Bulgarian tourism is showing steady growth. According to experts, the positive dynamics will continue in 2026. This was stated by Professor Rumen Draganov, Director of the Institute for Analysis and Evaluation in the Field of Tourism, in an interview with the Bulgarian National Radio.
Strong demand from local travelers remains the foundation of the sector's sustainability. Draganov estimates that in 2025 the number of trips by Bulgarian tourists within the country will exceed 27 million.
The number of foreign visitors is also growing: in 2025, according to preliminary data, about 13.5 million arrivals were recorded in the country, which is almost a million more than in pre-pandemic 2019.
It is expected that in winter the number of foreign tourists will increase by 2-3%, exceeding the mark of 3 million people. By 2026, experts predict reaching the level of 14 million international visitors.
The growth is ensured not only by traditional beach destinations, but also by the active development of cultural, gastronomic, wellness and other types of niche tourism. It is these segments that attract more and more foreign and local travelers.
Source: Novinite
