Burgas Bulgaria

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Burgas, Bulgaria

Burgas, nestled on the Black Sea coast, offers a captivating blend of sun-kissed beaches, historical charm, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. This guide will equip you with everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to this Bulgarian gem.

Table of Contents:

  • Getting There & Around
  • Places to Visit
  • Activities & Experiences
  • Where to Eat & Drink
  • Where to Stay
  • Things to Know

Getting There & Around

  • By Air: Burgas Airport (BOJ) is well-connected with numerous European destinations. From the airport, you can reach the city center by bus (line 15), taxi, or pre-booked shuttle.

  • By Train: Burgas has a train station connecting it to major Bulgarian cities like Sofia and Varna.

  • By Bus: Frequent bus services connect Burgas with other coastal towns and inland destinations.

Transportation within Burgas:

  • Bus: The city boasts an efficient public bus network covering most areas.
  • Taxis: Easily available, but negotiate fares beforehand.
  • Walking & Cycling: Burgas is a walkable city, and bike rentals are available for exploring the coastline and parks.

Places to Visit

Historical & Cultural:

  • The Sea Garden (Gradina): A sprawling green oasis along the Black Sea coast featuring picturesque walkways, fountains, playgrounds, an aviary, and the Ethnographic Museum.

  • Burgas Archaeological Museum: Houses artifacts from the Thracian, Roman, and medieval periods, offering insights into the city’s rich history.

  • The Church of St. Cyril and Methodius: A stunning Orthodox church with ornate frescoes and a bell tower offering panoramic views.

  • Alexandrovska Street: Burgas’ main pedestrian street lined with charming cafes, shops, and historic buildings.

Nature & Beaches:

  • Sunny Beach: Located just south of Burgas, this vibrant resort town boasts golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a lively nightlife scene.

  • Nessebar: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nessebar is an ancient Thracian settlement with charming cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and archaeological ruins.

  • Lake Atanasovsko: A saltwater lake teeming with birdlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and relaxing walks.

  • The Black Sea Coast: Explore the beautiful coastline north of Burgas, dotted with picturesque beaches, secluded bays, and charming seaside villages.

Activities & Experiences

  • Sunbathing & Swimming: Soak up the sun on the sandy beaches of Sunny Beach or Burgas’ own City Beach.

  • Watersports: Enjoy a range of activities like jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.

  • Boat Trips: Embark on a scenic boat trip along the Black Sea coast to explore hidden coves and charming islands.

  • Hiking & Cycling: Explore the lush forests and rolling hills surrounding Burgas, enjoying breathtaking views and fresh air.

  • Birdwatching: Visit Lake Atanasovsko, a haven for migratory birds, and observe diverse species in their natural habitat.

Where to Eat & Drink

Traditional Bulgarian Cuisine:

  • Mehana Izvora: Indulge in authentic Bulgarian dishes like banitsa (flaky pastry filled with cheese), shkembe chorba (tripe soup), and kavarma (meat stew).
  • Restaurant “The Old Town”: Enjoy a charming atmosphere and delicious traditional fare in the heart of Nessebar’s old town.

Seafood Restaurants:

  • Restaurant “Saltwater”: Savor fresh seafood specialties with stunning views of the Black Sea.
  • Fish Tavern “The Net”: A popular spot for grilled fish, mussels, and other local catches.

Cafes & Bars:

  • Cafe “The Garden”: Relax in a tranquil setting amidst lush greenery and enjoy coffee, pastries, and light bites.

  • Bar “The Black Pearl”: Experience the vibrant nightlife scene with cocktails, music, and dancing.

  • Beach Bars: Numerous bars dotting the coastline offer refreshing drinks, snacks, and breathtaking sunset views.

Where to Stay

Burgas offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences:

  • Luxury Hotels: Grand Hotel & Spa Pomorie, Hotel Marina Dinevi Resort

  • Boutique Hotels: Hotel “The Bridge,” Boutique Hotel “Atrium”

  • Apartments & Guesthouses: Airbnb offers numerous apartments and guesthouses for a more local experience.

Things to Know

  • Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is the official currency. Euros are widely accepted but may incur exchange fees.

  • Language: Bulgarian is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.

  • Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements based on your nationality.

  • Climate: Burgas enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.

  • Safety: Burgas is generally safe for tourists. Exercise common sense precautions against pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Bulgarian phrases like “hello” (Zdraveite), “thank you” (Blagodarya), and “please” (Molq).

  • Try traditional Bulgarian dishes and drinks like Shopska salad, banitsa, rakia, and ayran.

  • Bargain when shopping at local markets or for souvenirs.

  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene in Burgas and Sunny Beach.

  • Take advantage of the public transportation system to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Enjoy your trip to Burgas! This captivating coastal city offers a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and entertainment, promising an unforgettable experience for every traveler.