In 1997, Tallinn Old Town, with its cobbled streets, tiled roofs, high spires, and beautiful architecture of the Hanseatic League times, was listed as the UNESCO World Heritage. It is a striking and well-preserved example of medieval Northern Europe, the main hallmark of the Estonian capital and the primary attraction where almost every sightseeing tour of Tallinn begins.

The Old Town is divided into two independent sections connected by a shared history: the Lower and the Upper Town, also called Vyshgorod. Between them lay a vast fortress wall, whose remains you can still see while walking through the historic center.

Vyshgorod is located on the steep hill of Toompea. It was once a favorite place of the nobility who lived nearby. While exploring this part of the city, pay attention to its main attractions: Toompea Castle, the main stronghold of Tallinn, St. Mary’s Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Estonia, as well as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, built at the end of the 19th century and earning disreputableness among locals.

The Lower Town is a historical district that lies at the foot of Toompea Hill and Vyshgorod. If the noblest strata of society inhabited the Upper Town, the Lower Town became home to wealthy peasants, merchants, and artisans. Like the Upper Town, it has been perfectly preserved to this day to easily immerse its visitors into the medieval atmosphere that once reigned in this place.

The main attraction of the Lower Town is the Town Hall Square, which in most cases becomes a cut-off point for guests of Tallinn wishing to explore the historic center. This place has rightfully earned the title of the heart of the city and from its foundation day has never lost its value for the locals and travelers. From here, you can see almost all the spires of the main city attractions: Tallinn Town Hall, St. Olaf’s Church, Holy Spirit Church, St. Nicholas’ Church, and the above-mentioned St. Mary’s Cathedral.