The Baltic Defence College (BALTDEFCOL) is an international professional military education institution located at Riia 12, Tartu. It provides higher-level military education to officers, non-commissioned officers (NCOs), and civil servants from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Allied nations, and partner countries. Its programmes focus on operational- and strategic-level leadership, security and defence policy, and the development of professional competence across the defence sector.
BALTDEFCOL is a NATO-accredited education and training facility, recognised for its multinational faculty, rigorous academic standards, and close cooperation with defence institutions across Europe and beyond.
Shared Campus at Riia 12
The Baltic Defence College shares its premises with two Estonian defence institutions:
The Estonian Military Academy is Estonia's national institution responsible for the education and professional development of officers and NCOs of the Estonian Defence Forces. The Estonian Defence League Tartu HQ serves as the regional base for the country's volunteer defence organisation.
Together, these three institutions form a distinctive defence education and cooperation hub in the heart of Tartu.
How to get here
Getting to BALTDEFCOL – Riia 12, Tartu
Riia 12 is centrally located in Tartu, within easy reach of the university district and the city's main transport connections.
By Air
The nearest airport is Tartu Airport (TAY), approximately 10 km southeast of the city. Taxis and rideshare service Bolt take around 15–20 minutes and typically cost €15–20. Inner city transportation information can be found here Inner City Bus Transportation | Tartu linn
By Train or Bus
Tartu Railway Station and Tartu Bus Station are both approximately 2 km from Riia 12. City buses connect both stations to the Riia street area, with services running frequently throughout the day. Inner city transportation information can be found here Inner City Bus Transportation | Tartu linn
By Car
From Tallinn (approximately 180 km), take the E264 towards Tartu and follow signs to the city centre. If your hotel does not offer parking, public parking spaces and prices can be found on the Tartu City website.
On Foot
From Tartu Old Town, Riia 12 is approximately 1 km away — a 15-minute walk along Riia street, which is well-lit and pedestrian-friendly. Those arriving by train or bus will find the walk from either station takes around 25–30 minutes along the same route.