German tour operators say early bookings for Bulgaria have made a strong start and the number of German tourists could double within three years, the Ministry of Tourism said.

Tourism minister Ilin Dimitrov discussed early bookings and a possible doubling of tourist numbers at meetings in Berlin with representatives of Schauinsland-Reisen and DERTOUR.

Airline Sundair presented a plan to add about 10% more seats for the 2027 season, bringing the total to nearly 27,000 on planes to Varna and Burgas. That includes extra flights to the seaside city for Eurovision.

Dimitrov also spoke with the management of Corendon Airlines. He and the company's chief commercial officer, Paul Schwaiger, discussed flight schedules and how many passengers they expect.

The tour operators say doubling is possible if there are stable flight links, joint campaigns and work with travel agencies.

The minister also discussed with the German Travel Association of tour operators and travel agencies how Bulgaria can attract Germans outside the summer season.

In April 2027, a delegation of 10 tour operators will visit Bulgaria. They offer cultural, touring, spa and wellness trips.