Is Tartu Worth Visiting? European Capital of Culture 2024

Let’s be honest. Most travellers only go to Tallinn when they visit Estonia. That’s a shame because the country’s second-largest city is also worth a visit. Not just because it’s the European Capital of Culture 2024 – but also. Here’s why you should include Tartu in your Estonia itinerary:

10 Reasons to Visit Tartu Estonia in 2024

1. European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024

Of course, Tartu being the European Capital of Culture 2024 needs to be the first reason. There will be a ton of events all year round.

2. It’s Less Touristy than Tallinn

Tallinn is beautiful but it’s also absolutely full of tourists. Tartu is much further away from any cruise ships 😉

3. Amazing Street Art

Tartu is full of street art. The main area is Aparaaditehas which is full of art and cool shops, bars, and restaurants. There is also plenty of street art in the city centre. If you still can’t get enough of street art, the Karlova neighbourhood is a recommendation.

4. Rüütli Tänav Pedestrian Street

We love a good car-free city centre.

5. There’s a Ton of Museums

Here are just a few

• KGB Cells Museum
• Estonian National Museum
• Estonian Printing & Paper Museum
• Museum of Natural History
• AHHAA Science Centre

6. It’s Green

You can stroll along the Emajõgi River or visit the Botanical Garden.

7. Delicious Food

Go to Gunpowder Cellar Restaurant (Püssirohukelder) for the unique atmosphere.

Other recommendations are

• Aparaat
• Veg Machine
• Krempel

8. Picturesque Churches

The highlight is the Dome of Tartu. The ruins are incredibly picturesque.

St. John's Church is a Brick Gothic Lutheran church which is also worth a visit. Its most outstanding feature is its wealth of terracotta figurines surrounding the exterior.

9. Soup Town

Soup Town or Supilinn is a neighbourhood full of cute wooden houses.

10. Break up the Journey between Riga and Tallinn

Tartu is a great stop between the Latvian and Estonian capitals.