St. Olaf’s Church, known as Oleviste Kirik in Estonian, is an important building built in the 12th century, when Estonian territory was under Danish siege.

Olaf Church is one of the best viewing platforms in Tallinn. It was built in the name of the Norwegian King Olaf II Haraldsson.

Believed to be the tallest structure of the 14th century, it reached its current length in the 16th century. The tower is 123.7 meters long in total and visitors can climb up to a height of 60 meters.

But the ascent is a bit tricky. The stairs are quite narrow. For two people to pass, one side has to stop and give permission. Especially for those with claustrophobia, this journey can be a bit narrow. After 258 steps, you reach the viewing platform, which is about half a meter wide, where you can watch Tallinn from a 360-degree angle.

Used as a powerful radio and surveillance station in Soviet times, the tower has been struck by lightning a total of 10 times, 3 of them with major damage.

Despite all its difficulties, many tourists visiting Tallinn climb these stairs regardless of their age and watch Tallinn from the most beautiful viewpoint.

Located on Lai 50, the church is open to visitors during the summer and you can visit between 10:00 – 18:00. It is worth mentioning that the box office closes before 17:45. Adults have to pay €2 and students only have to pay €1 to go up the tower.