Sustainable Mobility
One of the key pillars of Tartu’s green transition issustainable mobility. The city has introduced a fully integrated transport system in which city buses run on renewable biomethane, saving 4,330 tonnes of CO₂ every year. These buses are supported by a smart bike-sharing system comprising over 800 bicycles. Safe, green cycling lanes connect tourist spots with residential areas and can easily be easily found using a virtual map.
Cultural and Innovative tourism
Tartu is committed to improving the city’s tourism offer by providing with low-impact, human-centred experiences. As well as hosting festivals throughout the year, such as Tartu Student Days, the Urban Space Festival UIT, food and literary events, the city attracts students, professionals, and creatives through the University of Tartu. The University promotes conferences such as the STARTUp day, strengthening its reputation as a hub for learning and innovation, as well as for its cultural scene. Further confirming Tartu’s rise as a cultural centre, the city was named the European Capital of Culture in 2024 and holds the title of Estonia’s Culinary Capital in 2025, thus diversifying its tourism offering. These events strengthen community participation, bring public spaces to life, and encourage entrepreneurship.
Investing in Eco-Friendly Urban Spaces
As part of the urbanLIFEcircles project, the city of Tartu is committed to developing and connecting a network of green spaces to increase biodiversity and reduce the impact of climate change through sustainable urban action. This includes promoting responsible environmental behaviour through guides and recommendations for event organisers. Furthermore, all public institutions in Tartu now operate using only renewable energy. As part of the SmartEnCity project, apartments in the city centre were converted into energy-efficient homes, earning Tartu the Platinum-Level Green Destination title.
