This is a ‘runseeing’ tour of Tartu that hits the highlights of the historic center, city parks, and a section along the Emajõgi River. It clocks in at just over 5k, with good add-on options. Don’t be daunted by the route map — this route is easy to follow, use the map as a guideline. Use Küüni, a pedestrianized main street, as an anchor.

Old Cathedral. Creative Commons

Start with a loop around the impressive Tartu Town Square, location of City Hall and lined with historic buildings. Use Küüni to head south into Tartu Keskpark, and run by the “Father and Son” Sculpture. Exit onto Vallikraavi, into Pirogov Park, a nice city park that hosts the Tartu Tähetorn Museum, Friedrich Georg Wilhelm Struve monument, and an outdoor gym at the southern end. Use the paths that lead into Cathedral Hill (Toomemäe) Park, passing the ruins of the Tartu Cathedral, Johan Skytte monument, & University of Tartu Museum. Exit the northern end onto Lutsu, heading toward the river, passing the Toy Museum. RIGHT on Küüni, enjoying this pedestrian street. Back at Town Square, the final section is a loop through riverside parks. Cross the Arch Bridge (Kaarsild) to the east bank, head north through the riverside Ülejõe Park for 0.5 km, crossing back over on the Vabadussild Bridge into the Botanical Garden of the University of Tartu. Enjoy a loop of the paths, and then head south along the riverside paths, passing several historic monuments.

Add-Ons: Riverside paths & Anne Canal.