A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tartu vs. Dusseldorf for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Tartu or Dusseldorf?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tartu and Dusseldorf can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tartu

Tartu is a historical, lively, and intellectual university town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a vibrant, historic, and fun-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tartu and Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Tartu or Dusseldorf?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dusseldorf than Tartu. Dusseldorf is bigger than Tartu, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dusseldorf is better known for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Tartu is more popular for its nightlife and impressive beauty. Dusseldorf is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. Also, Dusseldorf is famous for Altstadt (the Old Town). Tartu is well known for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Tartu different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dusseldorf and Tartu. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tartu or Dusseldorf?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dusseldorf. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Tartu or Dusseldorf? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Dusseldorf has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Tartu is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Tartu know how to have a good time. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

If you're looking for night time activities Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Tartu or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Both Tartu and Dusseldorf have very good historic old towns worth visiting.

Tartu is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.


Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Dusseldorf?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Dusseldorf has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dusseldorf. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Is Tartu or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a great city for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Dusseldorf is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.


Is Tartu or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Tartu is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Tartu or Dusseldorf Better for Students?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Tartu is very popular for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Tartu is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Is Tartu or Dusseldorf Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

Public transit in Dusseldorf is top-notch. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.


Is Tartu or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Tartu
Dusseldorf

Tartu and Dusseldorf are very good when it comes to walkability.

Tartu is a very walkable destination. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Tartu Worth Visiting? and Is Dusseldorf Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Dusseldorf?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tartu and Dusseldorf. In our opinion, Dusseldorf has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dusseldorf than Tartu. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Tartu, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dusseldorf.

Families should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Tartu. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dusseldorf, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Tartu. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dusseldorf that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tartu than Dusseldorf if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tartu.


  • How many days in Tartu or Dusseldorf? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Dusseldorf 2-3

One day in Tartu or Dusseldorf?

With nightlife around the cultural university town of Tartu, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tartu, one day is sufficent for most.

In Dusseldorf, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tartu or Dusseldorf?

With nightlife around the destination of Tartu, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this university town.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Tartu or Dusseldorf?

Tartu, a popular university town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dusseldorf is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Dusseldorf. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tartu or Dusseldorf?

Tartu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Dusseldorf. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dusseldorf or Tartu?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tartu is €105, while the average daily cost in Dusseldorf is €185. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Tartu and Dusseldorf in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Dusseldorf 95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Dusseldorf 190
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Dusseldorf

Looking for a hotel in Tartu or Dusseldorf? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Tartu


Hotels in Dusseldorf


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tartu Hotel Prices and Dusseldorf Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Dusseldorf 1.63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Tartu or Dusseldorf?

Prices for flights to both Dusseldorf and Tartu change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Tartu 37
    Dusseldorf 76
Typical Food Prices in Tartu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tartu:


  • Danishes
    0.76
  • Lunch for Two
    4.93
  • Ice Cream
    1.27
  • Cookies
    0.51
  • Coffee & Cake
    3.47

Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dusseldorf.

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tartu 16
    Dusseldorf 25
Typical Entertainment Prices in Tartu

For Tartu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Art Museum ticket
    0.95
  • Movie Ticket
    3.47

Tours and Activities in Tartu

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tartu.

  • European Capital of Culture 2024 - Cycling Tour: $14
  • Around Viljandi bike tour: $27
  • TARTU COUNTRY: SLED DOG TOUR & KENNEL VISIT: $75
  • Magical Tartu Romantic Walking Tour: $127
  • Charming Viljandi Walking Tour for Couples: $142
  • Spectacular Christmas Walking Tour in Viljandi: $199
  • Traditional Christmas Walking Tour in Tartu: $234

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

Here are a few actual costs in Dusseldorf for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • Best Intro Tour of Dusseldorf with a Local: $141
  • City game scavenger hunt Düsseldorf - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Segway Rhein Tour: Rhine River Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Dusseldorf : Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tartu 16
    Dusseldorf 23

Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tartu and Dusseldorf, we can see that Dusseldorf is more expensive. And not only is Tartu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tartu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tartu and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf than you might in Tartu.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tartu Expensive? and Is Dusseldorf Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Tartu and Dusseldorf, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Tartu or Dusseldorf?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tartu or Dusseldorf in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Dusseldorf. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tartu is cooler than Dusseldorf. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tartu in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tartu this time of the year. In the summer, Tartu often gets more sunshine than Dusseldorf. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Dusseldorf. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tartu 17°C (62°F) 
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

Both Dusseldorf and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Tartu is generally much colder than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 6°C (43°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Dusseldorf during autumn. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tartu usually receives less rain than Dusseldorf. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tartu 6°C (43°F) 
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

Both Dusseldorf and Tartu during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tartu in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dusseldorf can be very cold during winter. Tartu can get quite cold in the winter. Tartu is much colder than Dusseldorf in the winter. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around -7°C (19°F) in January, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Dusseldorf. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets less rain in January than Dusseldorf. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tartu -7°C (19°F) 
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Dusseldorf. Most visitors come to Tartu for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the activities around the city.

Tartu can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Tartu is much colder than Dusseldorf. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tartu in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Tartu usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during spring. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tartu usually receives less rain than Dusseldorf. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tartu 5°C (41°F) 
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Tartu

Tartu Dusseldorf
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb -6°C (20°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 26 mm (1 in) 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 6°C (43°F) 52 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Dec -4°C (25°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)