Is Tartu Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Tartu is the second largest city of Estonia, after Estonia’s political and financial capital Tallinn.

Tartu is often considered the intellectual center of the country, here situated the nation’s oldest university, the University of Tartu.

Tourists come here to visit the Estonian National Museum, KGB Museum, Botanic Garden of the University of Tartu, AHHAA science center, and also the contrast of historic and modern architecture in the city.

Popular festivals such a Hanseatic Days in July – Medieval festival featuring fairs, festivities, exhibitions, concerts, dances, merchants and tradesmen; and Stencibility street art festival in April are also will be interesting for tourists.

Warnings & Dangers in Tartu

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Tartu is a very safe city to visit. Index of crime is relatively low, but it is recommended to remain vigilant at all times, keep your valuables in a safe place and be very careful when involved in traffic.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Taxi is a safe way to getting around, but be sure not to catch it from the street. Some drivers will raise the fare. Take a licensed taxi only. Public transport is safe enough.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Petty crime can occur in Tartu, in touristic and crowded places keep an eye on your pockets. Do not leave your valuables in plain sight.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There are no threats of natural disasters in Tartu, apart from occasional flooding and storms. Check the weather forecast before the visit.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

It is necessary to avoid drunk people and not get involved in fights. Be careful with beggars, they can distract you and rob.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Even though there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Tartu in recent years, they shouldn't be ruled out, so be cautioned and check the political situation before your trip.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Use ATM at banks, watch your card, buy tickets only at licensed ticket offices. Be cautioned with those who offer you street help.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

The city is generally safe for women traveling solo. Just follow the rules of common sense such as avoiding deserted and poorly lit streets and areas, and your trip will be great.

So... How Safe Is Tartu Really?

Generally, Tartu is a very safe place.

Index of crime is very low, there no armed mugging and so on.

However, the city has different issues such as not so tolerance students, who can bully you for skin color, race or religion.

It occurs not so often, but there are cases.

Another unsafe issue in Tartu – driving in the wintertime.

Snow, ice and winter darkness – it’s not a safe combination for driving here.

Travelers should be prudent on the road.

Drunk drivers are heavily punished while driving, but are still found on the roads of Tartu.

The road system in the city is quite satisfactory, but wintry conditions can turn them into a mess.

Once winter ends, flooding can occur in low-lying areas when the ice thaws in the spring.

It does occur infrequently but if you happen to come across floodwaters while driving, don’t attempt to cross.

If you catch a taxi on the street some drivers can raise the fare.

So, take it from the app on your smartphone.

An issue in Tartu is petty crimes.

Pickpockets are active throughout the most touristic and crowded places.

Follow normal precautions and do not leave things unattended to avoid trouble.

How Does Tartu Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

You need to have a valid passport to travel to Estonia. For stays that are 90 days or shorter, visas are not required. For longer stays, you will need to obtain a visa from the Estonian Embassy, unless you have Schengen.

Currency

The Euro is the official currency for Estonia. A sign is €; code: EUR. The euro is divided into 100 euro cents.

Weather

The best time to visit Tartu for ideal weather is from mid-May to September. Temperatures feel cold for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a chance of rain or snow throughout most of the year.

Airports

Tartu Airport located 11 km south-southwest of Tartu. It is also called Ülenurme Airport due to its proximity to the village of Ülenurme.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Tartu Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Estonia - Safety by City