A seasoned travel expert who has visited every country on Earth has revealed his surprising pick for the best city in Europe, praising its incredible value, stunning architecture and remarkably friendly atmosphere.
The Ultimate European Destination
Henrik Jeppesen, a 37-year-old Danish traveller who has explored over 2,000 destinations worldwide, has declared Tallinn, Estonia's capital, as his top European recommendation. Having travelled extensively since age 17, Jeppesen brings unparalleled expertise to his assessment of what makes a destination truly exceptional.
"The best city in Europe, in my opinion, is the capital of Estonia, Tallinn," Jeppesen exclusively revealed. "It's very much overlooked for people coming to Europe, and many people who have travelled have never been there."
He notes that while most tourists flock to London, Rome, Paris and Berlin during European visits, Tallinn remains a hidden gem that consistently exceeds expectations.
What Makes Tallinn So Special?
Jeppesen highlights several compelling reasons why Tallinn stands out from other European destinations. The city offers fantastic value compared to Western European capitals, with meals available for as little as €5 at quality restaurants like Rataskaevu 16, which he visited approximately 40 times during his stay.
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town receives particular praise. "I think it's the best old town in the entire world," Jeppesen stated. "You can step out the door, and it's like you're stepping into a new world with well-preserved old buildings and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else I've been."
Having lived in Tallinn for ten months, the travel expert developed deep appreciation for the local cuisine and dining culture. He frequently enjoyed both local Estonian dishes and international options, noting that many restaurants operate within beautiful historical buildings that enhance the dining experience.
Beyond the Old Town: Tallinn's Hidden Treasures
Tallinn's appeal extends far beyond its medieval centre. Jeppesen mentions numerous attractions including beautiful parks, modern shopping malls, museums, and even a waterfall located near the city. The Balti Jaama Turg market offers amazing local produce for those who prefer self-catering.
The city's exceptional air quality sets it apart from other European capitals, addressing a growing concern for environmentally conscious travellers. Jeppesen describes Tallinn as having "probably the best air quality of any city" in Europe.
He strongly recommends the Tallinn Card for visitors, which provides free public transport and discounted entry to numerous attractions, making an already affordable city even more accessible.
The surrounding regions offer additional exploration opportunities, including the islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, plus Pärnu - known as Estonia's 'Summer Capital' for its stunning white sand beaches.
Perhaps most remarkably, Jeppesen emphasizes the extraordinary friendliness of Estonian people, recalling an instance when strangers drove him to the capital after he got lost during explorations. "How many European capitals would you just get a ride from someone in the street and take you there?" he reflected. "I don't think that would happen in London."
With flights from London taking less than three hours and offering excellent value, Tallinn represents an accessible European getaway that continues to fly under the radar of mass tourism while delivering an unforgettable travel experience.
