St Olaf's Church
Climb the historic tower of St. Olaf's Church for breathtaking panoramic views of Tallinn's Old Town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
St Olaf's Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb the historic tower of St. Olaf's Church for breathtaking panoramic views of Tallinn's Old Town.
"A tough climb but so worth it. The view from the top is probably the best view of the city."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Those 270+ medieval steps are no joke! Good footwear is essential for the challenging climb.
💰 Cash for Gift Shop
Tickets can often be paid by card, but the gift shop might be cash-only.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. Olaf's Tower View
Tower Observation Deck
Ascend nearly 270 medieval steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Tallinn's Old Town and beyond.
Gothic Interior
Church Nave
Experience the striking, high-ceilinged gothic architecture with its predominantly empty, minimalist walls.
Historic Tower
Exterior
Admire the imposing 124m tower, once the world's tallest, and imagine its history surviving lightning strikes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb
Tower Ticket Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Those 270+ medieval steps are no joke! Good footwear is essential for the challenging climb.
💰 Cash for Gift Shop
Tickets can often be paid by card, but the gift shop might be cash-only.
⬆️ Challenging Climb
Be prepared for steep, narrow, and potentially crowded stairs. Take breaks if needed! +1
📸 Best Views
The tower offers arguably the best city views. Worth the effort for photographers!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Those 270+ medieval steps are no joke! Good footwear is essential for the challenging climb.
💰 Cash for Gift Shop
Tickets can often be paid by card, but the gift shop might be cash-only.
⬆️ Challenging Climb
Be prepared for steep, narrow, and potentially crowded stairs. Take breaks if needed! +1
📸 Best Views
The tower offers arguably the best city views. Worth the effort for photographers!
🆓 Church Entry
Wander inside the church itself for free; the tower climb has a separate fee.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the stunning panoramic views from St. Olaf's tower, often calling the challenging climb 'worth it.' While the church interior is appreciated for its gothic grandeur, the tower ascent is the main draw, though its steep, narrow steps can be demanding. Some find the top platform a bit unnerving, but the overall experience is highly recommended for the vistas it provides.
"Grand looking church from the outside, trip up the Tower is recommended but stairs are steep and spirally, bit dodgy if passing people too. View from the top is worth the effort . There is a €5 to €8 charge depending on age to climb the Tower though the church is free."
Peter Marsden
"I visited St. Olaf's Church during a day of sightseeing in Tallinn. I paid 8 Euros for admission to the tower. It's quite a hike, and to be completely honest, I found the top a little scary (it's quite safe though) in the moment. You can buy a ticket there, and the church can process card payments for the tickets, but if you want something from the giftshop, you'll need cash. Beautiful views!"
Bryan Stoops
"The entrance for the St. Olaf’s Church is free unless you want to climb to the tower which is supposed to provide you with an amazing view of the city. We preferred not to climb to the tower of St. Olaf’s church due to it’s stairs and due to the fact that St. Nicholas church has an elevator going up to its tower which is really close to St. Olaf’s.
The interior of the church has a gothic style and the walls are mostly empty. The most striking thing about the church is how high it is."
ece hüner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Olaf's Church is located in the heart of Tallinn's Old Town. It's easily accessible on foot from most central locations. If arriving by public transport, look for bus or tram stops near Viru Square or Balti Jaam (Central Train Station), then enjoy a short walk through the charming streets.
Parking in Tallinn's Old Town is limited and often expensive. It's best to use public transport or a taxi to get close, or park at a designated car park outside the Old Town and walk.
Absolutely! The church's iconic 124-meter tower makes it a prominent landmark visible from many points in and around the Old Town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church itself is generally free. However, there is a fee to climb the tower for panoramic city views.
The cost to climb the tower typically ranges from €5 to €8, depending on age. It's advisable to check the current prices upon arrival.
Information on online ticket purchases can be limited. It's usually possible to buy tickets directly at the church on the day of your visit.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by events. It's best to check locally or look for signs posted at the church for the most up-to-date information.
The tower climb involves approximately 250-270 steep, narrow medieval steps and is not suitable for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The absolute best photo opportunities are from the tower's observation deck, offering sweeping views of Tallinn. The exterior of the church also makes for a grand architectural shot.
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always polite to be discreet and respectful of any ongoing services or other visitors.
It can be challenging to take photos while navigating the narrow, steep stairs, especially if you encounter other climbers. It's best to focus on the climb and take photos at the top.
For the tower views, late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light. Morning can also be good with fewer crowds.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The climb is strenuous, involving around 250-270 steep, narrow, and winding medieval steps. There are resting spots, but it's a significant physical challenge. +1
Some visitors find the narrow platform and height a bit daunting, but it's considered safe. The views are spectacular and widely praised. +1
The interior is characterized by its gothic style, high ceilings, and largely minimalist, empty walls, emphasizing its height and architectural grandeur.
Restrooms are typically available, especially near the ticket area for the tower. Dedicated cafes are not usually found within the church itself, but many options are nearby in the Old Town.
Allow at least 1-2 hours, especially if you plan to climb the tower. The climb itself can take time, and you'll want to savor the views from the top.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If the climb seems too daunting, remember that the church itself is still an impressive sight, and there are many other family-friendly attractions within Tallinn's Old Town that offer great views without such a strenuous ascent.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you decide to climb the tower, the fee is relatively modest (€5-€8) for the incredible panoramic views it offers, making it a worthwhile splurge for the experience and photo opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Towering History of St. Olaf's
The church itself has roots dating back to the 14th century, though it has undergone various reconstructions and renovations. Its gothic architectural style is evident in its soaring interior and imposing exterior. The sheer scale of the tower is what truly captures the imagination, and the climb to its summit offers a unique perspective on the city's past and present.
Today, climbing the tower is a popular tourist activity, offering unparalleled views. However, it's important to remember the historical context of this structure – a medieval marvel that has stood the test of time, enduring fires, storms, and the passage of centuries.
Climbing the Steps: An Insider's Guide
Despite the physical exertion, the consensus is that the effort is overwhelmingly worth it. There are often resting places, including a spot with chairs halfway up, which can be a welcome respite. The key is to take your time, breathe, and focus on the reward at the summit.
Once at the top, the observation deck is described as narrow and high, but the panoramic views of Tallinn's Old Town, the harbor, and the surrounding areas are considered among the best in the city. It's a truly memorable experience that offers a unique vantage point.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit