Okay, TYPA is a place that genuinely made my jaw drop. I knew I was going to some kind of printing museum, but what awaited me was something completely different. This isn’t just a museum — it’s a living workshop where you can MAKE things yourself. And that’s exactly what makes it so special!
What Is This Place?
TYPA, the Tartu Printing and Paper Art Centre, is located in Tartu’s old town at Kastani 48f. It’s dedicated to the history of printing and papermaking — from Gutenberg’s time to the present day. But don’t let the word “museum” fool you — everything here is interactive and alive. TYPA has been operating for over 15 years and is one of the most original cultural venues in Tartu.
My Experience
When you step into TYPA, you immediately feel that special atmosphere. Old wood, the smell of printing ink, and everywhere these wonderful old printing machines. Here you can turn the printing press handle yourself and even make paper! It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’ve travelled back in time, but in the best possible way.
What surprises you most is how little we actually know about the history of printing and how much there is to learn here. The guides are extremely friendly and tell such stories that time flies by.
Workshops — The Best Part!
TYPA’s workshops are absolutely the best part of the whole experience. You can choose from different activities: printing art, bookbinding, papermaking, or calligraphy. We did paper printing ourselves and got to take it home afterwards — a pretty cool souvenir in our opinion!
We definitely recommend booking a workshop in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
The Shop
The TYPA shop is a sight in itself! Handmade prints, unique postcards, art prints, and handmade paper — all made by local artisans. A super spot for finding original gifts. I bought hand-printed postcards there and they’re some of the most beautiful ones I own. A real Tartu souvenir, not some mass-produced item!
Practical Information
Address: Kastani 48f, Tartu
Open: Wed–Sat 12:00–18:00 (Sun–Tue closed)
Workshops: Separate registration required, check times on their website
Tickets: Adult €6, discounted ticket €4. Museum Card accepted!
What Else to Discover in Tartu?
Tartu has many more great places to visit! We also recommend the Estonian Road Museum — another place where you can touch and try things yourself. And if you have a Museum Card, you get discounted entry to many Tartu museums!
Our Rating
TYPA is my absolute favourite among Tartu museums. It’s small, but every detail is thought through. The atmosphere is warm, the staff are friendly, and the whole experience is simply… special. I went there for a “quick look” and was still there 2 hours later. See for yourself!
We especially recommend going to a workshop — it’s a completely different experience from just viewing an exhibition. You’ll leave with a very satisfied expression on your face, promise! Plan 1–2 hours for a regular visit, but if you’re doing a workshop, then 2–3 hours. And don’t forget — in the workshop you get to make something cool and take it home!
Book Tours & Tickets
Visiting Estonia? Get a Saily eSIM for mobile data, compare flights on Aviasales, and get travel insurance with EKTA. For tickets and guided tours, check Klook, Tiqets, and WeGoTrip.
