Sitting outdoor under the trees As bus 117 rolled through Seletar, Singapore's modern aerospace hub, I took a moment to just look out the window and enjoy the unusually serene greenery. My destination was 398 Piccadilly, home to the legendary Boh Geh Uncle Canteen or Canteen 398 . I wouldn't have rushed down this week if not for my dad. He had forwarded a picture of the canteen from a friend's group chat with a urgent reminder: 'Go visit and record down the place before it's gone!' Since I live nearby, I knew I couldn't miss out (or FOMO maybe). With their last day of operation officially set for 18 September 2026 , I headed out on its final week to experience this rustic piece of history for the first and one last time on 14 September 2026 . Will never see such sights in Singapore again Stepping off the bus onto Piccadilly felt like stepping straight into a time machine. Hidden within distance from Seletar Camp, Boh Geh Uncle Canteen isn't just an o...
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.
