Tartu
It is claimed that while moving around the city you can encounter the spirit of Tartu, a mystical creature that forces you to return to the city again.
European capital of culture in 2024
The intellectual, bohemian character of this city has not changed over the years. People say that while walking around the city, one may meet the spirit of Tartu, a mystical figure that forces one to come back to this city time after time. The distance between Tallinn and Tartu is a touch longer than 180 km and it is easy to cover in your own car, by bus or by train.
Our recommendations in Tartu
Estonian National Museum
The Estonian National Museum is a great architectural attraction. The essence of being Estonian is presented in modern virtual ways in the museum's permanent exhibition called Kohtumised, Encounters.
Ahhaa Science Center
Science, adventure and entertainment. The Science Centre Ahhaa puts on exhibitions that are, most often, interactive, so you may see with your own eyes and touch everything with your own hands.
Energy from Water Park
The Aura Centre sun and water park features many pools, water slides, saunas, and even a light therapy room. In summer, you can recoup your energy on the sun terrace as well.
Jaani Church
Due to its unique terracotta statues, the Jaani kirik, or St. John's Church, is a rare medieval destination even considering all of northern Europe. Very popular church concerts are given here.
The Leaning House
The Leaning House of Tartu is also called Tartu’s Tower of Pisa. The house was built beside the medieval city wall in 1793, and one half of it was constructed on a weak stone foundation. If you dare step in, you will find the Tartu art museum exhibition presenting Estonian art.
Toy Museum
The toy museum will carry adults back to their childhood memories while it offers children the possibility to work with a real puppet theatre. This exhibition features very old toys, traditional Fenno-Ugric toys and even toys that have appeared in animated movies made in Estonia.
Churches
Due to its unique terracotta statues, the Jaani kirik, or St. John's Church, is a rare medieval destination even considering all of northern Europe. Very popular church concerts are given here.
Up and down house
The Leaning House of Tartu is also called Tartu’s Tower of Pisa. The house was built beside the medieval city wall in 1793, and one half of it was constructed on a weak stone foundation. If you dare step in, you will find the Tartu art museum exhibition presenting Estonian art.
Aparaaditehas
The toy museum will carry adults back to their childhood memories while it offers children the possibility to work with a real puppet theatre. This exhibition features very old toys, traditional Fenno-Ugric toys and even toys that have appeared in animated movies made in Estonia.