Romania and Bulgaria's entry into Schengen has significantly increased the number of Romanians shopping in Ruse, attracted by lower prices and local beauty

After joining Schengen, Romanians started to cross the border into Bulgaria more often, especially in Ruse, to benefit from lower prices on products such as coffee and tobacco. The flow of Romanian tourists has increased, with the town adapting with Romanian-language menus and bilingual staff. The Basarabovo monastery, a place of pilgrimage, has also seen an increase in Romanian visitors, who appreciate Bulgarian accessibility and hospitality.