Burgas vacation packages

How to reach Burgas

• Transfer time: From Burgas Airport, bus #15 runs regularly throughout the day and will get you to the city center in about 15-20 minutes.

• Price: The bus costs about 3-4 BGN (roughly $1.60-$2.15) for a one-way trip. A taxi ride from the airport to the city center will set you back around 20-30 BGN ($10.65-$15.95).

Best time to visit Burgas

Deciding on when to visit Burgas will depend on your liking for hot weather and the company of your fellow tourists.

• May to June is a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds but still beautiful warm weather. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C, with around 9-11 hours of sunshine daily and minimal rainfall.

• July to August is the height of the tourist season, with correspondingly busier beaches and accommodation harder to come by (and more expensive). Temperatures often reach 28°C or higher, with plenty of sunshine (10-11 hours daily) and minimal rainfall.

• September to October offers a more relaxed experience with temperatures still quite high in September, ranging from 20°C to 25°C and the sea remaining warm enough to swim in. Expect around 7-9 hours of sunshine daily. There are far fewer tourists too, while accommodation prices dip slightly.

• November to April: The off-season means far cooler temperatures (8°C to 12°C), but still with some decent sunshine (4-7 hours) and less tourist activity. A good time for a quieter and cheaper getaway, but note that many hotels close down for a few months over the winter.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Bulgarian is the official language, but English is widely understood here.

• Local habits and customs: Bulgarians shake their heads when they mean “yes” and nod when they mean “no.” Confusing? Absolutely. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

• Health and safety: Burgas is safe, but the usual precautions against pickpocketing should be taken on the beaches. Healthcare facilities are good, and pharmacies are widely available.

• Currency: Bulgaria uses the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). ATMs are plentiful, and credit cards are widely accepted.

• Getting around: Burgas has a reliable public transport system, including buses and taxis. A single bus journey costs about 1-2 BGN ($0.55-$1.05). Taxis are affordable, but make sure to use licensed ones.

• Electricity and plug types: Bulgaria uses the standard European 220 volts with two-pin round plugs. Travelers from the US will need an adapter.

• Time zone: Burgas operates on Eastern European Time, which is 2 hours ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

• Required travel documentation: Travelers need a valid passport. No visa is required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Best things to do in Burgas

Burgas's charming old center is filled with boutique shops, bars, and cafes, but the true gem of the town is the beautiful Sea Garden, offering stunning views of the coast.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Sea Garden (Morska Gradina): This expansive park boasts sensational views of the Black Sea coastline, with lush greenery and plenty of relaxing spots.

The best districts

• Lake Atanasovsko: Also called the Pink Lake (you'll see why when you visit), this large water body north of the center is known for its diverse flora and fauna and provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling beaches.

Museums

• Nessebar Archaeological Museum: Located just inside the city gates, this excellent museum showcases a remarkable collection of Greek tombstones and medieval icons.

• Regional Historical Museum: As the largest museum in southeast Bulgaria, it offers a vast collection of archaeological and ethnographic exhibits to explore.

Parks and gardens

• Sea Garden (Morska Gradina): Serving as a natural barrier between the city and the sea, Burgas’s largest park features stunning gardens, fountains, and a zoo.

Historical monuments

• St. Anastasia Island: Wrapped in mystery and legend, this secluded island monastery, once used as a prison, is worth a short trip by catamaran.

• The Armenian Church: A significant cultural site in Burgas, this modest church is a beautiful example of Armenian architecture.

Day trips in the area

• Nessebar: Famous for its charming medieval churches, 19th-century wooden architecture, and winding cobbled streets, Nessebar's old town sits on a narrow man-made isthmus connected to the mainland by road.

• Sozopol: As Bulgaria’s oldest settlement, Sozopol owes much of its allure to the old town's architecture, where wooden houses compete for space on a narrow peninsula, their upper stories almost touching across cobbled streets.

• Pomorie: Located a short distance northeast of Burgas on a slim, rocky peninsula, Pomorie is renowned for its therapeutic mud treatments offered for over 2,000 years. The town is also known for its salt and fine wines like Pamid, Dimyat, and Merlot.

Activities for families in Burgas

While the city's beaches are a major draw for families on their vacations to Burgas, there are many other attractions to explore.

• Water sports: Jet skiing, parasailing, and zorbing are family-friendly activities available along the coast.

• Adventure parks: Luna Park is a big hit with families, offering rides and attractions for everyone, from gentle carousels for the little ones to thrilling roller coasters for teens.

• Mini golf: Mini-golf is a favorite for families, and there are numerous courses around Burgas.

Free things to do in Burgas

Burgas vacations are often about relaxation and minimal spending.

• Beach days: The most straightforward way to save money is to head to the beach with a picnic and unwind.

• Free events: The Burgas Sand Sculpture Festival, held from July to September, is a popular event with creatively created sand sculptures free to view.

• Promenade walks: A leisurely walk along the promenade is a delightful way to spend an evening without spending much, except perhaps for an occasional ice cream.

Nature and outdoor activities in Burgas

This vibrant southern stretch of the Bulgarian coast offers numerous opportunities for sports and nature activities.

• Hiking: South of Burgas, Strandzha Nature Park offers easy walking trails and chances to spot local wildlife.

• Water sports: The calm Black Sea waters are perfect for jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, or paddleboarding.

• Fishing: Anglers will enjoy the coastal waters where there are plenty of saltwater fish like turbot, mackerel, and tuna to catch. Note that there's no off-season for angling along the coast.

• Bird watching: A bit north of Burgas, Kamchia Nature Reserve provides a chance to observe some of Europe’s rarest bird species, including the Orco Falcon and Black Stork.

Discover the best beaches in Burgas

Burgas, located on Bulgaria's scenic Black Sea coast, is famous for its breathtaking beaches. Whether you're looking to unwind, engage in water sports, or enjoy a family-friendly setting, Burgas has a beach to fit every taste. Here are some of the top beaches to explore during your vacation in Burgas:

Central beach

Central Beach is one of the most popular and accessible beaches in Burgas, situated next to the Sea Garden. This sandy beach provides a lively atmosphere with plenty of amenities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, beach bars, and restaurants. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for swimming, which is great for families. The nearby Sea Garden offers a picturesque background and additional recreational activities like walking paths, playgrounds, and cafés.

North beach

Adjacent to Central Beach, North Beach is another favorite among locals and tourists. Known for its wide expanse of fine sand and clean waters, North Beach is perfect for sunbathing and beach sports. The beach is well-maintained and equipped with essential facilities, including lifeguards, ensuring safety for families with children. The promenade is lined with cafés and ice cream parlors, offering plenty of refreshment options.

Sarafovo beach

Located in the Sarafovo neighborhood, just a short drive from the city center, Sarafovo Beach offers a quieter and more relaxed setting compared to the central beaches. This beach is known for its golden sands and shallow waters, making it ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful day by the sea. It's equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and a few beach bars, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Kraimorie beach

Kraimorie Beach, situated in the Kraimorie neighborhood, provides a hidden gem for a more secluded beach experience. This beach is less crowded and features a combination of sand and pebbles, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding area is lush and green, offering a scenic and tranquil environment. Kraimorie Beach includes basic amenities like sun loungers and a few local eateries.

Chernomorets beach

Chernomorets Beach is a short distance south of Burgas and offers a beautiful and peaceful beach setting. Known for its fine sand and calm waters, this beach is perfect for relaxation and family outings. Chernomorets Beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars. The nearby town of Chernomorets adds convenience with its restaurants and shops.

Pomorie beach

Located to the north of Burgas, Pomorie Beach is part of the Pomorie Resort and is famous for its long stretch of fine sand and therapeutic mud, believed to have healing properties. It's ideal for those looking to mix relaxation with wellness. The beach offers sun loungers, umbrellas, and various water sports facilities. The nearby town of Pomorie provides a range of dining and entertainment options.

Burgas’s diverse array of beaches ensures every visitor can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the Black Sea coast. Whether you're looking for a lively beach with plenty of activities, a quiet retreat, or a family-friendly environment, Burgas’s beaches have something for everyone. Plan your beach days to make the most of your vacation in this beautiful coastal city.

Food and drink

In most of Bulgaria, meat is a staple, but in Burgas, seafood takes center stage, although you can find all the usual staples on most restaurant menus.

Some typical dishes

• Gyuvech: The best-known traditional dish is a hearty stew made with peppers, eggplant, and beans, with either meat or meat stock added.

• Kiselo mlyako: Bulgarians consider their yogurt to be the finest in the world, and it's a daily staple for many. It's not only delicious but also famous for its probiotic qualities.

• Shopska salad: This refreshing mix of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions, and feta or Bulgarian sirene (white brine) cheese is a vegetarian delight that's hard to beat.

Meat dishes

• Sarmi: Stuffed cabbage or vine leaves filled with minced meat, rice, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Tsatsa: Fried sprat fish, usually served with a wedge of lemon, make for crispy, bite-sized treats that are the perfect match for a cold beer on a hot day.

• Mussels with rice: Fresh Black Sea mussels from Dabolka, the sea's largest mussel farm, cooked with rice, herbs, and spices.

• Rapa whelks: A large, carnivorous sea snail, these surprisingly tasty whelks are typically served in a salad but can also be fried and served as a main dish.

Street food

• Kebapcheta: Grilled minced meat rissoles typically served with bread and pickles. Popular variations include shishche (shish kebab) and kyofteta (meatballs).

• Banitsa: A flaky pastry filled typically with cheese, sold by bakeries and street vendors in the morning and evening.

Sweets and desserts

Bulgarian desserts often include very sweet Turkish-inspired treats like baklava or revane, with Halvitsa, a type of nougat, also being popular. Ice cream vendors line the resort's many promenades.

Local drinks

• Rakia: This traditional fruit brandy, often made from grapes or plums, is strong and best sipped as an aperitif to avoid a sore head the next day.

• Bulgarian wine: The local wines are improving continuously, with some of the best reds being the full-bodied, smooth Melnik and the rich, dark Mavrud, while Dimyat is a good choice for a dry white.

• Bulgarian craft beer: Widely produced, leading local brands include Boliarka from Veliko Tarnovo, Astika from Haskovo, and Zagorka from Stara Zagora. Boliarka also makes a unique stout called Stolichno.