'The Kissing Students' sculpture and fountain, photo Rasaa Etten
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Kissing Students Fountain Tartu

4.8
·350 reviews·Tartu, Estonia

Iconic bronze sculpture symbolizing love and student life, a vibrant centerpiece in Tartu's historic Town Hall Square.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Festive ice rink & lights

CrowdMedium
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'The Kissing Students' sculpture and fountain, photo Rasaa Etten

Kissing Students Fountain Tartu

Best Time

Winter evenings

Festive ice rink & lights

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic bronze sculpture symbolizing love and student life, a vibrant centerpiece in Tartu's historic Town Hall Square. Reddit

4.8
(350 reviews)

"The most popular place in Tartu that symbolises the town perfectly, since it's nice, cozy and full of young faces :) Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the fountain's charm, especially with the city hall in the background.

⛸️ Free Winter Skating

Rent skates and enjoy the free ice rink around the fountain in winter!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Kissing Students Fountain

The Kissing Students Fountain

Tartu Town Hall Square

Iconic bronze sculpture symbolizing love and student life, a beloved landmark in Tartu.

Reddit
Winter Ice Skating Rink

Winter Ice Skating Rink

Around the fountain

A free, expansive ice rink encircles the fountain in winter, offering festive fun.

Instagram+1
Student Town Atmosphere

Student Town Atmosphere

Tartu Town Hall Square

Experience the vibrant energy of Estonia's student capital, with young faces and lively surroundings.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Student Vibe

Tartu is Estonia's intellectual heart, and the Kissing Students Fountain perfectly captures its youthful, lively spirit. Expect a bustling atmosphere, especially during events or warmer months. It's a central meeting point, so be prepared for crowds, but the energy is infectious! Reddit

Winter Wonderland Magic

During winter, the fountain transforms into a magical centerpiece for a free ice-skating rink! Instagram+1 Even if you don't skate, the festive ambiance with hot drinks makes it a must-see. Instagram Check for seasonal events around Town Hall Square. Reddit

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Festive ice rink & lights
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour & lively cafes
Crowd
Medium
When
During events
Why
Unique atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

favourite place on earth ❤️‍🔥 #Tartu2024 #visittartu #visitestonia #chicago
@tartu2024
2.5K likes • 24.2K views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the fountain's charm, especially with the city hall in the background. TikTokInstagram

⛸️ Free Winter Skating

Rent skates and enjoy the free ice rink around the fountain in winter! Instagram

Dancing Brazilian Zouk by the iconic Kissing Students Fountain in Tartu – where every step feels like a love story unfolding! 🥰 🕺💃🇧🇷🇪🇪 #zoukmagic #tartutales #brazilianzouk #zoukbrasileiro #zoukdance #zoukinestonia #brazilianzouktartu #freddyandandressa #matheusandjulia #dance #tartu #visittartu
freddyandandressa
556 likes • 24K views
Tartu it’s a student’s town - that’s all You need to know 🥳 Some funny guys poured 12 big bottles of dishwashing gel into the heart of the Tartu - “Kissing Students” fountain 😜 Little mischief, but made a lot of nice emotions for the locals and tourists as well ☺️ Students can do anything in this town!
kate.podachine
54 likes • 937 views

❤️ Symbol of Love

Discover the stories behind this beloved symbol of love and student life. Reddit

🧼 Occasional Mischief

Sometimes students add dish soap for fun! Instagram Expect bubbles! Instagram

Amazing ice rink around the Kissing Students fountain on the Tartu Town Hall Square . #christmas #christmasmarket #christmasmarkets #europe #europetravel #europedestinations #tartu #estonia #visitestonia #visittartu
million_flashing_lights
58 likes • 2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the fountain's charm, especially with the city hall in the background. TikTokInstagram

⛸️ Free Winter Skating

Rent skates and enjoy the free ice rink around the fountain in winter! Instagram

❤️ Symbol of Love

Discover the stories behind this beloved symbol of love and student life. Reddit

🧼 Occasional Mischief

Sometimes students add dish soap for fun! Instagram Expect bubbles! Instagram

💃 Zouk Dance Spot

Watch or join impromptu Brazilian Zouk dances here! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(350 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Kissing Students Fountain to be a beautiful and iconic sculpture that perfectly captures Tartu's student town atmosphere. It's a lively central spot, especially enchanting in winter with its free ice-skating rink. Some note it can be busy, but its charm and symbolic meaning are widely appreciated. Reddit+1

"Beutiful sculpure! We have taken a few pictures with my wife with it on the background, really highlights Tartu atmosphere of student town"

zealous178

"The statue sits directly in front of city hall, and in winter time is surrounded by an ice skating rink.

A very busy and lively place during the winter months."

Matt B

"A beloved symbol of love and student life in this historic university town. Make sure to discover the stories here!"

Kalyoner

What People Like

Beautiful sculpture
Symbol of student life
Winter ice rink

What People Dislike

Can be busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The fountain is centrally located in Tartu's Town Hall Square, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. If arriving by bus or train, it's a pleasant walk through the charming streets. TikTok

While there isn't direct parking at the fountain itself, there are several public parking lots and street parking options available around Town Hall Square. Be aware of parking regulations and fees. Instagram

Yes, Tartu has a good public transport system. Many bus lines stop near Town Hall Square, providing convenient access to the fountain. Instagram

Absolutely! Town Hall Square and the surrounding old town are very pedestrian-friendly, perfect for exploring on foot and discovering Tartu's charm. Instagram

The fountain is an excellent starting point. From here, you can easily wander into the old town, visit Tartu University, or explore the many cafes and shops. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Kissing Students Fountain is a public sculpture located in Town Hall Square and is free to view and photograph at any time. Reddit

The Town Hall Square and the fountain are accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and cafes have their own operating hours. Instagram

The ice rink around the fountain in winter is free to use! You only pay if you need to rent skates. Instagram

Yes, especially during winter for the ice rink and Christmas markets. Instagram+1 Keep an eye on local event listings for Tartu. TikTok

Absolutely! It's a very popular spot for photos. TikTokInstagram Be mindful of other visitors, especially during busy times. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It's an iconic bronze sculpture in Tartu's Town Hall Square, symbolizing love and the town's vibrant student life. Reddit+1

In winter, enjoy the free ice-skating rink. Instagram Year-round, soak in the lively student atmosphere, explore nearby cafes, and take photos. TikTokInstagram

The fountain is typically operational during warmer months. It may be turned off for maintenance or during winter. Instagram

Sometimes students playfully add dishwashing gel, creating a bubbly spectacle! Instagram It's a testament to Tartu's fun-loving student culture. Instagram

Yes, the Town Hall Square is illuminated at night, offering a different, often magical, perspective of the fountain. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Town Hall Square and the surrounding old town are filled with cafes, restaurants, and bistros offering various cuisines. Instagram

You'll find everything from traditional Estonian dishes to international flavors, with many options catering to students. Instagram

Definitely! Several cozy cafes are perfect for warming up with a hot drink, especially after skating in winter. Instagram+1

Yes, there are usually kiosks and smaller eateries offering snacks, pastries, and quick bites, perfect for a break. Instagram

Given Tartu's student population, you'll find many affordable cafes and eateries offering good value for money. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Instagram Nighttime with the square illuminated is also magical. Instagram

Try capturing it from the front with City Hall in the background, or from a slightly elevated position. TikTokInstagram

The ice rink surrounding the fountain creates a unique winter scene. Instagram+1 Capture skaters or the festive lights. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in city centers and public squares. Check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

For daytime, a standard aperture for good depth of field. For night shots, use a tripod and a longer exposure. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Kissing Students Fountain area is very family-friendly. In winter, the free ice-skating rink is a huge hit with children, offering a fun and active way to spend time together. Instagram The open space of Town Hall Square allows kids to move around safely, and the fountain itself is an interesting visual. Reddit

Nearby cafes offer kid-friendly snacks and warm drinks, perfect for a break. Instagram The general atmosphere of Tartu, being a student town, is often lively and welcoming, making it a pleasant outing for families looking to explore Estonia's cultural capital. TikTok

❤️ Couples & Romantics

The Kissing Students Fountain is inherently romantic, symbolizing love and connection. Reddit It's a perfect spot for couples to take photos, share a quiet moment, or simply enjoy the charming ambiance of Tartu's old town. Instagram In winter, skating hand-in-hand around the fountain adds an extra layer of magic to a romantic outing. Instagram

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets surrounding the square, perhaps followed by a cozy dinner at one of the many nearby restaurants. Instagram The fountain serves as a beautiful backdrop for creating lasting memories together. Reddit

❄️ Winter Visitors

For those visiting Tartu in winter, the Kissing Students Fountain area is a must-see. The ice-skating rink is the main draw, offering free fun for everyone. Instagram The festive decorations and potential Christmas markets create a magical atmosphere. Instagram Even if you don't skate, the sight of the fountain surrounded by ice and lights is enchanting. Instagram

Be sure to dress warmly and take advantage of the nearby cafes for hot beverages to warm up. Instagram The fountain area truly comes alive during the holiday season, offering a quintessential European winter experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Symbolism of the Kissing Students

The Kissing Students Fountain is more than just a sculpture; it's a potent symbol of Tartu's identity as Estonia's intellectual and youthful hub. Created by Mati Karmin, the bronze figures depict two students sharing a kiss, embodying romance, camaraderie, and the spirit of university life. Reddit Its placement in the heart of Town Hall Square makes it a central meeting point and a constant reminder of the town's enduring connection to its academic roots. Reddit

This beloved landmark has become a focal point for celebrations, spontaneous gatherings, and even playful student pranks, such as filling it with dishwashing gel to create a bubbly spectacle. Instagram Its presence contributes significantly to Tartu's charming and lively atmosphere, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the city. TikTok

Whether you're capturing a romantic moment, enjoying the winter ice rink, or simply soaking in the vibrant student energy, the Kissing Students Fountain offers a unique glimpse into the soul of Tartu. Instagram It’s a place where stories unfold and memories are made, reflecting the town's dynamic blend of history and contemporary life. Reddit

Tartu's Winter Wonderland

During the colder months, the Kissing Students Fountain area transforms into a magical winter wonderland. The Town Hall Square becomes home to a large, free ice-skating rink that encircles the iconic fountain. Instagram+1 This creates a truly picturesque scene, with skaters gliding around the beloved sculpture under festive lights. Instagram

Visitors can rent skates on-site, making it an accessible and enjoyable activity for all skill levels. Instagram The surrounding area often hosts Christmas markets and pop-up stalls, offering warm drinks and snacks to complete the cozy winter experience. Instagram+1 Even if you're not a skater, the lively atmosphere and beautiful setting make it a delightful place to visit and watch the festivities. Reddit

The combination of the historic square, the romantic fountain, and the joyful activity of ice skating makes this a highlight of Tartu's winter calendar. Instagram It’s a perfect example of how the city creatively utilizes its public spaces to bring people together and celebrate the season. Instagram

A Hub for Culture and Community

The Kissing Students Fountain is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a vibrant community hub. Its central location in Town Hall Square makes it a natural gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Reddit+1 You might witness spontaneous events, like impromptu Brazilian Zouk dancing sessions, adding to the area's dynamic energy. Instagram

As a symbol of Tartu, a city renowned for its academic institutions and youthful population, the fountain embodies the spirit of innovation and lively culture. TikTokReddit It's a place where students connect, couples share moments, and the general buzz of a thriving city is palpable. Reddit The area around the fountain is often the heart of festivals and seasonal celebrations, further cementing its role in the community. Instagram

Whether it's a sunny summer day or a crisp winter evening, the fountain and its surroundings offer a constant sense of place and belonging. Instagram It’s a testament to how public art can foster a strong sense of identity and community pride in a city. Reddit

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