The number of tourists staying in Estonian hotels and other accommodation was up 6% in January compared to the previous year. 

In total, 178,000 people stayed in the country according to data. Of these, 98,000 tourists came from abroad, showing an increase of 2% on January of last year.

Russian tourism numbers are still significantly down on figures in recent years. However, January was the first month on month increase for 18 months.

Latvian tourists increased by 20% with other European countries and the USA also showing healthy increases.

Domestic tourism increased by 7% compared to January 2015. Of these, 23% stated they were travelling on business and 62% were on holiday.

Room occupancy for the country’s 877 hotels and other hostel and bed and breakfasts was 33%, with bed occupancy being 26%.

The average overnight stay in Estonia increased by €1 compared to January 2015, rising to €35.