On Raekoja plats in Tallinn’s Old Town, the Gothic Town Hall has stood beside the city’s main square since its completion in 1404. Its limestone exterior, steep gables and tower topped by the weather vane Old Thomas make it a landmark to see from the square. In July and August, you can visit the historic rooms and attic; the tower is open from May to September and looks out over the rooftops. The square itself hosts cafes, markets and seasonal events, including a Christmas market.
A town hall beside the medieval market square
Tallinn Town Hall stands on the southern side of Raekoja plats, the central square of the Old Town. The square has served as a marketplace and gathering place since the Middle Ages. Today, cafes and restaurants line its edges, while markets, concerts and festivals take place there through the year.
The present town hall was completed in 1404. Built in Gothic style from limestone, it has steep gables, an octagonal tower and dragon-shaped gargoyles. The building remains a ceremonial venue for official receptions and concerts. Its position at the edge of the square makes the exterior easy to appreciate as you walk through the Old Town.
The halls and their medieval details
The town hall interior is open to visitors as a museum in July and August. Two rooms are central to the visit: the Civic Hall, where banquets were held and city laws were read, and the council chamber, where the city council met.
In the Civic Hall, look for tapestries depicting scenes from the life of King Solomon. The council chamber preserves older decorative details, including a carved wooden bench from the 15th century. Its carved sides are among the notable examples of early Estonian woodwork. The halls give a sense of the building’s civic role, as well as the craft used to furnish it.
Old Thomas and the tower
A weather vane known as Old Thomas sits atop the town hall spire. The figure represents a Tallinn city guard and is a familiar symbol of the city. The original weather vane, installed in 1530, is preserved inside the building.
The tower is open from May through September. Its spiral staircase has 115 steep, narrow steps, leading to a viewing platform 34 metres above the ground. From there, you can look across Raekoja plats and the Old Town’s roofs. The staircase is tight, so allow space for people moving in the opposite direction.
When the square changes with the seasons
In warmer months, cafe terraces spread onto the square, and events include concerts, fairs and festivals. A craft market is held in July. In December, the Christmas market brings stalls and seasonal food to the square, with a large Christmas tree at its centre.
The town hall and square are close to other Old Town sights, including Raeapteek, the historic Town Hall Pharmacy on the square. The square is a natural place to pause between walks, but it can be busy, especially on Thursdays and Fridays. If you want to see the town hall’s rooms, plan for July or August; winter visits may not include access to every part of the building.
Häufige Fragen
When can you visit the Town Hall interior?
The interior museum is open to visitors in July and August.
When is the tower open?
The tower is open from May through September.
How many steps are in the tower staircase?
There are 115 steep, narrow steps to the viewing platform, which is 34 metres above the ground.
Where is Tallinn Town Hall?
It stands at Raekoja plats 1, on the southern side of Town Hall Square in Tallinn’s Old Town.
