Estonia
The small country in northeastern Europe is
known for its wild nature, medieval towns
and Nordic fusion cuisine
Between Tradition and Modernity: Tallinn
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a true cultural and culinary gem. Its medieval old town and the vibrant artists’ district, featuring the Telliskivi Creative Campus, are both easily explored on foot.
A walk through the old industrial complex, adorned with large graffiti, offers fantastic photo opportunities and perfect motifs for Instagram stories. In the heart of the campus lies Fotografiska Tallinn, a photography museum featuring rotating, expertly curated exhibitions.
Over 800 cultural events take place on the creative campus each year, and the club scene is among the most exciting in Europe.
Tallinn also offers a wealth of culinary delights. The main ingredients of Estonian cuisine include meat, fish, vegetables, and everything found in the forest—mushrooms, berries, and herbs. Dishes in Baltic restaurants are primarily inspired by Scandinavia and New Nordic cuisine, though Germany and Russia have historically exerted a strong influence as well. Top chefs often collaborate with small local producers and farms.
You can experience this firsthand at the beautiful Balti Jaama Turg, a vibrant market located in the heart of Tallinn.
© Marek Metslaid
The market at the Baltic Station in Tallinn is one of a kind in Estonia, with around 300 vendors spread across three floors. On the ground floor, you’ll find a large fish and meat hall, a vegetable market, and a diverse street food area with about 20 vendors.
For those who enjoy fine dining, Tallinn offers something special: the 180° and Noa restaurants.
The two-Michelin-starred restaurant 180° by German chef Matthias Diether is located in the historic Noblessner harbor. It offers a stunning sea view, an open kitchen, and exceptional dining experiences. At 180°, the focus is on high-quality ingredients, and those fortunate enough to secure a seat at the chef’s table can watch the kitchen team prepare the 4-6 course menus. Matthias Diether combines Nordic cuisine with regional Baltic influences, all grounded in classic French culinary techniques.
“The food we prepare must speak for itself. This means that the true star is the ingredient itself, without any unnecessary extras,” says Matthias, describing his philosophy.
© Noa Restaurant
NOA is beautifully situated right on the water in Tallinn Bay, offering spectacular views of the city skyline from its terrace. The restaurant ‘NOA’ is the little sibling of the Michelin-starred ‘NOA Chef’s Hall,’ located in the same building. The casual dining experience here matches the fine dining experience next door and is by no means inferior. House specialties include fire-roasted leeks, cured elk, and fermented tree tips.
© Noa Restaurant
After a visit to Noa, a perfect way to end the day in relaxation is with a stay at the Nunne Boutique Hotel. This charming hotel blends history with luxurious comfort. Located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, in the Nunne district near the historic city wall, the hotel features 75 rooms and a restaurant, and has been thoughtfully renovated by its owners. The 4-star hotel, with its beautiful spa, is tucked away on a quiet street just a few blocks from the vibrant main square. Nearby, you’ll find cozy restaurants, and most of the city’s top attractions are within easy walking distance.
© Sergei Zjuganov
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Andrea
Thanks to Mavi, we had a wonderful, unique, and special holiday in Estonia. This country is definitely worth visiting. Mavi provided us with the inspiration, and all the tips and advice were valuable and helpful—not just copied from somewhere, but based on personal experience. We returned with unforgettable gourmet, nature, and cultural experiences. Our next weekend trip to Tallinn is already booked!