Tartu Delight: A Vibrant University Adventure

Discovering the charm of Estonia's cultural capital - Tartu.

22 April 2023

Tartu, Estonia is a charming university town located in the heart of the country. As a tourist, you can explore the city's rich history and culture by visiting museums, historic sites and galleries. You can also enjoy local cuisine, attend cultural events, and experience the beautiful nature that surrounds the city.

Day trip plan

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Day

Tartu: The Quaint University Town

  • Start your day by fueling up with coffee and pastries at Werner Cafe & Bakery, a local favorite.
  • Visit Tartu University's Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis with over 6,000 species of plants.
  • Explore Tartu's Old Town, the city's heart with colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and charming cafes.
  • Check out the quirky and interactive science center AHHAA, perfect for both kids and adults.
  • Have lunch at one of Tartu's best restaurants, Fii, which serves up modern Estonian cuisine.
  • End your day with a pint at Püssirohukelder, a cozy pub housed in a 17th-century gunpowder cellar.

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.

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