Bulgaria’s tourism sector experienced a remarkable growth in 2023, with revenues increasing by 19.8% and non-residents accounting for BGN 27.5 million. Domestic travel also surged, as trips by Bulgarian residents abroad rose by 12.4%. The human story behind these figures showcases the resilience of Bulgaria’s tourism sector and its potential for continued success.
Bulgaria’s tourism sector witnessed a remarkable surge in the closing months of 2023, with total revenues from nights spent increasing by 19.8%, amounting to a staggering BGN 89.7 million. This growth was fueled by a significant contribution from non-residents, who accounted for BGN 27.5 million of the total revenue.
In tandem with this upswing, the number of trips made by Bulgarian residents abroad also saw a considerable increase, rising by 12.4% compared to 2022. This resulted in a total of 8,150.8 thousand trips. Notably, trips with purposes other than holiday or recreation, such as visiting as a guest, education, and cultural or sports events, accounted for the largest share at 43.9%. Holiday and recreation trips followed closely behind, making up 43.9% of the total.
The influx of non-residents visiting Bulgaria in 2023 further bolstered the country’s tourism industry. There was a 16.0% increase from the previous year, totaling 12,627.5 thousand visits. Interestingly, the majority of these visits, 47.4%, were for purposes other than holiday or recreation. However, holiday and recreation visits still held a considerable share at 42.2%. Professional visits accounted for 10.4%, while transit passes through Bulgaria comprised 35.7% of all non-resident visits.
As we look towards the future, the tourism sector in Bulgaria appears to be on an upward trajectory. The significant contribution from non-residents, coupled with the increasing number of trips made by Bulgarian residents, paints a promising picture. With these positive trends, Bulgaria is poised to continue reaping the benefits of a thriving tourism industry.
The human element of this story lies in the resilience and adaptability of Bulgaria’s tourism sector. Despite facing numerous challenges, it has managed to not only recover but also grow, thanks to the combined efforts of locals and non-residents alike. As the sector continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping Bulgaria’s economic landscape.