Burgas, known as one of the major port towns in Bulgaria, is a city facing the Black Sea. Situated on the Bay of Burgas, it enjoys a mild climate in summer. Tourism thrives here, making it a popular resort destination even for people across Europe.
Alongside activities on the Black Sea, Burgas offers a wealth of attractions including deep-rooted history, culture, museums, and local wine. Let’s explore some of the must-see tourist spots in Burgas, which also serves as a base for traveling around Bulgaria.
1. Burgas Seaside Park
Among the most bustling tourist areas in Burgas is the Seaside Park. Stretching about 5 km along the Black Sea, it’s one of the city’s must-see attractions.
Inside the park, there are numerous monuments and statues of famous Bulgarians. Facilities for activities such as sports fields and jogging courses are abundant, and there are playgrounds for children, making it family-friendly.
In spring, the “Flora” event is held, with a large display of flowers throughout the park. In summer, the Sand Sculpture Festival showcases unique sand art created around a different theme each year. With restaurants and cafes available, you can enjoy sightseeing while relaxing at your own pace.
Name: Burgas Seaside Park
Address: Primorski park, Приморски парк, 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria
2. St. Anastasia Island
St. Anastasia Island is a small island floating in the Black Sea. The island takes its name from the monastery that once stood here. In the Middle Ages, it was used as a monastery, later restored in the 18th–19th centuries, and eventually served as a prison.
Today, it has been reborn as a tourist destination, with sightseeing boats operating around it in summer. In addition to the monastery, the island has a lighthouse, museum, restaurant, and accommodation, making it ideal for visitors. It’s a small island, so you can explore it easily.
Name: St. Anastasia Island
Address: St. Anastasia Island, Bulgaria
3. Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methodius
The Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methodius is one of Burgas’s symbols and a prominent tourist attraction. Located in the city center, it is among the oldest and most beautiful churches in Burgas.
The church is named after the Slavic Christian missionaries and creators of the Slavic alphabet. Designed by Italian architect Ricardo Toscani, it was built between 1897 and 1907.
Its decorated façade and domed design are striking, featuring green stone, brick, and marble. Highlights include stained glass, iconography on the walls, and marble columns, all creating a solemn atmosphere.
Name: Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methodius
Address: ул. Св. Св. Кирил и Методий, 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria
4. Regional Historical Museum Burgas
The Regional Historical Museum Burgas displays artifacts from prehistory to the Middle Ages. Visitors can see rare items from the Thracian era, the Greek colonial period, and Roman ruins—treasures that are a must-see.
Beyond Burgas, this museum offers insights into the broader history of Bulgaria, making it popular with history enthusiasts. Exhibits also include Neolithic bones and stone tools.
Built in 1894, the building originally served as a girls’ school. Designed by Swiss architect Herman Maier, its pink exterior gives it a charming appearance. Be sure to admire it.
Name: Regional Historical Museum Burgas
Address: ul. "Slavyanska" 69, 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria
5. Poda Protected Area
The Poda Protected Area is located about 4 km south of Burgas, along the international road connecting Burgas and Istanbul. Designated a protected area in 1989, it has been managed by the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds ever since. With freshwater, seawater, and brackish zones, it is home to numerous bird species.
Birdwatching routes are established, and observation huts are available. Guided tours from the nature conservation center are recommended, though advance booking is required.
Name: Poda Protected Area
Address: E87, 8002 Bulgaria
Official/Related Website URL: http://bulgariatravel.org/ja/object/177/Zashtitena_mestnost_Poda
6. Temple of Saint Ivan Rilskiy
Strandja Nature Park is the largest nature reserve in Bulgaria. Some forest areas here date back about 1.8 million years, making them extremely valuable. It is also home to species unique to Burgas.
You can enjoy century-old oak forests and coastal views from the park. In summer, many traditional festivals take place, offering visitors a rich cultural experience.
In the villages of Strandja, traditional houses remain, and some are available for lodging. It’s highly recommended for those who want to experience nature and Bulgarian traditions together.
Name: Strandja Nature Park
Address: Strandzha 8166, Bulgaria
Official/Related Website URL: http://bulgariatravel.org/ja/object/95/priroden_park_strandja
7. Strandja Nature Park
Strandja Nature Park is the largest nature reserve in Bulgaria. Some areas still preserve forests from about 1.8 million years ago, making it a very valuable park. There are also animals that live only in Burgas, making it a must-see.
You can also enjoy century-old oak forests and coastal scenery from this park. In summer, many traditional events are held, so those interested in Bulgarian culture will especially enjoy it.
In addition, traditional houses remain in the villages of Strandja, and some are available for lodging, making it highly recommended. Enjoy Bulgarian traditions while surrounded by nature in Burgas.
Name: strandja nature park
Address: Strandzha 8166, Bulgaria
Official/Related Website URL: http://bulgariatravel.org/ja/object/95/priroden_park_strandja
◎ Summary
We’ve introduced the tourist spots of Burgas. In summer, it becomes a lively resort city full of vacationers. Overflowing with nature and rich in history and culture, Burgas offers something for everyone.
There are also many events, so be sure to check in advance and join in. You can enjoy sightseeing even at night while soaking up the resort atmosphere.