6 million euro hotel project to bring new life to Sillamäe

Text and photo Susanna Poikela

An abandoned administrative building in Sillamäe, Eastern Estonia, is set to undergo a major transformation being transformed into a boutique hotel by its new owner. The 6 million euro project, funded by the EU’s Fair Transition Fund, will renovate the neoclassical Soviet-era structure into modern, upscale accommodation, breathing new life into the building and town.

Sillamäe, known for its Stalinist architecture and rich industrial history, was once a closed Soviet city due to its involvement in nuclear production. During this time, it was called ‘city number seven’ and remained off-limits to the outside world.

Today, the town is emerging as a growing tourist destination. Its waterfront promenade, the grand staircase leading from the town square to Mere Puiestee, and the historic buildings along the charming park street are popular among visitors. The city’s rich history, combined with these attractions, are drawing more tourists each year.

For those interested in the town’s history, the Sillamäe Museum is worth a visit. It offers six distinct exhibitions, covering topics such as the town’s past, 20th-century music, and local farm life from the late 17th to early 20th centuries.

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Accommodation in Sillamäe East Estonia Estonia Seaside Towns Sillamäe Soviet-era Architecture Tourism in Estonia where to go Estonia