Home » Bulgaria Travel News » Bulgaria Experiences Explosive Growth in 2025 with Record-Breaking Romanian Tourism, Reflecting Strategic Success in International Travel

Published on
February 15, 2026

In 2025, Bulgaria experienced explosive growth in tourism, fueled by a record-breaking influx of Romanian visitors. This surge, which saw nearly one million overnight stays, highlights the success of Bulgaria’s strategic marketing efforts and international partnerships. The country’s targeted approach to promoting its diverse offerings—from cultural heritage to modern travel experiences—has positioned Bulgaria as a leading destination for Romanian tourists. The record-breaking numbers reflect not only Bulgaria’s rising appeal but also its ability to attract international travelers through a well-executed tourism strategy.

The surge in Romanian tourists is attributed to Bulgaria’s varied tourism offerings, which combine high-quality experiences with an authentic sense of culture. Visitors from Romania are particularly attracted to Bulgaria’s diverse attractions, from vibrant urban experiences to serene beach resorts and eco-friendly escapes. The country’s strategic positioning and diverse portfolio of tourism products have made it an increasingly attractive destination for Romanian travelers, highlighting Bulgaria’s growing appeal and its capacity to offer something for everyone.

In addition to these impressive statistics, Bulgaria is showcasing its tourism offerings at the TTR 2026 international exhibition in Bucharest, which took place from February 12 to 15. The event gathered key players from the European tourism industry, including tour operators, hoteliers, and travel agencies, providing an excellent platform to highlight Bulgaria’s destinations and services to the Romanian market. The exhibition provided an opportunity to directly engage with industry professionals and visitors, promoting Bulgaria’s appeal as a diverse, year-round destination.

At the TTR 2026 exhibition, Bulgaria’s national stand was unveiled with a modern, fresh design that effectively combined elements of tradition with contemporary appeal. This new visual concept was crafted to reflect Bulgaria’s evolving tourism strategy, blending the old with the new to show the full range of the country’s offerings. The stand highlighted a broad spectrum of Bulgarian tourism experiences, from cultural and urban tourism to beach and winter destinations, as well as eco-tourism, which is gaining popularity among environmentally conscious travelers. This comprehensive representation emphasized that Bulgaria is not only a summer vacation spot but a destination for every season, offering a wide variety of attractions throughout the year.

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One of the key highlights at the exhibition was Bulgaria’s focus on its cultural heritage, particularly the recent inclusion of the Bulgarian bagpipe in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2025. The bagpipe, a deeply significant instrument in Bulgarian folklore, was showcased as an emblem of the country’s rich musical tradition. Visitors had the chance to learn more about Bulgaria’s craft traditions and other unique cultural offerings, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to preserving its heritage while also offering modern, high-quality experiences for today’s travelers.

The national stand was designed to immerse visitors in the beauty and culture of Bulgaria, creating a memorable and engaging experience. It served as a visual celebration of the country’s natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural richness, while also highlighting the modern hospitality and safety that Bulgaria provides to all its visitors. The stand’s innovative design underscored Bulgaria’s position as an inspiring, competitive, and safe destination, appealing to travelers looking for both adventure and relaxation.

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Bulgaria’s participation in the TTR 2026 exhibition is part of a larger, long-term strategy to increase its presence in key international markets, particularly those in Europe. By engaging directly with Romanian travelers and travel professionals, Bulgaria is working to strengthen its position as a leading tourism destination in the region. The country’s focus on sustainability, cultural preservation, and modern tourism trends will play a central role in its efforts to attract a diverse range of travelers in the coming years.

The continued growth of Romania’s inbound tourism is a clear indicator that Bulgaria’s efforts to enhance its tourism offerings are paying off. The rise in Romanian visitors in 2025, coupled with the successful participation at the TTR 2026 exhibition, highlights Bulgaria’s growing recognition as a top European destination. The country’s tourism industry is well on its way to meeting the demands of modern travelers while preserving its cultural heritage and natural beauty for generations to come.

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In 2025, Bulgaria saw explosive growth in tourism, driven by a record influx of Romanian visitors. This success reflects the country’s effective marketing strategy and international partnerships, positioning Bulgaria as a top destination for travelers.

Looking ahead, Bulgaria remains committed to sustainable tourism development, focusing on attracting visitors year-round and catering to diverse market segments. With its strategic marketing, diverse offerings, and focus on authenticity, Bulgaria is poised to continue its tourism growth, ensuring it remains a competitive and appealing destination for travelers from Romania and beyond. As the country strengthens its international partnerships and broadens its tourism initiatives, Bulgaria is set to become a key player in Europe’s tourism landscape.