35 College Towns That Are Ideal for Retiring Professors and Book Lovers

4. Tartu, Estonia – The Intellectual Heart of the Baltics

Often called the “Athens of the North,” Tartu is Estonia’s second-largest city, yet it remains a hidden gem among European university towns. As the home of Tartu University, the country’s most prestigious academic institution, Tartu has been a center for learning and culture since the 17th century. Today, it remains an ideal retirement destination for scholars and book lovers who value a close-knit intellectual community in a city that’s both affordable and rich in history. One of Tartu’s greatest draws is its impressive libraries, including the University of Tartu Library, which contains vast collections of historical manuscripts and modern academic works. Book lovers will also appreciate the town’s cozy, independently run bookstores, as well as its vibrant literary scene. The city’s Tartu Literature Festival brings together poets, novelists, and academics for discussions, readings, and cultural events that foster a sense of belonging among those who love words and ideas.