Tourest Hosted Buyer programme- FAM trip to South Estonia & Tartu
Cultural heritage and lively university town
Dear Tourism Professional,
Estonian Travel & Tourism Association and Estonian Tourist Board/Visit Estonia in cooperation with airBaltic and Tallink Silja Line invite you to a FAM trip to Estonia in the framework of TOUREST 2026 Hosted Buyer Programme (HBP), from February 9-13.
The Hosted Buyer Programme and FAM trip are targeted to the product managers and the
sales personnel dealing with potential sales to Estonia from the following markets: Finland,
Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the UK, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Belgium.
The programme consists of following events:
• Discover Estonia beyond Tallinn- starting your experience with the pre-tours.
• Get-together dinner with the local suppliers in a relaxed and cosy atmosphere in a modern restaurant in Tallinn
•Meet and do business with a varied selection of best suppliers for Estonia during the TOUREST B2B Workshop, with around 30 suppliers from different parts of Estonia
• Explore our capital city Tallinn, where the WOW factor is the charming combination of a
unique medieval atmosphere and a very modern and tech-savvy society!
• Possible extensions for the weekend
Below you find your Tartu and South Estonia programme, details will be added along the way.
Scroll down for more information and articles!
Photo author: Timo Müürsepp
Nestled among the hills, Tartu and South Estonia offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that invite travelers to explore an enchanting side of Europe. Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city, is known as the intellectual hub of the country, home to Estonia’s oldest university and a lively atmosphere fueled by a thriving student population. Beyond its charming, historic streets lies a landscape of untouched nature, dotted with medieval castles, lots of lakes, endless hiking trails and deep forests. A journey through South Estonia unveils a mosaic of unique traditional Estonian villages, UNESCO heritage sites, and natural landmarks like the mystical Taevaskoja sandstone cliffs and the sacred Setomaa Kingdom region.
From Tartu’s innovative museums and vibrant cafés to the tranquility of South Estonia’s countryside, this trip will uncover the region’s rich heritage and rolling landscapes. Whether you’re looking to dive into Estonia’s academic heritage, taste local culinary treasures, or lose yourself in nature’s serenity, a journey to Tartu and South Estonia promises unforgettable experiences and an authentic glimpse into the heart of Estonian culture and natural beauty all year round.
Photo author: Eva Maria Tartu
Monday, Feb 9
Individual arrivals according to the schedule to Tallinn airport or ferry terminal
Welcome dinner for early arrivals TBA
Tuesday, Feb 10- Pre tours to destinations!
Breakfast at the hotel, check-out
Programme in Tartu, TBA
Overnight in Hotel Lydia, located behind Tartu Town Hall Square on the hillside of Toome Hill.
Photo author: Mana Kaasik
Wednesday, Feb 11
Breakfast at the hotel, check-out
Half day in Tartu, TBA
Arrive back to Tallinn and dinner
Thursday, Feb 12- Workshop day
Breakfast at the hotel
1 hr guided walk to discover the UNESCO-listed charming and cosy Old Town, surrounded by tower-dotted medieval city wall, the Dome Hill with viewing platforms and cathedrals, the Town Hall Square.
Destination Estonia: presentations
Workshop session I
Lunch on the spot
Workshop session II
Transfer to the hotels
Organized bus transfer to dinner
Tallinn City presents: Get Together Dinner with organizers and Estonian suppliers at TBA
Photo author: Mana Kaasik
Friday, Feb 13
Breakfast at the hotel, check-out
Morning flights or optional guided tours to discover districts, like
- Telliskivi Creative District, located in the former industrial complex of Tallinn, which houses galleries, small shops, various creative companies, start-ups, and restaurants.
- Rotermann Quarter
- Kadriorg Palace and Park, to see the most famous sights located in the park: Catherine's Palace, Swan Pond and President's Office.
Program is subject to change.
Photo author: Rasmus Jurkatam
Kindly note the following:
Attending the programme
If your schedule is tight, you’re welcome to join a shorter version of the programme: arrive the evening before the workshop and stay with the group until the end.
Extended stay
If you’d like to extend your stay and explore Estonia a bit longer, Visit Estonia will be happy to arrange your return flight for a later date. Please note that any additional accommodation or services during the extended period will be at your own expense, though we can help negotiate a more favorable hotel rate.
Clothing and Footwear
We recommend dressing in layers for comfort, based on the weather forecast. For the hiking trip, suitable footwear includes sturdy hiking boots or flat rubber boots. A small backpack is useful for carrying personal items. It’s also wise to pack an extra pair of socks and shoes, in case your feet get wet and you’d like to change after the hike.
Your contacts:
Kaidi Kuusmann
Tourest Hosted Buyer Programme
Project Manager
TourestFAM@etfl.ee
Useful material
Last updated
05.12.2025