If there’s one iconic, over-the-top, must-see tourist attraction in Tartu, it’s this super-modern facility where you can learn about ordinary people living in Estonia. So massive that they had to find an old airfield to fit it on, ERM, as the locals call it, comes with 6,000 square metres of exhibition space, a library, a restaurant, and a museum shop. One permanent exhibition, ‘Encounters’, walks you through the entirety of Estonian history. Step back in time from the present to the past! There one can also find fascinating side rooms that delve into topics like language and cuisine. The other permanent exhibition, ‘Echo of the Urals’, tells the story of the Finno-Ugric peoples. A guided tour will race you through both exhibits in 1.5 hours, otherwise plan to spend 3 to 6 hours exploring at your own leisurely pace.
In addition to its permanent exhibitions, ERM hosts several changing exhibitions each year, offering something new to discover with every visit. The museum is also very family-friendly, with plenty of activities for children of all ages. Younger visitors can explore the Magical Forest — an activity landscape inspired by Estonian animal and forest fairy tales that encourages role-play, discovery, and sensory experiences. Families with the smallest visitors will also appreciate the cosy family room and child-friendly facilities throughout the museum.
After exploring the exhibitions, visitors can enjoy a meal at the museum restaurant, which offers a rich menu inspired by Estonian flavours and seasonal local ingredients. A special children’s menu is also available, making it easy for the whole family to enjoy a relaxing break together.
Getting there: It’s a 30-minute walk from the centre, but you can take bus N°7 from ‘Soola’ stop next to Tasku shopping mall or ‘Vabaduse’ stop next to the Market Hall to the ‘ERM’ stop.
In addition to its permanent exhibitions, ERM hosts several changing exhibitions each year, offering something new to discover with every visit. The museum is also very family-friendly, with plenty of activities for children of all ages. Younger visitors can explore the Magical Forest — an activity landscape inspired by Estonian animal and forest fairy tales that encourages role-play, discovery, and sensory experiences. Families with the smallest visitors will also appreciate the cosy family room and child-friendly facilities throughout the museum.
After exploring the exhibitions, visitors can enjoy a meal at the museum restaurant, which offers a rich menu inspired by Estonian flavours and seasonal local ingredients. A special children’s menu is also available, making it easy for the whole family to enjoy a relaxing break together.
Getting there: It’s a 30-minute walk from the centre, but you can take bus N°7 from ‘Soola’ stop next to Tasku shopping mall or ‘Vabaduse’ stop next to the Market Hall to the ‘ERM’ stop.
