Tallinn, Estonia

Estonia: The Nordic Nation in the Baltics

Estonia may be the northernmost of the Baltic States, but don’t be fooled—it’s nothing like its southern neighbours. Linguistically, culturally, and even in mindset, Estonia sees itself as Nordic rather than Baltic. Unlike Latvian or Lithuanian, the Estonian language is closely related to Finnish, which explains why it shares more in common with Helsinki than Riga.

The World’s Most Digital Country

Estonia is globally renowned for its e-governance—everything from taxes to voting is done online. In fact, the country now offers e-residency, allowing people from anywhere in the world to become digital citizens, open businesses, and benefit from Estonia’s streamlined, tech-savvy systems—all without ever setting foot there.

Tallinn: A City of Contrasts

The homeland of legendary composer Arvo Pärt, Estonia’s capital Tallinn is where history meets modernity. A former Hanseatic port, it still serves as a gateway to Helsinki, Stockholm, and even Saint Petersburg. The city’s medieval old town—one of the best-preserved in Europe—sits alongside sleek, glass-covered office buildings, home to some of the world’s leading tech startups.

A Strong Russian Minority

Once a Soviet satellite state, Estonia today fiercely guards its political and territorial autonomy. However, it still has one of the region’s largest Russian-speaking populations, a legacy of its complex history under Teutonic, Swedish, and Tsarist rule. This melting pot of influences makes Tallinn’s architecture and culture all the more fascinating.

For the best experience, get lost in the old town. If you’re patient enough to dodge the waves of tourists, you’ll stumble upon some truly stunning hidden viewpoints of the city. And when the sun sets? Tallinn’s nightlife is buzzing, with cosy cafés, underground bars, and lively pubs catering to every taste.

The Singing Revolution & A Tower with a Story

Like its Baltic neighbours, Estonia has a museum dedicated to the horrors of Nazi and Soviet rule. But it also tells a far more inspiring tale—the Singing Revolution.

In the 1990s independence movement, Estonians resisted Soviet rule not with weapons, but with song. Thousands gathered to sing for freedom, a peaceful yet powerful act that played a crucial role in gaining independence.

For a unique historical site, visit the Tallinn TV Tower, built for the 1980 Olympics. In 1991, during the final push for Estonian independence, Soviet troops attempted to seize the tower—only for staff inside to disable the lifts, forcing soldiers to climb dozens of floors while pro-Estonian broadcasts continued. Today, you can take a trip up yourself (for a fee, of course) and enjoy panoramic views over Tallinn and beyond.

Verdict

Did I like it? Yes—but I was there with family, so my experience was a bit different.
Would I return? Absolutely. I feel like I only scratched the surface.
Would I recommend it? Without hesitation. But brace yourself—it gets touristy fast.

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