Explore Tallinn's Upper Town and its enigmatic secret tunnels during this fascinating half-day excursion that focuses on Tallinn's historic past.
Your tour begins with a drive to Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and more specifically, the area known as Upper Town. Upon arrival, you will commence a guided walking tour that will take you along Pikk Street up to Toompea Hill where you can view the Estonian Parliament House and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Next, you will proceed to visit the city walls' cannon tower - Kiek in de Kök, meaning "peek into the kitchen" in Low German. Dating back to 1475, the tower has been renovated many times throughout its colorful history.
Continuing on, your tour will bring you to the mysterious network of passages and tunnels that were built beneath the town's bastions during the 17-18th centuries. The original mission of the passages was to hide and protect the town's ammo and other equipment from its enemies. During the Cold War years they were designated as a nuclear defense shelter. Following your intriguing visit to the tunnels, you will make your way to Lower Town where you will see the War of Independence Victory Column, which was opened in 2009 as a memorial for those who fell during the Estonian War of Independence.
Lastly, you will proceed along Harju Street to view the exterior of the Gothic Town Hall before being afforded some free time to relax or browse the shops. Rejoining your guide, you will then be escorted to Mere Boulevard where your coach awaits to transport you back to the pier.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 3-hours of active and sometimes strenuous walking over uneven and cobblestone surfaces. There are numerous steps and stairs to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests or those with mobility concerns. Warm clothing is suggested as the temperature in the tunnels is between 48 degrees Fahrenheit. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.