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 14 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 14 local experiences

Crime index

1 /5

Based on 14 local experiences

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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Daryna

Incredibly safe at most places even at night and for lonely people. The only places troubles may occur at are the farthest places from the city centre, tho even they are moderately safe. You can feel free to be yourself and out of judgement or harassment

Posted: April 26, 2025

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Meet locals in Tartu

Polina

About Me

Hey! My name is Polina, i am a student of Tartu University. Im open to new acquaintances and ready to help to explore Tartu city (im not local here, but I live here while studying so I know a bit about that city). I know 3 languages, so i hope it will be easy to understand each other.

Speaking

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Kaisa

About Me

Hey! I'm Kaisa. I like nature, good movies, tasty food, red wine and beer, and just enjoying life. I’m into exploring new places, meeting people (even though I’m a bit shy at first), and discovering cool spots—especially local markets or somewhere with a nice view. Also always down for a night out or a relaxed hang. Or lets go get tattoos! 😅

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Tartu

Anastasiya

Tartu

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I’m 21 years old student from Tartu. I’m studying Theatre Research and Digital Humanities. I really love traveling, meeting up with people and trying something new in life. I enjoy reading books, run, meditate, creating art and taking care of myself. I really enjoy life and I’m trying to share my positiveness with people around me. ☀️

Speaking

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Safety in Estonia

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