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

Should you visit Tartu or Warsaw?

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 Warsaw 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 gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a diverse, cultural, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tartu and Warsaw: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tartu or Warsaw?

You'll generally find more things to do in Warsaw than Tartu. Warsaw is bigger than Tartu, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tartu is well known for its vibrant student population and long running university. Warsaw is well known for its historical position as a cultural and political center. Also, Warsaw is famous for The Old Town Market Square.

How is Tartu different from Warsaw?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Warsaw 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 Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Warsaw is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot 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 Warsaw Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Warsaw offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

Is Tartu or Warsaw Better for its Old Town?

Both Tartu and Warsaw have great 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 Warsaw. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Warsaw?

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

Warsaw has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

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 Warsaw Better for Families?

Both Tartu and Warsaw are notable to visit with kids.

Tartu offers lots of family activities. 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.

Warsaw is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Is Tartu or Warsaw Better for Couples?

Warsaw is a city with good options for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Warsaw is a good city for couples to visit. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

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 Warsaw Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu is a great university town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Tartu is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Warsaw. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

Is Tartu or Warsaw Better for Students?

Tartu is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

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.

Many students visit Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

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

Warsaw is a great city 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Warsaw. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

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

Is Tartu or Warsaw a more walkable city?

Tartu is a great university town for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Warsaw or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Warsaw?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tartu and Warsaw. In our opinion, Warsaw has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Warsaw than Tartu. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Tartu or Warsaw?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Tartu. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Warsaw, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tartu or Warsaw?

Tartu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tartu. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Warsaw is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Warsaw. 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 Warsaw?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the historical destination of Tartu. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Warsaw. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Poland, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tartu and Warsaw, we can see that Tartu is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Warsaw would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Warsaw 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 Tartu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tartu than you might in Warsaw.

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

Which is Bigger, Tartu or Warsaw?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Tartu and Warsaw, 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 Warsaw?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tartu or Warsaw in the Summer?

Both Warsaw and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Tartu because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Warsaw this time of year.

In the summer, Tartu is around the same temperature as Warsaw. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tartu in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Warsaw averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Warsaw. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tartu. Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Warsaw during summer. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Warsaw receives 353 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tartu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Warsaw. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tartu or Warsaw in the Autumn?

Both Warsaw and Tartu during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Warsaw for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Tartu is generally much colder than Warsaw. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 6°C (43°F), and Warsaw fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Warsaw. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Warsaw receives 135 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets more rain in October than Warsaw. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tartu or Warsaw in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Warsaw. Many travelers come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Warsaw in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Warsaw can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Tartu. Tartu is much colder than Warsaw in the winter. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around -7°C (19°F) in January, and Warsaw fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Tartu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Warsaw during winter. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Warsaw receives 35 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tartu usually receives more rain than Warsaw. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tartu or Warsaw in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Warsaw. Many visitors come to Tartu in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Warsaw for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Tartu can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Tartu is much colder than Warsaw. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tartu in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Warsaw averages at about 9°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Warsaw. In the spring, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Warsaw. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Warsaw receives 247 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Warsaw. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Warsaw and Tartu