Greek tourists continue to show a steady and growing interest in Bulgaria, with travel motivations ranging from leisure escapes to religious and cultural experiences.
According to tour operators, Bulgaria’s recent inclusion in the Schengen area has further strengthened this trend, making cross-border travel more convenient and attractive for visitors from the south.
A recent analysis conducted by the Institute for Marketing and Analysis at the Ministry of Tourism reveals that nearly one million Greek citizens have traveled to Bulgaria in the past two years.
The study notes that many of these visits coincide with public holidays, where short spa retreats and weekend breaks in coastal cities along the Black Sea are a common choice.
“Ease of access is a major factor,” explained one Sofia-based tour operator. “With border checks reduced and delays minimized, we are seeing more frequent short-term visits, especially around weekends and festive periods.”
While Bulgaria’s coastline and spa towns remain popular, religious and cultural tourism holds a strong appeal among Greek travelers.
Organized bus tours to monasteries, churches, and heritage landmarks continue to attract groups, particularly older tourists seeking a blend of spiritual and cultural enrichment. Towns such as Rila and Bachkovo, home to famous monasteries, feature prominently on itineraries.
During the winter months, Bulgarian ski resorts like Bansko and Pamporovo have become favored destinations for Greek visitors looking for affordable yet high-quality winter sports experiences.
Meanwhile, spa towns such as Velingrad and Hisarya are emerging as year-round attractions, offering relaxation and wellness tourism that complements Bulgaria’s traditional cultural and religious draws.
In addition to Bulgaria, Greeks remain loyal to broader European destinations, with Germany, France, Austria, and the Netherlands consistently ranking among their top choices.
However, recent years have also witnessed growing interest in Central European countries such as Poland and the Czech Republic, where affordable prices and cultural diversity provide appealing alternatives.
Bulgaria’s competitive pricing compared to Western Europe has positioned it as a budget-friendly option, particularly in leisure and wellness tourism.
Combined with strengthened connectivity and Bulgaria’s growing reputation for quality hospitality, the country has managed to carve out a unique appeal for Greek travelers seeking both short getaways and longer cultural experiences.
Tourism experts note that the new travel climate post-Schengen offers even more potential for growth. With border formalities simplified, weekend city breaks to Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna have become increasingly popular.
“For many Greeks, it’s about convenience and variety,” commented a travel analyst. “They can enjoy a spa weekend in Velingrad, a ski trip in Pamporovo, or a cultural tour of Plovdiv, all without the hassle of lengthy border procedures.”
As cross-border travel becomes easier and more seamless, both countries stand to benefit from enhanced cultural exchange and economic activity.
With nearly one million visitors already recorded, tourism officials in Bulgaria are optimistic that numbers will continue to climb, reinforcing the strong neighborly ties between Greece and Bulgaria.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members