9Tallinn Old Town, Estonia

The historic center of Tallinn is one of Northern Europe’s best-preserved medieval urban landscapes.

Founded in the Middle Ages, the old town is surrounded by sections of its original defensive walls and towers. Inside, narrow cobbled streets lead between colorful merchant houses, Gothic churches and atmospheric squares.

Town Hall Square is the heart of the historic center, while Toompea Hill provides beautiful views over the medieval rooftops. Tallinn is especially magical in winter, when snow can transform the old town into a scene straight from a fairytale.