Weekend Escape: Tartu, Estonia's Cultural Gems

Discover the intellectual and cultural heart of Estonia in Tartu.

03 May 2023

Tartu, Estonia is a charming and historic city that offers a wealth of cultural and dining experiences. Visitors can explore the medieval Old Town, admire art collections at the Tartu Art Museum, and stroll through the picturesque botanical gardens. With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals, Tartu is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to discover the heart of Estonia.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Tartu

  • Hotel: Stay at the luxurious Hotel Antonius, located in the heart of Tartu's Old Town. This hotel is adorned with an eclectic mix of modern and antique décor.
  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Werner Café and Patisserie. Enjoy their scrumptious croissants and pastries.
  • Walk around the University of Tartu campus and admire its distinct architecture. Don't forget to stop by the stunning Botanical Gardens.
  • Head to the Tartu Art Museum to view some of Estonia's most exquisite art collections.
  • Satisfy your hunger with a traditional Estonian meal at the Restaurant Joyce. Try the Baltic herring with boiled potatoes and sour cream.
  • End your day with a stroll across St. John's Bridge and witness the breathtaking sunset over the Emajõgi River.
Day 2

Adventure around Tartu

  • Enjoy a cup of coffee at the popular Werner Café and Patisserie.
  • Visit the Estonian National Museum this massive building offers a unique insight into the country’s rich history.
  • Hike through the stunning natural landscape at the Aparaaditehas Creative District. This former Soviet-era widget factory has been turned into an artistic hub.
  • Stop for lunch at the cozy and inviting Café Shakespeare.
  • Get a dose of culture by attending an evening performance at the Vanemuine Theatre.
  • End the day with a delicious dinner at Pierre one of Tartu’s finest dining spots. Their menu features modern European cuisine, paired with carefully selected wines.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tartu by plane is to fly into Tallinn Airport and take a connecting flight to Tartu Airport. Multiple airlines offer daily flights from Tallinn, and the journey takes approximately 50 minutes.

Car

The most popular way to reach Tartu is by car. The drive from Tallinn to Tartu takes approximately 2.5 hours via the E263 highway. Car rental is available at Tallinn Airport and in the city center.

Train

There is no direct train service to Tartu, but you can take a train from Tallinn to Tartu. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and there are several departures per day.

Boat

There is no direct boat service to Tartu. However, you can take a ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn and then continue your journey to Tartu by other means of transportation.

Bus

The best way to get to Tartu by bus is to take a direct bus from Tallinn. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, and there are several departures per day from Tallinn Bus Station.

Destination

Tartu

Welcome to the land of endless lakes, forests, and surprisingly good WiFi, where even the weatherman has a sense of humor. And right in the middle of it all is Tartu, your ultimate destination for culture, history, and... wait, what's that smell? Oh, just the world-famous black pudding.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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