Sozopol: Successful Tourist Season 2025 and Plans for 2026

The Tourism Consultative Council, chaired by Mayor Tihomir Yanakiev, held its next meeting in the picturesque Sozopol. The meeting, which brought together representatives of the municipal administration, the tourism business, hoteliers, cultural institutions, representatives of law enforcement agencies and the fire department, as well as partner organizations, was dedicated to important issues for the development of tourism in the region.

The main topic, which sparked lively discussions, was the analysis of the completed 2025 tourist season and preparations for the upcoming season. The meeting began with the presentation of data from Maria Naydenova, head of the "Tourism and Economic Activities" department. The report made it clear that Sozopol is reporting a positive trend, with overnight stays increasing by 5.3% compared to the previous year.

The total number of tourists who stayed overnight in the period from January 1 to October 1, 2025 reached an impressive 181,935 people. Of these, Bulgarian tourists represented an impressive 76.6% of all visitors. Among foreign guests, the most numerous were tourists from Romania, forming 6.3% of the total flow. They are followed by tourists from the Czech Republic (4%), Poland (3.1%) and Germany (2.1%). The data made it clear that the predominant age group is between 30 and 44 years old. An interesting fact is that four-star hotels continue to be the most popular choice for both Bulgarian and foreign guests of Sozopol.

The second key point on the agenda was devoted to the challenges facing the upcoming 2026 tourist season. Mayor Tihomir Yanakiev emphasized the potential economic changes related to Bulgaria's upcoming entry into the Eurozone and their possible impact on the tourism sector. In this regard, the mayor stressed the municipality's commitment to improving infrastructure, especially with regard to the road network. In this activity, the municipality relies on the support of the state, as well as on European funding programs.

The atmosphere in the hall was filled with anticipation of the upcoming tourism exhibitions. It became clear that Sozopol will be presented at a number of international forums, including in Bucharest, Leipzig, Vienna, Istanbul and Sofia. In this regard, the local business was invited to actively participate in these exhibitions, providing information and attending the international forums.

The project for the cultural calendar of Sozopol Municipality for 2026, presented by Violeta Georgieva, was not missed either. The proposals for extending the tourist season aroused particular interest. The ideas include organizing festivals and theatrical performances in June and September, with an emphasis on strengthening cultural tourism as a key element of Sozopol's image.

In addition, during the discussions, ideas and opportunities for the development of the island "St. Ivan" as an attractive tourist destination were discussed. Among them, the construction of a tourist path, improving access and the possibility of holding cultural and Orthodox events.

In conclusion, representatives of the tourism industry and municipal officials focused on the issue of regular inspections of accommodation places. Deputy Mayor Todor Damyanov stressed the municipality's commitment to this process, noting that regular inspections are carried out and sanctions are imposed on incorrect hoteliers. Also, an increase in revenues from the paid tourist tax was reported.

The Ministry of Interior reported a calm season without serious incidents. Representatives of the fire department and voluntary formations thanked the municipality for the assistance provided in the prevention of incidents and fires.

"Sozopol is consolidating its position as a sustainable and attractive tourist destination. Together with businesses, institutions and citizens, we will continue to develop the city and strive to provide higher quality services, better infrastructure and a longer season", emphasized Mayor Tihomir Yanakiev, summarizing the data from the meeting.