EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: TALLINN

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN TALLINN

The national dish of Estonia requires an open mind and adventurous palate, so don't say we didn't warn you. Enter verivorst (blood sausage), a traditional winter meal, usually served during Christmastime. The sausage itself consists of pork, pig's blood, onions, barley, allspice, and marjoram, which are combined and stuffed into a pig's intestine and cooked until solidified. Verivorst is typically served with potatoes and sauerkraut and should be topped with a zesty compote made from cranberries. Maitsev!

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Tallinn

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Tallinn:

• Verivorst: Verivorst is the national dish of Estonia, and you will find it everywhere during the colder months, especially around Christmas! This traditional blood sausage is typically served with tangy sauerkraut and lingonberry jam. It is a savory, comforting meal that is an essential during the holiday season and a must-try for the most authentic experience possible.
• Sült: This is a unique one, but a total classic in Estonia! Sült is a savory meat jelly or aspic, often made from pork that has been slow-cooked until it falls apart and then sets in its own broth. It's usually eaten cold as an appetizer with mustard or vinegar. Trying Sült is a great way to experience a traditional Estonian dish that has been made in homes for centuries.
• Mulgipuder: For a taste of old-school Estonian comfort food, you simply have to try Mulgipuder. This is a thick, hearty porridge made from a mix of potatoes and barley, often with bacon or pork for a savory flavor. It is a rustic and filling meal that represents the historic peasant cuisine of Estonia. You can find this traditional dish in many restaurants around Tallinn's Old Town! 

BEST DRINK IN TALLINN

Estonians are known for being enthusiastic drinkers, with the country's national drink being kali. A mix between beer and soda, kali is made from slightly fermented bread. It contains very little alcohol but packs a whole lot of flavor! Many describe the taste as sour-sweet and the texture as naturally fizzy. This "liquid bread" can be found in any Estonian supermarket and is often sold by street vendors all along Tallinn's cobblestone streets. Give "Estonian Coca-Cola" a try while in Tallinn, and consider sampling it with lemon juice (or even raisins!) as some locals do.

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Tallinn

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Tallinn:

• Vana Tallinn: Ready to try Estonia's most famous drink? Vana Tallinn is a legendary, dark rum-based liqueur that tastes like a mix of spices, citrus, and rum. It’s a national icon and a must-try for any new visitor. Locals love to sip it on its own, pour it in coffee, or mix it into cocktails, making it a very versatile and a classic part of any festive occasion.
• Booli: If you get invited to a party in Tallinn, you will more than likely be offered some Booli. It’s a very popular party punch, often a mix of alcohol, soda, and fresh fruit. It is a fun and communal drink, perfect for sharing with a group of friends, and a great way to truly experience social life in Estonia!
• Viru Valge: This is Estonia's most well-known and classic vodka. Viru Valge is a clean, pure spirit that is a staple in local bars and a key part of the country's beverage culture.  

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE IN TALLINN

Once home to wealthy merchants from Germany, Denmark, and beyond, Tallinn Old Town is now considered the best-preserved medieval city in northern Europe. Boasting winding cobblestone streets, lively cafés, and beautiful Gothic spires, Tallinn Old Town is worth exploring time and time again. You could spend multiple days visiting this historic center's incredible museums, galleries, restaurants, and bars. Not to mention countless hours appreciating the center's architecture from long-ago centuries! From the Town Hall Square to the Viru Gate, there's plenty to see in Tallinn's fairytale-like Old Town.

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Tallinn

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Tallinn:

• Tallinn Old Town: Want to step into a real-life fairytale? Tallinn's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like you have stepped back in time. With its winding cobblestone streets, medieval walls, and charming merchant houses, it’s the cultural heart of the city. Getting lost here is the best way to experience Estonia's rich history as a major trading city!
• Toompea Castle: This historic castle sits on a hill overlooking Tallinn, and is a fascinating mix of old and new. While the castle's history dates back to the 13th century, it is now the home of the Estonian Parliament. Seeing the pink palace façade next to the medieval tower is a perfect example of how the city blends its long history with modern life and governance.
• St Catherine’s Passage: For a true hidden gem, you have to find St Catherine’s Passage. This narrow, charming alley is known for its old stone archways and tiny artisan workshops. You can watch local artists at work, from pottery to glass blowing, and buy some truly unique souvenirs. 

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