Swedish Eurovision Fans Face 'Usury Prices' in Host City Burgas

Swedish fans of the Eurovision Song Contest are confronting dramatically inflated accommodation costs in Burgas, Bulgaria, the city unexpectedly selected to host the 2027 event. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and Bulgaria chose the coastal city of Burgas over the capital, Sofia, leading to a rapid and significant price hike for hotels and rentals.

One fan, Leo Rehnström, described the prices in Burgas as "usury." He and his friends had already booked accommodation in Sofia, anticipating it would be the host city. Now, they face a nearly four-hour travel time between the two cities and are desperately seeking new lodging options. Rehnström noted that a 32-square-meter apartment for two people outside the city center is listed for approximately $3,500 for just three days during the Eurovision week, compared to under $600 a month prior.

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I checked hotels in Burgas this morning and the prices are usurious.

Martin Green, the Eurovision Song Contest's general manager, stated in a press release that next year's event aims to be "distinctly Bulgarian" while remaining a unifying celebration of music. However, the current accommodation situation has left many international attendees, particularly those from Sweden, feeling dismayed by the financial burden. Fans are hoping that more affordable options will become available as the event approaches, but many remain skeptical.

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When the Eurovision Song Contest is now being held in Bulgaria for the first time, we want to create something that feels truly Bulgarian while at the same time being unmistakably Eurovision – a celebration that brings people together through music.