Masters’ Courtyard
A charming, hidden courtyard in Tallinn's Old Town, showcasing local artisans and a delightful chocolate cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Masters’ Courtyard
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, hidden courtyard in Tallinn's Old Town, showcasing local artisans and a delightful chocolate cafe.
"This little spot is an absolute hidden gem in Tallinn, well worth tracking down!"
🎯 Use Google Maps to Find It
This courtyard is a hidden gem! Put 'Masters' Courtyard' or 'Pierre Chocolatier' into Google Maps to find the entrance easily.
🛍️ Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Find authentic, handmade crafts and jewelry from local artisans. Prices are surprisingly affordable compared to other tourist spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Workshops
Throughout the courtyard
Discover unique handmade crafts, jewelry, and art from local artisans. Support local makers and find authentic souvenirs.
Pierre Chocolaterie Café
Vene Street entrance
Indulge in heavenly confections and coffee at this popular, family-owned chocolate cafe. A sweet treat in a charming setting.
Medieval Charm
The entire courtyard
Step back in time in this picturesque, quiet courtyard with cobblestone paths and historic architecture. Perfect for photos!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding This Hidden Gem
Embrace the Artisan Spirit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Use Google Maps to Find It
This courtyard is a hidden gem! Put 'Masters' Courtyard' or 'Pierre Chocolatier' into Google Maps to find the entrance easily.
🛍️ Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Find authentic, handmade crafts and jewelry from local artisans. Prices are surprisingly affordable compared to other tourist spots.
☕ Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
Don't miss the delicious treats at Pierre Chocolaterie Café. Their confections are heavenly and a perfect break.
📸 Capture the Charm
The medieval architecture and quaint atmosphere make this courtyard incredibly photogenic. Perfect for Instagram!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use Google Maps to Find It
This courtyard is a hidden gem! Put 'Masters' Courtyard' or 'Pierre Chocolatier' into Google Maps to find the entrance easily.
🛍️ Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Find authentic, handmade crafts and jewelry from local artisans. Prices are surprisingly affordable compared to other tourist spots.
☕ Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
Don't miss the delicious treats at Pierre Chocolaterie Café. Their confections are heavenly and a perfect break.
📸 Capture the Charm
The medieval architecture and quaint atmosphere make this courtyard incredibly photogenic. Perfect for Instagram!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Masters' Courtyard as a delightful, quiet escape in Tallinn's Old Town, praising its artisan shops, charming atmosphere, and the delicious treats from the chocolate cafe. It's considered a true hidden gem, offering authentic souvenirs at great prices and a peaceful break from the usual tourist hustle.
"Such a lovely and quiet little nook! Loved the shopping, charm, and the sweets from the chocolate cafe! Would definitely recommend stopping in for a treat and some shopping."
Bailey Smith
"I can’t say enough good things about Meistrite Hoov — this little spot is an absolute hidden gem in Tallinn! Tucked away in a quiet courtyard just off the main streets of Old Town, it’s definitely off the beaten path. You’re not likely to stumble upon it unless you’re using a map or happen to know exactly what you’re looking for… but trust me, it’s well worth tracking down.
Once you find the entrance and step inside, it feels like you’ve discovered a secret pocket of the city. The cobblestone courtyard is filled with charming little artisan shops and local craftspeople selling handmade goods — from art and textiles to ceramics and wooden crafts.
We especially loved the family-owned wood shop tucked into one of the corners. The craftsmanship was beautiful, with everything from kitchen tools to intricate wooden toys and decorations. What really stood out was how affordable the prices were — seriously, the cost was a fraction of what we’d pay for something similar back home in Canada, and the quality was exceptional. You could really feel the pride and care that went into each piece.
It’s also just a peaceful, picturesque place to take a break from the busy tourist areas — we didn’t see any big crowds or tour groups here, just a few curious travelers like us. If you’re looking for authentic, handmade souvenirs or want to support local artists and makers, Meistrite Hoov is a must-visit.
A quiet oasis with creative soul — this place totally made our day in Tallinn."
Celine Laflamme
"Cute lil place, it's easy to miss if you don't know where to look, so just put it in Google maps and you are good to go. Places to eat and souvenirs in a co-op looking courtyard."
Craig Lock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Masters' Courtyard is located in Tallinn's Old Town, on Vene Street. It's a bit of a hidden gem, so it's best to use Google Maps and search for 'Masters' Courtyard' or 'Pierre Chocolatier' to find the entrance.
Yes, it's accessible by foot within the Old Town. The cobblestone paths are charming but can be uneven, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Wander through the medieval streets, visit landmarks like Toompea Hill, and then seek out the quieter corners like Masters' Courtyard for a different perspective.
The Old Town is best explored on foot. However, trams and buses stop near the edge of the Old Town, a short walk away from Masters' Courtyard.
If you're in the Old Town and can't find it, ask locals for directions to Vene Street or the Pierre Chocolatier café, as they are well-known landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Masters' Courtyard itself is free. You only pay for any purchases you make at the shops or the café.
The courtyard is generally accessible during daylight hours, but individual shop and café hours may vary. The Pierre Chocolaterie typically opens around 10 AM.
There is no admission fee to browse the craft shops. You are welcome to explore and admire the handmade goods.
Yes, Masters' Courtyard is open year-round. It offers a cozy, festive atmosphere in winter, especially with its charming decorations.
While not extensively advertised, the courtyard occasionally hosts small events or markets. It's worth checking local listings closer to your visit.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You can find a variety of handmade items including jewelry, textiles, ceramics, wooden crafts, and local art.
Yes, the Pierre Chocolaterie Café is highly recommended for its 'heavenly confections' and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Many visitors find the prices for handmade goods to be very reasonable and a fraction of what they might pay elsewhere, especially for the quality.
Yes, some shops offer traditional Estonian clothing, accessories, and handcrafted items inspired by local culture.
While the chocolate cafe is the most prominent, there might be other small eateries or inns nearby within the Old Town that offer food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The medieval architecture, cobblestone paths, and charming shops make it a very picturesque location, perfect for Instagram-worthy shots.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer people, making it ideal for capturing the courtyard's ambiance without crowds.
The entrance archway, the cobblestone alleys, and the displays outside the artisan shops are all great for capturing the medieval feel.
It's always polite to ask permission before taking photos inside private shops. Most artisans are happy to have their work admired.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the overall courtyard, while a prime lens can be useful for detail shots of crafts and architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Highlights for families include the unique craft shops where kids might find interesting wooden toys or colorful souvenirs. The Pierre Chocolaterie Café is a guaranteed hit, offering delicious treats that can turn a simple visit into a special outing. It's a safe and charming place for a short stroll and a sweet reward.
+1🛍️ Budget Travelers
The real value lies in the affordable, authentic souvenirs. You can find high-quality handmade items like jewelry, wooden crafts, and textiles at prices significantly lower than in more tourist-centric shops. Grabbing a coffee and pastry at the café is also a relatively inexpensive way to enjoy a local treat.
📸 Instagrammers & Photographers
Focus on the cobblestone alleys, the unique shop displays, and the inviting entrance to the Pierre Chocolaterie. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day creates dramatic effects. Consider visiting during the golden hour for the most magical light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Artisan Courtyards
The concept of a courtyard as a central hub for artisans is a historical one, often found in medieval towns. Masters' Courtyard revives this tradition, creating a unique atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. It's a place where you can not only admire handmade goods but also appreciate the dedication and skill that goes into each piece.
Visitors often describe the feeling of discovering a 'secret pocket of the city' upon entering. This sense of discovery, combined with the opportunity to find unique, high-quality souvenirs at fair prices, makes Masters' Courtyard a standout attraction. It’s a refreshing alternative to mass-produced tourist trinkets.
A Culinary Delight: Pierre Chocolaterie
+1Beyond just chocolates, the café likely offers a selection of pastries, cakes, and quality coffee, making it a perfect place to relax and recharge. The ambiance of enjoying a treat in a historic courtyard adds to the overall experience, blending culinary pleasure with cultural immersion.
Reviews consistently praise the quality and taste of the offerings, making it a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s a place where the simple act of enjoying a coffee and cake becomes a memorable part of your Tallinn adventure.
Photography Opportunities
To make the most of your photography, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon. This will provide softer, more flattering light and fewer crowds, allowing you to capture the serene atmosphere. Look for interesting angles, textures, and the interplay of light and shadow to create compelling images.
Don't forget to capture the details: the intricate designs of the handicrafts, the textures of the stone walls, and the inviting displays of the chocolate café. Remember to be respectful of the artisans and their spaces; a quick 'may I?' before photographing inside a shop goes a long way.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit