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Foreign visitors spent 1.4 billion lei in Romania in 2026

21 Sep 2026, 19:41

In a remarkable display of interest, foreign visitors spent 1.4 billion lei in Romania in 2026. This surge in tourism is a testament to the country's growing appeal, especially as representatives from travel agencies across Europe actively promote Romania's charm.

Among the influencers helping to shine a light on Romania is Anita from Poland, who boasts 170,000 followers on social media. Her reach, along with that of other European influencers, has been instrumental in attracting tourists to explore Romania’s picturesque landscapes and rich culture.

Cities like Brașov have become hotspots for international guests, who typically stay for five days to fully immerse themselves in the local surroundings. The local hosts are particularly hopeful about attracting ski enthusiasts this winter, as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Prominent figures in the tourism sector, including Mathias Utz from a German travel agency and representatives from Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Israel, and Poland, are all part of a collaborative effort to enhance Romania's visibility as a travel destination.

Despite a decline in the number of Romanians vacationing domestically in the first seven months of the year, the influx of foreign visitors has notably increased. The most significant number of tourists came from Germany, Italy, and the United States, reflecting a shift in travel trends.

Chiara Modica Dona Dalle Rose, a Venetian countess, was captivated by the unique acoustics of the Cetății Cave, where she enjoyed a jazz performance. She expressed her fascination, stating, "There are so many things here that have captured our imagination, it reminds us of fairy tales." She was accompanied by filmmaker Luc Hardy, who noted the cave's potential for cinematic storytelling.

To further boost tourism, representatives from the Ministry of Tourism are actively working to invite more foreigners to Romania. Alin Grigore, the director at the Ministry of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism, highlighted ongoing discussions with Germany's largest tourism association, DRV. Plans are underway for an informational trip, likely scheduled for November, aimed at showcasing Romania's offerings to potential travelers.