Convenient Shuttle Bus Service from Tartu to the Biathlon World Cup in Otepää

From March 12 to 15, 2026, Otepää will host a BMW IBU Biathlon World Cup stage for

the second time in history. Spectators will be able to travel to Otepää conveniently by

a shuttle bus service operating from Tartu.

“The purpose of the shuttle bus service is to provide visitors with comfortable and safe

access to the competition venue while also reducing traffic congestion in the Otepää area,

where thousands of spectators from Estonia and abroad are expected during the World Cup

weekend,” said Aivar Nigol, President of the Otepää World Cup Organising Committee.

The special buses will operate on the Tartu–Otepää–Tartu route, departing in Tartu from the

lower parking area of Theatre Vanemuine and in Otepää from the Otepää bus station. The

journey takes approximately 50 minutes one way. Buses will run on all competition days,

from Thursday to Sunday, with several departures throughout the day, scheduled to align

with competition start and end times as well as the evening entertainment programme.

According to the organisers, Tartu is one of the main hubs for World Cup visitors. As the

nearest major city to Otepää, Tartu offers a wide range of accommodation and dining

options, as well as excellent rail and bus connections. “Many spectators stay in Tartu and

travel to Otepää only for the competitions. The shuttle bus service allows them to attend the

events without using a private car,” Nigol explained.

In addition, the use of public transport helps reduce traffic congestion and the environmental

footprint in the Otepää area — an increasingly important consideration when hosting an

international sporting event. “We want the organisation of the World Cup to be as

environmentally responsible as possible. The shuttle bus service is one step in that

direction,” Nigol noted. “A well-functioning transport system is a key part of the overall visitor

experience and helps ensure that the event runs smoothly for both spectators and local

residents.”

More detailed information on bus schedules, stops, and ticketing is available HERE