Tartu, Estonia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Tartu, Estonia? If you're planning to go to Tartu, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Tartu, Estonia

Based on the climate and weather in Tartu, Estonia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Tartu, Estonia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Tartu, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Tartu, Estonia by month

January

Traveling to Tartu in January, you will notice that it is biting cold and very snowy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month and snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

In February, Tartu is biting cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Tartu, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

In March, Tartu is very cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Tartu, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Tartu is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. It also snows once in a while. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Tartu can be chilly and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in Tartu is mild and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

In July, Tartu is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Tartu, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in this region can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in this region can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Tartu is very cold, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you are traveling to Tartu in December, you will notice that it is very cold and very snowy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Estonia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Tartu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to go to the must-see St. John's Church, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Tartu, Estonia

Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city, is located in the Southern region of the country. Known as the intellectual capital of Estonia, Tartu is a popular tourist destination for its rich history, impressive architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Here is a list of Tartu's top tourist attractions.

1. Tartu University

Tartu University, the oldest and most prestigious university in Estonia, is located in the heart of the city. Founded in 1632, the university is a beautiful example of classical architecture, and its magnificent main building is one of Tartu's most iconic landmarks. Guided tours of the university are available for tourists to learn about its history and its significant role in Estonian culture and education.

2. Tartu Old Town

The charming Old Town of Tartu is a fascinating area to explore, with its winding cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and beautiful parks. The Old Town contains many delightful cafes, galleries, souvenir shops, and traditional taverns, which serve local cuisine and beer. Kalda, Uueturu, and Raekoja plats (Town Hall Square) are some of the most picturesque squares in the Old Town.

3. Toomemägi Hill

Toomemägi Hill, located in the center of Tartu, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The hill is home to several parks, museums, and historical landmarks. Visitors can visit the ruins of the Tartu Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century, or explore the spectacular sculptures, fountains, and gardens around the hill.

4. AHHAA Science Center

The AHHAA Science Center is one of Tartu's most popular attractions, offering interactive exhibits, workshops, and live demonstrations. The center is dedicated to science and technology, and it's a fun and educational place for visitors of all ages.

5. Tartu Art Museum

Tartu Art Museum is a must-visit attraction for art lovers. It features an impressive collection of Estonian and European art from the 18th century to the present day. Visitors can admire works of art by famous artists such as Michel Sittow, Johann Köler, and Oskar Kallis.

6. Emajõgi River

The Emajõgi River, which flows through the center of Tartu, is a beautiful place to enjoy the outdoors. River cruises and boat tours are available, giving visitors an opportunity to explore the city from a different angle. Picnics, fishing, and sunbathing are also popular activities.

7. Supilinna District

Supilinna District, located in the eastern part of Tartu, is a hip and artistic neighborhood with a unique vibe. The district is full of colorful wooden houses, quirky street art, and independent bars, cafes, and shops. It's a perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring the charming streets and soaking up the local culture.

In conclusion, Tartu is a wonderful destination for travelers seeking to explore historical landmarks, experience the local culture, and immerse themselves in the beauty of Estonia. With its delightful blend of ancient architecture, modern attractions, and natural landscapes, Tartu is a city that caters to every kind of traveler.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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