Tartu is Estonia's second largest city. Located in the southeastern part of the country, it's very much a University town. With a population of over 100,000 people--many of whom are students--it's lively and enthusiastic.

Tartu University is one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1632. Although mostly unknown to Westerners, it has produced numerous scientific luminaries, including Karl Ernst von Baer, the founder of embryology.

Tartu feels energetic with
ongoing construction and
modern architecture.

Tartu boasts shops and restaurants and night clubs and theaters and hotels. Construction is rampant as the city grows. Lighted bridges cross the Emajõgi river and various memorial statues line it. Other statues dot the streets and plazas. There's a feeling of "class" about the city. It's beautifully lighted at night and it feels safe and alive.