Minister Ilin Dimitrov announces specific measures to attract more tourists from Romania, Germany, and Poland

More tourists, better connectivity, and a stronger Bulgarian presence in key markets. These were the main topics of discussion during Tourism Minister Dr. Ilin Dimitrov’s talks on opportunities for Bulgarian tourism in Romania, Germany, and Poland. Discussions with our tourism attachés in Poland and Germany, as well as with Bulgaria’s Ambassador to Romania, Radko Vlaykov, focused on current bookings, opportunities for additional flights, competition in the region, and concrete steps to better position our country. “I want us to get a realistic picture of each market and take timely action. Bulgarian tourism needs results, and results come from hard work, perseverance, and less talk,” Minister Ilin Dimitrov said. Data show varying trends across the three markets: Romania remains one of Bulgaria’s key markets, Germany is reporting growth compared to 2024, and Poland is showing very positive signs at the start of 2026.

Germany remains a market that is recovering, but one that requires timely decisions. The consequences of the bankruptcy of the tour operator “Electra” were discussed, as well as the possibilities for compensating for some of the lost capacity as early as this season. Discussions have already taken place with partners regarding additional flights, including with ICC as a consolidator of charter programmes. From May 14 to September 26, 255 flights are scheduled from four German airports to Varna and Burgas, with the potential to bring in approximately 46,000 tourists. In 2025, we recorded 306,537 tourist check-ins at accommodation facilities in Bulgaria from the German market, which is 24.3% more than in 2024, but the market still remains below 2019 levels. According to Minister Dimitrov, this indicates that a recovery for the 2026 season is possible, but it is even more important to anticipate such risks earlier when preparing for the summer of 2027.

Poland was identified as a market with significant growth potential, particularly with a clearer presentation of Bulgaria following our full accession to the Schengen Area and more active communication with tour operators, airlines, and the media. Although the number of Polish tourists in 2025 was 266,415, representing a slight decline of 1.2% compared to 2024, the first months of 2026 offer a much better outlook, with 8,532 registrations from January to March—a 61.3% increase compared to the same period last year. The possibilities for leveraging good air connectivity were also discussed, including 21 weekly flights from four Polish airports to Sofia. The goal is for Bulgaria to be recognized not only as a seaside destination but also as a nearby, accessible, and safe country to visit year-round.

Romania remains one of Bulgaria’s strongest markets, with 984,092 tourist check-ins at accommodations in 2025—an 8.5% increase compared to 2024 and 51.2% above 2019 levels. Minister Dimitrov discussed with our ambassador, Radko Vlaykov, measures to strengthen Bulgaria’s market position by organizing a roadshow in Bucharest, holding meetings with specialized travel journalists and influencers, and developing joint itineraries for tourists from more distant markets. Minister Dimitrov stated that he would work to establish a tourism attaché position in Romania, as this is a strategic market for Bulgaria in the long term. “We have the opportunity to develop joint itineraries, work more actively with the media and the business community, and attract more tourists in both directions. This is potential that we need to utilize much more effectively,” the Minister said.