Kadriorg Palace Kadriorg Art Museum
A magnificent Baroque palace housing a foreign art museum, surrounded by stunning gardens. A historical gem in Tallinn.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Kadriorg Palace Kadriorg Art Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Baroque palace housing a foreign art museum, surrounded by stunning gardens. A historical gem in Tallinn.
"Both the park and the museum are incredibly beautiful, like a heaven inside the city."
Bag Storage Available
Free lockers are available for your bags. :handbag:
Garden Exploration is Free
Enjoy the beautiful park and palace exterior without an entry fee. :park:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Grandeur
Palace Exterior
Admire the stunning Northern Baroque architecture, a masterpiece designed for Peter the Great.
Foreign Art Collection
Museum Interior
Explore centuries of European art, from the 16th to 20th centuries, housed within opulent rooms.
Kadriorg Park Stroll
Surrounding Gardens
Wander through the meticulously manicured gardens, a perfect spot for a relaxing walk.
Ornate Main Hall
Palace Main Hall
Marvel at the exquisite Baroque main hall, a highlight of the palace's interior design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding Value and Garden Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bag Storage Available
Free lockers are available for your bags. :handbag:
Garden Exploration is Free
Enjoy the beautiful park and palace exterior without an entry fee. :park:
Check for Exhibit Closures
Some exhibits may be closed for new installations. Check ahead! :information_desk:
Consider the Tallinn Card
Free entry with a Tallinn Card. :credit_card:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bag Storage Available
Free lockers are available for your bags. :handbag:
Garden Exploration is Free
Enjoy the beautiful park and palace exterior without an entry fee. :park:
Check for Exhibit Closures
Some exhibits may be closed for new installations. Check ahead! :information_desk:
Consider the Tallinn Card
Free entry with a Tallinn Card. :credit_card:
Sculpture Room Gem
Don't miss the easily overlooked sculpture room! :sculpture:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kadriorg Palace for its stunning Baroque architecture and the beautiful, expansive gardens. While the palace exterior and park are universally loved and free to explore, some find the museum's art collection to be modest for the entry fee. The cafe and souvenir shop are noted, though service can be inconsistent. +1
"Would definitely recommend everyone to go there. It’s like a heaven inside the city. Both the park and the museum are incredibly beautiful. Most of the museum was closed as of August due to a new installation coming up. The halls, paintings, rooms all depict the gothic style. The sculpture room which can be easily missed has some really important sculptures and if you have time you can listen and learn about their historic background."
ece hüner
"Cool palace with nice cafe. We got lucky with the sunny weather when we went there. The palace entry fee is quite hefty however and there isn't too much to see inside for that price. I would recommend just sticking to the outside as well as the surrounding gardens which are all free."
Yu Tub
"This is one of the best art museums I have visited. There was a lot of good artwork, and the pieces were very well displayed.
The building itself is beautiful, so even if I had not enjoyed the art, I would have enjoyed the decoration of the rooms.
You must leave bags in the lockers. These are free to use.
There is a small cafe.
There are toilets. These were in a clean condition.
There was a small souvenir shop. My only complaint is that when purchasing one of the beautiful cards, I was not provided with an envelope to go with it. I did query this and was told they do not have any to fit the card, so now I have a card I cannot post. The cashier was also rude.
You have to buy tickets to enter. There is a ticket desk or a machine in the main entrance. The last Wednesday of each month has a reduced ticket price. You get free entry with a Tallinn Card.
There is partial access for people who use a wheelchair. There is a lift, and portable ramps are used for some steps. The Russian art collection on the third floor is not accessible. There are accessible toilets
There were tactile plans in the museum."
Shelley C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kadriorg Palace is easily accessible from Tallinn's city center. You can take a bus, tram, or even enjoy a pleasant walk or bike ride through the city. Many visitors opt for public transport, with several routes stopping nearby. The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes depending on your starting point and mode of transport.
Yes, there is parking available near Kadriorg Palace, though it can get busy, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early if you plan to drive.
Yes, it's a lovely walk from Tallinn's Old Town to Kadriorg Palace, taking approximately 30-40 minutes. The route is scenic, passing through parks and residential areas, making it a pleasant option for those who enjoy a stroll.
If you're staying outside the immediate city center, public transport is your best bet. Buses and trams are frequent and connect well to the Kadriorg area. You can use local transit apps to plan your route efficiently.
Yes, bike rental services are available in Tallinn, and cycling to Kadriorg Palace is a popular and enjoyable way to explore the city and its surroundings. The park itself is also great for cycling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kadriorg Palace and the Art Museum generally operate from Wednesday to Sunday, with specific hours that can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
The entry fee for the Kadriorg Art Museum can be around €10-€12 for adults, with concessions available for students and seniors. However, some visitors find the price a bit high for the collection size.
Yes, holders of the Tallinn Card receive free entry to Kadriorg Palace and Museum, along with many other attractions in the city. This can be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple sites.
Yes, the last Wednesday of each month offers a reduced ticket price for entry to the museum. This is a great opportunity to experience the palace and art at a lower cost.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the ticket desk upon arrival or sometimes through online booking platforms. Purchasing in advance might save time, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside Kadriorg Palace, you'll find the Art Museum of Estonia's foreign art collection, featuring works from the 16th to 20th centuries. The palace itself is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, with beautifully decorated rooms and fireplaces.
There is partial accessibility for wheelchair users, with a lift and portable ramps available for some steps. However, the Russian art collection on the third floor is not accessible. Accessible toilets are also provided.
The gardens surrounding Kadriorg Palace are a major highlight. They are beautifully manicured in a Baroque style, offering a serene and picturesque environment perfect for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the outdoors.
Yes, there is a small cafe located within Kadriorg Palace where you can grab a coffee or a light snack. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit.
Many visitors recommend exploring the exterior and gardens first to appreciate the palace's grandeur and the park's beauty. Then, delve into the museum's art collection. Allow at least 1-2 hours for a comprehensive visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary, but generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use in most areas of the museum. It's always best to check for specific signage or ask museum staff if you're unsure.
The palace exterior, especially with the gardens in bloom, offers stunning photographic opportunities. Inside, the ornate main hall and grand fireplaces are particularly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and public parks to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone in the area.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the palace and gardens. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant colors of the park.
While general photography is often allowed, specific artworks might have restrictions. Always look for signs indicating 'no photography' zones, especially for sensitive exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and drinks, as the cafe is small. The free bag storage is also a plus for families managing multiple items. Visiting on a sunny day will enhance the enjoyment of the park. Remember to check for any temporary exhibit closures that might affect the museum visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on the last Wednesday of the month for a reduced ticket price if you do wish to see the art collection. Alternatively, leverage a Tallinn Card for free entry if you're planning to visit multiple attractions. The walk from the Old Town is also a free and scenic way to reach the palace.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Inside, the main hall is particularly photogenic, with its elaborate stucco work and impressive fireplaces. While non-flash photography is generally permitted for personal use, always be mindful of specific signage regarding art pieces. The golden hour before sunset or after sunrise offers the most magical light for capturing the palace's exterior and the park's serene beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Kadriorg Palace
The palace's design reflects the grandeur and opulence of the Russian Empire during that era. After the death of Peter the Great, the palace saw various uses, including as a residence for other imperial family members and later as a sanatorium. In 1921, it was repurposed to house the Art Museum of Estonia, focusing on foreign art collections. The surrounding Kadriorg Park, designed in a French formal style, complements the palace's splendor, featuring geometric flowerbeds, fountains, and tree-lined avenues.
Today, Kadriorg Palace stands as a testament to Estonia's rich historical ties and its significant role in European art history. The palace itself is a work of art, and its integration with the surrounding park creates a harmonious and breathtaking ensemble. Visitors often remark on the sheer beauty of the building and its grounds, even if they find the museum's collection size to be modest in comparison to the palace's magnificence.
Exploring the Kadriorg Art Museum Collection
Highlights of the collection include paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum meticulously displays these pieces within the palace's historically preserved rooms, allowing visitors to appreciate the art in an authentic and elegant setting. The ornate fireplaces and detailed interiors of the palace itself add another layer of visual interest to the museum experience.
While the art collection is a primary draw, it's worth noting that some visitors feel the quantity of art might not fully justify the entry fee for everyone. However, the combination of the stunning Baroque architecture, the beautiful park, and the curated art collection makes for a well-rounded cultural experience.
The Enchanting Kadriorg Park
The park extends beyond the immediate vicinity of the palace, encompassing various themed gardens, walking paths, and even a swan pond. During warmer months, the gardens are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors and delightful scents to the atmosphere. The park is also home to several other attractions, including the KUMU Art Museum and the Japanese Garden, making it a destination in itself.
Many visitors rave about the park's beauty and recommend dedicating ample time to wander through its grounds. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle. The combination of the majestic palace and the sprawling, picturesque park creates a truly memorable and visually stunning experience.
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