Bulgaria offers 300 sunny days a year and a vacation that's friendly both to your soul and your wallet. Ready for a little tour of its resorts? This country is not just about chilling under a beach umbrella — here's what else you can do in each resort, and how to pick the one that's right for you.

SUNNY BEACH

Sunny Beach (31 km from Burgas Airport) is a resort for families and nightlife lovers alike. It offers 10 km of fine sandy beach with a gentle entrance into the sea and the Blue Flag certification. For kids: water slides, playgrounds, and animation. For adults: parasailing, hang-gliding, and banana boats over the waves.

Things to Do in the Resort

You won’t get bored: mini-golf, go-karting, a casino, paintball, and even 5D cinema. Kids will love Action Aquapark with its extreme slides and water playground, as well as the Luna Park next to the South Beach. In the evening — restaurants, shows, discos, and festive street life. Vibe: eternal celebration.

What to See Around Sunny Beach

Aqua Paradise in Nessebar is the largest water park in Bulgaria. It looks like a medieval castle with 12 slides coming down from its towers. A perfect spot for a full family day out.

Be sure to visit Nessebar’s Old Town (more about it below), as well as the newer part of Nessebar with boutiques featuring Bulgarian designers, lingerie stores, and cozy homewear shops. The Old Town is quite spacious, with lots of artisan stalls, restaurants, and shaded squares. Bring cash and plan to spend the whole day there.

How to get there:

🚶 On foot – about a 30–40 minute walk from the southern part of Sunny Beach along the seafront promenade.
🚌 By public transport – bus No. 1, a minibus, or the tourist train run every 10–15 minutes, trip duration ~10–15 minutes.

Another great option is a visit to Sveti Vlas, a nearby resort with a yacht marina and two scenic streets: Tsar Simeon Street with many shops and fruit stands, and Mak Street, full of restaurants with beautiful sea views.

How to get there:

🚶 On foot – about 40–50 minutes from the northern end of Sunny Beach along the coast.
🚌 By public transport – minibus, bus No. 8, or the tourist train, running every 10–15 minutes. The ride takes ~10–15 minutes.

GOLDEN SANDS

Golden Sands (130 km from Burgas, 18 km from Varna) is a quieter resort known for its pine-scented air and a wide, 3.5 km beach. It's green, spacious, and relaxed — perfect for those looking for a more peaceful seaside experience. The beach has Blue Flag certification, the sea is clean, and the entrance is slightly steeper than in Sunny Beach, but there are shallow areas for small children.

Things to Do in the Resort

For active travelers: beach volleyball, jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing In the evenings — dinners with sea views and strolls along the coastal alleys.

What to See Around Golden Sands

Aladzha Monastery, carved into a vertical rock face, is famous for its colorful frescoes. At a height of 40 meters, you’ll find monks’ cells, a chapel, and storage areas. Nearby are underground catacombs. The monastery lies within Golden Sands Nature Park, home to squirrels, deer, turtles, and birds — with dedicated trails for wildlife watching.

How to get there:

🚶 On foot – about 3 km from the resort center via a shaded road (~40 minutes).

🚗 By car – 10 minutes, free parking at the entrance.

🚌 By excursion or taxi – transfer takes 5–10 minutes.

The Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani) — a surreal natural rock formation where massive stone pillars resemble people, animals, and even thrones. The area feels like an ancient playground of giants — a sort of Bulgarian Stonehenge.

How to get there:

🚗 By car – about 40 minutes (35 km), exit off the Varna–Sofia highway.

🧭 By organized tour – departs from Golden Sands, takes ~45 minutes one way.

Varna, Bulgaria’s third-largest city, blends ancient ruins with leafy boulevards and stylish cafés. Highlights include: The Cathedral with golden domes, Roman baths from the 2nd century, The Sea Garden, a huge park by the sea, A dolphinarium with daily shows. For shoppers – boutique streets and modern malls

How to get there:

🚌 By public transport – bus No. 409 runs every 15–20 minutes, trip time ~30–40 minutes.

🚗 By car – around 25 minutes, with easy parking near the Sea Garden.

🧭 By organized tour – with English- or Russian-speaking guide, lasts ~5 hours.

NESSEBAR

Nessebar is perfect for travelers who appreciate history, seaside romance, and strolls through cobblestone streets. It’s one of the oldest towns in Europe — more than 3,000 years old. The city is split into two parts. The new town on the mainland offers modern hotels, shops, restaurants, and beachside fun. The Old Town is a journey through time: ancient temples, remnants of Roman walls, timber-framed houses, narrow alleys, stone-paved streets, and cozy taverns under grapevines — it all creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Since 1983, Old Nessebar has been UNESCO World Heritage-listed. The local beach is one of the most scenic in Bulgaria — a wide strip of golden sand with a Blue Flag, stretching all the way to the village of Ravda.

Things to Do in and Around Nessebar

In Nessebar, you can rent a yacht, try windsurfing or snorkeling, or just join a beach volleyball game. As a bonus, Sunny Beach is just 3 km away — close enough for spontaneous nightlife outings. If you're in the mood for a change of scenery, take a boat trip to Sveti Vlas or Burgas. And trust us — you'll want to return to Old Nessebar more than once. Insider tip: go early in the morning, before the shops open and tourists arrive — that’s when the town truly reveals its ancient magic.

SOZOPOL

Sozopol is perfect for those craving peace, sea views, and strolls through historic streets — without the crowds. This charming town is just 35 km from Burgas Airport, located on a small peninsula. It’s one of the oldest towns on Bulgaria’s coast. Archaeologists once uncovered a real “vampire grave” here — the remains of a man with iron stakes through his chest.

Things to Do in the Resort

There are four main beaches: Central Beach, Harmanite, Kavatsite, and Golden Fish. All are sandy with gentle entries into the water. In some places, the coastline turns into small, picturesque coves. In the Old Town, you’ll find a Byzantine aqueduct, ancient churches, red-tiled rooftops, and more than 200 houses from the 18th–19th centuries. Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum, and try the local dessert — yogurt with fig jam — on a terrace with a sea view.

💡 If you’re in Sozopol between August 28 and September 6, check out the "Apollonia" Festival in the Old Town — over 70 events including concerts, theater, jazz nights, film screenings, exhibitions, and literary evenings. More info at: apollonia.bg

What to See Around Sozopol

The Castle “In Love with the Wind” in Ravadinovo — a real-life fairytale built just 20 years ago by a former policeman. It looks like a medieval dream, complete with a mini-zoo, equestrian center, terrarium with venomous snakes, wine cellar, botanical garden, art gallery, and even a throne hall.

How to get there:

🚗 By car – only 8 minutes (4 km), convenient parking on-site.

🚖 By taxi – quick and affordable, especially if you're not driving.

🧭 By guided tour – often combined with Ropotamo nature reserve; includes transfer, entrance ticket, and free time. Duration ~3–4 hours.

Ropotamo Nature Reserve — also called “the Bulgarian Amazon.” Picture this: a boat gliding down a quiet green river, with lianas, rare trees, herons, pelicans, and cormorants nesting along the banks. Turtles bask slowly near the water's edge.

How to get there:

🚗 By car – around 15 minutes (12 km) to the pier.

🚖 By taxi – easy and inexpensive, great for families or small groups.

🚌 With a guided excursion – includes transfer, boat tickets, nature walk, and explanations about local flora and fauna. Duration ~3–4 hours.

POMORIE

If you're looking for a seaside holiday with health benefits, welcome to Pomorie. This resort is just 20 km from Burgas Airport, located on a narrow peninsula. Thanks to its healing mud and salt lakes, visitors come here not only to relax, but also to improve their well-being. Pomorie’s mud is black as coal and rich in minerals. It’s used to treat joint issues, nervous system conditions, respiratory problems, and skin diseases. Many hotels offer wellness procedures right on site. The beach in Pomorie is clean, wide, and has a gentle entrance into the sea — ideal for families.

Things to Do in the Resort

Pomorie is not about crowds and chaos — it's about quiet, comfort, and a slow rhythm. Take a stroll to St. George Monastery, visit the Salt Museum, or explore the charming Old Houses District with 19th-century architecture. In the evenings — enjoy concerts, poetry nights, or a glass of local wine by the water. For active travelers — yacht rentals, windsurfing, diving centers, and sunset fishing are all available.

What to See Around Pomorie

St. Anastasia Island — the only inhabited island in the Bulgarian Black Sea. Here you'll find a 15th-century church, a lighthouse, cliffs with names like “The Mushroom” and “The Dragon,” and even the “Petrified Pirate Ship,” according to legend. In the past, the island served as a monastery, later a prison, and in the 1960s — a bohemian artists’ retreat. Today it’s a nature and history reserve with a museum, panoramic viewpoints, and a cozy café.

💡 In August, the island hosts a colorful cultural festival with concerts, theatrical performances, and open-air fairs.

How to get there:

The easiest way is with an organized tour. Many agencies offer packages that include hotel pickup, boat ticket, a guide, and free time on the island.

The Thracian Beehive Tomb (2nd–3rd century AD) — a unique archaeological site hidden under a mound. The structure blends Thracian rituals with Roman architecture: a 12-meter-wide chamber, semi-circular vault, hidden corridors, and a central column with a built-in staircase. It’s one of the most mysterious burial monuments in Bulgaria.

How to get there:

🚶‍♀️ On foot – if you're in central Pomorie, it’s about a 20–30 minute walk.

🚕 By taxi – the fastest option, especially in the summer heat.

🚌 By bus or excursion transfer – check schedules at your hotel reception. Group tours with guides are common in high season.

OBZOR

Obzor is ideal for those who value peace, open space, and fresh sea air. Warm waters, few crowds, and a gentle climate make it a perfect retreat. Children will love the play areas and mild temperatures. The beaches are wide and quiet, with clean sand and simple but comfortable infrastructure.

Things to Do in Obzor

A mix of history and nature awaits: the ruins of ancient Heliopolis, the Temple of Jupiter, and coastal promenades with scenic views. If you're looking for fun — visit the “Castle” entertainment center, which offers daytime activities for kids and evening discos for everyone.

💡 In August, Obzor hosts a biker gathering and themed parties.

What to See Around Obzor

Irakli Beach — a hidden gem for those willing to brave the winding road. Pearl-colored sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush green hills create a postcard-perfect scene.

How to get there:

🚕 By taxi – the most convenient way, especially with beach bags.

🚗 By rental car – the road is curvy and mountainous, but very scenic. Turn off from the Varna–Burgas highway (No. 9).

Byala — a village famous for Dimyat, a fragrant Bulgarian white wine. Come here for tastings, strolls among the vineyards, and, of course, a bottle or two to take home.

How to get there:

🚌 By bus – regular routes, about 10–15 minutes each way.

🚕 By taxi – fast and comfortable, especially if you're planning to sample the wine.

Balchik and the Quiet Nest Palace — once the summer residence of Romanian Queen Marie. Explore the botanical garden with thousands of plant species, the Silver Well, a marble throne with sea views, dreamy pavilions, and the mystical minaret tower.

How to get there:

🚌 With a guided tour – the easiest option, often includes both the garden and the palace.

🚗 By rental car – the drive takes about 1.5 hours.

BURGAS

If you're looking for a city by the sea with a vibrant cultural life, then Burgas is your spot. The beaches are wide, sandy, and free. The Central Beach by the Sea Garden is equipped with umbrellas and loungers — yes, also free, thanks to a municipal initiative. There are also showers and changing cabins. For peace and quiet, head to Sarafovo Beach. If you want something unique, try Salt Lake Beach (Solnitsite) — where you can give yourself a mud spa treatment. Just cover yourself in healing mud, wait 20 minutes, and rinse off in the sea. Locals swear by it! For solitude seekers, the Rosenets beaches further from town offer calm and nature.

Things to Do in the Resort

Burgas is made for walking. The Sea Garden is full of shady alleys, sea views, and cafés, leading to a 300-meter pier. The pedestrian streets Aleksandrovska and Bulgaria (Bogoridi) feature street performers, sculptures, and the city’s signature landmarks. In a cultural mood? Visit one of the city’s museums — archaeological, ethnographic, or natural science. Shopping fans will enjoy Burgas Plaza and Galleria Burgas malls.

💡 From early July to late September, the Sea Garden hosts an exhibition of giant sand sculptures. In August, don’t miss the International Folklore Festival. In fact, the entire summer in Burgas is packed with events: jazz concerts, rock festivals, art markets. Check out the calendar at gotoburgas.bg.

What to See Around Burgas

Nessebar Old Town and Aqua Paradise Water Park are top choices for a full-day trip.

How to get there:

🚌 By organized tour – the simplest and most educational option, often includes winery or museum stops.

🚗 By rental car – about 40 minutes from Burgas to Nessebar.

🚌 By regular bus – departures every 20–30 minutes, travel time around 1 hour.

SVETI VLAS

This resort is perfect for those craving the sea, fresh mountain air, and a touch of glamour with a backdrop of yachts. It is cozily nestled between the mountains and the sea, just 40 km from Burgas Airport. The climate in Sveti Vlas is considered healing — the combination of mountain air and sea breeze is especially beneficial for the respiratory system.
The beaches suit every taste: three sandy areas with a total length of 1.5 km. The most popular ones are “Central” and “Marina,” located near the yacht harbor: with sunbeds, volleyball courts, and sea activities. “Camping” beach is a bit more secluded, with pebbles and its own special charm. All beaches are free to access, with payment only for sun loungers.

THINGS TO DO AT THE RESORT

Walk and walk some more. Stroll down Tsar Simeon Street with shops and fruit stalls, or along Mak Street by the Marina Dinevi yacht port — here you’ll find panoramic views, restaurant terraces, and a sea sunset in your wine glass. History is also just around the corner. The churches of Vlaherna and Saint Andrew have been preserved to this day, and in the surroundings — remnants of ancient hermitages. Sveti Vlas is not just about beaches but also about events. The “Arena” amphitheater hosts performances and concerts, while the port features yacht regattas, beauty contests, retro motorcycle parades, and fashion shows. The resort is young but ambitious — and it definitely knows how to impress.

WHAT TO SEE AROUND SVETI VLAS

Nessebar — only 9 km separate you from one of the oldest cities in Europe.

How to get there:

🚌 By public bus — runs every 15–30 minutes, the ride takes about 20 minutes.
🚕 By taxi — fast and comfortable, approximate fare is 10–15 euros.

Sunny Beach — for those who miss the noise and drive. Located 6 km from Sveti Vlas.

How to get there:

🚌 By shuttle or bus — frequent departures, the ride takes only 10–15 minutes.
🚕 By taxi — fast, fare 5–10 euros.
🚶 On foot — just a 30–40 minute leisurely walk along the coast.

Take a trip to the mountains on the “Bulgarian Village” excursion — a chance to see the real, authentic Bulgaria. You'll visit a village where they’ll show you traditional life, treat you to homemade food, host a folklore show with dancing and fire rituals, and finish the evening with dinner under the stars.