Pihlaka Café in Tartu

Otepää is like the cradle of the blue, black and white flag of Estonia – the current national flag of Estonia was consecrated and blessed here on 4 June 1884. First of all, the flag was used by Estonian students, then it became the national flag of Estonia and when the Republic of Estonia was created, the colours blue, black and white were declared the national colours. The concept of the museum came from Pastor of the Otepää Maarja (St Mary’s) Congregation of the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Jüri Stepanov (02.03.1952-17.06.2008), who was also in charge of its establishment. The Estonian Flag Room was opened in the Otepää Rectory on 23 December 1996 to illustrate the story of the black, blue and white flag that is so important for Estonians.

The first stone bridge to be constructed in the Baltic States was erected in the 18th century at one end of the Town Hall Square in Tartu, with two triumphal arches and a raisable mid-section. Dedicated to Russian empress Catherine II, it was opened to traffic in 1784. The bridge was destroyed during World War II. All that remains to admire is the 2004 model of the bridge (created by Tiiu Kirsipuu).

Ponyland welcomes both children and adults!We introduce children and adults to the life of ponies and horses. We can take your child on a 2.5 km-long pony ride in our domed landscape. You can also organise a birthday party on the territory of the pony kindergarten.During the tour, you will get to meet our animals.You can:ride a ponyfind out how soft the alpacas arepet horsesfeed sheephear what sound a donkey makessee chickens and geese, sometimes chicksplay with dogs and cats

Tartu Pioneers' Alley is an alley of footprints by Tasku Centre, on the side of Riia Street, which values the people who have contributed to the development of Tartu and encourages others to walk in their shoes.The alley was established in 2010 when the sculptor Bruno Kadak installed bronze footprints there. Each autumn, a new set of footprints is added to the alley.

Freinholdi Maja guest apartments are located in the heart of Võru's old town, on F. R. Kreutzwaldi Street, within walking distance of Lake Tamula, the cultural center, and the city's main attractions. The fully reconstructed historic building has retained its authenticity and dignity while offering modern comfort and a cozy atmosphere. The former police station, which already operated as a guesthouse in 1913, now houses stylish and bright guest apartments. The apartments are equipped with everything needed for both short-term and long-term stays – fully equipped kitchens, washing machines, comfortable bed arrangements, and modern heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. Three of the apartments also have a private sauna, offering pleasant relaxation after a day of exploring the city. Freinholdi Maja combines the tranquility of a small town, the dignified aura of history, and modern conveniences – an ideal place to stay for both leisure and business trips.

The Helme-Tõrva Apostolic Orthodox Church of the Birth of Christ was built in Valga Street in the years 1903 to 1904. Karl Shurin was in charge of the building work. The two domes and bell tower made the church one of the most imposing churches in the Viljandi Apostolic Orthodox Deanery. The church was seriously damaged during the fierce battles fought in September 1944 and it was only restored in 1990 as a chamber hall.Interesting facts: * the church was also used for salt and cement storage during the Soviet times; * the church-chamber hall currently belongs to the Lutheran church.

The hiking trail that encircles Lake Pühajärv starts near the centre of Otepää Nature Park. The 14 km trail takes you on a voyage of discovery around one of the most unique and beautiful lakes in Estonia. Covering the whole track takes from 3–6 hours. There are rest areas and barbecue sites along the way. Part of the track (approximately 2.2 km) runs along the Pühajärve–Kääriku exercise track by the Otepää–Kääriku highway. You can cover the track by foot or bike. Cyclists must bear in mind that there are parts of the track on which you will have to push your bike instead of riding it. The Angunina, Kiigemäe and Koolirand campfire sites are located on the trail. There, you can make a fire and camp.

The café "Aega On!" is located in Tartu, Supilinn, at the foot of Toomemägi, in the legendary Toome shop premises. It is a heartfelt meeting place for coffee and wine lovers, fashion gourmets, and both those in a hurry and those who take their time. "Aega On!" combines a cozy café, an intimate wine bar, and a unique clothing outlet, creating a special atmosphere. The wine bar offers, in addition to a carefully selected wine menu, a unique self-service wine experience that lets you discover new flavors at your own pace. The sweet counter features homemade pastries by the hostess, the best cream puffs in Tartu, and mouth-watering macarons, which pair perfectly with both coffee and wine. Social evenings are held regularly: trivia games, bingo, and other gatherings that bring together locals and guests from afar. "Aega On!" is a place where the world stays outside the door and time stops for a moment, offering the opportunity to experience Tartu calmly, through tastes, conversations, and the rhythm of local life.