In brief
Tourism Minister Ilin Dimitrov told Nova TV that major tour operators in London are increasingly interested in Bulgaria due to its safety, affordability and dual budget‑and‑premium offer. Revenue rose 19% versus 2025, and the minister announced a plan to double marketing funds for 2027, introduce QR codes for visitor feedback and expand promotional spending, while noting drone attacks have not harmed the country’s reputation. Further reports suggest an extra €10m may be allocated in 2027 to advertisement, though the source was not confirmed.
Tourism Minister Ilin Dimitrov told Nova TV on Saturday that interest from global tour operators is growing, after meeting representatives of the five largest operators in London. The ministers highlighted Bulgaria’s safety, affordability and dual focus on budget and high‑quality tourism, all of which appeal to companies that are “searching for places that can offer good value” amid rising prices in neighbouring countries. Tourism revenue rose 19% compared with 2025 – a figure the minister confirmed during the interview.
While the minister noted that a dispute with a German operator had caused a loss of about 220,000 airline seats for the summer, overall visitor numbers were similar to 2025. Smith was quoted. “The sector remains stable, even as prices climb elsewhere, and Bulgaria offers mid‑range and high‑end options that cater to diverse budgets,” he said.
Dimitrov announced that next year’s budget will double the funds allocated for tourism marketing and promotion, with an earlier BTA report stating that every euro spent should generate a €20 return. Plans include QR codes at restaurants, bars, hotels, museums and other attractions that will let visitors rate the services directly. In his remarks he said mayors would be required to spend 50% of tourist‑tax revenue on promotion and air‑connectivity. The minister also mentioned that there have been no enquiries about security arrangements for the 2027 Eurovision event in Burgas, saying it would put Bulgaria in the European spotlight.
Other reports, from burgasmedia, suggest that Bulgaria will spend an extra €10m in 2027 on advertising the country and improving links to tourist areas, effectively doubling promotional spending – although the source could not be located.
