Tartu Transportation Essentials – Paola (Mexico)

Welcome to Tartu, fellow students! I understand that transportation plays a crucial role in helping you navigate your way around the city. In this blog post, I’ll provide you with an overview of the different transportation options available in Tartu, along with some helpful tips to make your travels smooth and easy. Who needs cars when you have such an easy system?

Public Transportation: Buses 

Tartu offers a reliable and efficient public transportation system consisting of buses  operated by AS GoBus. They are the most common modes of transportation for getting around Tartu, and they cover the city and the outskirts

To use them, you will need to purchase a smart card called “Ühiskaart” from one of the many kiosks or online. The card can be loaded with credit, and you simply tap it on the card reader when getting on the bus. Tickets can also be purchased on board, but they are more expensive than using the card.

One of the perks of being a student in Tartu is that you are eligible for discounted fares on public transportation. If you are younger than 19 you can have the “child” discount and people between 20-26 years old fall into the “youth” category and you can also enjoy reduced rates, making it an affordable option for your daily commute or exploring the city.

Bus cards can be purchased at R-Kiosk, shopping centers and other stores

Steps for getting your card set up:

1. Buy a card from sales points or online
2. Register your card
   *at sales points (€1)
   *on the Internet www.tartu.ee/bussikaart (for free!)
3. Personalize your card to apply for discounts

* https://tartu.pilet.ee/personalise

1. Load money onto your card or buy a ticket:
   *at sales points
   *at www.tartu.ee/bussikaart
   *via your mobile phone
2. Board the bus and hold your card up to one of the on-board validators, until you hear a beep.
3. Safe travels!

Personally, I love the bus system. It’s usually on time, not too packed and it can take you pretty much anywhere in the city!

Cycling: A Popular and Eco-Friendly Option

Tartu is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure and cycling culture. The city has an extensive network of cycling lanes and paths, making it easy and safe to get around on a bike. Cycling is not only a convenient mode of transportation, but it is also eco-friendly, economical, and a great way to stay active.

If you don’t have your own bike, don’t worry! Tartu has a big rental system,called Tartu Smart Bike where you can rent a bike for a short period of time at an affordable price. You can also purchase a second-hand bike from one of the many bike shops in Tartu or through online platforms.

How can I use a rental bike?

1. Create an account in the Tartu Smart Bike app or on the website ratas.tartu.ee .
2. Link the account to a bank card.
   • If you want to use a bus card to unlock the bike, link it to the bike circulation account (enter the personal identification number and bus card number in the online application). This way you don’t need the app.
3. Buy a bicycle period ticket or a bus and bicycle joint ticket.
4. Choose a bike and unlock it with the Smart Bike Tartu application or with a bus card

Done riding?

1. The bicycle can be returned to any bicycle parking lot. There are many around the city so you will see one near your destination.
2. Push the bike into the dock and wait until a message appears on the screen and a beep sounds.
3. If there are no free spaces in the parking lot, leave the bike next to the parking lot (within a radius of 5 meters) and secure it with the additional lock in the bike basket.

Make sure to return the bike to the parking lot within five hours, since the late fee is 80 euros!

Walking: Explore Tartu at Your Own Pace

Tartu is a compact city, and many of its popular landmarks and attractions are within walking distance. Walking is not only a budget-friendly option but also a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s unique charm and discover hidden gems (plus, you get in some steps for the day). You can walk along the picturesque Emajõe River, explore the historic Old Town with its cobblestone streets, and visit the University of Tartu’s main building, which is a significant landmark in the city.

Taxis and Rideshare Apps: Convenient for Short Trips

If you’re looking for a quick way to get around Tartu or if buses have stopped operating late at night, taxis and rideshare apps are a viable option. Taxis are readily available throughout the city, and you can easily hail one from the designated taxi stands or through a taxi app. Popular taxi companies in Tartu include “Tartu Takso” and “Forus Takso”.

In addition to traditional taxis, “Bolt” is also available in Tartu. Personally, this is my go-to when I am in a rush or need to take luggage and heavy items. The fares are reasonable and you can use the app easily. The app also offers the option to rent an electric scooter. They are located all around the city and are very quick to use

Safety Tips for Getting Around Tartu

While Tartu is generally a safe city, it’s important to keep some safety tips in mind when using public transportation or walking/cycling around the city:

1. Always carry your Ühiskaart or valid ticket when using public transportation and be prepared to show it to the ticket inspector. You don’t want to risk a fine
2. When cycling follow traffic rules, bike stop signs and beware of people
3. Lock your bike securely with a sturdy lock to prevent theft.
4. If you are walking, make sure to follow the stop signs and avoid standing in the bike lane

As an international student in Tartu, you have a variety of transportation options to help you get around the city conveniently and affordably. Whether you choose to use public transportation, cycle, or walk, Tartu offers a safe and efficient transportation system!