Romania’s tourism sector continued its upward trend in 2024, with 14.26 million visitors choosing the country as a travel destination.

This marks a 4.5% increase from the previous year, according to the National Institute of Statistics (INS)​.

Domestic tourism drives growth

The majority of tourists—83.3%—were domestic travelers. Foreign tourists made up 16.7% of the total, reflecting a 13.5% increase from 2023. Visitors from the European Union (EU) accounted for 57.2% of all international arrivals, showing a 12.9% rise.

Germany led as the top source country, with 240,400 visitors, followed by Italy with 213,500 and Israel with 151,500. Tourists from Asia accounted for 10.5% of international arrivals, growing by 8.6%.

Meanwhile, North American travelers made up 7.3% of foreign visitors, increasing by 9.4%​.

Overnight stays reach 30.19 million

Tourists spent 30.19 million nights in Romania, a 3.5% rise from 2023. Foreign tourists accounted for 4.94 million overnight stays, up 10.6% from the previous year​.

Bucharest recorded the highest number of arrivals, with nearly 2 million visitors, followed by Constanța (1.75 million) and Brașov (1.5 million)​. However, Constanța led in overnight stays, reaching 5.56 million, followed by Bucharest with 3.95 million and Brașov with 2.82 million​.

Strong performance in December

In December alone, Romania welcomed 962,800 tourists, a 6.8% increase from the same month in 2023. Overnight stays for the month reached 1.82 million, reflecting a 4.9% rise.

On the other hand, Romanian citizens made 16.05 million trips abroad, with 74.3% traveling by road and 24.9% by air​.

Critical time for travel rules

The increase in tourism comes as the EU prepares for major travel policy changes. The upcoming launch of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), expected in 2026, will require visa-exempt travelers from countries like the US, Canada, and the UK to apply for pre-travel authorization.

With Romania’s rising number of non-EU visitors, the system could impact future travel trends by adding a layer of bureaucracy for short-term tourists.

Shaping migration strategies

The increase in Romania’s tourist arrivals highlights the country’s expanding role in regional mobility, which could influence EU immigration discussions.

With more foreign visitors entering Romania, the country may need to adjust its visa policies, particularly regarding longer-term stays.

A growing number of tourists from Asia and North America could prompt adjustments in work and residence permit policies, especially in sectors experiencing labor shortages.

For EU nations, Romania’s steady tourism growth signals an increasing flow of people across borders. Countries with high Romanian migration, such as Italy and Spain, might see an indirect effect as Romanian travelers and seasonal workers become more mobile. 

Additionally, as more foreign tourists experience Romania, the country may see higher demand for residence permits from digital nomads, investors, and retirees seeking a lower cost of living within the EU.

Tourism on a steady climb

The 2024 increase follows a strong performance in 2023 when Romania recorded a 10.5% rise in total tourist arrivals.

Although growth slowed slightly in 2024, the consistent rise in both domestic and foreign visitors highlights Romania’s appeal as a travel destination​.

With its rich history, scenic landscapes, and expanding tourism infrastructure, Romania continues to attract visitors from around the world. If the trend holds, the country may see even stronger numbers in the coming years.