This blog post was written by our student ambassador , who is a student of the Computer Science programme at University of Tartu.
This is my first summer in Estonia, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I had already experienced the winter, and honestly, it was amazing. I enjoyed many winter activities here! But coming from a country where it’s summer most of the year, I was curious how the warmer months would be. I wondered how people would dress, how they would carry themselves, how the city and nature would transform, and what new activities I could try.
And then summer arrived. The trees seemed to come alive, their leaves had a very distinct sparkle. The city was waking up. People’s smiles got wider, strangers started chatting with me on the streets, and everything just felt more alive.
I spent my summer between Pärnu and Tartu, and each city offered its own unique experience.
Estonian Summer
One thing you quickly notice is how Estonians celebrate summer. It is apparent that they start their summer with Midsummer’s Night, or Jaanipäev, which is the big celebration. Here you can see bonfires light up the countryside, families gather, good food and everyone celebrates the longest day of the year. You see different traditions of Midsummer’s Night like jumping over the bonfires. Another thing that happens during the summer is the countless festivals and outdoor markets. Some other activities I see the locals participating in are boating, fishing, swimming in lakes, berry-picking, hiking through forests and national parks. It’s a season where the whole country seems to live outdoors, soaking in every bit of sunlight.
Pärnu: Estonia’s Summer Capital
Pärnu is known as the “summer capital” of Estonia, and once you see it, it’s easy to understand why. The beaches stretch on forever, the water is surprisingly warm, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet buzzing with activity. I spent a few days lounging on the sand and getting a tan.
Summer in Pärnu also means endless festivals. One highlight is Grillfest, where the smell of barbecue fills the air, karaoke stages draw crowds, and you can join locals for a real taste of Estonian summer cuisine. Another must-see is the Supeluse Summer Promenade, a lively street lined with cafés, restaurants, and shops. It is like this perfect lively street. Sometimes you’ll stumble upon special events like the Vintage Car Show, where the street transforms into a nostalgic showcase of classic cars. You can chat with the owners, hear their stories, and feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Beyond the city center, you can visit an alpaca farm, explore a butterfly house, or wander along nearby nature trails. And of course, no trip to Pärnu is complete without trying the famous Steffani pizza, a local favorite for every visitor. For international students, Pärnu is a great weekend getaway.
Tartu: Summer in a Student City
While Pärnu is all about beaches, Tartu offers a more urban summer experience. Even though the academic year winds down, plenty of students stay in town, so the city still keeps its vibrant, student-friendly atmosphere. During summer, Tartu comes alive with outdoor events, music, and cozy cafés where you can relax.
One of the best things you can experience is the Tartu Love Film Festival (Tartuff), which hosts outdoor movie nights right in the Town Hall Square. Imagine sitting under the stars watching films projected onto a huge outdoor screen. It's a magical experience, and the best part is that it’s free, making it perfect for students on a budget. The screenings often run until midnight, and with the long summer evenings in Estonia, the atmosphere feels extra special.
There is also the Tartu Food and Wine Festival, where you can sample local flavors and enjoy live performances. It’s a great way to dive into the culinary side of Estonian culture. For a more relaxing afternoon, you can visit the University of Tartu Botanical Garden, which is especially beautiful in summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
The Emajõgi River also plays a big role in Tartu’s summer life. You can take a boat ride along the river, rent a paddleboard, or simply sit by the banks and enjoy the peaceful view. Surprisingly, Tartu also has its own small beaches, where you can sunbathe or take a swim.
Altogether, Tartu combines student energy with cultural richness, making it a city where you can always find something to do.
Reflections as a Student
As I stated before, this was my first summer in Estonia, and at first, I was a bit worried. Many students leave for home during the break, so I thought there might not be much to do. But to my surprise, the activities were endless.
For any international student considering staying in Estonia for the summer, the advice is to embrace local traditions, explore beyond the main streets, and say yes to new experiences. Whether it’s joining a festival, taking a boat ride, or chatting with locals, there’s always something exciting around the corner.
Find out which are available for you in Estonia.
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