Hostels in TARTU, ESTONIA

Tartu – Estonia’s Cultural Capital

Despite suffering heavily from the Second World War, Tartu has managed to preserve a rare mix of old as well as new buildings at the centre which draws tourists to this place. The city planning and architecture of Tartu belong to the pre-independence period and stands witness to its glorious past.

History of Tartu:
The first settlement on the modern day Tartu dates back to as early as 5th century AD as per archaeological evidence. Tartu became a part of Russian empire in 1721 with the Treaty of Nystad. It had to be rebuilt after massive fire struck the city in the 18th century. It became the cultural center of Estonia in the latter half of the 19th century.

Popular Places and Attractions:
There are many attractions in Tartu that are worth exploration. One can begin one’s tour with the Town Hall Square located in the heart of Tartu. Also known as Raekoja Plats, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Tartu. Built in the 1780s, the Town Hall serves as an important landmark of the city.

On the westerly Baltic Coastline of Parnu Bay, one can find some of the best beaches of Estonia. Spending some time alongside the quiet beaches of Estonia is a nice way to relax your body and mind.  Another interesting site for nature lovers in Tartu is the Botanical Gardens, located next to the famous Tartu University. Founded in the early 19th century, Botanical Gardens today proudly displays more than 7000 different plant species, landscaped rock gardens and a magnificent glasshouse.

One shouldn’t miss a visit to other interesting places in Tartu such as St. John’s Church, Tartu University, Toomemagi, etc that ensure that visit to this fabulous city is complete in all respects.

Getting Around in Tartu:
To catch all attractions in Tartu quickly, one can use the readily available public transport system of buses operated by ‘Go Bus’ a good guide is to keep some small change and coins handy to pay for your bus fare.

Places of Entertainment:
There are plenty of shopping opportunities available in Tartu. Lots of shops are concentrated around the Town Hall Square and its nearby streets. Eeden, Kaubamaja and Selver, etc are some of the large and impressive department stores present in Tartu. Tarbijate Kooperatiiv, Annelinna Keskus, Kesklinna Shopping Center are other shopping destinations deserving a mention.

Accommodation Options:
Tartu features a good range of budget hotels being the second largest city in Estonia. A popular alternative to these hotels is the Tartu University Student Village where one can avail of cheap yet clean and modern dormitories, not forgetting guesthouse, bed & breakfast, youth hostels, inns and apartments.    

Estonia’s cultural and intellectual center, Tartu bustles with activities all through the year. The endless tourist attractions of the city invite tourists from all around the globe.

Tartu group accommodation | Cheap hostels & budget hotels