Is Tartu Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Tartu has low crime rates and is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. Locals are friendly and most people speak English, particularly the younger generation. The city is lively, but not crowded, and public transportation is reliable and accessible, even during night time. Police are also responsive. As always, it's important to maintain regular precautions like not wandering off into isolated areas late at night or leaving your belongings unattended.

Safety rating

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.6 /5

Based on 15 experiences from local women

Tartu is currently ranked #2 safest place in Estonia for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.4 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Tartu?

Safety at night:Safe

Tartu is generally safe even when walking alone at night. Crime rate is relatively low and the city is well-lit. However, caution is still advised as with any other place, especially around bars or clubs where there is late night activity.

Public transportation:Very safe

Public transportation in Tartu is known for its reliability and safety. The buses and trams are typically well-maintained and punctual, while drivers are professional and courteous. The city's commitment to upholding safety standards and the presence of surveillance systems on the vehicles further enhance a secure travelling environment. Moreover, Tartu has an efficient and user-friendly mobile ticketing system that further enhances the ease and security of public transportation usage. Violence, thefts, or any other public order disturbances on the public transport are very rare, making the city particularly safe for solo female travelers.

Street harassment:Very low

Tartu, being the second-largest city in Estonia, is well known for its sense of safety and security. As a solo female traveler, street harassment is generally very low to almost non-existent. The educational vibe due to the University of Tartu, as well as the decent respect for personal space propagated by the locals, contributes to this safety factor.

Petty crimes:Very low

Tartu is relatively safe considering petty crimes. It is rare to encounter instances of pickpocketing or purse snatching, especially during the day. However, like any city, it is always important to stay cautious, especially in crowded places or nightlife areas. The local authorities are quite diligent and efficient, which significantly contributes to the safety of the city.

Is Tartu worth visiting?

Solo travel

Very safe and pleasant city, it’s clean and the old part of town is very pretty as well as some neigbourhoods. Loved the national museum and the many cute cafes.

Posted: April 21, 2023

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Is Tartu safe for women?

Safety index

4.6 /5

Based on 15 local experiences

Crime index

1 /5

Based on 15 local experiences

Walking alone as a woman at night feels safe, barely any people around and if anyone is there then all of them are minding their own business, barely no one approaches anyone. Even in winter dark in evening it's nothing to worry about, there is no one chasing anybody. There could be lot of drunks but they do not cause a threat.

Posted: May 29, 2025

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Good small town, lots of students. Tartu has quite a cozy old city center. In 2024 it was the Cultural Capital of Europe. Most of the locals of 18-35y.o. speak/understand English. There are nice places to eat, lots of parks and a nice river to swim in.

Posted: May 10, 2025

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