Economy
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Foreign Arrivals Propel Estonian Tourism Recovery Despite Domestic Dip
Estonia's tourism sector hosted 3.7 million visitors in 2025, with a 5% increase in foreign arrivals offsetting a 1% dip in domestic travel and culminating in a December surge that saw visitor numbers exceed pre-pandemic 2019 levels.
- —In 2025, Estonia hosted approximately 3.7 million tourists in accommodation establishments, a 2% increase from the previous year, though still below 2019 figures.
- —Foreign tourist arrivals to Estonia rose by 5% in 2025 compared to 2024, while domestic tourism saw a 1% decrease.
- —December 2025 marked a significant recovery, with both domestic and international tourist numbers exceeding pre-pandemic (2019) levels, driven by increased flight connectivity and targeted marketing.
- —The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications highlighted a boom in British tourism during the 2025 Christmas season, with a nearly 70% increase in overnight stays attributed to the new Jet2 airline service.
- —Tallinn remained the primary destination for both foreign and domestic tourists, followed by Pärnu and Tartu.
Recap
Estonia's 2025 tourism recovery is a story of targeted success, not a uniform rebound. The data reveals a heavy reliance on foreign arrivals, with improved flight connectivity, like the new UK route, acting as a direct lever for growth in specific markets. However, the slight decline in domestic tourism and the continued geographic concentration around Tallinn point to underlying structural challenges that need to be addressed for balanced, long-term sector health.
Articles
3В гостиницах стало чуть больше туристовFeb 10, 06:53