'I felt like I'd walked into a Disney film when I visited hidden gem European city'

As the meteorological summer draws to a close, the season of warm beverages, crackling fires and snug attire is upon us. Consequently, the demand for traditional summer holiday destinations begins to wane.

For those seeking an autumn or winter retreat that transports you to a storybook realm, there's a European capital many Brits are unfamiliar with that could be the ideal choice.

Renowned for its Disney-esque charm, the medieval Estonian capital, Tallinn, has established itself as one of Europe's oldest and most picturesque cities.

Its castles and cobblestone streets provide the perfect backdrop for donning a cosy jumper, clutching a coffee or hot chocolate, and meandering around its vibrantly painted pastel buildings topped with red terracotta roofs, reminiscent of the opening scene of a vintage animated film. The cityscape feels akin to a medieval Copenhagen, minus the throngs of tourists and pricey £12 drinks.

Indeed, Tallinn can be particularly economical for a weekend getaway. Dubbed a budget-friendly destination by travel guide Lonely Planet, visitors can anticipate £3.50 pints and even cheaper Vana Tallinn - the local rum liqueur, reports the Mirror.

If you're still in need of some warmth, much like their Finnish neighbours, sauna culture is prevalent in the city, ensuring you'll soon be feeling rejuvenated after a good sweat.

The guide describes the capital as "absurdly photogenic" and brimming with stunning sights. Lonely Planet further said: "Delightful food and vibrant modern culture, and it's no wonder Tallinn seems in danger of being loved to death. Estonia's capital is compact, fashionable and terrific value."

Cafe culture is a significant aspect of Estonia, with hundreds of quaint cafes adorning its streets for centuries, with the oldest one tracing back to 1864.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city's old town undergoes a transformation during winter for its truly enchanting Christmas market.

Likely blanketed in snow, adorned with lights and centred around the city's colossal Christmas tree, many visitors feel as if they've stepped back in time.

During a recent visit, TikTok travel influencer Kirsten Wendlandt advised her followers: "You need to visit this city before it gets too popular. This is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe. It's a place that feels just like a fairytale come to life.

"Its cobbled streets feel like they were plucked straight from a storybook. This city truly took my breath away, and you need to add it to your bucket list."

Budget airlines RyanAir and Wizz both offer direct flights to the capital with return fares costing as little as £34 over autumn and winter, making Tallinn an ideal destination for those seeking a winter getaway without breaking the bank.

For those desiring an extended holiday, a trip to Helsinki can be effortlessly combined with a short ferry ride connecting the two cities.