Pikk Street
Step back in time on Pikk Street, Tallinn's historic artery, lined with stunning medieval architecture, charming cafes, and rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Pikk Street
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time on Pikk Street, Tallinn's historic artery, lined with stunning medieval architecture, charming cafes, and rich history.
"Pikk Street is one of the most memorable parts of our visit, truly lives up to Tallinn's reputation."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Pikk Street is all cobblestones! Prioritize comfort for exploring the historic lanes.
📸 Capture the Facades
The medieval buildings are stunning. Look for the House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads for a great photo op.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Medieval Architecture
Along the entire street
Marvel at beautifully preserved 15th-century buildings with Gothic and Renaissance facades.
House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads
26 Pikk Street
Admire the striking Renaissance facade and ornate front door, a favorite photo spot.
Maiasmokk Café
16 Pikk Street
Step back in time at Tallinn's oldest continuously operating café since 1864.
Fat Margaret Tower & Maritime Museum
Near the harbor end of Pikk Street
Explore this historic tower and the fascinating Estonian Maritime Museum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cobblestones
Timing is Key for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Pikk Street is all cobblestones! Prioritize comfort for exploring the historic lanes.
📸 Capture the Facades
The medieval buildings are stunning. Look for the House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads for a great photo op.
☕️ Coffee & Marzipan Break
Stop at Maiasmokk Café for historic charm or the Marzipan Gallery for sweet treats.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
This street is best experienced by walking and soaking in the history and architecture.
Pikk Jalg (Long Leg) street in Tallinn
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Pikk Street is all cobblestones! Prioritize comfort for exploring the historic lanes.
📸 Capture the Facades
The medieval buildings are stunning. Look for the House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads for a great photo op.
☕️ Coffee & Marzipan Break
Stop at Maiasmokk Café for historic charm or the Marzipan Gallery for sweet treats.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
This street is best experienced by walking and soaking in the history and architecture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Pikk Street's stunning medieval architecture and timeless atmosphere, calling it a highlight of Tallinn's Old Town. The street offers a rich historical journey with charming cafes and significant landmarks, making it a must-visit for its preserved beauty and cultural depth.
"Gorgeous buildings along this historic street!"
Linda Suskie
"The Pikk tänav (Long Street) is one of the main and longest streets in Vanalinn, the old town of Tallinn. The street runs from the Fat Margaret in the north to the Long Leg Gate Tower at the foot of Toompea Hill. This cobbled street is lined with museums, hotels, restaurants and even two embassies."
Koen
"We visited Tallinn for the day while on a cruise, and Pikk Street (Pikk tn) was one of the most memorable parts of our visit. Stretching from Town Hall Square all the way toward the harbor, this is one of the longest and most historically rich streets in Tallinn — and it truly lives up to the city’s reputation as Europe’s best capital to explore on foot.
As we walked along Pikk Street, we were constantly amazed by the incredible medieval architecture. Many of the buildings date back to the 15th century and are beautifully preserved, giving the entire street a timeless, old-world atmosphere. It felt like walking through a living museum.
There are so many highlights along the way that it’s easy to turn a simple stroll into a fascinating self-guided tour. Near the harbor, you’ll find the Great Coastal Gate and Fat Margaret Tower at 70 Pikk Street, built in the 14th and 16th centuries. The tower now houses the Estonian Maritime Museum, which is definitely worth a visit if you have time.
If you’re looking for treats and local charm, we recommend stopping at the Marzipan Gallery to sample some classic Estonian marzipan — a fun and unique experience. Another great spot is Maiasmokk Café at 16 Pikk Street, the oldest café in Tallinn, continuously operating since 1864. The décor and pastries are a step back in time.
For a taste of local pub culture, check out Hell Hunt (meaning “Gentle Wolf”) at 39 Pikk Street — it's the oldest pub in Tallinn and has a cozy, welcoming vibe. And don’t miss the House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads at 26 Pikk Street, a striking 14th-century building and the only Renaissance-style façade in Estonia. Its ornate front door is a favorite photo spot.
Whether you're in Tallinn for a few hours or a few days, Pikk Street is an absolute must. From stunning architecture and deep history to charming cafés and unique landmarks, it perfectly captures the magic of Old Town Tallinn."
Celine Laflamme
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pikk Street is located in Tallinn's Old Town, easily accessible on foot from the city center and cruise port. If arriving by public transport, many bus routes stop near the harbor or Viru Square, a short walk away.
Yes, Pikk Street is very walkable from the cruise port. It's one of the main streets leading from the harbor into the heart of the Old Town.
Access for private vehicles on Pikk Street is restricted as it's part of the historic Old Town. It's best to park in designated car parks outside the Old Town and explore on foot.
Pikk Jalg (Long Leg) and Lühike Jalg (Short Leg) are two historic streets connecting the lower Old Town to Toompea Hill. Pikk Jalg is longer and more gradual, while Lühike Jalg is a steeper, shorter shortcut.
Pikk Street runs from the Fat Margaret Tower near the harbor towards Toompea Hill, and it's a short walk from the main Town Hall Square, making it easy to combine visits.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along Pikk Street itself is free and open to the public. You only need tickets for specific attractions located on or near the street, like museums.
Pikk Street is a public street and is accessible 24/7. However, individual shops, cafes, and museums along the street will have their own operating hours.
The street itself is free to access. Entrance fees apply to museums like the Estonian Maritime Museum (housed in Fat Margaret Tower) and any specific exhibitions.
The House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads is a significant landmark on Pikk Street. While you can admire its exterior, guided tours or access to interiors may be available at specific times and might require booking.
The main Tallinn Tourist Information Centre is located near Town Hall Square, a short walk from Pikk Street, where you can get maps and further information.
📸 📸 Photography
The House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads with its ornate facade is a prime photo spot. Also, capture the medieval architecture, cobblestone details, and charming cafes.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer people, making for more atmospheric photos. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to take photos inside Maiasmokk Café to capture its historic ambiance, but be mindful of other patrons.
Drone usage in historic city centers like Tallinn's Old Town is often restricted due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the grand facades.
🍽️ ☕️ Food & Dining
Pikk Street offers several dining options, including the historic Maiasmokk Café, the cozy Hell Hunt pub, and various restaurants and cafes serving local and international cuisine.
Maiasmokk Café is Tallinn's oldest continuously operating café, dating back to 1864. It's known for its historic decor, delicious pastries, and marzipan treats.
Hell Hunt is known as the oldest pub in Tallinn and offers a cozy atmosphere with a selection of drinks and pub fare. While not exclusively traditional, it provides a local pub experience.
Many restaurants along Pikk Street and in the surrounding Old Town offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
Absolutely! The Marzipan Gallery on Pikk Street is a unique spot to sample and purchase traditional Estonian marzipan creations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss a stop at the Marzipan Gallery for a sweet treat and a chance to see intricate marzipan figures. While the street is best explored on foot, consider a stroller or carrier for younger children due to the cobblestones. The overall atmosphere is engaging and educational, providing a memorable experience for all ages.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
It's a perfect street for photography, allowing you to capture stunning medieval architecture at your own pace. The friendly vibe of pubs like Hell Hunt also makes it easy to strike up conversations or simply enjoy a quiet drink and reflect on the day's discoveries.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles to showcase the cobblestone textures, the towering gables, and the intricate details of the architecture. The Three Sisters building and the views towards Fat Margaret Tower also offer excellent photographic opportunities. Don't forget to capture the charming details of cafes and shopfronts for a more intimate perspective.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stroll Through History
Key landmarks along Pikk Street offer glimpses into this rich past. The House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads at number 26 boasts a striking Renaissance facade, a testament to the city's architectural evolution. Nearby, the Great Guild Hall and the Three Sisters building showcase the grandeur of medieval merchant life. Even the street's paving stones whisper tales of centuries of footsteps, carts, and historical events.
Beyond the grand structures, Pikk Street is also home to charming cafes and museums. The Estonian Maritime Museum, housed within the imposing Fat Margaret Tower, provides fascinating insights into Estonia's seafaring heritage. For a sweeter historical note, the Maiasmokk Café, operating since 1864, offers a delightful step back into a bygone era of coffee houses and pastries.
Architectural Gems of Pikk Street
Among the most visually arresting is the House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a building renowned for its vibrant Renaissance facade and elaborate entrance. This structure is a prime example of the decorative artistry that flourished in Tallinn. Equally impressive are the Three Sisters, a row of three interconnected medieval merchant houses that have been beautifully restored, showcasing their historical charm and architectural continuity.
Look closely, and you'll discover small plaques and signs adorning many buildings, offering snippets of historical context and identifying former occupants or significant events. This attention to detail transforms a simple walk into an educational exploration, allowing you to appreciate not just the beauty but also the stories embedded within the stone and timber of Pikk Street.
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