Bulgaria anticipates a surge in winter tourism with over two million visitors expected and total visits soaring beyond 3.2 million

Sofia: Bulgaria anticipates over two million foreign visitors this winter, with tourism set to surpass 3.2 million total visits, signaling a strong season ahead.

Bulgaria is expecting more than two million international visitors for the upcoming winter season, Acting Minister of Tourism Evtim Miloshev shared during an interview with Nova TV. The minister noted that total foreign visits, including day trips and transit stays, are projected to surpass 3.2 million.

The tourism industry in Bulgaria has experienced a steady increase, with a roughly five percent rise in tourism activity throughout the year. Miloshev expressed confidence that 2024 could be the most successful year for the country’s tourism sector. He mentioned a shift in the profile of incoming tourists due to geopolitical factors such as the conflict in Ukraine and unrest in the Middle East. Presently, Bulgaria’s main tourist sources are Romania and Poland, with a significant number of British visitors expected this winter. The majority of international tourists come from neighboring countries, the minister added.

Professor Rumen Draganov, head of the Institute for Analysis and Assessment of the Information Environment in Tourism, indicated that by the end of September, over 10.7 million foreign nationals had visited Bulgaria, exceeding the 2019 figures by 200,000. Draganov confirmed that the predictions for the season were proving accurate, with October, November, and December showing stronger tourism performance. He pointed out the increased activity in public spaces and noted that Sofia Airport’s flight program is more robust compared to the last quarter of 2019.

Miloshev also highlighted the potential for the Balkan region to present itself as a cohesive and attractive destination for international travelers. He emphasized the opportunity to draw tourists from distant regions, including the Far East, by promoting the Balkans as a unified brand.