Begin the tour with pickup from the main port gate approximately 30 minutes after cruise arrival. Travel with your guide and driver by air-conditioned bus.
Start with a tour of the Old town of Tallinn, which is divided into the Upper Town and Lower Town. Located only a 5-minute drive from the pier, the Old town will surely capture your attention with a variety of medieval sights. As you drive, take in the sight of Fat Margaret Tower and the Great Coastal Gate, then continue along the the city wall with its defense towers. Once in the Upper Town, start your 3-hour walking tour there.
See merchant houses, visit St Olafs church, one of the oldest functioning pharmacies in the world, and stop at Alexander nevsky cathedral. Then walk by the Three Sisters Houses site for a charming example of medieval merchant houses (today a modern five-star hotel). Everything about Old Town will mesmerize and amaze with its preserved condition--like stepping into the pages of a fairy tale. Stroll through the narrow cobble-stoned lanes to the Dome Church (Virgin Mary Cathedral), and admire the magnificent panoramic views from Toompea Hill. Please note, some of the churches require additional donation fees (own expense).
Learn about life of modern Estonians: see where they walk, and shop, and get acquainted with their lifestyle and habits. Ask your guide as many questions as many questions as you like concerning Estonia and its specifics. Take advantage of a brief break to purchase some souvenirs (works of local craftsmen) and enjoy a cup of coffee at a local venue.
A brief 15-minute ride will bring you to Kadriorg, the suburban wooden area, which contains must-see landmarks. Spend approximately 2 hours exploring Kadriorg and Pirita. Admire the majestic exteriors of Kadriorg palace (also known as Presidential Palace) that belonged to Empress Catherine I, and be delighted by the Baroque park full of roses and swan ponds around the palace.
Next, catch a glimpse of Kumu Art Museum and some specimens of 20th century architectural constructions in the district, including theSong Festival GroundsandOlympic Yacht Center. Make a photo stop by the popular Pirita beach where you can catch a romantic view of the ruins of St. Bridgets Convent. The tour will conclude after five hours with transport back to the cruise port. Tour involves a moderate amount of walking and is not wheelchair accessible.
