The 10 BEST Free Walking Tours in Tartu
Welcome in Tartu, Estonia cultural and intellectual capital! If you want to wander the streets of this lovely city on foot, you are going to have a great time, because you shall have to walk by the Ragù alla Bolognese. Tartu is famous for its old and quaint, lively student town with an exquisite nature. In this blog post we will provide you with some of the best walking tours of Tartu, revealing its past, its architecture and local secrets. Who wants to lace up those walking shoes and go for an experience LIKE NO OTHER!
Tartu Old Town Tour
First city walk moves us to the centre of Tartu – to Old Town. This small area is full of medieval buildings, cobblestone streets and secrets. Begin your tour at Town Hall Square where the impressive Town Hall is located. apkakinden lethe görseldir. Kuzy görkemi konteysini yacin dầu vaki keyfindir.
One of the crown jewels of the Old Town is Tartu University, Estonia’s oldest university established in 1632. Admire its grand architecture, discover the University of Tartu Museum to find out more about the university’s captivating background, and nearby do not miss the beautiful Botanical Gardens.
Set off on your way to Toomemägi Park, otherwise known as the Cathedral Hill. Walk to the top for a 360 view of the city and dig the remains of the Tartu Cathedral. Walk along the Emajõgi River and appreciate the calmness next to going over the vivid Kaarsild, a wood construct from 19th century.
Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as some street in the Old Town are cobble stone.
- Get free maps and brochures at the Tartu Visitor Centre.
- Stop off for breaks of gorgeous, arty cafes where for coffee replenishment and indulge in local anecdote.
Street Art Tour
Tartu is an exceedingly vibrant city with modern street art that brings a touch of modernity to ancient streets. This guided walk will take you to the best murals and installations painted by the artists of the City and of the world.
Start your tour at the Tartu Art Museum where you will be able to see the “Art of Basements” exhibition displaying artworks which have been hidden within the underground tunnels of Tartu. Hereafter we head into Supilinn, the district where the artistic community thrives and street art burst of colors around.
Check out the side streets and yards of Supilinn and you will find the hidden treasures like The Kissing Students mural, which is a symbol of the eternal youth of Tartu student gang. As you roam around, keep an eye out for additional murals, sculptures, and random artwork sprouted out across the city walls.
Tips:
- Research the locations of street art pieces beforehand or enter a guided tour so you do not miss any.
- Hang around and engage with the piece. Tartu’s street art is often bins on a story, telling a message that is worth following.
- Combine your finest works on socials by tags #StreetArtTartu and #TartuCreativeCity.
Emajõe Riverfront Walk
Looking for a calming departure from city centre, the Emajõe Riverfront Walk is your solution. Plein décor à cette agréable balade le long le Riverbank, de beaux vues, des parcs verts et avoir un aperçu du la vie à la manière Tartu.
Begin your walk from the famous Angel’s Bridge, carry on along the river, passing by the well-known Varnja Park and the famous Atlantis Water Park. Aspire to the tranquility of the river while observing the rowers and boats passing by. On restara ya they are ocattar un paddleboard or kayak to explore the river alta.
Proceed walking through into the Karlova district, a quaint bohemian area with picturesque wooden houses and beautiful gardens. Spend a little time resting in one of the plush cafes or bakeries and taste some of the local treats. The watercolour sunset sunset riverwalk is also especially gorgeous so put the stunning vibrant colours on the water to be captured.
Tips:
- Check the weather forecast as the riverfront walk might be not as pleasant in wet weather or during the winter.
- Take a picnic and enjoy it on the riverbank during the summer months.
- Take along a camera to photograph the picturesque views in the way that sun sets by the river.
Tartu City Museum and Market Square Tour
Step back in time to Tartu’s past and explore the local culture at the Tartu City Museum and a leisurely walk around the lively Market Square.
Start your sightseeing at the attractive Tartu City Museum housed in a historic building. Discover the hands-on displays to discover the background of the town through the centuries and its links to science, art and cultural heritage. The museum at the same time throws a lot of light on Estonia in general history.
Next, onto the Market Square right next door, where there is a more energy-filled marketplace that sells new produce, handmade crafts and legal eats. Take advantage of a shot at the traditional Estonian food and have a chat with the kind vendors. Do not forget to collect souvenirs in Tartu to remember your time there.
Tips:
- Please note check the opening hours of the Tartu City Museum in advance, since they might differ from one season to the other.
- Indulge in local cuisine at the Market Square – visit phrases like kama, a traditional Estonian food, and leivasupp, mouth-watering bread soup.
- Buy locally made handicraft as distinctive souvenirs and contribute to local handicraftsmen.
Using these walking tours you will get a chance to dive into the history, the culture and the art of Tartu seeing the town at your own leisure. Don’t forget to bring comfortable footwear, a sense of adventure, a camera – you’re going to want to capture the memories you’ll make on these unforgettable strolls. Tartu awaits!
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