Why Romania Fails to Attract More Foreign Tourists

Romania accounts for only 1% of European tourism, in a market where tens of millions of tourists and billions of euros circulate annually. Adrian Voican, Vice President of the National Association of Travel Agencies in Romania (ANAT), argues that we must learn to practice professional tourism.

Adrian Voican believes that Romania’s tourism potential resembles a rich oil field that is currently inaccessible.

The ANAT Vice President specifies that Romania holds only 1% of European tourism, which is extremely low compared to what the country can offer.

He maintains that there are two categories of foreign tourists visiting Romania. The first are those arriving in Bucharest for business who then take a side trip to see Bran, Peleș, etc. Then there are those who come for a circuit tour to see the country as a whole.

Connectivity, the ease of air travel, and the visa system are crucial for tourism.

The businessman claims that at international tourism fairs, countries are graded based on several criteria: the difficulty of obtaining a visa, the quality of infrastructure, and the quality of services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Romania’s current share of the European tourism market?

Romania currently holds only 1% of the European tourism market, despite the continent seeing billions of euros in annual revenue.

What are the primary profiles of foreign tourists in Romania?

Foreign visitors typically consist of business travelers based in Bucharest who take short excursions to sites like Bran and Peleș, or tourists participating in national circuits.

What factors are most critical for improving Romanian tourism?

Key priorities include improving air connectivity, simplifying the visa system, upgrading infrastructure, and elevating the overall quality of services.