Bulgaria registers record foreign tourist arrivals in 2024

10.7 million overseas visitors from January-September 2024
2025-01-13
/
/ New Delhi
Bulgaria registers record foreign tourist arrivals in 2024

Bulgaria's integration into Schengen has propelled foreign tourist arrivals (Photo: Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism)

Bulgaria, a Central European nation, received a record 10.7 million overseas visitors in the first nine months of 2024 and the country expects to have surpassed the figure of 13 million foreign tourists by the end of 2024.
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Foreign tourists are thronging Bulgaria in Central Europe as the country received a record-breaking 10.7 million foreign visitors from January to September, 2024.

According to the Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism, this surge not only surpasses the previous high of 2019 by 200,000 tourists but also sets the stage for an anticipated total of 13 million visitors by the end of the year.

It adds that with tourism revenues projected to reach BGN 14 billion (USD 7.33 billion), Bulgaria is solidifying its position as a prime destination for international travelers.

The Ministry of Tourism attributes its performance in 2024 to several key factors. The principal driving force was Bulgaria’s integration into the Schengen Area, even though limited to arrivals by air only. The Ministry says that the integration has significantly increased European tourist arrivals.

It adds that the country’s accession to the land Schengen zone on January 1, is expected to generate an additional BGN 300 million annually, simplifying border crossings and attracting more visitors, and notably this could further boost European tourist arrivals by 7 pc.

Bulgaria’s international partnerships have played a crucial role in fostering tourism growth. A historic memorandum of cooperation with the Japan Tourism Agency was signed in September 2024, aiming to enhance tourist exchanges and potentially establish a direct air route between Bulgaria and Japan.

Additionally, Bulgaria has proposed the creation of a ‘Balkans Destination’, promoting joint tourism efforts with neighbouring countries like Romania, Albania, Montenegro, and Greece. This initiative includes collaborative marketing campaigns and shared travel packages to position the Balkans as a unified and attractive destination.

Winter of Wonders 

Bulgaria is also a key winter destination (Photo: Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism)

According to the Ministry of Tourism, the summer of 2024 was a season of success for Bulgaria’s tourism sector. Major Black Sea resorts such as Varna, Golden Sands, Sunny Beach, and Nessebar reported high occupancy rates, drawing both international and domestic visitors to their beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.

It adds that as the country transitions into winter, its renowned ski resorts such as Bansko, Borovets, Vitosha, and Pamporovo, are expected to welcome approximately 3.2 million visitors between December and March, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Favourable snow conditions and improved infrastructure have contributed to a strong start for the winter season.

The statement adds that while Bulgaria’s tourism industry is poised for continued growth, challenges remain. The Ministry of Tourism is focused on leveraging Schengen membership to attract a broader range of travellers while addressing structural and financial hurdles.

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