The Baltic States are becoming increasingly attractive for German tourists. All three countries recorded last year record numbers of visitors.
Most German tourists came to Lithuania in 2011. Here again, the former East Prussian region around the city of Memel (Klaipėda) and the Curonian Spit is by far the most popular destination. Between Kiel and Klaipėda and Sassnitz ferry services from DFDS. In East Prussia is also this year the focus of the Lithuanian tourism promotion: the World War II destroyed St. John’s Church in Klaipeda – one of the most beautiful churches of the Baltic states – is to be rebuilt. To Lithuania in 2011 were 160,000 German (up 22 percent compared to 2010). This makes Germany to Poland and Russia, the largest source market.
Estonia attracted 103 600 German tourists last year, which also corresponds to a very steep rise: in 2010 the figure was 84 000 visitors. Main magnet was Tallinn, which bore the title “European Capital of Culture”. This year the focus is on nature tourism.
Latvia could eventually won nearly 100,000 German tourists – an increase of 13 percent compared to 2010. In particular, Riga, with its historic old town and the Art Nouveau districts met with great approval among the guests. In 2014, the Latvian capital will be European Capital of Culture.
After the closure of the Baltic States Tourism Office in Berlin, for all three countries made joint marketing, to Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are now new ways of tourism advertising. Increased trade fair appearances are also planned joint publications. The Baltic States for the Tourist Board was no longer finance.
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| Mažosios Lietuvos istorijos muziejaus archyvų nuotr./The World War II destroyed St. John’s Church in Klaipeda – one of the most beautiful churches of the Baltic states – is to be rebuilt. |
