Conference Tourism Boosted Estonia’s Economy by €43 Million in 2024
The Enterprise Estonia has just released the findings of a recent study revealing that international conference tourists significantly boosted Estonia’s economy, contributing an impressive €43 million in 2024. conference delegates tend to stay longer and spend more, contributing significantly to the country’s tourism sector. With most international conferences in Estonia held during spring and autumn, they help balance tourism demand throughout the year.
A recent survey by the Enterprise Estonia found that conference attendees are eager to return—not just for business, but for leisure as well. The study, which analysed the spending habits and experiences of international delegates attending conferences in Tallinn and Tartu, underscores the lucrative nature of the sector.
Big Spenders: Conference Delegates Outpace Leisure Tourists
According to Anneli Lepp, Head of Tourism at Enterprise Estonia (EIS), conference tourism is one of the most profitable segments in the industry. “The average foreign delegate spent between three to six nights in Estonia and over €1,000 per trip,” Lepp noted. “For comparison, our main leisure tourists, the Finns, spend just over €300 per trip.”
Kadri Karu, Managing Director of the Estonian Convention Bureau, emphasised the broader impact of conferences beyond tourism revenue. “Hosting international conferences strengthens Estonia’s reputation as a centre of excellence across various industries while also promoting the country globally. Additionally, conference tourism fosters professional networking and supports the local economy and cultural scene.”
World-Class Events in a Highly Rated Destination
The survey confirmed Estonia’s strong reputation as a host for international conferences, with local organisers praised for their world-class event management. “Business, academic, and professional events serve as an excellent gateway for tourism exports,” said Lepp. “An impressive 96% of respondents would recommend Estonia as a conference destination, and 62% said they would return for a leisure trip based on their positive experience.”
Delegates expressed high satisfaction with Estonia’s conference infrastructure and services. They particularly valued the country’s safety, hospitality, language skills, cultural attractions, and restaurant quality.
Economic Allocation of Conference Tourism Revenue
Conference attendees bring direct financial benefits across multiple sectors. According to the study, 40% of spending was on conference fees, 30% on accommodation, and the remaining 30% on dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Beyond the conference agenda, visitors were eager to explore Estonia: 94% dined at restaurants, 80% visited attractions independently, and 74% indulged in shopping. Guided excursions, though varying by event, were attended by 39% of delegates, with some conferences seeing participation rates as high as 90%.
A Growing Market with Strong Economic Impact
In 2024, Estonia hosted nearly 700 international conferences, welcoming approximately 43,000 foreign delegates, according to the Estonian Convention Bureau. Given the high per-trip expenditure, the total economic impact of conference tourism reached an estimated €43 million.
Enterprise Estonia (EIS) continues to market and develop Estonia as a top-tier conference destination in collaboration with the Estonian Convention Bureau. By supporting international conference organisation and promotion, EIS aims to attract high-spending visitors and enhance Estonia’s global reputation as an exceptional and dynamic travel destination.
Source: Estonian Business & Innovation Agency / Enterprise Estonia
Marketing Manager
Posted: 13.02.2025
Categories: News
