Normally when travelling to other countries I prefer not to waste time on visiting museums (except for the greatest ones like Hermitage in St. Petersburg or Gallery Uffizi in Florence) because the daily life of other cities is usually much more interesting than shadows of the past. At the same time the recently renovated Seaplane Harbour is one that you should not miss.
Some historic and general facts: Seaplane Hangars, where the maritime museum is located, were built in 1916-1917 and were the first ferro concrete buildings of that size in the world. In 2013 Seaplane Harbour was pronounced as Design Project of the year in Estonia. At the same time it was shortlisted in two categories at the World Architecture Festival in Singapore.
Its main attractions are the submarine Lembit (built in 1937) and vintage steam icebreaker "Suur Tõll" (built in march 1914, more than 100 years ago! And it still looks like new).
In Seaplane Harbour not only can you find a lots of truly unique artifacts but also lots of various interactive games – like flight or submarine simulation, shooting with air defense guns etc. Children can easily spend their entire day there and it still won't be enough.
Since it was opened in 2012, I have visited the museum dozens of times and keep coming here from time to time – mostly because there is always something new to see.
Find your way with 102 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Frank" in Tallinn has this 1940s New Year New York flair. Simple but beautiful furniture, a sophisticated and warm atmosphere... I love it all!
by
"NoKu Klubi" Tallinn is a truly secret bar with a turbulent past you need a code for to enter! I like it for the '70s vibe and warm dusky light...
by
"Hell Hunt" is my go-to option when I just can't come up with any ideas of where to go for a drink or food in Tallinn. A chaotic, cheerful pub/restaurant.
by
"III Draakon" in Tallinn is an old-fashioned, atmospheric, Medieval pub located inside the Town Hall. I very often take friends from abroad here...
by
"Hop Galerii" Tallinn is a unique gallery unlike the others, as its non profit and deal with original art designs that you can't find elsewhere...
by
"Boheem Kohvik" is one of my favorite spots in Tallinn for lunch. This nice and quiet restaurant makes, in my opinion, the best Caesar's salad in the city.
by
"Kopli Vintaaž" Tallinn is a very fashionable vintage clothes shop by day and a fun bar called Sveta at night. Protip: get their Kopli sweatshirt...
by
The "Paljassaare Special Conservation Area" is just 15 minutes by bus from the Tallinn's centre. I like exploring it by bicycle because it's quite big...
by
"T1 Mall of Tallinn" is a new-generation shopping mall just 15 minutes central Tallinn. Shopping, going to the cinema... they even have a Ferris Wheel!
by
102 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 102 Insider Tips