Find your bloom in Tartu
When life gets busy and the days feel too full, Tartu is the perfect place to slow down. Life here moves at a gentler pace. Mornings smell of fresh coffee and pastries, days unfold in parks, cafés and galleries, and evenings offer endless ways to unwind. There’s space here – to think, to breathe, to simply be.
You don’t have to choose between a city break, a nature escape or a relaxing spa day – in Tartu, you’ll find it all in one place. You don’t just visit Tartu. You feel it. Come to recharge, feel inspired, and create those memories you’ll look back on for years to come.
Getting here is easy too, whether by car, bus, train, or plane via Helsinki. A smooth journey brings you straight to Tartu – a city that invites you to feel good in your own rhythm.
Tartu is a place that captures your heart with every moment — a city where inspiration flows and you can truly bloom.
Flavours to lift your spirits
And when the sun begins to set, head to one of the lively places along the Emajõgi river for a relaxed evening with delicious food and drinks.
For a taste of countryside charm, make time to explore the Onion Route where you’ll find smoked fish, traditional onion dishes, and delicious homemade pastries.
Creativity around every corner
In Tartu, creativity is all around. Whether you’re creating something, discovering something new, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the city invites you to stay curious – and gives you space to bloom in your own way.
Wander through districts of Karlova and Supilinn, spot colourful murals, step into Tartu Art Museum, explore Pallas Gallery and Antonius Courtyard, or get hands-on at TYPA centre. Pop into the Widget Factory (Aparaaditehas) or browse local designs at HOPP design shop. For a playful twist, visit the Upside Down House and see the world from a new angle. Tartu is full of quirky places and inspiring events – perfect for pausing, wandering, and letting your own ideas bloom.
Family holidays that warm the heart
Tartu is made for families. It’s big enough to offer endless adventures, but small enough to feel safe and manageable. Everything’s close, and thanks to the city’s compact size, you can get around easily on foot.
Explore hands-on fun at the AHHAA Science Centre, play at the Sports and Olympic Museum, revisit childhood memories at the Toy Museum, and discover exciting experiments with the Crazy Scientist at the University of Tartu Museum. Or hop aboard a traditional barge, or build your own mini-barge at the Barge Chamber, right next to a fun riverside beach and playground.
The Estonian National Museum, dedicated to the story of Estonia and its people, is also a must-visit, with exhibitions that come to life for all ages.
Events that bring people together
Tartu is full of culture and joyful energy, and in summer, it truly comes to life.
Many neighbourhoods celebrate their unique vibe with local festivals, opening up private courtyards to visitors for a taste of real Tartu hospitality. Midsummer’s Eve is celebrated in Raadi Manor Park beside the Estonian National Museum, with more bonfires and gatherings lighting up the surrounding county.
Estonian Aviation Days, street art festival Stencibility, all kinds of concerts, folk traditions, and sports events fill the summer with energy. Rally Estonia brings high-speed excitement, while Tartuff transforms the Town Hall Square into a magical open-air cinema. For food lovers, the Tartu Food and Wine Festival is a must – full of flavour, fun, and community spirit.
At a buzzing festival or in the quiet glow of a courtyard concert, you just might find your bloom in the most unexpected moments. For upcoming events, visit www.kultuuriaken.ee.
Nature that clears your mind
To explore the city centre at your own pace, pick up the Tartu walking tour map from the information centre in the Town Hall. It will take you to both well-known sights and hidden gems in just a few hours.
Want to see even more? Tartu Smart Bike Share makes it easy to hop on a bike and discover the city’s parks, riversides, and charming neighbourhoods on two wheels.
Make this your summer to remember
Come to Tartu this summer. When autumn arrives, you’ll look back and feel it in your heart: this was the summer that truly meant something.
