Week 8: Tartu

Just before my Museum Card expired, I decided to set foot in Tartu! 🚆 Known as the second-largest city in Estonia, it is truly the country’s intellectual and cultural heartbeat. It’s home to the prestigious University of Tartu and the stunning National Museum. 🏛️✨

To get there from Tallinn, you can choose between the train or the bus. 🚌 Pro tip: Buses are much cheaper and offer way more time slots than the train! 💸

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🏛️ Estonian National Museum (Eesti Rahva Muuseum)

I left Tallinn in the morning and arrived in Tartu just in time for lunch after a smooth 2-hour ride. 🥪 The National Museum is located in the suburbs, about 3 km from the city center. Right in front of it, you’ll find the famous Upside Down House (Tagurpidi Maja)! 🏠🙃

While the collection itself is niche, the museum experience is top-notch. 🎫 You can swipe your ticket at any exhibit to save the information online to read later—super high-tech! 💻 Check out my digital collection here: My ERM Link.

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🍻 Gunpowder Cellar (Püssirohukelder)

This unique spot was originally an 18th-century gunpowder storage hall built into the hillside near the University. 💣 Today, it has been converted into a massive restaurant with incredibly high ceilings! 🥘

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⛸️ City Hall (Raekoda)

The vibe at the City Hall square is magical. ❄️ There is a free skating ground set up right in front! If you don’t have your own skates, you can rent a pair for just 8 euros. ⛸️✨

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🏫 University of Tartu Museum (Tartu Ülikooli muuseum)

Located on Toome Hill, this building is a fascinating mix of a restored museum and ancient ruins. 🧱 It was largely destroyed during the Great Northern War, but now it serves as the university’s museum, offering a deep dive into Estonian history from 1300 to 1900. 📜

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💭 Final Thoughts

Tartu feels very different from Tallinn. It doesn’t rely on a “Medieval Old Town” vibe; instead, the entire city feels like one big, academic campus. 🎓

Also, a fun observation: unlike Tallinn, where Rimi or Selver seem to be everywhere, Coop is the king of the streets here. 🛒 And honestly? The fried chicken at Coop is surprisingly good. 🍗😋