Tartu Guide
 Tartu is the second largest city in Estonia with a population of 103,000. Tartu is located 185 km south of Tallinn, in the centre of Southern Estonia. The Emajõgi River, the longest river in Estonia with a length of 260 km, flows directly through the city. The first fortress is said to have been built in the 7th century on Toome Hill.
The city hosts Estonia’s oldest university and is therefore home to almost 20,000 students.
Attractions in Tartu
All major tourist attractions that should be covered by any Tartu guide are well within walking distance and can be seen within one day.
University of Tartu (Ülikooli 18)
The university was founded 1632 by the Swedish king. Especially the main building is really worth seeing. The University Art Museum is also located there and highly recommended.
The Botanical Garden belonging to the university should also be part of your trip especially because of its sculptures.
Town Hall and Square (Raekoja)
The square was used as a marketplace since the 13th century and is nowadays the most popular meeting place of Tartu. The fountain with the kissing couple has only stood there since 1998. 210 years earlier the Town Hall was erected overlooking the square.
The most interesting building is in the northern corner of the square, it is a house that is leaning heavily towads the left, but it is stable.
Toome Hill
This is where the history of the city began. you can see the ruins of a 13th century Cathedral (it is now a museum), the University Observatory (closed to the public), Angel’s (from 1838) and Devil’s Bridge (from 1914) here.
Supreme Court (Lossi 17)
The only higher institution of Estonia in Tartu is their supreme court, it is located here since 1993.
Beer Museum
It is said that beer has been brewed in Tartu for almost 1,000 years, A. Le Coq has therefore opened a museum dedicated to beer on their brewery grounds.
Nightlife in Tartu
As there are a lot students in the city you can find a good selection of clubs and bars.
Shopping in Tartu
Tartu Guide recommends the biggest shopping centre Lounakeskus (Ringtee 75), it has lots of shops and also includes an ice skating facility and a 4 D cinema.
For fresh food purchases, the Tartu market at Vabaduse pst is recommended.
Traveling to Tartu
Tartu (Ülenurme) airport (Code: TAY) is located just 9 km outside the city. There are flights from Stockholm and Riga.
From Tallinn you can get an express bus approximately every 30 minutes to Tartu. It will take you about 2,5 hours. If you prefer traveling by train: there are a few daily connections that will take almost as long.
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