New Review – Hotel Telegraaf an Autograph Collection, Tallinn (TLL)

This booking was made using a free night certificate from Marriott, which you receive after staying 50, 75, or 100 nights. This meant the stay was complimentary, and I also opted for a suite upgrade, which is available after 50 nights. I was fortunate to have both the room and upgrade confirmed promptly. However, whether I would pay the regular price for this stay is discussed in this review. It’s worth noting that hotel prices in Tallinn, like elsewhere, can vary significantly depending on the season and local events.

Location

In short, the hotel is superbly central. A Bolt or Uber can almost drop you right at the hotel. If you exit the hotel, you’re just a few meters from the Old Town and Town Hall Square. The location is hard to beat, especially for travelers interested in exploring Tallinn’s historic sites. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a unique blend of medieval architecture and modern charm.

Tip: If you don’t want to eat at the hotel, you can walk to a small alley almost opposite the hotel and enjoy excellent Italian food at Controvento. This restaurant is a local favorite, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

Check-In

Not all check-ins go smoothly, but this one was no problem. The staff explained that the upgrade was a great benefit. The process was quick, and all the advantages of being a Titanium member were explained. In this case, I received complimentary breakfast and a choice between a $10 bar voucher or some points. I opted for the voucher. This level of service is typical of Marriott hotels, which often prioritize loyalty program members.

Room

The staff insisted on accompanying me to the room with my luggage, which was nice but not necessary. Unfortunately, they didn’t explain much about the room or its features, which was a missed opportunity. A brief tour or explanation of the room’s amenities can enhance the guest experience, especially in upgraded suites.

Upon entering the room, the first thing you notice is the spacious living room. It looks very tidy and chic, especially considering the renovated elements. The hotel is located in a historic building, an old post office, which adds to its charm. The blend of modern amenities with historical architecture is a unique feature of this hotel.

There’s a couch and a long table that invites you to a private dinner or business meeting. It’s logical that there’s a separate toilet here.

You’ll also find a coffee machine and a (payable) mini-bar.

Next to the entrance is a door where you can leave your shoes for the shoe shine service or laundry that needs washing. In theory, you should just press a button to request this, but in practice, you need to call reception or use the Marriott app. This system could be improved for better convenience.

Further to the right is the bedroom with an adjacent bathroom. You can see the style of the room here too (an old post office), but everything has been maintained with great attention to detail. For those who can’t do without their favorite pillow, there’s even a pillow menu, so you can choose which one suits you best. This level of customization is a nice touch for ensuring a comfortable stay.

The bathroom has a shower on the right side, a bathtub on the left, and a second toilet. The bathroom is well-appointed and clean, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to maintaining high standards.

Amenities

The hotel features a pool, two saunas, and a whirlpool, which are advertised as part of its amenities. However, you should be cautious: neither the pool heated to 28 degrees nor the whirlpool is large. In my opinion, this area is too small. There are loungers for relaxation, but only a few, so you might find someone else on them if you’re not quick.

Despite the size, the service is very attentive. Staff always check on guests and clear any empty glasses. In the spa area, there’s complimentary flavored water, which is a nice touch. However, the dimensions of the spa are indeed small, which might be a drawback for travelers seeking extensive wellness facilities.

Breakfast

Breakfast is served near the pool area. The restaurant is somewhat small, and you might struggle to find a free table. The breakfast selection is modest but includes freshly prepared specialties like Eggs Benedict and waffles, which are good. The quality of the food is a highlight, even if the selection isn’t vast.

In the evening, the bar is better attended, and I think the service is genuinely excellent. The drinks might be a bit pricey, but they come with a story in the menu and are prepared with love. This attention to detail in the bar service is commendable and adds to the overall experience.

There’s also a separate room that I highly recommend. The service is polite, and the atmosphere is pleasant and quiet. This room is ideal for those seeking a more secluded spot to relax or conduct meetings.

Check-Out

This was quick and friendly. The invoice sent to me was correct, which is not always the case. Efficient check-out processes are important for travelers with tight schedules, and the hotel delivered on this aspect.

Conclusion

It’s a very nice hotel, especially when you don’t have to pay for it. I wouldn’t pay the regular price of around EUR 746. For that amount, the services provided are somewhat lacking. The hotel excels in its location and good service. Additionally, it’s the only Marriott hotel in Tallinn, which is a side note. While it offers a unique experience with its historical building and central location, the price might be steep for some travelers. However, for those looking to explore Tallinn’s Old Town and enjoy a comfortable stay, it’s a solid choice.