Bulgaria's Hotel Occupancy and Revenue Trends in 2024
Nearly half of Bulgaria’s hotels had an annual occupancy rate between 50% and 70% in 2024, while just under a quarter exceeded 70% occupancy, according to a national survey by the Bulgarian Association of Hotel Executives (BAHE). Around a third of hotels recorded an occupancy rate below 50%, CE Report quotes BTA
Despite Bulgaria’s seasonal tourism industry, BAHE described the data as positive, noting that over half of surveyed hotels experienced occupancy growth last year. Room rates saw an average increase of 10% in 2024, with prices ranging widely: a third of hotels charged under BGN 100 per night, while 10% priced rooms between BGN 300 and 500.
Revenue trends were mixed, with about two-thirds of hotels seeing revenue growth of up to 20%, while one in five reported no change from 2023. Meanwhile, nearly 80% of hotels faced spending increases of over 10%, with salaries and employee insurance accounting for the highest share (60%), followed by utilities (20%).
Looking ahead to 2025, half of hoteliers anticipate a revenue increase of up to 10%, while 30% expect no growth. Price hikes are expected to be minimal, with one in five hoteliers ruling out any increase in room rates.
Challenges persist in the sector, particularly staff shortages, inflation, and rising costs. BAHE noted that while wages have been increasing, further hikes are limited by competitive pressures on room pricing. Additionally, hiring foreign workers remains difficult due to administrative constraints and Bulgaria’s expanded Schengen border control responsibilities.
Domestic tourism continued to grow, with Bulgarian tourists comprising 44.7% of the total in 2024, up from 41% in 2023. Romanian visitors led international arrivals (60%), followed by tourists from the UK (28%), Germany (24%), Greece (23%), and Türkiye (21%).
The BAHE survey included two- to five-star hotels with more than 15 rooms, providing valuable insights into Bulgaria’s hospitality industry and its outlook for 2025.
