Tartu – the city of good thoughts
As the oldest city in the Baltics, Tartu moves at its own thoughtful pace and gently reminds you that it’s not only okay to slow down, but essential
Visit TartuPhoto: Riina Varol / Visit Estonia
Tartu
Tartu is the place to go when you need a break from the rush. It’s home to the University of Tartu, the oldest and largest in Estonia. In autumn, students fill the streets with energy and life. In summer, the city quiets down. You get time to breathe, explore, and enjoy the slower pace.
5 reasons to visit Tartu
Photo: Maanus Kullamaa
1. Events for every interest
Tartu offers a vibrant calendar of events all year round – from music, film, and theatre festivals to science, sports, and food events. Highlights include tARTuFF, Stencibility, UIT, and the colourful student days.
2. Colourful street art
Street art in Tartu turns everyday walks into mini adventures. Murals, quotes, and poems often appear where you least expect them, so keep your camera ready.
3. Unique neighbourhoods
Karlova and Supilinn are known for their colourful houses and street art. With 18 neighbourhoods in total, Tartu is full of character and surprising corners to explore.
4. A city with a green mindset
Tartu makes conscious green choices, from maintaining its lush green spaces to thoughtfully organising environmentally friendly events.
5. A place to slow down
Tartu has a calm, easy rhythm. Spend a few quiet hours in a spa, walk by the Emajõgi River, or relax with a coffee by the water.
Hotels in Tartu
Thinking about staying the night in Tartu? Book your ferry tickets together with a hotel stay and save! You’ll get up to 40% off your cabin when you book both through us.
Antonius Hotel
The hotel sits in the heart of the city, right across from the famous university building. Housed in a protected heritage property, it combines valuable antique furniture with modern comforts to create a cosy, homely atmosphere.
Dorpat Hotel
Dorpat is the largest hotel in Tartu, located right next to the Emajõgi River. Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant or a massage at Herb Spa. In summer, the riverboat Pegasus departs from just outside the hotel, offering scenic cruises on the Emajõgi.
Hotel Lydia
Hotel Lydia is truly somethin special. This four-star hotel offers exceptional service, a small and intimate spa, and a fantastic breakfast. Its restaurant, Hõlm, has been featured in the Michelin Guide since 2022.
V Spa Hotel and Conference centre
V Spa Hotel features the largest sauna complex in Tartu, complete with sauna rituals and a spacious pool area for all to enjoy. The rooms are stylishly designed, and the breakfast is simply outstanding – a great start to any day.
Hotel SOHO
Hotel SOHO is perfect for travellers looking to explore Tartu on foot. Located on lively Rüütli Street, it’s surrounded by pubs, restaurants, and local charm. The hotel is also Green Key certified, making it a great choice for eco-conscious guests.
7 places to visit with kids
AHHAA Science centre
AHHAA Science Centre is a fun and fascinating place for all ages – even adults! It’s all about seeing, touching, feeling, and smelling. With so much to explore and try out, be sure to set aside a couple of hours for your visit. A new exhibition is introduced every year, so there’s always a reason to come back.
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University of Tartu Natural History Museum
This is the oldest museum in Estonia. Its permanent exhibition features nearly 8,000 items collected over 220 years of scientific research. Here, you can explore traces of life from millions of years ago and discover the richness of nature.
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Estonian Sports and Olympic Museum
The Estonian Sports and Olympic Museum is the largest and most modern interactive sports museum in the Baltics. With over 15 hands-on attractions and the Estonian Sports Hall of Fame, it’s a fun and engaging stop for all sports fans.
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Photo: Virgo Haan
Upside Down House
Looking for a fun and unique photo opportunity in Tartu? At the Upside Down House, everything from the furniture to the fridge appears to be on the ceiling… or is it? The tilted structure plays tricks on your balance and guarantees plenty of laughs.
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Tartu Toy Museum
The Tartu Toy Museum is one of the largest of its kind in the Baltic States. It takes adults on a nostalgic journey back to childhood, while offering children plenty to see, play with, and explore. Be sure to check the opening times before your visit.
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Tartu Environmental Education Centre
This centre encourages people to appreciate nature and live in an environmentally friendly way. It’s a great spot for families – there’s a large park where you can relax while children enjoy the slides and carousels.
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Ice Age Centre
Just a 25-minute drive from Tartu, the Ice Age Centre is well worth the visit. See life-sized prehistoric animals and learn how the world and Estonian nature has changed through the ages. There’s something to discover for the whole family!
Saadjärve tn 20, ÄksiWhat to see and do in Tartu?
Estonian National Museum
You can take a deep dive into the Estonia’s history, culture, and identity at the Estonian National Museum. The exhbibitons are interactive and showcase everything from everyday life to national traditions. The museum’s striking building itself is worth a visit.
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University of Tartu Botanical garden
The botanical garden has over 10,000 plant species from around the world. With plenty of benches for resting, it’s perfect for a peaceful break. The garden has been in the same location for over 200 years.
Lai tn 38The Leaning House of Tartu
The Leaning House of Tartu isn’t just fun to photograph – you can also step inside. This tilted building is home to an art house with many interesting exhibitions that change every month.
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Photo: Mana Kaasik
“The Kissing Students”
“The Kissing Students” is a beloved symbol of Tartu, this sculpture and fountain has stood since 1948. It’s a popular spot for wedding photos, good luck wishes, and even the occasional dip.
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A. Le Coq Beer Museum
At the A. Le Coq Beer Museum, you’ll discover the fascinating history of beer culture, spanning thousands of years. The museum’s Beer World is one of Tartu’s newest and most modern experience centres.
Laulupeo pst 15Tartu City museum
Tartu City Museum tells the story of the city through the ages. Its permanent exhibition, “Our Tartu”, takes visitors on a fascinating journey through different time periods and neighbourhoods, offering a deeper understanding of Tartu’s past and identity.
Narva mnt 23University of Tartu Museum
This museum highlights the history of Estonia’s oldest university, with exhibits on science, education, and student life. It’s a great place to explore the roots of academic culture in Tartu.
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Photo: Peter Paxx
TYPA letterpress and paper art centre
Do you know how paper is made or books were printed before the digital age? At TYPA, you can find out by trying traditional letterpress printing, exploring vintage machines, and even making your own paper.
Kastani tn 48fThe best restaurants and bars in the city
Tartu is the flavour hub of South Estonia, with plenty of cosy cafés and a mix of restaurants serving both local and international dishes. In summer, you might even find yourself in someone’s garden during a home café event, enjoying simple, homemade food in good company.
Hõlm
Hõlm is an exceptionally fine restaurant, renowned for its open kitchen concept and outstanding service. Even the youngest guests are treated as honoured visitors. Featured in the Michelin Guide, it’s a dining experience well worth your time.
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JOYCE
JOYCE has also made it to the Michelin Guide recommendations. They put a lot of effort to the tastes and presentations. Their cockatil menu is full of delicious choices. Some consider it the best restaurant in Tartu.
Riia tn 2Krempel
Krempel is a cosy spot for meeting both new and old friends. Its romantic courtyard invites you to linger, and your coffee might come with a little note on the napkin. They offer all-day breakfast, and you can watch how the chefs make your meal with care in their open kitchen.
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Kampus
Kampus is a unique restaurant concept that brings several smaller kitchens under one roof. With a focus on variety, it offers street food to suit every taste – from Peakoka Nurk and Kampuse Baar to KAUSS poke bowls and Uulits street gourmet.
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La Dolce Vita
La Dolce Vita is a true Italian restaurant, owned and run by Italians. Some of the pasta is imported from Italy, while the rest is made fresh on site. The dishes are prepared using simple yet authentic ingredients. And don’t leave without trying their delicious gelato!
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Werner
Werner is known for having the best cake selection in Tartu. Over the past 125 years, this beloved café has become a meeting place for musicians, artists, actors and writers, all enjoying a coffee and something sweet alongside it.
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Aega On
Aega On is a thoughtfully created meeting place where a cosy local café, a charming wine bar, and a small clothing outlet come together under one roof. It’s a space that invites you to slow down, enjoy good company, and discover something new for yourself.
Jakobi tn 17Shopping in Tartu
Best shopping malls
Tartu’s main malls – Kaubamaja, Kvartal, and Tasku – sit side by side in the city centre, offering fashion, beauty, and quick dining. Kaubamaja also has a Levi’s store. For more variety and family fun, head to Lõunakeskus just outside the city centre.
Riia tn 1Kiiks ja Knihv
Kiiks ja Knihv is the place to find quirky, feel-good gifts that are sure to make you smile. The shop features a unique selection of Estonian design and creative souvenirs from small European producers.
Rüütli tn 7HOPP DISAIN
If you’re looking for Estonian desinger stuff, head over to HOPP DISAIN. You can find home accessorties, clothing, jewellety there.Looking for Estonian design? Step into HOPP DISAIN, a small shop where local creativity shines. You’ll find unique home accessories, stylish clothing, and handcrafted jewellery, all made by talented Estonian designers.
Küüni tn 4Toompood shop
At Toompood, the University of Tartu Museum’s gift shop, you’ll find unique and practical items. Send a postcard to a friend or choose handmade jewellery crafted by local art students to take home a meaningful souvenir.
Lossi 25Studio store Karud ja Pojad
Karud ja Pojad is both an art gallery and a vintage shop where creativity happens on the spot. The studio features vintage finds and original works made in-house, along with puppet art, prints, paintings, ceramics, and pieces by other artists.
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Photo: Renee Altrov
How to get to Tartu from Tallinn?
Tartu is about 180 km from Tallinn, and getting between the two cities is easy. If you’re not travelling by car, you can reach the bus or train station from the port by tram or bus. The journey to Tartu takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes.