Things To Do
in Burgas

Burgas is a charming coastal city located on the Black Sea in Bulgaria, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural scene. It serves as an important port city and a gateway to the picturesque Bulgarian Riviera. The city is rich in history, with archaeological sites and museums that reflect its diverse heritage.

With a pleasant climate and numerous parks, Burgas is a great destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Burgas
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Sea Garden, a large park that stretches along the coast, perfect for a morning stroll. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Explore the Burgas Museum of Ethnography and the Archaeological Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Then, visit the local fish market for fresh seafood.

evening
:

Dine at a seaside restaurant and enjoy the sunset views over the Black Sea. Afterwards, check out local bars for a taste of Burgas nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Poda Nature Conservation Center to observe unique bird species in their natural habitat. Enjoy a picnic breakfast in the area.

afternoon
:

Take a short trip to the nearby town of Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore its ancient churches and cobblestone streets.

evening
:

Return to Burgas for dinner at a local tavern, sampling traditional Bulgarian dishes. End the night with a walk along the beach promenade.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥙Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚇Public transport ticket$1
🛏️Hotel room per night$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and seaside views
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Vibrant nightlife and dining options
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Limited English proficiency among locals in some areas
  • Public transport may not cover all areas efficiently
  • "Здравейте" - Hello
  • "Благодаря" - Thank you
  • "Извинете" - Excuse me
  • "Колко струва?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Къде е тоалетната?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Burgas

Visit one of these nice places.

Sea Garden

A picturesque park along the coast featuring beautiful flowers, sculptures, and stunning sea views, ideal for photography.

Nessebar Old Town

Famous for its medieval architecture and charming streets, perfect for capturing the essence of Bulgaria's history.

Burgas Pier

An excellent spot for sunset photography, offering panoramic views of the Black Sea and surrounding coastline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Burgas

Burgas offers a delightful culinary scene that blends traditional Bulgarian flavors with fresh seafood from the Black Sea.

Burgas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and topped with feta cheese.

Must-Try!

Tarator

A cold soup made of yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and walnuts, perfect for hot summer days.

Seafood Platter

A variety of fresh seafood including fish, shrimp, and squid, often grilled or fried.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Burgas Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food vendors serving quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Burgas experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winters can be cold, averaging around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is relatively low during the summer months, while late autumn and winter see increased precipitation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is a common greeting, and it's polite to look the person in the eye when greeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating, and it is customary to finish everything on your plate.

Personal Space

Bulgarians value personal space, so maintain a respectful distance during conversation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Burgas is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are equipped to handle most medical emergencies.

Tipping in Burgas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot weather attracts tourists to the beaches, with vibrant nightlife and many events taking place throughout the season.

Autumn

Temperatures are still pleasant, and the crowds thin out, making it a great time for cultural exploration and enjoying local cuisine.

Winter

Burgas is quieter in winter, with colder temperatures, but the festive atmosphere around the holidays offers a unique charm.

Nightlife Guide

Burgas at Night

Burgas has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The beach bars are particularly popular during the summer, offering cocktails and music right by the sea. For a more relaxed atmosphere, local taverns often feature traditional Bulgarian music and dance. Many venues stay open late, providing a lively environment for both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Burgas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Strandzha Nature Park

Located about 50 km from Burgas, this park offers diverse hiking trails through lush forests and picturesque landscapes.

Rila Monastery Trail

A bit farther away, this trail leads to the famous Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring beautiful mountain scenery.

Airports

How to reach Burgas by plane.

Burgas Airport (BOJ)

Located approximately 10 km from the city center, Burgas Airport is the second-largest airport in Bulgaria and serves numerous international flights, especially during the summer tourist season.

Getting Around

Walkability

Burgas is highly walkable, especially in the city center and along the Sea Garden. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian zones enhance the walking experience. However, some areas may have steep hills, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bulgarian Locals

The majority of the population in Burgas is Bulgarian, with a rich cultural heritage that influences the city's traditions and customs.

Tourists

Burgas attracts numerous tourists, especially during the summer months, contributing to a multicultural atmosphere in the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Burgas, with local clubs and a passionate fan base.

Water Sports

Given its coastal location, water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and diving are popular among locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Burgas is generally manageable, but congestion can occur during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, with a network that connects various parts of the city. Buses are affordable and relatively frequent, making it easy to navigate. While driving is possible, parking can be limited in busy areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Burgas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat broths in traditional soups.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available in larger restaurants, but it may be limited in smaller eateries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Burgas has several healthcare facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics. Emergency services are accessible, and most medical staff speak basic English. Travelers are recommended to have travel insurance that covers healthcare expenses, as costs can vary depending on the facility. Pharmacies are also widely available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover Bulgaria

Read more in our Bulgaria 2025 Travel Guide.

Bulgaria Travel Guide