Need a relaxing seaside escape on the Black Sea? Head to Burgas! Located on Bulgaria’s southern coast, Burgas is a lively port city known for its beaches, lakes, art festivals, and laid-back charm. Whether you’re into history, culture, or just sunbathing by the sea, Burgas offers a sunny, affordable European coastal experience.
Burgas, Bulgaria Highlights:
- Relax at Burgas Beach and Sea Garden: Stroll tree-lined paths, grab gelato, or relax on the wide, sandy beach.
- Visit the Burgas Archaeological Museum: Explore ancient Thracian, Roman, and Byzantine artifacts that reveal the region’s deep history.
- Take a boat to St. Anastasia Island: Visit a historic monastery, enjoy sea views, and try local seafood on this peaceful island escape.
- Stroll the pedestrian Aleksandrovska Street: Shop local boutiques, sip espresso, and enjoy vibrant street life in the city center.
- Birdwatch at Lake Atanasovsko: Spot flamingos and rare migratory birds in this coastal saltwater lagoon and nature reserve.
Best Time to Visit Burgas, Bulgaria
The best time to visit Burgas is from late spring through early fall (May to September). Summer brings warm beach days, outdoor concerts, and a lively seaside vibe. Spring and early fall offer fewer crowds, milder temperatures, and beautiful nature walks.
How to Get to Burgas, Bulgaria
- If you are traveling by car: Burgas is accessible via the A1 Trakia Motorway, about 4 hours east of Sofia or 2.5 hours south of Varna.
- By Air: Burgas Airport (BOJ) offers seasonal international and domestic flights with easy transport to the city center (15 minutes by car or shuttle).
- By Train/Bus: The Burgas Central Railway and Bus Stations connect the city with Sofia, Plovdiv, and coastal towns along the Black Sea.
Where to Stay in Burgas, Bulgaria
- Hotel Bulgaria Burgas – Centrally located with panoramic views, a spa, and easy access to shops and restaurants.
- Grand Hotel & SPA Primoretz – Luxurious seaside resort with pools, wellness treatments, and beachfront access.
- Hotel Luxor – Budget-friendly and charming, just steps from the Sea Garden and central attractions.
Best Things to Do in Burgas, Bulgaria
⮕ Lake Atanasovsko
Discover colorful salt pans and spot birds on an unusual nature trip.
Spanning 1,476 acres, Lake Atanasovsko, in the northeast end of Burgas with proximity to the Black Sea, offers pristine natural beauty and wildlife, including wild cats and otters. What makes this body of water stand out is its eye-catching, colorful pink hue. Birding enthusiasts will have a wonderful time viewing some 318 species of winged creatures throughout the years. Part of the national ecological network in Bulgaria protected by the Biodiversity Act, the wetlands are also known for producing salt and rejuvenating, medicinal mud, so it is not at all surprising that people from near and far travel here to experience the healing properties in the mud basins.
Burgas, Bulgaria
⮕ Aquae Calidae
Explore ancient Roman baths and relaxing pools on an affordable visit.
Set northwest of Burgas between the villages of Vetren and Benevo, Aquae Calidae is a serene sanctuary featuring the beautifully restored Suleiman Magnificent Bath, which boasts marble and Oriental ceramics, as well as the fortified walls of the ancient city of Terme, or Thermopolis. The area was known for the therapeutic warm waters, hot springs, and Roman baths. Along with a fascinating, 3-D film highlighting the wellness center during Thracian times, the popular point of interest features an amphitheater for events and an organic market. As for the future, there is a plan to expand the first level of the museum to include a hot and cold pool and massage services.
Burgas, Bulgaria, Phone: +35-98-82-00-41-26
⮕ The Pier
Walk along the coast and enjoy sea views on a romantic evening.
When it comes to must-visits in Burgas, locals will be the first to tell travelers to head to The Pier. A romantic spot, the pedestrian thoroughfare stretches out 1,000 feet to meet the sea. While the original wooden structure was replaced with a concrete bridge in the 1980s, the site still attracts beachgoers and others who just want to stroll and soak in the sun or catch a boat to the nearby island of St. Anastasia.
Attractions for Couples
⮕ The Gramophone
Look at this quirky sculpture and snap fun photos during a quick stop.
Designed by artist Rusi Stoyanov, The Gramophone is an iconic symbol of Burgas. The sculpture sits in the middle of Bogoridi Street and delights passersby of all ages. Legend has it that when people turn the gramophone handle and listen, they may hear the name of the person who loves them. The local landmark is quite lovely, and a visit to the city is not complete without snapping a picture in front of it.
Burgas, Bulgaria
⮕ The Lighthouse
Admire panoramic views and explore this landmark on a peaceful weekend.
Having the distinction as being the first lighthouse set on a Bulgarian port, The Lighthouse provides a glimpse into history. The 19th-century structure, designed by Sabi Deni, which welcomes ships to Burgas, has a lot of lore behind it; specifically, that citizens must take care of it, or bad things would happen to the city. While access to The Lighthouse limited, it is possible to enjoy great views from Central Beach and the Pier.
8000 Port Complex, Burgas, Bulgaria
⮕ The Sea Garden
Stroll through blooming paths and enjoy summer festivals in this family-friendly park.
What was a bare stretch between the city and the sea, was transformed in 1910 by landscaper Georgi Duhtev. Pristine and picturesque, the Sea Garden continues to inspire artists, writers, musicians, and everyday people drawn to the beautiful exotic plants, flowers, greenery, and fountains. The seaside attraction is the largest park in Burgas and sits on the coast along the Black Sea. Along with the foliage, there are other things to experience from the playgrounds to eateries, ice cream stands, tennis, a mini train, outdoor art, and summer concerts in the amphitheater.
8000 Burgas, Bulgaria, Phone: +359-56-82-57-72
For Photographers
⮕ The Beaches
Savor golden sands and swim in warm waters on a relaxing summer trip.
Spanning just shy of two-and-a-half miles, Saxa Beach hugs the coastline and looks out to the Black Sea. Along with sun-worshipping and playing in the sand, beachgoers can easily grab a bite at one of the nearby restaurants and bars. Umbrellas and loungers are available for rent. Not too far away is the six-mile-long Sunny Beach where visitors enjoy all sorts of watersports from waterskiing to sailing and more.
Burgas, Bulgaria
⮕ Saint Anastasia Island
Visit the island’s monastery and savor seafood on an exciting boat adventure.
Spanning four nautical miles, Saint Anastasia Island is situated in Burgas Bay, surrounded by the Black Sea. Over the years, the quaint islet has had its share of fascinating history, including pirate invasions, tales of lost treasure, a site of a former monastery turned prison and an enclave for bohemians in the 1960s. Modern-day visitors who want to explore take a boat from the mainland to see interesting sites, a museum in the monastery site, a historic lighthouse, and volcanic rock formations, known as The Mushrooms, The Dragon, Fossilized Pirate Ship, and Sun Gate. Afterward, they can enjoy seafood and traditional Bulgarian cuisine at the restaurant called 100 Years Ago.
Burgas Bay, Bulgaria, Phone +35-98-82-00-41-24
Where to Eat in Burgas, Bulgaria
- Neptun Restaurant – Iconic seafood spot by the sea with outdoor seating and classic Bulgarian dishes.
- The Brewery – Burgas’s own craft beer bar with hearty Balkan bites and hip vibes.
- Happy Bar & Grill – Popular local chain for casual meals, cocktails, and family-friendly menus.
If you are interested in local events:
- Spirit of Burgas (August) – Annual summer music festival featuring international acts on the beach (note: check for current status).
- Sand Sculpture Festival (Summer) – Impressive large-scale sand art created by artists from around the world.
- Burgas Jazz Festival (July) – Live jazz performances by the sea, drawing artists from across Europe.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Burgas, Bulgaria:
- Pomorie (20–25 min) – Famous for its salt lakes, spa mud treatments, and peaceful beaches.
- Sozopol (30 min) – Explore cobblestone streets, seaside restaurants, and ancient ruins in this charming old town.
- Nessebar (30 min) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with medieval churches and seaside history.
- Kraimorie (15–20 min) – Small fishing village with quiet beaches and seafood taverns.
- Lake Mandrensko (20–25 min) – Popular birdwatching site and nature escape just outside the city.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What types of experiences does Burgas offer?
- Whether nature or culture, Burgas offers a bounty of interesting experiences for visitors and locals alike.
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Where is Burgas located, and what is its historical significance?
- Set along the shoreline of the Black Sea, the city is one of the largest in Bulgaria and has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with the Romans and Ottomans having a presence there.
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What cultural attractions can visitors explore in Burgas?
- Today, travelers can learn about the different cultures that helped shape the destination by visiting one of the Regional Historical Museum of Burgas extensions, including the Ethnographic Museum and the Natural History Museum.
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Where can nature lovers explore in Burgas?
- For those who want to discover the beauty of the great outdoors, there are several places worth adding to the itinerary, including Lake Atanasovsko and The Sea Garden.
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What dining options are available in Burgas?
- There is no shortage of great restaurants serving everything from traditional Bulgarian cuisine to Mediterranean food and more.
Unique Attractions
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant weather and fewer tourists, great for exploring parks and historical sites.
Hotel Bulgaria Burgas – A modern hotel in the city center with stunning views.
Visit the Sea Garden – Walk along the beautiful coastal park with scenic views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and sunny, ideal for beach activities and vibrant nightlife.
Primoretz Grand Hotel & Spa – A luxurious beachfront stay with spa amenities.
Relax at Burgas Beach – Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachfront restaurants.
Fall (September-November) – Mild temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for sightseeing.
Aqua Hotel Burgas – Comfortable accommodations with easy access to attractions.
Explore the Old Town of Sozopol – A short drive away, offering charming streets and seaside history.
Winter (December-February) – Cool but quiet, great for cultural experiences and local cuisine.
Hotel Milano Burgas – Cozy and budget-friendly, ideal for a winter retreat.
Visit the Burgas Archaeological Museum – Discover the region’s rich history indoors.
Plan Your Trip
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