Formerly a commercial bank, Barons joined the growing list of luxury Tallinn hotels in 2003. It was redeveloped by an Egyptian and English partnership to address the lack of quality boutique hotels in the middle of the Old Town. And indeed, you could not find a hotel closer to the centre than this one, which looks directly onto the cobbled streets that run into Town Hall Square.

With 34 rooms decorated in elegant browns and greens, art-deco lighting, masculine leather chairs and original pre-war plasterwork, there is a statesman-like, period feel to this hotel that is unique. Look out for the giant safes and vaults that function today as safe deposit boxes and a plutocratic cigar/wine cellar.

There is an impressive sauna/steam room available at 450kr per hour, and a slightly stuffy restaurant as well as a downstairs bar. Every room has free high-speed internet access, but bring your own computer. ‘Just take a walk in the Old Town,’ says the marketing literature. ‘And with every step you’ll feel more and more like a baron.’