Erasmus Experience in Tartu, Estonia by Domitilla

Why did you choose to go to Tartu, Estonia?

I have choosen Tartu, as Erasmus destination, because of the enriching student life and beautiful environment. Students are integral part of the city, that is what makes Tartu one of the best universities in the Baltic region. Furthermore, if you want to improve your Russian language skills and know more about Russia-Eu relations, this is the perfect place to study.

Source

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

6 months lasting scolarship, about 400 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Tartu?

As I said above, student lifestyle is very enriching and challenging. Students come from every part of the world, including Asia, Usa, Australia. A great opportunity to meet new and interesting people, with different ideas and opinions. Thus, intellectual exchange is constant.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Tartu to other students?

Absolutely recommended

What is the food like?

Food is maybe the worst part since traditional Estonian cuisine mix German, Dutch and Russian dishes. However, Russian dumplings and other sweets are really tasty, and you can find every tipe of restaurant in the city: Italian, Georgian, Asian, Russian... With a little bit of patience, you will appreciate food environment.

Source

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Tartu?

I have applied for the student hostel (where foreign students live), but there are also available private rooms and apartments.

How much does it cost to live in Tartu?

Living conditions are not expensive and prices are below Western Europe's standards.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

There are language courses available at the language college and studying the language it is recommendable if you want to deep more the Estonian culture. But, take into account, that Estonian is one of the most difficult language in the world with more than 14 cases and difficult pronunciation. In any case, Tartu University is famous for its language courses since there are more than 20: Estonian, Russian, French, English, Italian, Spanish, Korean... I would recommend Russian courses, there are many levels available and professors are really stimulating.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Tartu from your city?

By plane

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Tartu?

At Moky, where usually there are Estonian and foreign students, or at Illegaard, especially during the weekends.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Tartu?

"La Dolce Vita", italian restaurant, surprisingly makes really good pizzas and other italian dishes. However, Russian and Georgian restaurants are the best with a lot of choice between wines, beers and meat.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Every part of Estonia will surprise you, especially if you explore the countryside where you can find beautiful landscapes and untouched environment. Visit the national park, the villages near Peipsi lake and of course Tallinn and Narva. During winter the atmosphere in these cities is magic

Source

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Tartu in the future?

Enjoy the experience, you won't regret it!