Kiek in de Kok is a 15th-century artillery tower with a museum and vista point. Its name means “Peep into the Kitchen” in German, in reference to the intrusive views afforded by its viewpoints. Book an English-speaking guided tour for a comprehensive overview of the tower’s place in Estonia’s military history.
Climb up the narrow, steep steps to reach the summit and admire the excellent view of the Old Town of Tallinn. On the top floor is a café with panoramic views of the Toompea area and the harbor.
Watch a short film on Estonia’s military past and the uses of this tower, which served as an apartment block and a repository for archives. Today, it is a museum and photographic gallery, having been fully restored in the 20th century.
Enter the Ingermanland Bastion to talk with a docent about the Bastion Tunnels. Wander through the small tunnel that leads through to the Swedish Bastion. The earliest tunnel was built in the 1630s. Hear from guides how this underground network helped with spying and attacks. Get aboard the time train that takes passengers to the year 2219.
Another highlight of this large museum complex is the Carved Stone Museum, which can be found in the 17th-century tunnel of the Ingeri Bastion. Inspect intriguing portals, coats of arms and tombstones among the gems made from the 15th to 19th centuries.
The museum opens daily Tuesday through Sunday from morning until late afternoon. There is an entry fee with discounts for kids, students and families. The Bastion Tunnels and the Carved Stone Museum have additional fees.
Kiek in de Kok is in the southwestern part of the Old Town of Tallinn. Ride the tram or take a bus to Vabaduse Väljak and walk northwest for a few minutes to get here. Visit the nearby attractions, such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Archeology Museum and the Rahvarinde Museum.