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Toompea Castle Square

4.6

·790 reviews·Tallinn, Estonia

Historic citadel and seat of the Estonian Parliament, evolving from a 9th-century fortress to a symbol of modern democracy.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better tour access

CrowdLow

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Toompea Castle Square

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better tour access

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic citadel and seat of the Estonian Parliament, evolving from a 9th-century fortress to a symbol of modern democracy.

4.6

(790 reviews)

"A must-visit for its rich history and role as Estonia's parliament, with informative tours and beautiful views."

TIP

Free Guided Tours Available

Take advantage of free guided tours (check website for times) for an insightful look into Estonian parliament history. :informationdeskperson:

Check Tour Schedules

Parliament tour availability varies. Always check the official website for dates and times before your visit. 📅

Quick Facts

Rating

4.6 · 820 reviews

Type

Government Office

Address

Lossi plats 1a, 15165 Tallinn, Estonia

Website

riigikogu.ee

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pikk Hermann Tower

Toompea Castle

The iconic 45.6-meter tower, a striking corner-eye-catcher of the castle, offering historical significance and views.

Parliament of Estonia (Riigikogu)

Toompea Castle

The pink, Baroque section of the castle, a symbol of modern Estonian democracy and governance.

Danish King's Garden

Adjacent to Toompea Castle

A beautiful garden offering a peaceful retreat and lovely views, perfect for a stroll after exploring the castle.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Toompea Castle

Toompea Castle is the seat of the Estonian Parliament, so access can be restricted. Check the official website for tour availability and opening hours, as these can change. Arriving early can help you avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Understanding Toompea Castle's History

This site has a rich history, evolving from a 9th-century citadel to a Danish stone castle, and serving as the seat of power for various rulers. Understanding its past enhances the appreciation of its current role as Estonia's parliament.

Best Times

When

Weekday mornings

Why

Fewer crowds, better tour access

Crowd

Low

When

Spring and Autumn

Why

Pleasant weather, fewer tourists

Crowd

Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Things to do in Tallinn: 1. Go on a free walking tour (we went with EstAdventures). 2. Visit the Parliament. 3. Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. 4. Walk around the Danish King’s Garden. 5. Go to the Patkuli viewing platform and Kohtuotsa viewing platform. 6. Try a dessert in Tallinn’s oldest café, Maiasmokk Kohvik Maiasmokk. 7. Visit the Town Hall Square and The Town Hall Pharmacy, which is also ...

@jelena_travels

8.1K likes • 266.8K views

Free Guided Tours Available

Take advantage of free guided tours (check website for times) for an insightful look into Estonian parliament history. :informationdeskperson:

Check Tour Schedules

Parliament tour availability varies. Always check the official website for dates and times before your visit. 📅

Spots You Must-See in Tallinn 🇪🇪✨ 📍 Alexander Nevsky Cathedral 📍 Toompea Castle 📍 St. Olaf’s Church 📍 Town Hall Square (Raekoja Plats) 📍 Viru Gate 📍 Experience medieval dining at Olde Hansa 📍 Shop & explore Balti Jaama Turg 🛍️ #Tallinn #Estonia #OldTownMagic #TravelMore #HiddenGems #BucketListTravel #MedievalCity #Wanderlust

christiana_makrii

0 likes • 1K views

أهم معالم Tallin عاصمة إستونيا: - المدينة القديمة old Town - Viru gate - Town Hall Tower & Square - House of the Blackheads - St. Olav’s - Alexander Nevsky Cathedral - Toompea Castle - Viewing Point Kohtuotsa - St Mary's Cathedral Toomkirik - PROTO Invention Factory - Helleman Tower and the Town Wall - St. Catherine's Passage - Estonian History Museum – Great Guild Hall - KGB Pr...

ror_explores

245 likes • 10.3K views

Iconic Tower Views

The Pikk Hermann tower is a must-see landmark, offering a glimpse into the castle's historical architecture. :camerawithflash:

Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the beautiful garden behind the citadel for a relaxing break and scenic views. :deciduous_tree:

🌍✨ Discover Tallinn’s Old Town in Estonia! 🇪🇪 🏰 **Highlights**: - **Town Hall Square**: Medieval charm. - **Alexander Nevsky Cathedral**: Stunning domes. - **Toompea Castle**: Panoramic views. - **St. Olaf’s Church**: Climb for cityscapes. - **Medieval Walls & Towers**: Walk through history. - **Hidden Courtyards**: Find secret spots. 🍽️ Enjoy traditional and modern Estonian cuisine. Must-try: b...

thetwopisceans

0 likes • 6.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Guided Tours Available

Take advantage of free guided tours (check website for times) for an insightful look into Estonian parliament history. :informationdeskperson:

Check Tour Schedules

Parliament tour availability varies. Always check the official website for dates and times before your visit. 📅

Iconic Tower Views

The Pikk Hermann tower is a must-see landmark, offering a glimpse into the castle's historical architecture. :camerawithflash:

Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the beautiful garden behind the citadel for a relaxing break and scenic views. :deciduous_tree:

What Travellers Say

4.6

(790 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Toompea Castle is praised for its historical significance and its role as the seat of the Estonian Parliament. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds, the iconic Pikk Hermann tower, and the adjacent beautiful garden. The free guided tours are frequently highlighted as informative and engaging.

"It's a very impressive building near other sights on Tallinn. The building is very well maintained, and the tower is iconic. There is a very beautiful garden nearby."

Bryan Stoops

"The Estonian seat of power. In the 9th century, the Estonians built the wooden fortress Lyndanisse on the strategically located Toompea (Domberg) hill. In 1219, the Danes under the leadership of King Waldemar II conquered the fortress and built a stone castle, Toompea Castle, also known as Tallinn Castle. The castle changed owners from time to time: from 1227 to 1237 it belonged to the Order of the Brothers of the Sword, then again to the Danes until it was conquered by the Teutonic Order in 1346. From 1561 it belonged to the Swedes and after the Peace of Nystad (1721) it belonged to Tsarist Russia. During the interbellum, the Estonian parliament and government were seated here and from 1940 to 1991 the castle housed the government of the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic. Almost every change of government was followed by a renovation or expansion. The Danes built the 45.6 meter high "Pikk Herman" ("Long Herman"), the striking corner tower and eye-catcher of the castle, the Swedes built a new building against the old castle that was rebuilt by Catherine II. The pink, Baroque part of the castle where the Estonian Parliament (the Riigikogu) is now located, was built in 1920-22.
PS. According to the legend of the Battle of Lyndanisse, the Dannebrog, the Danish flag (the oldest still used flag in the world), fell from the sky during this battle."

Koen

"A beautiful castle and citadel which now is the seat of the Estonia parliament. The garden behind the citadel is pretty as well."

C Neon

What People Like

Historical significance

Pikk Hermann tower

Informative guided tours

What People Dislike

Limited tour availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Toompea Castle is located on Toompea Hill, a short walk from Tallinn's Old Town. You can follow the signs uphill or take a scenic route through the charming streets. Many visitors find it easily accessible on foot. +1

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Toompea Castle is limited due to its historic location. It's recommended to use public parking areas in the Old Town or consider walking from your accommodation.

While there isn't a direct bus stop right at the castle, several bus routes stop near the Old Town, from where you can walk up to Toompea Hill. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient options.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the exterior of Toompea Castle is always accessible, guided tours of the Parliament (Riigikogu) require booking and may have a fee. Check the official website for current ticketing information and tour availability.

The castle grounds are generally accessible, but specific areas and tours have varying hours. It's crucial to consult the official website of the Parliament of Estonia for the most up-to-date opening times and tour schedules.

Yes, free guided tours are often available, typically at 11 am on weekdays. However, these are subject to change and availability, so it's essential to verify the schedule on the official website.

Access to the Pikk Hermann Tower may be restricted or part of specific tours. Information regarding its accessibility and any associated costs should be confirmed on the official Toompea Castle website.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Toompea Castle houses the Parliament of Estonia. Visitors can explore the historic citadel, admire the Pikk Hermann Tower, and learn about Estonia's political history through guided tours. The adjacent Danish King's Garden is also a highlight. +2

Toompea Castle can be interesting for families, especially if they are on a guided tour that makes history engaging. The surrounding area and gardens offer space for children to explore.

Toompea Castle has been a center of power since the 9th century, evolving from a wooden fortress to a stone castle built by the Danes. It has been ruled by various powers and is now the seat of the Estonian Parliament, symbolizing the nation's independence.

Yes, Toompea Hill offers several excellent viewpoints overlooking Tallinn's Old Town and the Baltic Sea. Kohtuotsa viewing platform is particularly popular for its panoramic vistas. +1