Erasmus Experience in Tartu, Estonia by Sophia B.

Why did you choose to go to Tartu, Estonia?

My teacher showed me Tartu. I think Estonia is a really beautiful country. If the people go on holiday, they go to a known country, so I am glad that I went to a small country. I literally fell in love with the Estonian culture, the country, the city and those people.

Source

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

I was four months in Tartu. I got 400 euros per month. This is enough for a room in the dormitories, meals and to have some fun.

What is the student lifestyle like in Tartu?

It had a lot of entertainment options.

There are cafes und restaurants (less expensive - more expensive). There are many park plus, the city also organized a lot of programs.

First day of school pancake breakfast was the best.

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

Of course, Tartu is the second largest city in Estonia. If you want to relax, you want to learn something, you want to have fun, then this city is the right place.

Source

What is the food like?

There are a lot of restaurants and many shops. In the shop you can find a "you cook it yourself" or a ready meals. Ohh and you should try the deer meat.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Tartu?

There is a website about the dormitotories. I think the Raatuse the best dorm. The erasmus students are together, and at Raatuse you can organise a lot of stuff, as "corridor parties".

Source

How much does it cost to live in Tartu?

I think that 400 EUR per month is enough.

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

They offer a lot of language courses here in Estonian, English, German and Russian. Most Estonian speak English but in the stores, it was difficult, so it's good if you know a few words in Estonian. For example: Tere - Hi

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

The bus is cheaper, but it is also possible to go by plane.

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

MOKU! The best place in Tartu! Illusion is also a good partying place or Shooters. Shooters is free, you just show your ID card and you can party all night. You can also go to the cinema or into the theater. Tartu not alive!

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

The Hölm Restaurant is really good and the waiters are really friendly.

The Jam Jam is a fast food restaurant. It is cheaper and delicious, like the Hesburger (if you like McDonald's.. Because Hesburger is the Estonian McDonald's).

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Tartu is a City of Science: apart from universities, there are numerous research institutions, organisations that promote science and companies that operate in the field of science. The heart of Estonian medicine, Tartu University Hospital is also located in Tartu. Companies operating in the sphere of science are developing in the Tartu Science Park.

Tartu is a City of Museums: the total number of museums in the city reaches 25. Many specialise in history and science, but Tartu also hosts the Estonian Sports Museum, the Estonian Literary Museum, a toy museum and a beer museum.

Tartu is a City of Cafés: the historical tradition of cafés occupies a significant place in the city life: this is what brings together the academic society, townspeople and music events.

Tartu is a Green City: all the districts of Tartu have their own parks and trees line at the banks of the Emajögi River. In addition, walking trails on the outskirts of the city and the fields in Aardla and Ilmatsalu are favoured by birdwatchers.

Source

Tartu is a City of Theatre: busy theatre life in Tartu has never stopped since 1870. Apart from Vanemuine, the largest theatre in the city, there is also a range of smaller companies. Not only is Vanemuine the oldest theatre in Tartu, but also features the largest scope of performances: all genres, including modern musicals, classical opera, drama and ballet.

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

You can get to know a lot of people in Tartu! Meet! Have fun! Learn! Eat delicious food! Once a week go for a walk along the river! Explore Tartu!

Tartu is a good choice! I recommend it to everyone!