The number of domestic tourists in Estonia decreased last year due to the absence of Russian tourists, although markets like the US and Latvia saw significant growth.
Last year, Estonia experienced a decline in the number of domestic tourists, which was predominantly attributed to the significant decrease in visitors from Russia. According to Orvika Reilend, the focus leader of EISA's tourism sector, while the domestic tourist figures were down by three percent compared to pre-COVID levels, other markets have returned nearly to 2019 levels. Notably, while markets such as Finland, Norway, and Denmark experienced downturns, significant growth was observed from the USA and Latvia.
Andrus Aljase, manager of spa hotels in Estonia, indicated that tourism trends reflected similar patterns across both Pärnu and other Estonian hotels. He reported that the number of Finnish visitors remained stable when comparing it to the previous year, despite the overall downturn in domestic tourism. The sharp rise in the Latvian market is notable, as it contrasts with local decline.
Among the various factors leading to the decrease in domestic tourism, rising prices were highlighted as a significant concern. Aljase pointed out that while the local market faced challenges, Estonians remain active travelers abroad, contributing to a notable segment of affordable travel options that enhance their propensity to travel outside of Estonia.
