Tallinn to Tartu: travel options
Approximate direct distance: 163 km • Travel distance depends on the route and transport you choose.
Choosing your journey
Compare a direct coach with Elron’s train for your date. The coach arrives near Tartu’s centre; the railway station needs a separate walk or local journey.
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Side-by-Side Transport Options
Recorded fares and journey times. Check each operator before booking.
Swipe the table horizontally to compare every option.
| Transport Mode | Operator | Duration | Price guide | Stations / Airports | Key Booking Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Direct | Regional Operator | 2h 30m | Choose a departure for the fare |
Dep: Tallinn Bussijaam or booked airport stop
Arr: Tartu bus station or booked city stop
|
About2h30 is a planning allowance. Choose the precise boarding stop, departure and fare; leave extra time after a flight. Tickets and times |
Coach from the city or airport
Lux Express serves Tallinn coach station and Tallinn Airport on this route. Select the stop you will actually use. Allow around 2h30 from the city as an initial planning allowance, then follow the booked service time. Tartu bus station is convenient for the centre; other stops may suit a particular room better.
When the train suits you
Elron trains leave Balti jaam, a different place from the coach station. Check the dated east/south timetable and any replacement-bus notice. Standard-class tickets do not reserve a seat; first class has a reserved seat. Add the journey from Tartu railway station to your accommodation.
Build a calm first afternoon
For a flight arrival, leave time for baggage and a delay before the airport coach. In Tartu, leave bags before a river and centre walk. Keep the Estonian National Museum for a block of time that also includes travel to Raadi, rather than a short gap after arrival.
Plan the arrival
Continue with the Tartu guide when choosing a base and local visits. Add this journey separately to your daily spending plan. The distance above compares the city centres in a straight line; the route you travel can be longer.