Stay in Tallinn, Estonia

Estonia became my 58th country, and my first impression landing in Tallinn was unexpected: this looks like Prague! The medieval old town with its red-roofed buildings, cobblestone streets, and Gothic spires gave me serious déjà vu. But Estonia has a very different story to tell.

Estonia is the northernmost of the Baltic states and arguably the most digitally advanced country in the world. With just 1.3 million people, it punched above its weight by going all-in on digital governance after independence in 1991. You can vote online, start a company in minutes, and access almost all government services digitally. Skype was born here.

What I Experienced

Tallinn's Old Town is remarkably well-preserved - one of the best-maintained medieval city centers in Northern Europe. The upper town (Toompea) offers stunning views across the lower town and out to the Baltic Sea. Walking the ancient walls and towers, it's easy to forget you're in a country known for tech startups and e-residency programs.

The contrast between old and new is everywhere. A 15th-century pharmacy (one of the oldest in Europe, still operating) sits near a modern coworking space. Medieval guild houses neighbor trendy cafes. The city doesn't feel stuck in the past - it just carries its history gracefully.

The food scene surprised me. New Nordic influences have reached here, and restaurants serve modern takes on traditional Baltic cuisine. Smoked fish, rye bread, and wild mushrooms appear on menus that wouldn't look out of place in Copenhagen.

Practical Notes

• Euro is the currency
• Estonia has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world - digital nomad heaven
• English is widely spoken, especially among younger generations
• The Old Town can get crowded with cruise ship tourists - go early or late
• Try the marzipan - Tallinn claims to have invented it

Estonia feels like a preview of where other countries are heading. Traditional charm with cutting-edge digital infrastructure - a unique combination.

Aerial photography from Estonia is available for purchase with commercial license - ideal for Baltic travel marketing, medieval European city content, or Nordic destination wall art.