Top 5 student cities in Estonia

If you’re planning a university exchange and want to discover the top 5 student cities in Estonia, this guide’ll help you choose the destination that best suits your profile, budget and academic expectations. Estonia stands out for its nature, its innovation in technology and its friendly environment for international students.

 

Throughout the article, you’ll find practical information about each city: the pros and cons of studying there, the most prominent universities, and what student accommodation is like. In addition, from our online platform, you’ll be able to compare and book verified accommodation for your stay in Estonia easily and securely.

 

Tallin

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia and the country's main academic destination. It’s the largest city and has a significant international atmosphere, as well as an excellent quality of life. It’s a benchmark in technology, making it ideal for those who want to study in this field.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Tallinn

Studying in Tallinn can be incredible, although there are also some drawbacks to consider.

 

Pros of studying in Tallinn

• It has a multinational atmosphere, with many programmes in English.
• It stands out as a leader in technological innovation.
• There are excellent job opportunities for foreign students.
• It’s a safe and modern city.

 

Cons of studying in Tallinn

• It’s more expensive than other cities in the country.
• There is fierce competition for accommodation at the start of each semester.
• It has one of the coldest climates in the country, with few hours of daylight in winter.

 

Top universities in Tallinn

Tallinn is home to some of the country's most important institutions.

 

Tallinna Ülikool (Tallinn University)

Tallinn University is one of the largest higher education institutions in the country. It’s a modern university with an innovative approach to teaching.

Its main campus is located in the city centre, in the Sadama district. If you’re going to study there, check out our guide to housing close to Tallinn University.

 

Student housing in Tallinn

Rent for students in Tallinn is the highest in Estonia, especially in central areas. As a reference, young people usually rent rooms in shared flats, which cost between €300 and €500 per month on average.

 

Are you looking for accommodation in the capital of Estonia? Read our guide to student accommodation in Tallinn, with the best neighbourhoods and approximate prices.

 

Tartu

Tartu’s considered the university capital of Estonia. It’s one of the most popular cities among local and international students due to its youthful, peaceful atmosphere focused on academic life. It’s ideal for those seeking a more relaxed environment than Tallinn!

 

Pros and cons of studying in Tartu

Tartu stands out for its benefits for students, but it also has some weaknesses.

 

Pros of studying in Tartu

• He has a very active university life.
• The cost of living is lower than in Tallinn.
• It’s a compact city and easy to get around on foot or by bicycle.
• It has plenty of green spaces to enjoy nature.

 

Cons of studying in Tartu

• Winter tends to be colder and drier than in the capital, as it’s located in the interior of the country.
• The leisure and nightlife options are more limited.
• There are fewer job opportunities for foreign students.

 

Top Universities in Tartu

Tartu is home to one of Estonia's most prominent higher education institutions.

 

Tartu Ülikool (University of Tartu)

The University of Tartu is the oldest and most renowned university in the country, with an excellent international reputation in areas such as science, technology, medicine and the humanities. The main campus is located in the old town, and there are other complexes in different neighbourhoods throughout the city.

Find useful information about areas and accommodation in the guide to accommodation near the Universidad of Tartu.

 

Student housing in Tartu

Rent in Tartu is generally more affordable than in Tallinn, so it’s often an attractive option for students on a tight budget. The average cost of a room in a shared flat is around €250-300 per month, although you can find cheaper options if you start looking early.

 

If you’d like to see all the available options, please consult our guide to student housing in Tartu.

 

Pärnu

Pärnu is a coastal town popular as a summer destination in Estonia. It has a quieter profile, making it a perfect destination for students looking for a more relaxed and less crowded environment.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Pärnu

Being a student in Pärnu has many favourable aspects, but there are also factors that may be less appealing.

 

Pros of studying in Pärnu

• Rent and the cost of living in general are cheaper than in the capital.
• It has a peaceful atmosphere thanks to the coast.
• Good quality of life.
• Ease of enjoying nature.

 

Cons of studying in Pärnu

• The academic offering in English is more limited.
• Student life is quieter.
• It comes alive in summer, and in winter it can be a bit dull for those looking for more things to do and activities.

 

Top Universities in Pärnu

There is one institution that stands out above all others.

 

Pärnu kolledž (Pärnu College)

Pärnu College is part of the University of Tartu and is particularly renowned for its tourism-related programmes. Its campus is conveniently located in the city centre.

 

Student housing in Pärnu

Compared to other cities in the country, rents in Pärnu are generally among the most affordable. For example, a room in a shared flat typically costs between €180 and €300 per month.

 

Narva

Narva is a city located on the border with Russia, with a strong cultural identity and a peaceful pace of life. Although further away from other cities, it’s an interesting option for students who prioritise budget and a less crowded environment.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Narva

Living and studying in Narva offers many benefits, although there are also certain negative aspects to consider during your stay.

 

Pros of studying in Narva

• It’s one of the most affordable cities in Estonia.
• Bordering Russia, it offers the possibility of a different cultural experience.
• It’s a small town and easy to get around.

 

Cons of studying in Narva

• It’s far from Estonia's major cities, so it’s more difficult to get to know the country.
• Both academic and leisure activities are more limited.
• The international atmosphere is less pronounced than in Tallinn or Tartu.

 

Top Universities in Narva

In Narva, there’s one institution that offers most of the university programmes.

 

Narva kolledž (Narva College)

As in Pärnu, Narva College is part of the University of Tartu. In this case, its programmes are more focused on education, humanities and social studies, with a greater emphasis on the regional and multicultural context. Its main building is in the centre of Narva, making it easily accessible.

 

Student housing in Narva

Rent for students in Narva is very affordable. A room in a shared flat, the preferred accommodation for students, usually costs between €150 and €250 per month.

 

Viljandi

Viljandi is a small town with strong ties to culture and the arts. It has a relaxed pace and a strong creative identity, ideal for students seeking a more intimate and less urban academic environment.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Viljandi

Student life in Viljandi has many positive aspects, but there are also some disadvantages that may affect your daily life.

 

Pros of studying in Viljandi

• Low cost of living and rent.
• A peaceful and creative atmosphere, with a vibrant cultural life.
• Small and close-knit student community.

 

Cons of studying in Viljandi

• Academic offerings limited to specific areas.
• Less nightlife and services than in large cities.
• It’s far from the country's major cities, so travelling can be more complicated.

 

Top Universities in Viljandi

There is a well-known institution in Viljandi.

 

Viljandi kultuuriakadeemia (Viljandi Culture Academy)

Here you’ll find the Viljandi Culture Academy, which is part of the University of Tartu. It specialises in arts, music, theatre, dance and cultural studies. Its building is located in the city centre.

 

Student housing in Viljandi

As in Narva, student accommodation in Viljandi is among the most affordable in the country. A room in a shared flat typically costs between €150 and €250 per month, depending on the location and type of accommodation.

 

Find accommodation in Estonia with Erasmus Play

Choosing between the top 5 student cities in Estonia will depend on what you’re looking for in your academic and personal experience. Tallinn is ideal if you prioritise innovation, technology and job opportunities; Tartu stands out for its strong university atmosphere and more affordable costs; while Pärnu, Narva and Viljandi offer quieter, more economical environments with a more specific academic profile.

 

Whatever your destination, finding suitable accommodation is a key part of the process. Through our online platform, you can compare verified rooms, flats and residences, filter by price, location and dates, and book your student accommodation in Estonia 100% securely before you arrive.

Other guides on studying and living in Estonia

Here you’ll find more information about the experience in this European country:

Studying, accommodation, and student residences in Estonia

• Erasmus in Estonia
• Erasmus in Tallinn
• Flatshare in Tallinn
• Accommodation near Tallinn University of Technology