Medieval Festival in Tallin

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, has one of the best preserved Medieval centres. No wonder that it is used for an amazing annual event: the Medieval Festival.

If you’re visiting Tallinn in July, you’re in for a truly magical experience thanks to the Tallinn Medieval Days Festival. Usually held over four days in mid-July (dates vary slightly each year, typically around July 6–9, in 2025 it is supposed to be from 11 to 13 of July)), this festival transforms the entire Old Town into a bustling medieval village.

Streets fill with performers in colorful costumes, knights in armor, artisan markets, and lively parades. You’ll find craft workshops, archery tournaments, historical reenactments, street theatre, and live medieval music echoing through the city’s cobbled alleys.

It’s one of Estonia’s oldest and most beloved summer festivals, especially fun for families and anyone fascinated by history. Food stalls sell traditional medieval dishes like hearty stews and rustic breads, and you can even try your hand at blacksmithing or weaving. Best of all, the festival is mostly free to enjoy, although some special activities or workshops may charge a small fee.

See also: 3 days in Tallinn: what to see and do in the capital of Estonia. 

Top tips for visiting Tallinn during the Medieval Days Festival

The Tallinn Medieval Days (held in early July) is a vibrant celebration of the city’s history, with medieval re-enactments, bustling markets, and performances filling the Old Town. Here are some tips to help you make the most of this exciting event:

• Dress the Part:
  Get into the spirit of the festival by dressing in medieval-inspired attire! Many attendees, as well as performers, wear costumes—so if you’re feeling adventurous, bring a cloak, tunic, or something that fits the theme. If not, don’t worry; just enjoy the atmosphere!

• Arrive Early for Parades:
  The grand medieval parades are one of the highlights of the festival, showcasing knights, jesters, and artisans. To get a great spot for photos or to experience the best views, try to arrive early. The parades usually pass through the Old Town, including the Town Hall Square, so find a good vantage point near these iconic spots.

• Explore the Markets:
  The medieval market is a must-visit. Stalls are packed with handcrafted goods, including jewelry, pottery, textiles, and old-fashioned toys. Don’t miss out on traditional Estonian food like verivorst (blood sausage), kama (a traditional flour mix), and roast meats. It’s also a great place to pick up souvenirs and locally made crafts.

• Take Part in Activities:
  There are often interactive medieval activities such as archery, sword fighting, blacksmith demonstrations, and folk dancing. Be sure to check out the festival schedule for family-friendly events and fun competitions—whether you’re interested in trying your hand at archery or enjoying a traditional dance performance.

• Plan for Crowds:
  The Medieval Days attract a lot of visitors, both locals and tourists. It’s best to book your accommodations and tickets to any events well in advance. Be prepared for crowds, especially around popular sites like Town Hall Square. If you want to experience a quieter version of the festival, visit earlier in the day before it gets too crowded.

• Bring Comfortable Shoes:
  The Old Town cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be tough on your feet, especially when you’re walking around all day. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes that will support long hours of exploring.

• Take a photo tour: The Medieval Days make for a photographer’s dream with their lively costumes, old-world architecture, and vibrant market stalls. Walk around with your camera, but be mindful of the crowds. Sunrise or sunset offers a magical golden-hour glow over the Old Town, perfect for capturing medieval vibes.

• Book accommodation in advance: If you’re planning to visit Tallinn in July, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation early, as the festival draws both locals and tourists, making the city’s charming Old Town even more lively and full of life.

Where to stay in Tallinn during the Medieval Festival

During Tallinn’s Medieval Festival, the city’s Old Town comes alive with vibrant events, making it the ideal place to stay. But make sure to book early, as the city get really busy.

Staying within the historic center allows you to immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere, with cobblestone streets and medieval performances just steps away. Have a look at some of my favourite options:

For an authentic experience, book a room at the Hotel Schlossle or The Three Sisters Hotel—both set in beautifully restored medieval buildings offering luxurious comfort with a historical twist.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Old Town Hostel Alur, right in the heart of the action. If you prefer modern amenities without sacrificing location, the Savoy Boutique Hotel blends contemporary style with Old Town charm.

You may also like these hotels:

• Hotel Telegraaf, Autograph Collection. Located in the heart of Old Town, this 5-star hotel is set in a historic 19th-century building with luxurious rooms, a top-rated spa, and an indoor pool.
• Hotel Palace by Tallinn Hotels. Located just outside the Old Town gates, this modern and comfortable hotel offers easy access to the city centre, a great breakfast, and spa facilities. Great value without compromising comfort.
• CRU Hotel. Situated on the cobbled Viru Street, this small boutique hotel offers individually designed rooms and a well-reviewed in-house restaurant.
• Hestia Hotel Barons Old Town. good mid-range option located right in the Old Town with classic decor and convenient proximity to Tallinn’s major sights. Budget-conscious travellers who still want location.

What else to do apart from the Medieval Festival in Tallinn

While the Medieval Festival is a highlight of Tallinn’s cultural calendar, the city has plenty more to offer year-round. If you happen to visit Tallinn when the Medieval days are happening (like me), don’t just focus on that and try to include other activities throughout your day, because Tallinn is so pretty of worth exploring.

Walk the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visit the beautiful Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, or take a leisurely stroll through Kadriorg Park. Discover the creative vibe in the Telliskivi Creative City, where trendy cafes, local crafts, and street art abound. For a unique perspective, climb the towers of Toompea Castle for stunning city views. Whether you’re into history, modern culture, or natural beauty, Tallinn has something to captivate every traveler.

Here are a few of my top activities to do in Tallinn:

• A walking tour (walk through one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval old towns)
• A day trip to Helsinki (it’s so easy and cheap by ferry)
• Tallinn’s Soviet past tour (learn about Estonia’s time behind the Iron Curtain, visit Soviet-style architecture, and explore alternative neighborhoods)
• Tallinn Medieval legends tour with a dress up guide (storytelling tour with a local guide dressed in medieval costume. Learn about ancient ghosts, knights, and Tallinn’s darker legends)
• Tallinn food and drink tour (sample Estonian cuisine, including black bread, local cheeses, cured meats, and traditional sweets. Many tours also include local beers or craft cider).
• Cook and share traditional food in Estonian home  (connect with local life by cooking and sharing a traditional meal in an Estonian home. It’s an intimate way to experience the country’s culture and cuisine.
• Lahemaa National Park day tour (escape the city and explore forests, bogs, waterfalls, and charming manors. This is one of the most popular nature day trips from Tallinn)
• Day trip to Prangli island (escape the city with a refreshing day trip to Prangli Island, where quiet beaches, pine forests, and authentic village life offer a peaceful Baltic retreat).

Where to eat in Tallinn for Medieval vibe

To fully immerse yourself in Tallinn’s medieval charm, head to the Old Town, where historic taverns and themed restaurants transport you back in time. Of course, during the Medieval Festival there are many options of street food and you should definitely try that too. But the Medieval restaurants in Tallinn are such a vibe!

• III Draakon: A tiny medieval tavern in the Town Hall where you can try elk soup and meat pies for just a few euros. Dining in this place is a real show where women in traditional Medieval clothes rule. Men, be aware that the women are the bosses there; they will let you know very clearly. For me, this restaurant is a must!
• One standout is Olde Hansa, an iconic medieval restaurant serving hearty, authentic dishes like wild boar, elk, and spiced honey beer, all in candlelit surroundings. I tried a few things there: all were amazing.
• Maiasmokk Café – The oldest operating café in Estonia (since 1864), this charming spot near the Town Hall Square is famous for its classic décor, marzipan museum, and timeless pastries. Might not fit the typical Medieval vibe, but it’s definitely worth visiting.

Other festivals in Tallinn: when to visit for the best events

• Spring (April–May): Spring in Tallinn is quieter, but you’ll catch the city waking up with local food festivals, flower markets, and small cultural events. It’s a good time for those who want fewer crowds while still enjoying city life.
• Summer (June–August): Summer is the top festival season in Tallinn.
• Tallinn Medieval Days (early July): The city’s biggest historical festival. Expect knights in armor, medieval markets, workshops, parades, and performances around the Old Town. It’s a fantastic time for photographers and history lovers!
• Tallinn Maritime Days (late July): A lively event near the port celebrating Estonia’s strong seafaring tradition, with concerts, ship tours, and food markets.
• Tallinn Old Town Days (early June): Cultural performances, art exhibitions, and open-air concerts throughout the medieval streets.
• Autumn (September–October): A slower season, but you can still enjoy Tallinn Design Festival (September), showcasing Estonian creativity and innovation. Fall colors also make the parks and old walls incredibly photogenic.
• Tallinn Christmas Market (late November to early January): One of Europe’s most atmospheric Christmas markets, with mulled wine, handmade gifts, and festive lights.
• Winter Lights Festival (January–February): Light installations brighten the dark winter streets, giving a magical touch to evening strolls.

When to visit Tallinn apart from festivals

• For the best weather and a bustling city atmosphere, visit in the summer (June-August).
• For fewer crowds and beautiful fall foliage, autumn (September-November) is ideal.
• For a magical winter experience, visit in winter (December-February), but be prepared for cold temperatures.
• For a quiet, serene experience with a mix of spring blooms and mild weather, plan for spring (March-May).

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• Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
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• Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.

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• A guide to Gdansk for first time travellers.
• 15 best European road trips to take in 2025 for an epic adventure.
• Helsinki in Summer: Where to Wander and What to See for a perfect city break guide

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