Things to Do in Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

Tallinn's Old Town feels like stepping into a medieval fairy tale, with its cobblestone streets and Gothic spires creating one of Europe's best-preserved historic centers. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral dominates Toompea Hill with its distinctive onion domes, serving as both a striking architectural landmark and a symbol of the complex layers of Estonian history. The cathedral sits at the heart of a city that smoothly blends its medieval past with modern Nordic sensibilities, where you might find yourself wandering from 13th-century churches to trendy cafés housed in centuries-old buildings. What makes Tallinn particularly appealing is how compact and walkable it is - you can genuinely cover the main sights in a day or two, though the city rewards those who linger longer to soak up its unique atmosphere.

Tallinn's restaurant scene has evolved considerably beyond the medieval tavern theme, though you'll still find plenty of those if that's your preference. The Kalamaja and Telliskivi areas offer some of the city's most interesting contemporary restaurants, often housed in converted industrial spaces with creative approaches to Baltic ingredients. Traditional Estonian food tends toward hearty, seasonal dishes - think root vegetables, preserved fish, and game meats - but the city's international dining scene covers most cuisines you'd expect in a European capital. Local markets like Balti Jaam provide an authentic glimpse into daily Estonian food culture, while the growing craft beer scene reflects the broader Nordic influence on local tastes.

Late spring through early autumn (May-September) offers the most comfortable weather and longest daylight hours, with July bringing nearly 19 hours of daylight but also the highest tourist numbers. Winter has its own appeal - the Old Town looks particularly atmospheric under snow, and you'll have the place largely to yourself, though temperatures regularly drop well below freezing and daylight is limited. The shoulder seasons of late April-May and September-October might be ideal, offering decent weather with fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. Keep in mind that many outdoor attractions and some restaurants reduce their hours or close entirely during the winter months.