In this post, we will explain why we think Linnahall is the place sunset spot in Tallinn, give our thoughts on how to enjoy your evening by the Baltic Sea and explain how to get there from the Old Town.
Linnahall – The Best Sunset in Tallinn
Where is the best place to watch the sunset in Tallinn? Well, there’s no shortage of incredible viewpoints! In particular, the Toompea area of Estonia’s capital is famed for its viewing platforms. These balconies cover almost all angles of the city. They are undoubtedly a magnificent vantage point from which to enjoy an Estonian sunset – or sunrise if you’ve had your caffeine fix!
Their beauty is well documented, and you’ll likely share your sunset with a hefty crowd of tourists. But, whilst that shouldn’t take away from the experience too much, we think there’s somewhere better! A perfect spot, barely 5 minutes from the Old Town, where you can mingle with locals, enjoy plenty of space, and watch the sun set straight over the Baltic sea.
That place is Linnahall – a monolithic relic of the Soviet Union built for the controversial 1980 Olympics but now slowly falling into disrepair. Today, it stands abandoned, perched on the lonely shores of the Baltic Sea.
With its elevated position, Linnahall enjoys stunning views across the water and back towards the spires and cobbles of Tallinn’s medieval Old Town.
Despite being unused for years, with pretty much all of the inside locked up and blocked off to dissuade unwelcome visitors, Linnahall’s vast roof and steps remain accessible to all. It acts as a meeting spot, lunch stop, exercise arena and – best of all – a fantastic place to watch the sunset. In fact, we think that Linnahall is the best place to watch the sunset in Tallinn!
Read next: Finding the best sunrise spot in Seahouses, Northumberland
Sunset at Linnahall – our top tips for an unforgettable evening
The Linnahall complex comes into its own in the evening, when friends and couples gather to relax and catch up. From arriving on time to wearing the right clothes, here are our top tips for enjoying the best sunset in Tallinn:
- Check the estimated sunset time in Tallinn, and arrive an hour or so before. This means you can bag the best spot, and watch the area come alive during golden hour.
- Make sure you head to the steps nearest the sea, which has the best views of the sunset over the water!
- Do as the locals do at Linnahall – bring drinks and snacks to enjoy whilst the sun goes down.
- Depending on the time of year, wrap up warm! After all, you are on the shores of the Baltic Sea – a body of water synonymous with being freezing cold. Even on a clear day, the wind can cause temperatures to plummet, particularly once the sun has disappeared.
- Take a wander around the whole complex after the sun has gone down. You’ll likely see fishermen trying to grab the last catch of the day, couples enjoying the romantic lighting, and probably a photographer or two looking to capture the scene.
How to get to Linnahall from Tallinn’s Old Town
- Head down ‘Pikk’ – one of the Old Town’s main streets – in the direction of ‘Fat Margaret’ tower
- Leave the Old Town through the gate next to Fat Margaret tower, and head towards the pedestrian crossings en-route to the seafront and ferry terminals
- Cross the roads, and turn right – walk as if you are heading in the direction of the ferry terminals. In barely any time at all, you will see the unmistakable concrete steps of Linnahall to your left – you’ve made it!
- Head up the steps, and you’ll find yourself on the roof. Choose your spot and enjoy the best place for sunset in Tallinn!
We hope you found these tips helpful – good luck chasing the sunset at Linnahall!
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– The best places to watch the sunrise in Oslo