I chose this title because I spent time watching the sky over the Old Town, capturing its ever-changing colors throughout the day. Here are some photos taken from the rooftop terrace and the balcony of the apartment where I stayed. I was lucky enough to witness a double rainbow one morning after the rain—it was magical! See if you can name some landmark structures in the photos.
Before visiting Tallinn, I knew just a little bit about the capital city of Estonia by watching some YouTube videos, and I liked it that way because I wanted to discover more about it on my own. The reason I decided to visit Tallinn is actually quite simple: when planning a trip to Helsinki, I noticed on the map that Tallinn was just a 2.5-hour ferry ride away.
From YouTube clips and from people I met while traveling in Europe, I learned that Tallinn is a beautifully preserved medieval city. Initially, I planned to visit Latvia and Lithuania after Tallinn, but after realizing there were no direct flights and only long bus rides, I changed my mind and decided to visit Dublin on my way home instead.
The ferry ride from Helsinki was not what I imagined. I expected something similar to the ferries I’d taken in Sydney or Amsterdam, where passengers sit close together in rows. With that in mind, I was eager to board quickly, thinking I’d have to drag my big suitcase with me. But once on board, I discovered I was on a large vessel that felt more like a cruise ship than a ferry. The spacious interiors allowed freedom to move around, with multiple restaurants, bars, and even a play area for children. There was no need to lug my suitcase around either, as there was a luggage room for storing bags. The Viking Line ferry I took runs hourly from Helsinki to Tallinn daily, and I learned that many people living in Helsinki often take this ride to Tallinn as a day trip.
Upon arriving in Tallinn, I walked to my Airbnb, which was about a 10-minute walk from the port, managing to carry my big suitcase along the way. The Airbnb was the best I’ve ever stayed in—a modern two-bedroom apartment in a new building shared with a lovely couple. It was on the top floor, with both a rooftop terrace and a front balcony offering panoramic views of Tallinn’s Old Town. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay.
The next morning, the host sat me down with a city map and a pen. He gave me a brief history lesson on Estonia and then recommended places to visit each day.
Tallinn has a rich history dating back to the 13th century when it was founded by the Danes. Over the centuries, the city has been influenced by various powers, including the Hanseatic League, the Teutonic Order, Sweden, and Russia. These influences are reflected in the architecture, cultural traditions, and layout of the town. Walking through Tallinn Old Town is like stepping back in time. The narrow, winding streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant squares create a unique and enchanting atmosphere. It’s a place where history comes alive, yet it’s also full of modern life, with cafes, galleries, and lively markets.
The Airbnb apartment was just a 7-minute walk from Tallinn’s Old Town, so I explored everywhere on foot, except for one instance on the last day when I took a bus back after visiting the Film Museum.
Tallinn Old Town is said to be the most preserved and most beautiful medieval town in the world, and I must agree. I hope my photos do it justice!
Tallinn is a popular tourist destination. It may not be as busy as Dublin, but it seemed to me that people experience the city at a slower pace compared to Dublin. Visitors enjoy sitting at its many outdoor restaurants with friends and family, while young children play, enjoying a summer day without rushing. I spent two days walking in and out of the Old Town, checking out as many famous landmarks as possible, and yet there are still more places to explore. Tallinn Old Town is truly the most beautiful old town I’ve ever seen and the entire town is walkable.
I spent my last day walking along Tallinn's coastline, venturing outside the Old Town for a leisurely stroll. The change of pace and scenery was refreshing.
I spent 2 full days in Dublin, which, in my opinion, wasn't enough. Since I took a day trip to visit the Cliffs of Moher, I missed out on exploring more of Dublin. I didn't have the chance to experience the city through its extensive public transportation, such as the double-decker buses and the tram since I walked to everywhere I visited. I also missed visiting many of its museums, including the famous Guinness Storehouse and the Whiskey Museum, as I simply ran out of time. I wish I had at least two more days to explore the city fully.
In many major cities around the world, such as Sydney and New York City, you can use contactless payment methods, like credit or bank cards, to ride public transit. However, similar to Washington, DC (SmartCard), Dublin's public transit system requires a traditional travel card called the TFI Leap Card. Make sure to load enough funds on it for your trips. You can buy the card at convenience stores or ticket machines, which are available at some stops. Like in most major cities, the system operates on an honor basis, but there are occasional ticket checks, and if you're caught without a valid ticket, you could be fined.
Traveling from and to airport from Dublin, you can use taxi (no Uber) but there are many express shuttle bus you can chose from such as Dublin Express or AirCouch. It costs $10 one way.
Be sure to arrive the airport ahead of time if you are fly to USA. You will have to go through traditional check in at the counter and multiple steps of passport checks for entering USA.
After the Cliffs of Moher experience, I would love to explore more of Ireland's hiking trails. Perhaps one day I'll return to do just that.
Here are couple of additional landmarks that I visited and photographed: Dublin Castle, Dublin City Hall (unfortunately did not enter as there is a wedding event), Christ Church Cathedral and Molly Malone Statue.
Dublin Castle: As you enter the courtyard, walked through a grand courtyard surrounded by buildings of various architectural styles, from medieval to Georgian. The courtyard is spacious, bustling with visitors.
Dublin Castle interiors: Record Tower (This is the oldest surviving part of the original medieval castle, dating back to the 13th century); State Apartments and Throne Room (you'll find the Throne Room, where the British monarchs' representatives once held court. The room is ornately decorated with chandeliers, rich tapestries); St. Patrick’s Hall (This is one of the most magnificent rooms in the castle, with a stunning painted ceiling that depicts scenes from Irish history. It’s used for state functions, including the inauguration of Irish presidents; Drawing Rooms (These opulent rooms are furnished with period pieces, including elegant sofas, fine art, and intricate chandeliers. They offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of those who once inhabited the castle).
Walking along the River Liffey in Dublin is a mix of the city’s vibrant energy and historic charm. The river, flowing gently through the heart of the city, is lined with a series of iconic bridges, each with its own unique character (see my post earlier)
On one side of the river, you might see the historic buildings of Temple Bar, with its cobbled streets and colorful facades. As you continue along the quays, you'll pass the Custom House, a grand neoclassical building with its impressive dome. Across the river, the modern financial district contrasts with sleek glass buildings like the Dublin Convention Centre, their contemporary designs standing tall against the skyline.
Noticeable Landmarks are: The Spire of Dublin (the Monument of Light); The Famine Memorial; Liberty Hall; The Custom House; Jeanie Johnston tall ship; International Financial Services Centre. On O'Connell street after cross the O'Connell bridge: The O'Connell Monument, The Spire of Dublin (also know as the Monument of Light); Dublin Portal and James Joyce Statue. In the morning, I also saw homeless people's tents set up along parts of the river.
