A Guide to Tartu, a European Capital of Culture 2024
Estonia’s second city, Tartu, is gearing up to host over 1,000 arts and culture projects as it celebrates its title as a European Capital of Culture in 2024. From historic landmarks to vibrant cultural festivals, here’s how to plan your visit to this charming Baltic city.
The iconic Kissing Students statue, located in Tartu’s central square Raekoja plats, symbolizes the city’s romantic spirit. This cobblestone plaza transforms with the seasons, featuring an ice rink in winter and an open-air cinema in summer, making it the perfect starting point to explore Tartu year-round. Nearby, the Tartu Art Museum, known as the ‘leaning house,’ showcases local art, including a current exhibition on 1980s Estonian caricature.
For a taste of local life, stroll down Rüütli Street, where al fresco dining and the underground Gambrinus beer shop await. Stock up on craft beer for a picnic at the Botanical Gardens, where you can relax among blooming flowers and scenic pergolas.
North of the main square, the 14th-century St John’s Church stands out with its copper-colored bricks and mysterious handmade terracotta busts. A short walk away, the University of Tartu’s neoclassical main building, founded in 1632, highlights the city’s intellectual legacy.
In the Karlova neighborhood, historic wooden houses with art nouveau details host a bohemian community. Start your day with coffee at Karlova Kohv and end it with drinks at Barlova, where you can enjoy local DJs and vibrant nightlife.
A must-visit is the Estonian National Museum, housed in a repurposed Soviet aircraft hangar. Its interactive exhibits on Estonian history and culture, including motion-sensing animations and digital books, make for an engaging experience. Throughout 2024, the museum will host various events, such as an exhibition on the Prague school of surrealists and Estonian surreal artists.
Just 25 miles from Tartu, the Onion Route cultural trail along Lake Peipus offers farm visits, cultural museums, and local workshops. Highlights include the Kolkja Museum of Old Believers, showcasing the unique heritage of a community that escaped Russian persecution, and the Peipsimaa Heritage Centre, where you can enjoy treasure hunts and chicory coffee.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the region offers kayaking, hiking, and even extreme events like the Kallaste Karakatitsa car race on frozen Lake Peipus. Alternatively, try a traditional smoke sauna followed by a dip in a cold pond for a unique wellness experience.
Don't miss the National Geographic-inspired yellow frames at scenic locations like Alatskivi Castle, where you can also enjoy local berry wines at Alatskivi Mõisamaitsed.
Four Events in Tartu Not to Miss During 2024:
- Wild Bits
- Technological art installations in southern Estonia’s farms and forests. Until September 15, tickets £8.50.
- Peipsi Food Street 175km
- A two-day food event along Lake Peipus featuring local and innovative dishes. August 17-18, free.
- Paganlik Pärimusöö, Pagan Folklore Night
- Theatrical plays, dances, and forest exhibitions celebrating old pagan traditions. August 24, tickets from £8.
- Ryoji Ikeda Exhibition
- Audiovisual installations by renowned artist Ryoji Ikeda at the Estonian National Museum. November 2, 2024 - March 2, 2025, tickets from £4.