Sofia Sees 11% Surge in Tourist Arrivals in First Half of 2025, Reinforcing Global Tourism Appeal
Sofia, The Gulf Observer: Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia, continues to strengthen its standing as a top European travel destination, registering an 11% increase in tourist arrivals in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Over 647,000 tourists visited the city between January and June, according to data released by the Municipal Enterprise “Tourism” (Visit Sofia).
Of the total number of visitors, 61% were international tourists, while Bulgarian nationals accounted for 39%. The increase reflects Sofia’s growing reputation for cultural richness, historical significance, natural beauty, and urban vibrancy, combined with improved accessibility through strong transportation links and Bulgaria’s recent entry into the Schengen Area.
Overnight stays in Sofia also experienced an 8% rise, reaching approximately 1.45 million. Four-star hotels captured the largest share at 35%, followed by both three-star and five-star accommodations at 21% each. Revenue generated from these overnight stays climbed to nearly 174 million leva — a 9% increase from the same period in 2024.
Israel led the surge in international arrivals with an 81% increase, followed by China (24%), Greece (22%), Turkey (21%), and Poland (20%). The Greek growth has been partly attributed to easier border movement following Bulgaria’s inclusion in the Schengen Zone.
Interestingly, Sofia also attracted tourists from more distant and uncommon origins, including Bhutan, the Falkland Islands, New Caledonia, Lesotho, the Cocos Islands, and Tonga — signaling a widening global appeal.
Tourism tax revenues soared by 174%, rising from 1.147 million leva in 2024 to 3.143 million leva in 2025. This dramatic growth is largely attributed to higher tax rates introduced last year.
Anton Penev, Director of Visit Sofia, noted that data from the Unified Tourist Information System (USTI) points to a consistent upward trend. “These figures confirm Sofia’s evolving identity as a prominent tourist destination and its growing recognition on the international stage,” he stated.
