To be completely honest, despite visiting South Korea 11 years ago, I had never actually stepped foot in Busan until this trip. Coming here for the first time, my takeaway might surprise you: to me, it felt like just another city in Korea with a change to seaside backdrop. Perhaps it was the specific pacing and activities of our tour itinerary, but it didn't completely reinvent the wheel for me. That said, Busan still offered some incredibly unique sights and massive modern infrastructure right against the ocean. From riding the iconic Haeundae Blueline Park beach train to sipping coffee 100th floor in the sky. If you're curious about what a first-timer's structured Busan tour looks like, here is an honest breakdown of how we spent our day checking out the ultimate views of Busan in two days. Check out our YouTube Premiere today 18 May 2026 at 4pm of Songdo Cloud Trail Riding the Rails: Haeundae Beach Train to Cheongsapo One of the highlights of the structured tour was expe...
Walking in the Medieval Town in Tallinn, Estonia | Travelogue
I'm back again for another post on my optional tour in-between our Finland trip to Tallinn, Estonia. If you miss out on the previous post on Porvoo and Helsinki, here is the link.
Being the historic center and the capital of Estonia, Tallinn's Old Town is renowned for its medieval charm, cobbled streets, and well-preserved architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and medieval influences, reflecting Tallinn's rich history as a major trading hub in the Baltic region.
Viru Gate (Viru väravad), serving as an entry point to the Old Town, is one of the most iconic landmarks here in Tallinn. Forming part of the original city wall built in the 14th century, the historical gate serves as a defense mechanism to protect the city. It is located at the intersection of Viru Street and the Old Town of Tallinn. One of the most famous photo stops that you can't miss. On one side of Viru Street, you can find a stretch of flower shops and on the other, to satisfy your shopping needs.
Viru Gate being the entry point to Tallinn Old Town
That medieval charm from the well-preserved architecture
Old merchant houses, restaurants, shops, and galleries
Do you know this building has been here for centuries?
DANISH KING'S GARDEN (TAANI KUNINGA AED)
The Toompea Castle is a historical monument and also the living symbol of Estonia's past, present and future. Its combination of medieval and modern significance makes it one of Tallinn's most iconic landmarks. It sits atop of Toompea Hill offers a sweeping views of Tallinn's Old Town and the Baltic Sea.
Near Toompea Hill is the charming Danish King's Garden that has historical significance that associated with the victory of the Danish Army in the Battle of Lyndanisse (or Battle of St. Matthew's Day) in 1219. It was said to be the birthplace of Denmark National Flag (or Dannebrog) too. Danish King’s Garden is a beautiful and historically rich park that blends nature with a deep connection to the Tallinn’s medieval past, particularly the Danish influence. A quiet and reflective place for visitors to learn about Tallinn’s history while enjoying a tranquil setting.
Danish King's Garden
ALEXANDER NEVSKY CATHEDRAL
Around the castle is home to some important landmarks and one of them being the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This stunning Eastern Orthodox cathedral with onion domes located on Toompea Hill was built in the late 19th century. It houses a number of important Orthodox Christian relics. You can find the Parliament of Estonia right opposite of the cathedral. It actually reminded me of St Basil's Cathedral, so you know where the influence comes from back in the earlier days. Oh by the way, NO PHOTO TAKING inside this cathedral. So just enjoy the richly decorated interior visually.
Parliament of Estonia
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in the day
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in the evening
Another important landmark around the area will be the oldest Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church, St. Mary's Cathedral, dated back to the 13th century, and it holds significant importance in cultural, architectural, and also religion, a place of worship for the Estonian elites and rulers. The Cathedral combined both Gothic (the exterior feature) and Romanesque (the interior feature) style which draws many visitors too.
St. Mary's Cathedral
St. Mary's Cathedral from another angle
Panoramic view of Tallinn Old Town at Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform
TOWN HALL SQUARE (RAEKOJA PLATS) & TALLINN CHRISTMAS MARKET
The heart of the Old Town surrounded by colorful buildings, cafes, and the impressive Tallinn Town Hallbuilt in the 13th century. The square has always been a meeting place for the people of Tallinn and during the medieval times, it was the site of public debates and speeches. Today, it hosts various events and markets throughout the year, including the Christmas Market.
Christmas Market at Town Hall Square
Tallinn Christmas Market
One of the main attraction in Tallinn Old Town will be exploring the labyrinthine, narrow streets filled with medieval architecture and charming hidden courtyards. Surrounded by well-preserved medieval walls, with several towers still standing, such as the Cannon Tower and the Tallinn City Wall.
The narrow alley with the nicest Christmas lightings in the evening
More on Tallinn in my video published earlier on my Channel. A real-life walk around the town and immerse in the Christmas vibes at Tallinn Christmas Market. Also the cruise we took to Tallinn, Estonia. Watch my Shorts here too. Meanwhile, let me prepare for the next post! Cheers.
Disclaimer: Not a sponsored post. All the above were paid by the writer.
