Departing from the harbour, we travel through Tallinn’s cultural heart towards Toompea (Cathedral Hill). We shall stop at the foot of the medieval tower named Pikk (or Tall) Hermann, which stands guard over the National Parliament in this, Estonia's capital. The tower has withstood countless foreign invasions over the centuries and, most recently, became an important focal point for the people's movement that helped restore independence to Estonia in the early 1990’s. The Tower is one of the three remaining towers from the Knights of the Sword Castle. From the base of the nearby Cannon Tower, we can take in a wonderful panoramic view of Tallinn’s Upper Town, with its churches and spires.

Our tour continues with a drive through beautiful Kadriorg Park – home to a charming Baroque Palace, designed as a summer residence for Peter the Great. We shall then pause for photos at the Song Festival Ground – a natural amphitheatre that is the venue for great national music festivals.

Proceeding to a seaside café, we can now enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a snack, accompanied by live zither music – the national instrument. We may have a little free time to purchase souvenirs and handicrafts offered on the premises.

The 15th century St Birgit’s Convent is a wonderful example of local limestone architecture, and we will pay a visit here before returning to our ship. En route we pass the summer residence of Count Orlov (Catherine the Great’s lover) as well as the Estonian monument Russalka (Mermaid) – dedicated to the shipwreck in the Gulf of Finland in 1893.

TOUR NOTES: This tour is suitable for most passengers, although there is some walking involved – at the panoramic viewpoint in Tallinn, at the photo stop outside the Song Festival Ground and approximately 100 metres (320 feet) to and from St Birgit’s Convent. Depending on where our ship berths, there may also be a walk of up to 200 metres (650 feet) to and from our tour coach. As well as the Estonian Kroon, the Euro and US Dollar are usually accepted when purchasing souvenirs. Please note that this tour does not take passengers into the centre of Tallinn or the Old Town. The itinerary may operate in reverse order.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2009 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC CRUISES