The Future of Tourism: How Technology Will Define Bulgaria’s Travel Industry in 2025

In 2025, digital transformation is set to become a crucial factor in the success of businesses across the tourism, hospitality, and entertainment industries in Bulgaria. It is no longer a question of whether these sectors should embrace technology, but how quickly they can integrate it into their operations. Museums, event organizers, SPA centers, and municipalities are increasingly looking to digital solutions as an essential tool to meet consumer demands and streamline their services.

Travelers today expect speed and ease in all aspects of their experience, especially when it comes to booking services. In 2023, over 80% of all travel bookings were made online via mobile apps or websites. This shift highlights the growing importance of digital tools. More than 70% of consumers now prefer businesses that provide easy, online access to their services, opting for companies that offer convenience over those that don't. Digital solutions are not just improving booking systems but are also being implemented in personalized event recommendations and seamless entry into tourist attractions, all aimed at meeting the demands of modern consumers.

The travel industry is also grappling with a labor shortage, with over 77% of businesses citing a lack of skilled workers, driven by an aging population and insufficient technological expertise. This has led to the increased use of digital tools to automate routine tasks, such as managing reservations and controlling visitor access. In 2023, the hotel sector alone saw a significant increase in the use of software for optimizing operations, and the integration of self-service kiosks and QR code payment systems grew by over 20%. These technologies not only improve efficiency but also help businesses deal with the labor...