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

Should you visit Tartu or Stockholm?

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 Stockholm 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 cultural, historical, and lively university town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a clean, coastal, and safe city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Tartu and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Tartu or Stockholm?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stockholm than Tartu, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Stockholm is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also home to Gamla Stan (the old town). Tartu is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university.

Gamla Stan (the old town)
Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Tartu different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

Tartu
Stockholm

Stockholm is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tartu
Stockholm

Stockholm is a city with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

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 Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Stockholm

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Tartu and Stockholm.

The nightlife in Tartu has something for everybody. 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.

Stockholm offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Tartu or Stockholm Better for Music?

Tartu
Stockholm

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Tartu is not a live music destination.

Stockholm has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Tartu is not a live music destination.


Is Tartu or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Stockholm

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its historic old town.

Stockholm offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Tartu. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Stockholm?

Tartu
Stockholm

Stockholm is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm Better for Families?

Tartu
Stockholm

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

Stockholm is an extremely popular city to visit for families. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm Better for Couples?

Tartu
Stockholm

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Stockholm is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Stockholm

Tartu is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tartu is a great university town to visit for backpackers. 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 backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Tartu or Stockholm Better for Students?

Tartu
Stockholm

Tartu is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Tartu is a very popular university town 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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.


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

Tartu
Stockholm

Stockholm 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 Stockholm is top-notch. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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

Is Tartu or Stockholm a more walkable city?

Tartu
Stockholm

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its walkability.

Stockholm is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Stockholm?

Both Tartu and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Tartu. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Tartu, and 2-7 days is enough time in Stockholm.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Stockholm than Tartu 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 Stockholm.


  • How many days in Tartu or Stockholm? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Stockholm 2-7

One day in Tartu or Stockholm?

You'll find nightlife around the university town of Tartu. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tartu has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 Stockholm?

You'll find nightlife around the intellectual destination of Tartu. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this university town has to offer. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. 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 Stockholm?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the cultural university town of Tartu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the live music. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tartu or Stockholm?

Tartu is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.


Which place is cheaper, Stockholm 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 Stockholm is €157. 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 Stockholm in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Stockholm 90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Stockholm 180
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Stockholm

Looking for a hotel in Tartu or Stockholm? 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 Stockholm


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 Stockholm Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Stockholm 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Skavsta airport: $291
  • Departure Private Transfer: Stockholm City to Bromma Airport BMA by Minibus: $264
  • Airport Transfer By Luxuary First Class , Arlanda Airport-Sthlm City: $245
  • Skansen Stockholm Fast-Track Tickets, Private Tour, Transfer: $239
  • Airport Transfer By Business Van - Arlanda Airport - Sthlm City : $207
  • First Class Airport Limousine Transfer: Stockholm City to Arlanda Airport: $179
  • Private Arlanda Transfer Service to/from Stockholm : $170
  • From Viking Culture Guided Tour with Transfer: $170
  • Stockholm Airport (ARN): Transfer to Stockholm city/port: $168
  • Cruise port VIP Transfer: Cruise port to Stockholm city center 1-6 Passangers: $161
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Arlanda airport: $158
  • First Class Airport Limousine Transfer: Stockholm City to Bromma Airport: $151

Is it cheaper to fly into Tartu or Stockholm?

Prices for flights to both Stockholm 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
    Stockholm 33
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 Stockholm

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


  • Breakfast
    8.55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stockholm

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

  • Self Guided Taysta Food Tour in Stockholm: $33
  • Food Tour: $101
  • Stockholm Food Tour: $104
  • Stockholm Walking Food Tour With Small Group: $119
  • From Wildlife Safari with Campfire Dinner: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tartu 16
    Stockholm 23
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 Stockholm

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

  • Stockholm Fire and Ice Tour! Dive into Swedish lifestyle! Bike and Sauna: $235
  • 1-Day Small-Group Stockholm Archipelago Kayak Tour: $184
  • 1-day 7h Royal Palace and Castle Tour from Stockholm: $349
  • 2-Hour Free Walking Tour in Stockholm: $0.92
  • 2-day kayaking adventure around Vaxholm in Stockholm Archipelago - self guided: $255
  • 3-Hour Private Stockholm Photography Tour of Famous Landmarks : $172
  • 3h walking tour, small group max 10 people Stockholm: $63
  • ABBA Museum Fast-Track Tickets, Stockholm Pop Culture Tour: $280
  • Best Stockholm Small Group Bike Tour. English,French or Spanish! : $83
  • Best of Stockholm Walking Tour-3 Hours, Small Group max 10: $68
  • Bloody Stockholm 2h - ghosts, horror and Dark Folklore Tour: $81
  • Bohemian Södermalm Island Walking Tour: $533

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tartu 16
    Stockholm 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Stockholm

Also in Stockholm, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Stockholm Pub Crawl: $32
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $280
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $288


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tartu and Stockholm, we can see that Stockholm 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 Stockholm would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stockholm 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 Stockholm Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Stockholm?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Tartu and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Stockholm. The summer months attract visitors to Tartu because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year.

In July, Tartu is generally around the same temperature as Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 17°C (62°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Stockholm. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tartu this time of the year. In the summer, Tartu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tartu 17°C (62°F) 
    Stockholm 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Stockholm in the Autumn?

Both Stockholm and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Tartu is cooler than Stockholm in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 6°C (43°F) in October, and Stockholm fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Stockholm during autumn. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tartu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Stockholm. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tartu 6°C (43°F) 
    Stockholm 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Stockholm in the Winter?

Both Stockholm and Tartu during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Stockholm in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Stockholm can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Tartu. In the winter, Tartu is much colder than Stockholm. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tartu in January average around -7°C (19°F), and Stockholm averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In the winter, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Stockholm. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets less rain in January than Stockholm. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tartu -7°C (19°F) 
    Stockholm -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Stockholm in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Stockholm. Many visitors come to Tartu in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Tartu can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Tartu is generally around the same temperature as Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 5°C (41°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Tartu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm during spring. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tartu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Stockholm. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tartu 5°C (41°F) 
    Stockholm 5°C (41°F)

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Tartu

Tartu Stockholm
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) -3°C (27°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Feb -6°C (20°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 26 mm (1 in) 0°C (33°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 6°C (43°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec -4°C (25°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) -1°C (31°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)