Tallinn TV Tower

The tower was finished in 1980 for the Moscow Olympics sailing regatta held at Pirita, and it is the tallest building in Estonia. In August 1991 defenders barricaded themselves inside to keep the country's broadcasts on air - the story is told on the viewing floor, and it is the part of the visit most people do not expect.

What you actually see

A circular observation floor at 170 metres with glass all round: the old town and port on one side, the forest and Lake Ülemiste on the other, and the Gulf of Finland stretching north. Several floor hatches are glazed so you can stand and look straight down.

There is an exhibition on Estonian innovation and broadcasting, a rooftop that opens in season, and the Walk on the Edge - clipped to a harness, outside the railing, on the open rim of the roof.

When to go

• Clear days - the whole point is the view; in low cloud the tower is inside it.
• Sunset - the best light over the old town and the sea, and the busiest slot.
• Summer - the roof and the edge walk operate; both close in bad weather and in winter.

Honest expectations

It is a long way out of the centre for a view, and on a hazy day the value drops sharply. Check the visibility before committing to the trip.

The edge walk is genuinely exposed and weather-dependent - bookings get cancelled for wind, and the age and health restrictions are enforced.

Nearby

Tallinn Botanic Garden is next door and works well as the same trip. Pirita beach and the convent ruins are ten minutes downhill.