Cheap City Breaks in Tallinn

After several years acclaimed as the 'next big thing' delightful Tallinn is well and truly a fully-fledged tourist hotspot. It is a captivating UNESCO world heritage site that is European Capital of Culture for 2010. It is also arguably the continent's best preserved historic city. Tallinn will enchant all ages where fairy tale churches rub shoulders with bizarre contemporary street sculptures. Cheap city breaks in Tallinn are great value escapes and the perfect alternative to Europe's costly big cities. It is easy to find no frills flights at rock bottom prices with a little flexibility and once you are there eating and entertainment is cheap and rewarding.

 

 

It may be the capital of Estonia and the largest city but Tallinn is still very compact and easy to explore on foot. The city is divided between the twin districts of Toompea and the Lower Town, each featuring delightful medieval architecture. Two of its most compelling sights are the spectacular churches of St Olav's with a soaring spire reaching over 400 feet and Alexander Nevsky cathedral, a fabulous Russian orthodox structure complete with mosaics and gleaming onion domes. Any cheap city break in Tallinn should definitely stroll along Katariina Passage - a timeless winding lane right out of the pages of a medieval fairy tale. It is filled with old craft workshops where artisans still produce handmade glassware, leather goods and ceramics.

 

 

There are some fascinating museums worthy of a prolonged visit in Tallinn such as the flagship Estonia Art Museum and the child friendly Estonian Open Air Museum which keeps alive a rich heritage of folk art, music and dancing. Every cheap city break in Tallinn should bring home a souvenir or two of the city which is famed for its delicious dark chocolate and marzipan, crystal cut glass and pottery. The Muurivale knitwear market is a lively spot for browsing and trendy Viru Street is awash with the latest fashions and top quality giftware. Tallinn's many antique shops are famous for one off trinkets from the Soviet era and a little rummaging may even find a semi priceless bargain to take home.