site.btaTourism Minister Says Bulgaria Ranks Among EU's Top 10 for Tourist Growth in 2025

Opening the second annual specialized conference of the Erlebe Bulgarien/Experience Bulgaria event in the Golden Sands resort, Tourism Minister Miroslav Borshosh said preliminary data for 2025 place Bulgaria among the top 10 EU countries in terms of tourist growth. The event brought together some 200 major tour operators, airlines and media representatives from Germany. It aims to strengthen Bulgaria's position as a preferred destination for visitors from Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

"The answer to why you should choose Bulgaria is simple: it is a unique place, well worth experiencing," Borshosh told participants. He said modern tourism is evolving rapidly and countries and destinations are in fierce competition. Among the key challenges, he highlighted climate change, the rise of new technologies and artificial intelligence, and security concerns.

Bulgaria is a destination developing a world-class tourism product across the spectrum, including seaside, mountain, wine, medical and SPA tourism, said the Tourism Minister. The foundation has been laid for a new vision for tourism. Bulgaria does not just need image campaigns, he said, adding that the country's marketing strategy is focused on concrete and targeted actions.

Bulgaria's ranking among the top 10 EU countries for tourism growth marks a significant achievement for a newly formed government. The country has gone through a turbulent period over the past four years, but now, with renewed political stability, there is a solid foundation for long-term tourism planning, Borshosh said: "Tourism does not develop in six-month terms, it requires vision and planning for years ahead."

This new stability will help Bulgaria succeed in planning its long-term priorities, particularly in enhancing Bulgarian-German relations in tourism. Key focus areas will include improved connectivity, extending the tourist season, and implementing a more targeted and effective marketing strategy.

Participants in Thursday's discussions include Germany's Ambassador to Bulgaria, Irene Maria Plank; the President's Secretary for Education, Culture, and Tourism, Ilin Dimitrov; Desislav Taskov, Chair of the parliamentary Committee on Tourism; and Varna Mayor Blagomir Kotsev.