Welcome to Tartu, a leafy university city built around the banks of the Emajõgi River – a spot that comes alive in the summer as all manner of food, drink and entertainment venues spring up along its banks. Second in size only to Tallinn, Tartu is often referred to as Estonia’s spiritual and intellectual heart, yet once you arrive you'll find that it’s also a surprisingly compact place. With everything within easy reach that means there's plenty of time to explore – even on a short break – and there’s always something to see or do thanks to the creative types who are drawn here by its unique charm. There’s plenty of history to be found here too though, from the imposing buildings in the Town Hall Square to the green space of Toomemägi park – a gift from Emperor Paul I to the University of Tartu.
For 2024, Tartu has been awarded the title ‘City of Culture’; a yearlong celebration designed to highlight the richness and diversity of cultures across the continent. Tartu has chosen the ‘The Art of Survival’ as the underlying theme for its celebrations and, with a varied programme of 300 events taking place across the year, 2024 is surely the perfect time to explore this wonderful city.
Join us on a tour of the area and its Michelin-recommended establishments: restaurants Joyce and Hõlm and the Lydia Hotel.

Baltic Foodie Road Trip: Exploring Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius
With the new 2025 Michelin Guide restaurant selections in Estonia and Lithuania just announced, now is the perfect time to explore this lesser-known Baltic region, where a new generation of chefs is drawing attention with bold, creative cooking.

Estonia: Two Star Dining and Sea Views in a Chic Waterfront Neighbourhood
Named after its panoramic view out to sea, 180° by Matthias Diether occupies the perfect spot in the beautifully regenerated Port Noblessner, which sits just a stone's throw from Estonia's UNESCO World Heritage Old Town

Muhu Island – a Haven of Peace & Tranquillity
Explore one of Estonia's hidden gems, where you can unwind in the presence of nature 'Michelin style'