The tourist season along the South Black Sea Coast is progressing successfully this summer, with visitor numbers comparable to last year's levels despite forecasts of a potential decline, stated Tsarevo Mayor Marin Kirov. During the national meeting of the state, local government, and tourism business, "Dolgolyatie/Hospitable Sea 2026," held in Tsarevo, he noted that the town has been packed with visitors through mid-September. Similar trends are being observed in the settlements of Varvara, Lozenece, Sinemorets, and Akhtopol.
"In fact, we are chasing last year's levels, which is a good sign for us. There is no noticeable decline; on the contrary, all municipal events were well-attended," Kirov said.
One way to attract people toward the end of the season is by hosting various events—today, a four-day festival launched in Akhtopol. Kirov emphasized that tourist interest is not limited to beaches and town centers, but extends to cultural and sporting activities within the municipalities along the South Black Sea Coast. He pointed out the potential of these sectors to start the tourist season earlier and extend its duration.
To achieve this, municipalities are striving to create "complete destinations" that offer much more than just beaches and seaside experiences. "The municipalities along the South Black Sea Coast are trying not to offer just sea experiences and beaches, but complete destinations where people have a reason to return, a reason to participate in sporting events and cultural life," the mayor explained.
Supporting this strategy is the national "Dolgolyatie" initiative, launched in 2025 by the Ministry of Tourism. The project is implemented in cooperation with Black Sea municipalities and the Burgas Regional Administration. It places an emphasis on the months of September and October, presenting the South Black Sea Coast as an attractive destination outside the peak period of June, July, and August by promoting festival, historical, cultural, and sports tourism.