Jet2 is launching three new routes to a picturesque city break destination, famous for its medieval old town and festive Christmas market. Flights from Edinburgh to Tallinn will start on November 27, while flights from Manchester and Birmingham will begin on November 28.
These seasonal routes arrive perfectly timed to experience Tallinn at its most enchanting, when freezing, snow-covered conditions are commonin the lead-up to Christmas. Flights this December are available from just £30.
Jet2 desribes Tallinn as resembling a “medieval fairytale”. The UNESCO-listed old town boasts historic squares, cobblestone streets, and vibrant architecture.
It’s the sort of destination where visitors could happily spend hours exploring, admiring the immaculately-preserved historic buildings and stopping for a strong black coffee and a sweet pirukad pastry, reports the Mirror.
During the winter season, the old town becomes especially delightful, adorned with Christmas lights and frequently dusted with snow. The Christmas Market opens on November 21, and continues until December 28, featuring wooden stalls offering traditional handicrafts, fairground attractions, and a land train decorated with fairy lights to transport visitors around the town.
At the heart of the square, locals boast what they claim to be Europe’s first Christmas tree. The area has been home to a Christmas tree since 1441, long before other nations adopted the tradition of decorating trees in their homes.
After exploring the square, why not try some traditional Christmas foods such as gingerbread or Estonian favourites like black pudding and cabbage?
A spicy sausage known as verivorst is also a popular treat during this festive season. This compact city is walkable and has many remarkable landmarks within its centre. Pay a visit to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a unique Eastern Orthodox church adorned with onion domes.
Alternatively, explore the imposing Toompea Castle, a medieval structure currently used by Estonia’s parliament. The original castle was constructed by the Danish in the 13th Century, but parts were destroyed and rebuilt during the Middle Ages, while a newer wing features elements from the 18th-century baroque period.
Make sure to visit Kadriorg Palace, nestled within vast expanses of parkland. Founded by Russian Tsar Peter I in 1718, this stunning baroque palace was modelled on Versailles.
It houses the Kadriorg Art Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of European and Russian art from the 16th to 20th centuries. Meanwhile, the surrounding Kadriorg Park looks enchanting in winter, with fountains and snow-dusted greenery.
At the edge of the park, you can even enjoy views across the Baltic Sea.
The old town boasts a range of hotels, hostels, and apartments to choose from. The four-star Nunne Boutique Hotel is highly rated and exudes an old-world charm.
Twin rooms start at just £70 a night for two sharing, and for an additional €10 per person, you can indulge in the hotel’s spa, complete with a massage pool and saunas. There’s even a children’s room stocked with toys and games to keep the little ones amused.
The Merchants House Hotel, brimming with character, offers 36 rooms and suites just a stone’s throw away from the top attractions of the old town. This unique hotel is made up of historic homes converted and set around a courtyard, offering economy double rooms for just £66 a night for two sharing.
