Based on recent trends and the preferences shown by Romanian tourists, “Adevărul” made, together with tourism consultant Traian Bădulescu, a top 5 of foreign destinations that will be the most sought after next year.
The island of Thassos in Greece, one of the most sought-after destinations PHOTO Denis Grigorescu
The top is also compiled from a quantitative point of view, depending on the number of tourists who chose each country. The list also includes some mentions of more distant tourist destinations.
Traian Bădulescu, who is also the spokesperson of the National Association of Tourism Agencies (ANAT), estimates that next year Greece will be in first place in the top of the tourist destinations preferred by Romanians.
The Greek islands, such as Crete, Corfu, Zakynthos, Rhodes, Thassos, Santorini and Mykonos, attract Romanian tourists with their picturesque landscapes and local hospitality. Also, regions and resorts such as Halkidiki, Paralia Katerini or Olympic Beach are among Romanians’ favorites. Greece, the number 1 foreign destination of Romanians over 15 years old, was one of the preferred destinations in 2024, and its popularity is expected to remain in 2025.
“Why is Greece attractive? Both because of the proximity and because of the offers for all budgets, from 150 euros for a tourist for accommodation in a villa in Thassos or Paralia Katerini, to thousands of euros for the islands, at top hotels. In addition, the Greeks, being Orthodox Christians like us, also have similar traditions. But the seascapes, the beaches, have an exotic aspect, and the climate is Mediterranean, much warmer. According to Greek statistics, about 1.3 million Romanian tourists choose Greece every year”explained Traian Bădulescu for “Adevărul”.
Turkey will once again be a highly sought-after destination. Regions such as Antalya on the Mediterranean Sea, respectively Bodrum, Marmaris and Kuşadasi on the Aegean Sea, remain in the top choices of Romanian tourists due to all inclusive services and good value for money. Even if for the top ultra all inclusive resorts in Antalya, Romanian tourists take out several thousand euros from their pockets, especially in the middle of the summer season, the demand remains high. Also, Istanbul is one of the favorite city break destinations of Romanians. Istanbul has been the most visited city by Romanians since 1990, although then we were mostly talking about “small trade”. According to statistics from Turkey, over 1 million Romanians choose this destination annually.
Interest in Italy, growing
Bulgaria will also occupy a special place in the preferences of Romanian tourists in 2025.
Romanians are attracted to Bulgaria as a tourist destination for several reasons. The short distance from Romania makes the Bulgarian coast accessible for traveling by personal car, facilitating fast and convenient travel. Bulgaria offers tourist services at more advantageous prices compared to other destinations, sometimes including the Romanian coast, allowing significant savings for tourists.
Many Bulgarian seaside hotels offer all-inclusive packages, ensuring meals and facilities are included in the price of accommodation, which appeals to families and tourists who want a carefree stay. The high standards of hotel services and Bulgarian hospitality contribute to pleasant tourist experiences, causing many Romanians to return annually. In addition to the seaside (Golden Sands, Albena, Sunny Beach, Obzor, etc.), Bulgaria offers mountain resorts for winter sports (Pamporovo, Bansko, Borovets) and historical cities for city breaks (Veliko Târnovo), satisfying various tourist preferences . According to Bulgarian statistics, at least one million Romanians choose this country as a tourist destination every year.
Palermo, a highly appreciated destination PHOTO Denis Grigorescu
Italy will continue to be a highly attractive destination. Cities such as Rome, Milan, Venice, Verona and coastal destinations such as Rimini, Sardinia, Sicily, Amalfi are preferred for city breaks, cultural holidays and summer stays at the beach.
“In the summer of 2024, according to some statistics, 12% of travelers booked their vacation in Italy, indicating an upward trend for this destination, one of the most beautiful and attractive tourist countries in the world and, of course, in Europe. It matters a lot that in Italy we also have the largest Romanian community in the European Union”, says Traian Badulescu.
According to the well-known tourism consultant, in 2025 Spain will also be at the top as highly sought-after tourist destinations. Gorgeous cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Seville and resorts on the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, islands such as Ibiza and Mallorca, are attractive due to their vibrant culture and sunny beaches. Also, many Romanian tourists choose the island of Tenerife, part of the Canary archipelago. We have many air connections with Spain and a large Romanian community.
As exotic foreign destinations, Traian Bădulescu believes that Egypt, Dubai and Zanzibar will be in great demand.
Egyptian resorts, such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, continue to be very popular due to the affordable tourist packages, many hotels being all inclusive, and the favorable climate throughout the year. For New Year’s Eve 2025, packages to Egypt were among the most sold, highlighting Romanians’ preference for warm destinations. Annually, over 150,000 Romanian tourists choose this destination. Some Romanian tourists also want to visit Cairo for the pyramids or choose cruises on the Nile.
How many Romanians have invested in hotels in Zanzibar
Romanians are attracted to Dubai thanks to the unique combination of luxury, warm climate in the cold season, impressive tourist attractions and varied experiences. Dubai is home to landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world (820 meters), Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Mall, which offer unforgettable experiences. Many Romanians choose to spend their winter holidays in Dubai to escape the cold in the country, benefiting from pleasant temperatures and sunshine. Dubai offers diverse activities from water sports to desert safaris, attracting adventure-seeking tourists.
“Although famous for luxury, Dubai has become more accessible for Romanians, with tourist packages that start at competitive prices, at least 500-600 euros per person including flight. Annually, about 100,000 Romanian tourists choose Dubai, a metropolis, part of the United Arab Emirates, which shows what an economic policy of rapid development means”says Traian Badulescu
In recent years, more and more Romanians are going to Zanzibar due to its combination of exotic landscapes, vibrant culture and opportunities for relaxation. And the trend will continue in 2025 regarding Zanzibar. The temperature is constant all year round, between 29 and 32 degrees, and at night, between 21 and 25 degrees. Zanzibar offers white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water activities. Stone Town, the island’s old town, is a UNESCO site with fascinating architecture and history, reflecting Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences. Here is also the museum dedicated to the great artist Freddie Mercury, set up on the site of his birthplace. The waters surrounding the island are ideal for diving and snorkeling, offering the opportunity to explore coral reefs and an impressive variety of marine life.
“In recent years, several flights and tourist packages to Zanzibar have been introduced, facilitating Romanians’ access to this exotic destination. It is a safe destination, and more and more tour guides, as well as some of the staff of certain hotels, speak at least an average level of Romanian. Currently, there are about 30 Romanian investors in hotels in Zanzibar. This year, around 30,000 Romanians visited this exotic destination”adds Traian Badulescu.
