Hints and tips

Before you start planning your trip, our organising team would like to share a few hints and tips to help you make the most of your time in Tartu. We have already included a range of engaging experiences in the programme to help you explore the city in a mobile and sustainable way, as is characteristic of our academic community. At the same time, we would like to offer some additional ideas for discovering Tartu beyond the official programme. Whether you are looking to relax after conference sessions, explore nature, discover local culture, or enjoy a bit of adventure, Tartu offers a variety of experiences within easy reach. We hope these suggestions will inspire you to experience the city more fully during your stay.

On Tuesday evening, 9 June, dinner will take place in the White Hall of the University of Tartu Museum, located on Toome Hill. Since you are already there, take some time to enjoy a walk after a long day in the conference hall or following our lovely conference dinner. The area offers peaceful greenery, scenic views, and, if you’re up for it, plenty of stairs to turn your stroll into light exercise. While exploring Toome Hill Park, look for Angel’s Bridge and Devil’s Bridge. A local tradition says that if you walk across Angel’s Bridge while holding your breath, your wish will come true, perhaps worth trying for your next grant or paper acceptance 😊 (Liisa, Veronika)

If you’d like to extend your stay with a touch of adventure, consider visiting Tartu Adventure Park (Tartu Seikluspark). The high-rope courses offer a fun challenge and can easily fill about two hours – a refreshing and active break after a day of conference sessions. (Laura)

Go for a walk or hop on a city bike to Karlova – one of the most charming neighbourhoods in Tartu. This bohemian district is known for its colourful 19th- and early 20th-century wooden houses, creative spirit, and laid-back atmosphere. Cozy cafés, street art, and community gardens give the area its unique character. Don’t miss a stop at Barlova to sample some well-known Estonian craft beer. (Helen)

Take a walk in the University of Tartu Botanical Garden – a peaceful green space perfect for a relaxing stroll or even a small picnic. Here you can explore a wide variety of plant species while enjoying a calm atmosphere. You might also grab a coffee from a nearby café, find a quiet spot, and “pause time” for a moment to enjoy a slow and peaceful morning. (Tõnis)

Hop on the small self-driving bus on Narva Street and ride it all the way to the Estonian National Museum at the end of Roosi Street. The bus trip itself is part of the experience, and at the destination you’ll enjoy views of the old Raadi Manor site and the former military airfield. The museum building is impressive both inside and out. You can explore the stories of Estonians and other Finno-Ugric peoples, or simply enjoy the architecture and sense of space. On your way back, consider walking instead of taking the bus and stop by the riding school to greet the friendly horses (they would certainly appreciate a carrot 🥕). (Daiga)

If you enjoy jogging or a morning swim, follow the river upstream along the northern riverbank and check out the beach area. Along the way, you’ll pass the Delta study building, the university rowing base, and Lodjakoda (“barge house”). On your way back, you can switch riverbanks, take a small detour through the botanical garden (enter from the back and exit from the front), and discover a small but intentionally wild forest habitat before reaching Town Hall Square. (Age)

Tartu is not only the student capital but also the street art capital of Estonia. The city has embraced murals and urban art as part of its identity, and many works are integrated into everyday neighbourhood life. Keep your eyes open as you walk around town. A highlight is the street art gallery under Vabaduse Bridge, known as the “Freedom Gallery,” where new works constantly appear and older ones gradually blend into new layers. (Jaanika)

Tartu has many charming areas that feel almost village-like, such as Supilinn. If the weather is nice, consider walking or running to Supilinn’s beach near the Tartu Song Festival Grounds. On your way back, you’ll find many cozy cafés where you can treat yourself to a coffee and a pastry. Mandel near Tähtvere is especially charming. Near the University of Tartu main building, the café “Aega on” (“There is time”) offers delicious sandwiches and small gifts. In the city centre, Cruffin is known for its savoury croissants, and Karlova Kohv serves excellent hand-brewed coffee in both Karlova and the city centre. (Elise)