodation from the airport. I recommend taking bus number 120 or 162 to the city center. Follow the sings at the airport to find the busses. Get off at Estonia stop. The tickets for the bus can be bought with contactless payment card at the front of the bus, at ticket machines located at the airport or with Pilet.ee app. With the app you get a qr-code which you will show to the reader in front of the bus.
- You can find the transfer in the city always like this.
- You can purchase tickets for the sights and public transport during the trip by following the instructions provided below in the itinerary.
Tallin City Hall (Linnahall) was built for 1980 Moscow Olympics. Now the building is closed, but it can still be visited from outside. From the top, there are stunning views to the sea and the city. It is important not to enter any restricted areas.
To get to Tallinn City Hall, you can take tram T2 from the A. Laikmaa stop and get off at the Linnahall stop. You can also take bus 102, 114, or 174 from the Mere puiestee stop and get off at the Linnahall stop. It is also possible to walk there. You can buy the tickets the same way as you did when travelling from the airport.
Kalamaja is a fascinating former medieval fishing village that is now one of Tallinn's trendiest neighborhoods. In Kalamaja, you will find many well-preserved wooden houses. Simply wander around the charming streets and get to know this unique district.
From Tallinn City Hall, you can start your walk to Kalamaja and wander around its charming streets. From Kalamaja, you can return by bus 3, which departs from the Kalamaja stop. Get off at the Estonia stop.
Visit Rummu Quarry, a stunning old quarry filled with crystal-clear water with an abandoned prison next to it. You should leave in the morning to have enough time at the quarry, and check the return bus in advance. Bring shoes that are good for walking, water and you can bring snacks too. If you want to go swimming, remember to bring swimwear and towel. Also, check the weather and dress accordingly. There are toilets and a small shop in the area. In the summer you will also find a cafe on site.
Rummu Quarry used to be a limestone quarry. After the mining stopped, the area was filled with crystal-clear groundwater. Some parts of the prison were left partially underwater, but the other parts of the prison can still be visited. The white hills surrounding the quarry are artificial and were formed from limestone waste left over from the mining operations.
The lake is stunning both from the ground and up from the hills, which can be visited following the sings for hiking. Walking up the hills can be strenuous, and you have to be careful near the edges, because the loose limestone can crumble, but the views from the hills are breathtaking.
Walk around the lake and take in the beautiful views. In the summer you can go swimming or rent a SUP board or a canoe and go around the lake.
After visiting the quarry, I recommend visiting the prison museum, where you can explore a former prison, Murru prison. You can see old prison cells, courtyards, and even a sports hall. You can also listen to an audio guide on your phone and learn more about the prison's history.
How to get there:
To get there from the city centre, take bus 136, 146, 148, or 149 from the Vabaduse väljak stop. To buy a ticket, tell the driver that you are going to Rummu and tap your payment card on the card reader. The bus journey takes about one hour. You can check the schedule on Google Maps, Apple Maps or here.
I recommend checking the return bus timetable in advance, because the wait can be long. During the off-season I recommend spending 2-4 hour at the quarry and prison, but during summer you can spend longer if you want to go swimming or SUP boarding.
For information about opening hours and ticket prices check the official cite.
You can buy tickets at the gate. During the off-season, tickets can be purchased using a contactless card reader at the gate, after which you can enter through the turnstile. During the off-season, you have to buy a combined ticket for both the quarry and the prison museum. During the main season, you can buy a ticket for the quarry only or combined tickets, which I recommend.
Explore the picturesque Old Town and Kadriorg Palace. In the morning, start the walking route in the Old Town by walking to Freedom Square. After that, you will visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Mary's Cathedral, Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform, Patkuli Viewing Platform, Tallinn Town Hall, Katariina käik, and Viru Gate. Along the way, you can stop to enjoy a delicious meal at a restaurant or buy souvenirs from a small boutique. After the Old Town you will be heading to Kadriorg Palace and Park. There will be a lot of walking so wear good shoes for that.
At Freedom Square, you will find St. John's Church and the Victory Column, which commemorates the Estonian War of Independence in 1918-1920.
Alexander Nevxky Cathedral is a stunning orthodox cathedral built in 1894-1900, when Estonia was part of the Russian empire. You can also go inside the cathedral for free during the opening hours.
St. Mary's Cathedral is the oldest church in Tallinn (1233). You can visit the church, but a donation is required. Remember to check the opening hours.
Kohtuotsa viewing platform is one of the most famous viewing spots in Tallin. You can enjoy a spectacular view of the Old Town, with some of the newer buildings and the sea in the background.
Patkuli Viewing Platform also offers a spectacular view of the Old Town. Here, you can also see the Old Town Walls. There is also a panoramic view of the city, with the sea in the background.
The Tallinn Town Hall is the oldest town hall in Northern Europe. It was built in the 13th century and is one of the most important landmarks in the Old Town. At the square next to it, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the city, and in winter, you can even visit a traditional Christmas market.
Katariina käik, in English St. Catherine's Passage, is a charming small medieval street and a famous photo spot. The street is surrounded by historic buildings.
Viru Gate is part of the Tallinn City Wall and a symbol of the Old Town. Here you will exit the Old Town.
Kadriorg Palace is a Baroque palace that was built in 1718. It was commissioned by Tsar Peter the Great as a summer residence for his wife, Catherine I. The palace was designed by the Italian architect Nicola Michetti and is known for its richly decorated interior and elegant architecture. Today, it is home to the Kadriorg Art Museum, where visitors can admire a collection of European and Russian art.
You can admire the palace and park from outside and visit the Kadriorg Art Museum inside, where visitors can admire collections of European and Russian art. If you want to visit the museum you can purchase the tickets online or at the museum. Remember to check the opening hours and keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays.
To get to Kadriorg Palace from the city center, you can take tram 1 or 3 from Hobujaama stop and get off at the stop called Kadriorg, where it is only a short walk to the palace. It is also possible to walk there approximately 2-3 kilometers from the center, which takes about 30-40 minutes.
Kadriorg Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Tallinn. From the garden you can admire the palace from outside and then walk aroung the garden or just relax on the benches. In the garden you can find a Japanese Garden, monuments and a Swan pond.
After visiting the park return with the tram 1 or 3 from Kadriorg stop and get off at Hobujaama stop.
If you have time before the flight, I recommend visiting Viru Keskus, where you can do some shopping and buy the last souvenirs (altough the most traditional souvenirs can be found in the old town). You can also visit Kalamaja and Tallinn City Hall (Linnahall) if you did not have time to see them on the first day.
Viru Keskus is a shopping center with over 100 stores and a lot of restaurants, where you will find delicious food.
You can get back to the airport by bus 120 or 162 from the stop Estonia. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home.
itinerary by Kukka-Maria Kiirla
Discover the highlights of Tallinn through an unforgettable journey through its medieval streets. Spend a day exploring the mysterious Rummu Quarry, surrounded by crystal-clear water. Visit a magnificent Baroque palace just a short distance from Tallinn’s city center. There’s much more to discover. If you visit in summer, you can enjoy additional activities at Rummu Quarry, such as swimming and SUP boarding. If you visit in winter, you can enjoy the Christmas markets in Tallinn.
On the first day you will arrive to your accommodation from the airport. If you have time and energy after checking in, you can visit the unique Kalamaja district and Tallinn City Hall (Linnahall), which was built for the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
First you will arrive to you accommodation from the airport. I recommend taking bus number 120 or 162 to the city center. Follow the sings at the airport to find the busses. Get off at Estonia stop. The tickets for the bus can be bought with contactless payment card at the front of the bus, at ticket machines located at the airport or with Pilet.ee app. With the app you get a qr-code which you will show to the reader in front of the bus.
- You can find the transfer in the city always like this.
- You can purchase tickets for the sights and public transport during the trip by following the instructions provided below in the itinerary.
Tallin City Hall (Linnahall) was built for 1980 Moscow Olympics. Now the building is closed, but it can still be visited from outside. From the top, there are stunning views to the sea and the city. It is important not to enter any restricted areas.
To get to Tallinn City Hall, you can take tram T2 from the A. Laikmaa stop and get off at the Linnahall stop. You can also take bus 102, 114, or 174 from the Mere puiestee stop and get off at the Linnahall stop. It is also possible to walk there. You can buy the tickets the same way as you did when travelling from the airport.
Kalamaja is a fascinating former medieval fishing village that is now one of Tallinn's trendiest neighborhoods. In Kalamaja, you will find many well-preserved wooden houses. Simply wander around the charming streets and get to know this unique district.
From Tallinn City Hall, you can start your walk to Kalamaja and wander around its charming streets. From Kalamaja, you can return by bus 3, which departs from the Kalamaja stop. Get off at the Estonia stop.
Visit Rummu Quarry, a stunning old quarry filled with crystal-clear water with an abandoned prison next to it. You should leave in the morning to have enough time at the quarry, and check the return bus in advance. Bring shoes that are good for walking, water and you can bring snacks too. If you want to go swimming, remember to bring swimwear and towel. Also, check the weather and dress accordingly. There are toilets and a small shop in the area. In the summer you will also find a cafe on site.
Rummu Quarry used to be a limestone quarry. After the mining stopped, the area was filled with crystal-clear groundwater. Some parts of the prison were left partially underwater, but the other parts of the prison can still be visited. The white hills surrounding the quarry are artificial and were formed from limestone waste left over from the mining operations.
The lake is stunning both from the ground and up from the hills, which can be visited following the sings for hiking. Walking up the hills can be strenuous, and you have to be careful near the edges, because the loose limestone can crumble, but the views from the hills are breathtaking.
Walk around the lake and take in the beautiful views. In the summer you can go swimming or rent a SUP board or a canoe and go around the lake.
After visiting the quarry, I recommend visiting the prison museum, where you can explore a former prison, Murru prison. You can see old prison cells, courtyards, and even a sports hall. You can also listen to an audio guide on your phone and learn more about the prison's history.
How to get there:
To get there from the city centre, take bus 136, 146, 148, or 149 from the Vabaduse väljak stop. To buy a ticket, tell the driver that you are going to Rummu and tap your payment card on the card reader. The bus journey takes about one hour. You can check the schedule on Google Maps, Apple Maps or here.
I recommend checking the return bus timetable in advance, because the wait can be long. During the off-season I recommend spending 2-4 hour at the quarry and prison, but during summer you can spend longer if you want to go swimming or SUP boarding.
For information about opening hours and ticket prices check the official cite.
You can buy tickets at the gate. During the off-season, tickets can be purchased using a contactless card reader at the gate, after which you can enter through the turnstile. During the off-season, you have to buy a combined ticket for both the quarry and the prison museum. During the main season, you can buy a ticket for the quarry only or combined tickets, which I recommend.
Explore the picturesque Old Town and Kadriorg Palace. In the morning, start the walking route in the Old Town by walking to Freedom Square. After that, you will visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Mary's Cathedral, Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform, Patkuli Viewing Platform, Tallinn Town Hall, Katariina käik, and Viru Gate. Along the way, you can stop to enjoy a delicious meal at a restaurant or buy souvenirs from a small boutique. After the Old Town you will be heading to Kadriorg Palace and Park. There will be a lot of walking so wear good shoes for that.
At Freedom Square, you will find St. John's Church and the Victory Column, which commemorates the Estonian War of Independence in 1918-1920.
Alexander Nevxky Cathedral is a stunning orthodox cathedral built in 1894-1900, when Estonia was part of the Russian empire. You can also go inside the cathedral for free during the opening hours.
St. Mary's Cathedral is the oldest church in Tallinn (1233). You can visit the church, but a donation is required. Remember to check the opening hours.
Kohtuotsa viewing platform is one of the most famous viewing spots in Tallin. You can enjoy a spectacular view of the Old Town, with some of the newer buildings and the sea in the background.
Patkuli Viewing Platform also offers a spectacular view of the Old Town. Here, you can also see the Old Town Walls. There is also a panoramic view of the city, with the sea in the background.
The Tallinn Town Hall is the oldest town hall in Northern Europe. It was built in the 13th century and is one of the most important landmarks in the Old Town. At the square next to it, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the city, and in winter, you can even visit a traditional Christmas market.
Katariina käik, in English St. Catherine's Passage, is a charming small medieval street and a famous photo spot. The street is surrounded by historic buildings.
Viru Gate is part of the Tallinn City Wall and a symbol of the Old Town. Here you will exit the Old Town.
Kadriorg Palace is a Baroque palace that was built in 1718. It was commissioned by Tsar Peter the Great as a summer residence for his wife, Catherine I. The palace was designed by the Italian architect Nicola Michetti and is known for its richly decorated interior and elegant architecture. Today, it is home to the Kadriorg Art Museum, where visitors can admire a collection of European and Russian art.
You can admire the palace and park from outside and visit the Kadriorg Art Museum inside, where visitors can admire collections of European and Russian art. If you want to visit the museum you can purchase the tickets online or at the museum. Remember to check the opening hours and keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays.
To get to Kadriorg Palace from the city center, you can take tram 1 or 3 from Hobujaama stop and get off at the stop called Kadriorg, where it is only a short walk to the palace. It is also possible to walk there approximately 2-3 kilometers from the center, which takes about 30-40 minutes.
Kadriorg Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Tallinn. From the garden you can admire the palace from outside and then walk aroung the garden or just relax on the benches. In the garden you can find a Japanese Garden, monuments and a Swan pond.
After visiting the park return with the tram 1 or 3 from Kadriorg stop and get off at Hobujaama stop.
If you have time before the flight, I recommend visiting Viru Keskus, where you can do some shopping and buy the last souvenirs (altough the most traditional souvenirs can be found in the old town). You can also visit Kalamaja and Tallinn City Hall (Linnahall) if you did not have time to see them on the first day.
Viru Keskus is a shopping center with over 100 stores and a lot of restaurants, where you will find delicious food.
You can get back to the airport by bus 120 or 162 from the stop Estonia. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home.
Discover the highlights of Tallinn through an unforgettable journey through its medieval streets. Spend a day exploring the mysterious Rummu Quarry, surrounded by crystal-clear water. Visit a magnificent Baroque palace just a short distance from Tallinn’s city center. There’s much more to discover. If you visit in summer, you can enjoy additional activities at Rummu Quarry, such as swimming and SUP boarding. If you visit in winter, you can enjoy the Christmas markets in Tallinn.
On the first day you will arrive to your accommodation from the airport. If you have time and energy after checking in, you can visit the unique Kalamaja district and Tallinn City Hall (Linnahall), which was built for the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
First you will arrive to you accommodation from the airport. I recommend taking bus number 120 or 162 to the city center. Follow the sings at the airport to find the busses. Get off at Estonia stop. The tickets for the bus can be bought with contactless payment card at the front of the bus, at ticket machines located at the airport or with Pilet.ee app. With the app you get a qr-code which you will show to the reader in front of the bus.
- You can find the transfer in the city always like this.
- You can purchase tickets for the sights and public transport during the trip by following the instructions provided below in the itinerary.
Tallin City Hall (Linnahall) was built for 1980 Moscow Olympics. Now the building is closed, but it can still be visited from outside. From the top, there are stunning views to the sea and the city. It is important not to enter any restricted areas.
To get to Tallinn City Hall, you can take tram T2 from the A. Laikmaa stop and get off at the Linnahall stop. You can also take bus 102, 114, or 174 from the Mere puiestee stop and get off at the Linnahall stop. It is also possible to walk there. You can buy the tickets the same way as you did when travelling from the airport.
Kalamaja is a fascinating former medieval fishing village that is now one of Tallinn's trendiest neighborhoods. In Kalamaja, you will find many well-preserved wooden houses. Simply wander around the charming streets and get to know this unique district.
From Tallinn City Hall, you can start your walk to Kalamaja and wander around its charming streets. From Kalamaja, you can return by bus 3, which departs from the Kalamaja stop. Get off at the Estonia stop.
Visit Rummu Quarry, a stunning old quarry filled with crystal-clear water with an abandoned prison next to it. You should leave in the morning to have enough time at the quarry, and check the return bus in advance. Bring shoes that are good for walking, water and you can bring snacks too. If you want to go swimming, remember to bring swimwear and towel. Also, check the weather and dress accordingly. There are toilets and a small shop in the area. In the summer you will also find a cafe on site.
Rummu Quarry used to be a limestone quarry. After the mining stopped, the area was filled with crystal-clear groundwater. Some parts of the prison were left partially underwater, but the other parts of the prison can still be visited. The white hills surrounding the quarry are artificial and were formed from limestone waste left over from the mining operations.
The lake is stunning both from the ground and up from the hills, which can be visited following the sings for hiking. Walking up the hills can be strenuous, and you have to be careful near the edges, because the loose limestone can crumble, but the views from the hills are breathtaking.
Walk around the lake and take in the beautiful views. In the summer you can go swimming or rent a SUP board or a canoe and go around the lake.
After visiting the quarry, I recommend visiting the prison museum, where you can explore a former prison, Murru prison. You can see old prison cells, courtyards, and even a sports hall. You can also listen to an audio guide on your phone and learn more about the prison's history.
How to get there:
To get there from the city centre, take bus 136, 146, 148, or 149 from the Vabaduse väljak stop. To buy a ticket, tell the driver that you are going to Rummu and tap your payment card on the card reader. The bus journey takes about one hour. You can check the schedule on Google Maps, Apple Maps or here.
I recommend checking the return bus timetable in advance, because the wait can be long. During the off-season I recommend spending 2-4 hour at the quarry and prison, but during summer you can spend longer if you want to go swimming or SUP boarding.
For information about opening hours and ticket prices check the official cite.
You can buy tickets at the gate. During the off-season, tickets can be purchased using a contactless card reader at the gate, after which you can enter through the turnstile. During the off-season, you have to buy a combined ticket for both the quarry and the prison museum. During the main season, you can buy a ticket for the quarry only or combined tickets, which I recommend.
Explore the picturesque Old Town and Kadriorg Palace. In the morning, start the walking route in the Old Town by walking to Freedom Square. After that, you will visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Mary's Cathedral, Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform, Patkuli Viewing Platform, Tallinn Town Hall, Katariina käik, and Viru Gate. Along the way, you can stop to enjoy a delicious meal at a restaurant or buy souvenirs from a small boutique. After the Old Town you will be heading to Kadriorg Palace and Park. There will be a lot of walking so wear good shoes for that.
At Freedom Square, you will find St. John's Church and the Victory Column, which commemorates the Estonian War of Independence in 1918-1920.
Alexander Nevxky Cathedral is a stunning orthodox cathedral built in 1894-1900, when Estonia was part of the Russian empire. You can also go inside the cathedral for free during the opening hours.
St. Mary's Cathedral is the oldest church in Tallinn (1233). You can visit the church, but a donation is required. Remember to check the opening hours.
Kohtuotsa viewing platform is one of the most famous viewing spots in Tallin. You can enjoy a spectacular view of the Old Town, with some of the newer buildings and the sea in the background.
Patkuli Viewing Platform also offers a spectacular view of the Old Town. Here, you can also see the Old Town Walls. There is also a panoramic view of the city, with the sea in the background.
The Tallinn Town Hall is the oldest town hall in Northern Europe. It was built in the 13th century and is one of the most important landmarks in the Old Town. At the square next to it, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the city, and in winter, you can even visit a traditional Christmas market.
Katariina käik, in English St. Catherine's Passage, is a charming small medieval street and a famous photo spot. The street is surrounded by historic buildings.
Viru Gate is part of the Tallinn City Wall and a symbol of the Old Town. Here you will exit the Old Town.
Kadriorg Palace is a Baroque palace that was built in 1718. It was commissioned by Tsar Peter the Great as a summer residence for his wife, Catherine I. The palace was designed by the Italian architect Nicola Michetti and is known for its richly decorated interior and elegant architecture. Today, it is home to the Kadriorg Art Museum, where visitors can admire a collection of European and Russian art.
You can admire the palace and park from outside and visit the Kadriorg Art Museum inside, where visitors can admire collections of European and Russian art. If you want to visit the museum you can purchase the tickets online or at the museum. Remember to check the opening hours and keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays.
To get to Kadriorg Palace from the city center, you can take tram 1 or 3 from Hobujaama stop and get off at the stop called Kadriorg, where it is only a short walk to the palace. It is also possible to walk there approximately 2-3 kilometers from the center, which takes about 30-40 minutes.
Kadriorg Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Tallinn. From the garden you can admire the palace from outside and then walk aroung the garden or just relax on the benches. In the garden you can find a Japanese Garden, monuments and a Swan pond.
After visiting the park return with the tram 1 or 3 from Kadriorg stop and get off at Hobujaama stop.
If you have time before the flight, I recommend visiting Viru Keskus, where you can do some shopping and buy the last souvenirs (altough the most traditional souvenirs can be found in the old town). You can also visit Kalamaja and Tallinn City Hall (Linnahall) if you did not have time to see them on the first day.
Viru Keskus is a shopping center with over 100 stores and a lot of restaurants, where you will find delicious food.
You can get back to the airport by bus 120 or 162 from the stop Estonia. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home.
