Staying in Toompea: choosing your route up the hill
The route to your front door matters on Toompea. Pikk jalg provides a sloping connection with the Lower Town, while Lühike jalg includes steps. Arriving from the south brings you toward Lossi plats and the cathedral. Before booking, locate the entrance rather than just the building, especially if you will carry luggage or return after a long day on foot.
At a glance
- Best for
- Views, quiet nights
- At night
- Very quiet
- Getting around
- On foot; steep lanes to the Lower Town
- Price level
- €€€
The hill above the Old Town, with Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the viewing platforms, and few places to stay or eat.
Good for
- Early starts at the cathedral and the viewing platforms
- Quiet nights in the middle of the Old Town
- Short, downhill walks to the Lower Town
Think twice if
- You do not want a steep walk back up
- You want a choice of restaurants at the door
What is near Toompea (Upper Town)
Patkuli viewing platform
Allow about 7 minutes from Lossi plats, following the Upper Town streets toward the northern edge of the hill.
Kohtuotsa viewing platform
Around 6 minutes from Lossi plats, this platform fits into a short circuit through Kohtu and nearby lanes.
Danish King's Garden
Walk about 5 minutes from Lossi plats toward the garden, checking your route if you want to avoid steps.
Eating in Toompea (Upper Town)
Plan breakfast arrangements with your accommodation, particularly before an early departure. For a broader choice of meals, walk down toward Rataskaevu street, where Rataskaevu 16 and Kompressor are options. Remember that a quick trip for supper ends with a climb back to your room.
Getting around from Toompea (Upper Town)
There is no tram stop on the hill. Vabaduse väljak serves approaches from the south, while Balti jaam station lies below the northern side. Its rail lines connect Tallinn with destinations including Keila. For local tram and bus lines, check the current journey planner before choosing your downhill route.
Hotels in Toompea (Upper Town)
Search the area on the booking sites, where the prices are. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Other areas of Tallinn
Staying in Toompea: choosing your route up the hill
Can I reach Toompea without using stairs?
Pikk jalg offers a sloping alternative to the steps of Lühike jalg. Your final approach may still involve cobbles and gradients.
How should I plan an early train departure?
Allow extra time to descend with luggage and reach Balti jaam. Ask your accommodation about a vehicle pickup if walking is impractical.
Can I visit both viewing platforms in one walk?
Yes. Patkuli and Kohtuotsa are close enough to combine on foot, with the Upper Town lanes linking the two.