Art in Tallinn with entrance to St Nicholas Church and Kadriorg Art Museum

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Walking tour in the old town and by car/minibus to the Kadriorg park area. St. Nicholas’ church, now a museum and concert hall, has three of the four most important medieval works of art in Estonia on display.

German merchants from the island of Gotland had this church built to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors. The church was originally built in the early 13th century, and was like a fortress, but over the centuries, the building was improved with various additions and renovations. The Foreign Art Museum houses a valuable collection of European art.

It’s situated not far from the city centre and was once called the Versailles of Tallinn due to its marvellous baroque style, with geometrically planted and cut trees and flower beds. The Russian Tsar Peter I built the complete baroque palace and park in the early 18th century as a present for his wife Catherine I. The palace was restored a few years ago and now houses the Art Museum.

Next, head to Kumu, the Art Museum of Estonia’s main branch and one of the largest art museums in northern Europe. In contrast to the palace’s historical architecture, Kumu is a sleek, modern building, which opened in 2006 and was awarded the European Museum of the Year in 2008. Go inside with your guide to see its vast collection, which includes Estonian art dating back to the 18th century.

The afternoon is free to wander the design shops, art galleries and fashion boutiques in the Old Town, with the main focus on local Estonian brands and artists. Enjoy an optional ballet or opera performance at the Estonian Theatre before the day ends.

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