Let the winter in Tartu warm your heart

Tartu is full of cosy corners, delicious flavours, and rich cultural experiences – everything you need for a truly good holiday.

The festive season lasts longer in Tartu Christmas City

On Tartu Town Hall Square, you’ll find the true spirit of Christmas. At the end of November, the enchanting Tartu Christmas City opens once again, welcoming visitors until early January. Along with it, the traditional open-air ice rink comes to life, inviting you to glide on skates right in the heart of the city – around the Kissing Students fountain, one of Tartu’s most beloved symbols and a must-see for every visitor. Beneath the starry sky and glowing light chains, it’s pure winter magic.
If you’re travelling from afar and didn’t bring your skates, no need to worry – there’s a skate rental right next to the rink. The ice rink stays open all winter, all the way until early March.

The European Capital of Culture invites you to enjoy

When it’s frosty outside, Tartu welcomes you into its warm theatres and concert halls. In December, the city fills with Christmas concerts, but the cultural buzz doesn’t end with the holidays – it continues throughout the winter.

Check out upcoming events in Tartu and South Estonia at kultuuriaken.ee and keep an eye on Visit Tartu’s social media channels for inspiration.

Relaxing spa experiences in Tartu

Reward yourself with a spa getaway at V Spa, where warm saunas, soothing rituals, and treatments bring balance to body and mind. The Hotel Lydia private spa lounge adds a touch of luxury to any stay, while Aura Water Centre delights both young and old – with saunas, pools, and a water park, it’s the perfect warm escape from the chilly air.

Museums to explore – whatever the weather

Winter is also the perfect time to discover Tartu indoors. The Estonian National Museum, Tartu City Museum, Tartu Toy Museum, AHHAA Science Centre, Estonian Sports and Olympic Museum, Estonian Agricultural Museum, and many others await curious visitors – whether you come with family, friends, or on your own.

Flavours of Estonia’s official Food Region 2025

When hunger calls, Tartu and Tartu County – Estonia’s official Food Region for 2025 – invite you to taste the region’s authentic and pure flavours. From Lake Võrtsjärv to the shores of Peipsi, local chefs bring together seasonal creativity and local ingredients in inspiring ways. Every bite feels like a warm welcome from the locals – whether it’s in a Michelin-recommended restaurant, a charming café, or the lively market hall.

Take a slow stroll through the city’s cafés and you’ll soon be drawn in by the scent of freshly baked pastries. Each café has its own little story, and sitting by a window with a warm cup in hand feels like being part of it.

February is also the month of Tasty Tartu, the city’s beloved restaurant festival that invites you to enjoy special menus and creative culinary experiences across town. It’s the perfect time to explore how Tartu’s chefs turn local ingredients into something truly memorable – full of flavour, warmth, and heart.

Winter joy – with or without snow

Tartu offers winter fun in any weather. When snow arrives, Toomemägi turns into a beloved sledding hill, the snowy views invite you to wander the city, and winter pleasures can be found in every corner of Tartu and Tartu County. One of the most popular winter events is the Tartu Marathon, bringing together thousands of skiing enthusiasts each February.
And even if the snow takes its time, winter in Tartu is never cancelled – you can always skate on Town Hall Square, and there are plenty of activities and cosy spots across the region. In Tartu, a good holiday doesn’t depend on the weather – the warm feeling is always here.

Come to Tartu

Here, you can relax in your own way – take it slow, discover something new, or enjoy the little everyday pleasures. Everything is close at hand: culture, good food, spas, outdoor activities, and cosy places to simply be.

Plan your trip at visittartu.com – you’re warmly welcome!