Town Hall Square

About

At the heart of Tallinn’s medieval Old Town lies Town Hall Square, a historic gathering place that has served as the city’s social and commercial hub since the 13th century. Surrounded by colourful merchant houses and dominated by the Gothic spire of Tallinn Town Hall—the oldest surviving town hall in Northern Europe—the square exudes Hanseatic charm. It has long hosted markets, festivals, and public events, including the famed Tallinn Christmas Market, where a tree has been displayed since 1441, possibly the first public Christmas tree in Europe. Today, the square remains a vibrant space filled with cafés, seasonal fairs, and cultural celebrations. Nearby, the Raeapteek pharmacy, operating since the 15th century, adds to the area’s rich historical tapestry. Whether visited in summer for open-air concerts or in winter for festive lights and mulled wine, Town Hall Square offers a timeless glimpse into Tallinn’s civic and cultural life.

Tallinn Estonia

Location

Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) is located at the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, surrounded by cobblestone streets and pastel-colored merchant houses. This historic plaza has served as the city’s social and commercial center since the 13th century and is dominated by the Gothic Tallinn Town Hall, the oldest town hall in Northern Europe, completed in 1404. The square is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, hosting open-air markets, concerts, and the famous Tallinn Christmas Market. Notable nearby attractions include the Town Hall Pharmacy, one of Europe’s oldest continuously operating pharmacies, the Museum of Photography, St. Catherine’s Passage, and the Great Guild Hall. The area is filled with charming cafés, restaurants, and shops, making it a lively destination year-round. Easily accessible on foot from anywhere in Old Town, Town Hall Square is a must-see for its medieval charm, rich history, and central location within Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed historic core.