Bulgaria’s Seaside Resorts Now Attract Growing Numbers of Romanian Visitors, Get the Details Here

Published on December 12, 2025

Bulgaria has emerged as among the most attractive tourist destinations for Romanians. It should be noted that Romanian tourists constitute a considerable number amongst foreign tourists who travel to Bulgaria. According to Travel Planner, an internet-based travel service for Romanian tourists planning trips to Bulgaria, about 30-40 percent of tourists who travel to Bulgaria are Romanian. Looking at the rising trend, it can thus be seen that Romanian tourists form an integral part of the Bulgarian tourism industry, particularly during summer vacation. As Bulgaria readies itself for 2026, there are factors that are predicted to affect tourist travel. These include changes in the economy and the subsequent transition to the euro.

Price Increases on the Horizon Due to Economic Changes

As Bulgaria transitions to the euro, the travel industry anticipates price increases that could range from 5 to 10 percent for the upcoming holiday season in 2026. According to Travel Planner’s analysis, hotels in Bulgaria are expected to face higher costs for supplies, utilities, and labor, which will ultimately be passed on to consumers. For Romanian tourists planning their holidays in Bulgaria, this means that prices for accommodations and packages will likely rise as the spring season approaches.

Travel Planner’s founder, Sebastian Constantinescu, predicts that hotels may implement two rounds of price hikes—one in the fall and another in the spring—resulting in an overall increase of 7 to 15 percent. While some hotels may absorb these costs, others will raise prices accordingly to cover the additional expenses. To avoid the impact of these price hikes, Constantinescu recommends booking holiday packages during the early-booking period, which offers lower prices and a broader selection of options.

Romanians’ Favorite Bulgarian Resorts: Golden Sands, Sunny Beach, and Beyond

Bulgaria’s seaside resorts have long been a favorite for Romanian holidaymakers, with well-known destinations like Golden Sands, Albena, and Sunny Beach topping the list. However, in recent years, the picturesque Sveti Vlas has gained popularity, largely due to the development of new, premium hotels. This growing interest reflects a shift towards more luxurious and modern accommodations, appealing to tourists seeking a higher standard of service and amenities.

In 2026, a weeklong seaside holiday in Bulgaria could range in price from 170 to 1,100 euros per person, depending on the resort and type of accommodation. A stay at a five-star hotel in July could cost between 550 and 1,100 euros per person for options like bed and breakfast, half board, or all-inclusive packages. For a superior four- or five-star hotel, prices fall between 440 and 1,000 euros per person. For a more budget-friendly experience, tourists can find deals starting at 170 euros per person for three- to four-star hotels.

These prices reflect both the variety of available accommodations and the growing demand for Bulgarian holidays, especially from Romanians. The influx of Romanian tourists during the summer months continues to bolster the Bulgarian tourism economy, with seaside resorts acting as the main hub for these travelers.

Economic Outlook for 2026: A Competitive Edge for Bulgaria

Romanian tourists are expected to be the dominant group in Bulgaria again in 2026, with many choosing Bulgaria over other European destinations like Greece and Turkey. The affordability, proximity, and range of available services make Bulgaria an attractive choice, particularly as inflation and economic pressures make it difficult for some travelers to opt for more expensive destinations. According to Travel Planner, Bulgaria’s cost-effectiveness, especially in the early-booking period, is a significant advantage for Romanian tourists, who are likely to prioritize value for money when choosing their summer destinations.

The early-booking period, spanning from November to February, is seen as the best time for reservations, as tourists can take advantage of discounted prices and secure their preferred accommodations. With many hotels offering early-booking discounts, Romanians who book in advance can enjoy a more affordable and stress-free vacation experience.

New Booking Options for Romanian Travelers

To further accommodate Romanian tourists, Travel Planner has introduced new booking options that make holiday planning easier and more flexible. These options include a 50-euro deposit for booking a vacation, with the remaining balance payable in 2026. Additionally, tourists can choose installment payments or take advantage of worry-free cancellations up to seven days before the holiday. This flexibility is expected to make Bulgaria even more appealing to Romanian travelers, who can now plan their holidays with more peace of mind, knowing that they can adjust their plans if needed.

In addition to the flexible payment options, Travel Planner is offering a unique benefit for families. If a child becomes ill and is unable to travel, the company provides a voucher for unused accommodation days, ensuring that families are not financially burdened by unforeseen circumstances. This customer-centric approach is designed to enhance the experience for Romanian tourists, fostering loyalty and encouraging repeat visits to Bulgaria.

Romanians Leading the Charge: Tourist Statistics and Trends

Between May and October of 2025, Bulgaria welcomed approximately 2.5 million tourists from the EU, with Romanians making up a staggering 31 percent of that total. The peak month for Romanian visitors was August, when nearly 360,000 Romanian tourists visited Bulgaria—almost 43 percent of all EU tourists. Romanians have thus firmly established themselves as the largest group of foreign visitors to Bulgaria, outpacing travelers from Germany, Poland, Greece, and the Czech Republic.

Seaside resorts remain the top choice for Romanian tourists, with 80–85 percent of them opting for beach destinations. The remaining visitors typically explore Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia, the Veliko Tarnovo region, or mountain resorts. This highlights the diversity of experiences that Bulgaria offers, from bustling coastal resorts to serene, historical sites and natural landscapes.

Bulgaria Remains the Top Choice for Romanians in 2026

As 2026 approaches, Romanian tourists can enjoy wider options of five-star hotels, a diversified offering of holiday complexes, and an even friendlier attitude by the people of Bulgaria. Whether it is the beaches of Golden Sands, the cultural tourism in Sofia, or the natural attractions of Bulgaria, the country maintains its leading positions as a preferred destination for Romanians to enjoy a memorable and affordable experience within Europe.