Bulgaria, officially known as the Republic of Bulgaria, with its capital Sofia, is making waves as a top European tourist destination for 2024, as recognized by the European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Association (ECTAA). This Balkan nation, known for its diverse terrain from the Black Sea coastline to its mountainous interior, is a cultural tapestry woven with Greek, Slavic, Ottoman, and Persian influences. Notably, 95 countries can travel visa-free to Bulgaria, making it an accessible destination for many travelers.
In April 2024 alone, Bulgaria recorded 793,260 visitor arrivals, underscoring its growing appeal. Sofia, nestled at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, boasts a history dating back to the 5th century B.C. The country’s scenic beauty, combined with its rich cultural heritage, including traditional dance, music, and crafts, makes it a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. This recognition by ECTAA offers Bulgaria a chance to highlight its cultural and natural treasures to a vast network of travel professionals across Europe.
Bulgaria’s tourist industry is thriving. In April 2024, Bulgaria welcomed 793,260 visitors, an increase from the 756,510 arrivals in the previous month. Trading Economics predicts that Bulgaria’s tourist arrivals will reach 1,490,000 by the end of the quarter, with projections of around 930,000 in 2025 and 990,000 in 2026. In 2023, Bulgaria hosted 12,627,547 tourists. In December 2023, air transport in Bulgaria reached 10,561,597 passengers, as reported by EUROSTAT. Trading Economics provides the latest value, historical data charts, and related indicators for Bulgaria’s air transport of passengers, last updated in June 2024. The number of passengers carried by civil aviation in Bulgaria increased to 2,451,000 in 2023, up from 2,418,000 in 2022.
Bulgaria has joined Europe’s Schengen area, achieving a milestone in their 13-year journey towards deeper integration. This change, facilitates seamless air and sea travel within the Schengen zone, eliminating border checks. However, Austria’s veto restricts this status to air and sea routes due to concerns over potential asylum seekers.
Bulgaria’s Visa-Free Access:
*
Europe:
Germany, Cyprus, Serbia, Iceland, Croatia, Slovenia, France, Switzerland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Malta, Ireland, Italy, United Kingdom, Macedonia, Greece, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Albania, Finland, Vatican City State, Poland, Portugal, Spain, San Marino, Norway, Moldova, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden, and Lithuania.*
North America:
Colombia, Guatemala, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Uruguay, Peru, Honduras, Costa Rica, Saint Lucia, Bahamas, El Salvador, Brazil, Canada, Nicaragua, Panama, Chile, Grenada, Dominica, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, United States of America, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Mexico, and Barbados.*
Asia:
China (Hong Kong), Timor-Leste, Taiwan, Japan, Israel, Republic of Korea, Brunei, Malaysia, and China (Macao).*
Middle East:
United Arab Emirates.*
Oceania:
Solomon Islands, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Samoa, Vanuatu, New Zealand, Tonga, Micronesia.*
Africa:
Seychelles, Mauritius.Explore Bulgaria’s Cultural Gems:
*
Sofia:
As the bustling capital of Bulgaria seamlessly blends ancient history with modernity. Stroll through the streets to witness the grandeur of landmarks like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Sofia Church, and the National Palace of Culture. Don’t miss exploring the ancient Serdica complex and indulging in the city’s vibrant culinary scene, which showcases a perfect blend of history, culture, and cosmopolitan ambiance.*
Plovdiv:
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, Plovdiv is surrounded by picturesque hills in central Bulgaria. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage by visiting the well-preserved Roman Amphitheatre and the charming Old Town, with its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and artistic flair. Plovdiv is a cultural hub known for its festivals, art exhibitions, and vibrant artistic scene.*
Veliko Tarnovo:
Once the capital of the second Bulgarian Empire, Veliko Tarnovo is adorned with impressive historical landmarks such as the Tsarevets Fortress and the beautiful Samovodska Charshiya street. This captivating destination offers a regal atmosphere and a chance to step back in time while exploring its fascinating sites.*
Varna:
As Bulgaria’s third-largest city and a gateway to the Black Sea coast, Varna offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and seaside relaxation. Enjoy strolling along the Sea Garden promenade, relaxing on sandy beaches, and experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife. Discover the archaeological museum, which houses the renowned Gold of Varna, one of the world’s oldest golden artifacts.*
Bansko:
Nestled in the heart of the Pirin Mountains, Bansko is a charming alpine town known for its ski slopes and winter sports. During the winter months, visitors flock to this picturesque destination to enjoy the snow-covered landscapes. Beyond winter activities, Bansko boasts a well-preserved old town with traditional architecture, a vibrant après-ski scene, and the chance to savor authentic Bulgarian cuisine.Bulgaria, a nation of 7 million people, shares its borders with Turkey, Greece, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Romania. This country is renowned for its famous ski resorts, beautiful seacoast, charming villages, and bustling cities with vibrant nightlife. As one of the oldest countries in Europe, Bulgaria stands out as the only nation on the continent that has never changed its name. Additionally, Bulgaria ranks third in Europe for the number of archaeological sites, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
