Ollesummer

Nestled on the Baltic Sea, Tallinn, Estonia‘s capital, beautifully marries the medieval with the modern. This vibrant city hosts Ollesummer, Estonia’s largest music and beer festival every July. This event not only showcases the best in local brews and international music acts but also offers a glimpse into the lively spirit of Tallinn.

Exploring Tallinn: A Blend of History and Modernity

Tallinn’s charm lies in its well-preserved medieval architecture juxtaposed with a bustling modern city. The heart of Tallinn is its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring cobbled streets, historic churches, and medieval buildings.

Discovering the Old Town

Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Wandering through its cobbled streets is like stepping back in time.

Toompea Hill: This historic area offers panoramic views of the city. Key sites include Toompea Castle, now the seat of the Estonian Parliament, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a stunning Russian Orthodox cathedral.

Town Hall Square: The heart of the Old Town, surrounded by colourful merchant houses, restaurants, and the medieval Town Hall. It’s an ideal spot to relax and soak in the historic atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences

Kadriorg Palace and Park: This beautiful baroque palace, built by Peter the Great for his wife Catherine, now houses the Art Museum of Estonia. The surrounding park is perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.

Kumu Art Museum: Located in Kadriorg Park, Kumu is one of the largest art museums in the Baltic countries. It features Estonian art from the 18th century to contemporary works.

Enjoying the Outdoors

Pirita Beach: Just a short drive from the city centre, Pirita Beach is the go-to spot for sunbathing and swimming. The nearby Pirita River also offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Lahemaa National Park: A day trip from Tallinn, Lahemaa is Estonia’s largest national park. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including forests, bogs, and coastlines. It’s a haven for hiking and wildlife watching.

What to Expect at Ollesummer 2025

Ollesummer 2025 promises to be a feast for the senses with its diverse lineup of musical acts, beer gardens, and food stalls. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Music Stages: Expect a variety of genres, from rock and pop to electronic and folk. Past performers have included international stars and local favourites, ensuring a vibrant musical experience.

Beer Gardens: Sample a wide range of local and international beers. Estonian breweries often unveil special editions just for the festival.

Food Stalls: Enjoy Estonian culinary delights like black bread, marinated eel, sausages, and international cuisine.

Entertainment: Beyond music, the festival features funfair rides, games, and activities suitable for all ages.

Travel Tips

Getting to Ollesummer:

By Air: Tallinn Airport is just 4 km from the city centre, with regular flights from major European cities.

By Ferry: There are frequent ferry connections from Helsinki, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg.

By Train/Bus: Tallinn is well-connected by train and bus to other Baltic and European cities.

Accommodation for Ollesummer

Hotel Telegraaf: This luxury hotel is housed in a historic building in the Old Town. It offers elegant rooms and a spa.

Hotel Palace: Located near Freedom Square, this hotel provides modern comforts with easy access to the Old Town.

St. Olav Hotel: A charming option within the Old Town, offering cosy rooms and a traditional Estonian atmosphere.