Romanian Black Sea resorts see 50% drop in tourists as Sunwaves festival moves abroad

During the first weekend of May 2026, roughly 40,000 visitors arrived at the Romanian Black Sea resorts of Mamaia, Vama Veche, Mamaia Nord and Eforie, a decline of about 50 % compared with the same period in 2025. Only 17,500 guests stayed overnight in the 19,800 classified hotel rooms that were open, with an estimated additional 15,000 tourists accommodated in apartments or unclassified lodging. In Vama Veche authorities estimate a total presence of about 65,000 people, most of whom were day‑trippers.

The drop is largely attributed to the relocation of the Sunwaves music festival to the Bulgarian resort of Golden Sands after local authorities expelled its organizers. Hospitality representatives noted a lack of coordination, higher taxes and increased VAT as further challenges, yet highlighted strong professional standards. Attractions such as the Constanța Casino attracted over 6,000 visitors and the Mamaia Telegondola sold close to 3,000 tickets, double its Easter‑weekend sales.