After eliminating the border controls, the Bulgarian city of Ruse enjoys an unexpected wave of Romanian tourists, and the locals respond with menus in Romanian and hospitality.
The Bulgarian city of Rousse enjoys an unexpected wave of Romanian photo tourists: X
Ruse, a border town in northern Bulgaria, just over the Danube by Giurgiu, Romania, lives a true tourist boom after the accession of Romania and Bulgaria at the Schengen and Maritime space since January 1, 2025. With the elimination of passport controls, the time spent in custom
The official data show that, in the first three months of the year, about 160,000 cars crossed the border through Giurgiu, 25% more than the same period last year. Most are Romanians who choose Russian, for cheaper shopping, one day trips or restaurants, according to France 24.
“Now it’s much easier. We are no longer in the queue in customs to check our documents. We really like this place, it is one of our favorites”Says Claudia Bădărău, a teacher from Giurgiu, who comes frequently with her partner.
Restaurants and shops in Russian have adapted quickly. The menus in Romanian have become a habit, and bilingual employees are in great search. “90% of our menus are now in Romanian”Says Todor Ratsov, the manager of a central restaurant.
The city, nicknamed “Little Vienna” for its elegant architecture, is also a cultural attraction. The Basarbovo rock monastery, located nearby, began to receive more and more Romanian pilgrims. Father Aleko, who serves there, confirms: “Once they go through Russian, people come to light a candle to the monastery and pray”.
In addition to tourists, Romanian carriers also feel the benefits of Schengen. The transport companies save time and money, and the roads become more efficient. A race lasts with “Two to three hours less now“This means”money saves and more deliveries”, Say the representatives of the Romanian Transport Federation.
Integration in Schengen turns out to be a clear gain for the city of Russian, and the positive impact on the local economy is just beginning to be seen.
