It is impossible not to fall in love with its natural beauty and diverse landscape, as well as the wonderful people living there. Bulgaria is famous for its ski and balneological resorts. These places are very attractive to tourists: their geographical proximity allows significant savings on travel, and hotels are more affordable than in other countries.
Family vacations combined with treatment here will cost less than anywhere else. The Bulgarian Black Sea resorts have a climate close to Mediterranean characteristics. In summer, it is very comfortable: there is no suffocating heat, the water is warm enough, the flora is stunningly beautiful, and there is an abundance of vegetables and fruits. Resorts in Bulgaria with sandy beaches are especially appealing to tourists.
Sunny Beach
Located near a picturesque bay, protected from the north by the Stara Planina mountain range, which provides a Mediterranean softness to the local climate. The extraordinarily beautiful views of the mountains, azure sea, and dunes of golden quartz sand create an irresistible picture. Sunny Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag for its clean environment.
The local flora impresses with its rich diversity and beauty, and the sea has no tides. More than a hundred hotels of various comfort levels warmly welcome guests with friendly smiles from the staff. All establishments are geared towards family vacations. The gentle slope into the water, shallow sea near the shore, and sandy bottom are perfect for small children.
Splashing around in the warm water brings them great pleasure. All conditions are created for water sports, active evening and night entertainment. Various shows, discos, themed parties, and excursions to ancient attractions make your stay here rich, beneficial, and exciting.
Golden Sands
Living up to its eloquent name, the sandy shores indeed look golden. “Golden Sands” has been the most famous resort spot since the times of socialism. Today, it attracts many tourists from Russia, Poland, Czechoslovakia, and other countries. Hotels of all levels, with pools and spa salons, can accommodate a large number of vacationers. Beach rental points provide equipment for water sports. Water parks, thermal springs, health centers, and water attractions offer diverse recreation. The town is literally immersed in lush greenery, which ozonizes the air.
However, tourist reviews are not filled with enthusiasm and admiration. Firstly, there are many complaints about high prices. Almost everywhere, there are no free toilets, and sunbeds and umbrellas are expensive to rent. The beach area is divided into paid and free zones, with very little space allocated to the free zone. Those who cannot afford daily sunbed rentals are forced to sunbathe very close to each other. Recently, reviews have become more positive as Bulgarians strive to correct deficiencies to improve service and restore former glory.
Albena
This relatively young resort, compared to others, stands out for its impeccable cleanliness, grooming, modern infrastructure, and excellent service. Named after the main character of the eponymous work by Y. Yovkov, Albena has become a symbol of moral purity and feminine beauty. The resort owners strive to maintain this name’s reputation – “Albena” has been awarded the Blue Flag for excellent ecology.
The shallow coastal waters and gentle entry into the water make swimming comfortable. It is ideal for family vacations with children. It is part of the Balata Nature Reserve, which speaks volumes. Rich flora, clean sea, and a magnificent 5 km long and 150 m wide beach strip provide a peaceful, healthful vacation.
There are over 20 playgrounds, a Luna Park, trampolines, mini-clubs, and pools in every hotel. There are bicycle rental points, children’s car rentals, and water entertainment equipment rentals. There are horse riding and diving schools, and many different attractions. Spending a vacation here is pure pleasure.
Kranevo
This small cozy town delights everyone with its cleanliness, beauty, and infrastructure. There aren’t as many hotels as in other places, but all are very comfortable. The resort is unofficially considered a youth resort, with youth clubs offering fun nightlife and entertainment. Many cafes, bars, restaurants, and pizzerias are located along Kranevo’s main street. Tourist reviews of these establishments are filled with admiration for the quality of the dishes and service.
The local beach, a beautiful sight, is well-equipped: affordable sunbeds, umbrellas, free toilets, and changing rooms. Right by the beach is the café “At Bob’s,” a popular spot for beachgoers. There are wholesale shops where you can buy products, quality wine, and souvenirs for next to nothing. All this creates conditions for a budget stay in the charming Bulgarian town amidst stunning nature.
Nessebar
A Bulgarian architectural monument, resort pearl, and ancient town, Nessebar is located on a rocky peninsula north of Burgas. Tourists are drawn here not only by the wonderful coastline but also by Nessebar’s incredible history. The city’s 3,000-year existence has left unique temples, making Nessebar an Open-Air Museum (since 1956).
It is under UNESCO protection. Most of the city has gone underwater, forming the “Underwater Nessebar” site. The land part occupies an area of 850 x 300 meters, housing 40 ancient temples. The city is divided into New Nessebar and the Old Town. A vacation here means unforgettable days of peace and relaxation, enjoyment of the surrounding landscapes, and an exciting dive into historical past.
In New Nessebar, the beaches are covered with golden sand, while in the Old Town, they are covered with fine shells. Both have all necessary infrastructure. The city offers a wide range of accommodations: villas, mini-hotels, apartments, and elite hotels.
Walking around the city, immersed in greenery, is pleasant. There are many playgrounds, the “Paradise” water park, and no obstructive high-rises. You can also visit the water park in neighboring Sunny Beach.
Burgas
Burgas has an ancient history but wasn’t as famous as Nessebar. For many centuries, it was an area with small fishing villages and sea redoubts. After the opening of the country’s largest port, the city’s status and size changed. Today, it is a large industrial and tourist center with major museums, exhibition galleries, and beautiful beaches along Burgas Bay.
The picturesque surroundings of Burgas with natural wonders and unique lakes, besides sandy beaches, are attractive factors for tourists. The city itself is charming with its clean, beautiful streets, parks, boutiques, and souvenir shops. Everyone visits the unique attraction of Burgas – the sea garden. Various cafes offer Bulgarian delicacies at reasonable prices. Guests leave positive reviews about this wonderful city.
Obzor
A truly paradise corner of the Black Sea coast, bordered on one side by the rocky spurs of Stara Planina and on the other by dense pine forests, is Obzor. Between them stretches a wide strip of wonderful sandy beach. Natural protection from cold winds ensures warm sea and a comfortable microclimate with phytoncide-rich air.
Crystal waterfalls and streams flow from the mountain ridge, and thermal springs with mineral sulfur water, healing many diseases, strike in the valley. Obzor is one of the most environmentally friendly young resorts in Bulgaria.
In ancient times, the city of Heliopolis (city of the Sun) was located here, the ruins of which remain. Even the name of the old city confirms what a blessed place Obzor is. It is richly green, with many gardens and vineyards in the surroundings, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
At the same time, all signs of a major resort are present: various bars, discos, casinos, restaurants, cafes, and shops. There is a wide range of water entertainment: scooters, pedal boats, yachts, parachutes. On the shore, there are tennis courts, volleyball courts, children’s go-karting, and many attractions.
Souvenir shops sell unique crafts by local artisans, wines, and the famous rose oil. Reviews of Obzor are only positive.
Rusalka
A village with such a poetic name is located in the “Bird Bay” nature reserve. Those who crave to be among pristine nature with coastal rocks, mysterious grottoes, clear sea, and amazing silence will not go wrong with their choice. The oak park stretches for 2 km, 600 bungalow hotels, 5 sparsely populated sandy beaches, and a picturesque island on the vast reserve space make up Rusalka.
Many bungalows have fallen into disrepair due to lack of demand, but they are being renovated today. The flow of tourists seeking secluded recreational areas is increasing, and the resort is being revived. The beauty of the local landscapes captivates with the blue of the sea, the bright green of the forest, and the whimsicality of the rocks. The water is so clear that schools of fish can be seen from the shore. The beaches are equipped with umbrellas with authentic roofs, and the strip is very clean. The functioning hotels have a modern infrastructure that meets high demand, although prices are somewhat higher compared to neighboring towns.
Kavarna
A city with a centuries-old history, located on the shore of Kavarna Bay, was founded by Bulgarians in the 8th century. The excellent natural conditions, fertile soils, and mineral springs attracted their attention, and they formed the settlement of Karvuna, later known as Kavarna. It was almost destroyed by the Ottomans in the 15th century but was rebuilt. Now, it is a major trading and industrial center and a modern resort with wonderful sandy beaches, luxurious villas, and hotels.
The city’s architecture harmoniously combines old houses with modern new buildings, narrow authentic streets with wide avenues – the past blends well with the present. The clean beaches are well-equipped, and accommodation prices are quite democratic. Hotels offer spa treatments with mineral water and therapeutic mud. Restaurants and cafes serve seafood and national cuisine. Cheap fruits and fresh vegetables are sold everywhere. International rock festivals are held at the local stadium.
Topola
A small picturesque village near Kavarna provides a peaceful healthful vacation. Topola lacks the human bustle, noise, loud discos, and nightclubs. The village is surrounded by hills and mountains covered with greenery. Tourists leisurely stroll through them, observing hundreds of species of sea birds nesting in sheer cliffs.
The sea in these places is crystal clear, and the cozy sandy beach with good infrastructure allows you to fully enjoy a seaside vacation. Local hotels have balneological offices based on low-mineralized water enriched with iodine. People with musculoskeletal and endocrine system diseases, and kidney disorders come here. A favorite activity for some tourists in Topola is fishing with a good catch. The fishing trophies are usually grilled upon request.
Golf enthusiasts can showcase their skills on three golf courses, including a golf center where experienced instructors give lessons to beginners. Next to Topola is a diving club where professionals teach novices and provide the necessary equipment. Tourists do not complain about the quality of service.
Balchik
A former Greek colony founded over 2.5 thousand years ago, Balchik is located in a cozy bay between picturesque rocky hills. Cape Kaliakra, extending 2 km into the sea, protects the bay from winds. The history of the ancient country of Moesia (where Balchik is located) has left many traces and plenty of opportunities for archaeologists.
Antique monuments have been preserved here to this day, and many archeological finds and rarities are housed in the local museum complex, which includes four museums. A famous architectural and landscape monument is the palace complex built by Queen Marie of Romania. Everything here is extraordinarily beautiful: the palace building, villas, terrace park with alleys, elegant pavilions, benches, and the Allah garden.
In addition to water activities, tourists can enjoy many interesting excursions to the city’s attractions and its surroundings. Five kilometers from Balchik is a grand balneological complex based on thermal mineral springs, liman mud, and lake salts, offering a wide range of health treatments.
Saints Constantine and Helena
Located 10 km from Varna, on the territory of a solid park with relic trees. Healing hot springs and rich flora create a healthful microclimate with ozonated air. It was in such a blessed place that a monastery dedicated to the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great and his mother Empress Helena appeared in the Middle Ages.
Later, local wealthy people began building summer cottages here, and in 1908, the first holiday home was opened. Serene relaxation amidst wonderful nature, combined with therapeutic treatments, awaits guests. Bathing in the hot springs is possible all year round. Hotels of different levels and types offer excellent infrastructure and have balneological centers. Leisurely walks along picturesque alleys of southern trees evoke the atmosphere of an old aristocratic resort.
The charming coastline with its lagoons and broken line of picturesque cliffs leaves no one indifferent. Sea bathing and sunbathing enthusiasts, avid fishermen, divers, and surfers can all find something to do. Yachting, boating, and water skiing are popular activities. On the shore, there are sports grounds, a mini-golf course, horseback riding, and bicycles.
Varna
The world-famous balneological resort Varna is renowned for its mineral springs, therapeutic mud, national cuisine, and ancient history. The architectural appearance of this old city blends authentic motifs with modern style, giving Varna a special charm. Old monuments, cathedrals, and the royal estate coexist with luxurious modern buildings. Green streets, promenades, and beautiful beaches create a typical local color.
Varna has plenty of wide, spacious beaches – six in total. Almost all of them are sandy, except for Ribar Beach, and they are suitable for family vacations with children. The gentle slope into the water, shallow coastal area, good infrastructure, and the availability of dining establishments create comfortable conditions on the Central, South, Officer, and Bunite beaches. The main attraction of Varna is the health treatment of numerous diseases in local sanatoriums and health centers based on local bicarbonate water (more than 10 springs) and Varna mud.
Sunny Day
In one of the most heavenly places on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, 10 km from Varna, lies the elite complex with the sunny name Sunny Day. Four luxurious hotels with 1,020 beds are built right on the shore of a cozy charming bay. Nature has generously endowed this place with its blessings: a calm sea, a kilometer-long strip of golden sand, a comfortable climate, and thermal springs.
Additionally, there is a beautiful park with relic trees of rare species and shrubs. For its environmental cleanliness, Sunny Day has repeatedly been awarded the Blue Flag. Until the end of the last century, it was closed to ordinary citizens. It was a ministerial health resort where government members and representatives of Bulgarian elites vacationed.
Today, the high level of medical services is maintained in local health centers. The medical base offers a huge range of health and cosmetic procedures. The Soviet-era hotels have undergone extensive renovations, transforming into modern hotels of European standards. Excellent conditions are created here for people of all ages, including children.
Shkorpilovtsi
A small Bulgarian village 45 km from Varna has a Czech name given in honor of the founders of Bulgarian archeology, the three Shkorpil brothers. They are credited with discovering Pliska, the ancient capital of the country. Shkorpilovtsi cannot be classified as a “promoted” resort with a highly developed infrastructure, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
Those who want to relax in an ecologically clean place, in an atmosphere of peace and quiet, against the backdrop of charming pastoral landscapes, will get incredible pleasure. Shkorpilovtsi’s hotel base is quite solid: three hotels, 12 family hotels, 25 bungalows, and private sector housing. There are also special areas where you can set up tents and campers (car-rooms). Shkorpilovtsi is considered the most budget-friendly resort.
The “Central” beach with its 5-kilometer sand strip is very spacious, guarded, and has a paid parking area. Restaurants and bistros (six) with good cuisine and affordable delicious dishes are located on its territory. In the evening, restaurants host entertainment events, discos, and interesting contests.
Byala
A small town, green, quiet, and cozy, serves as the dividing point between the Varna and Burgas regions. The former winemaking village gained city status in 1984 but has not lost its winemaking traditions. The local geological attraction – white cliffs surrounding the town – gave it this delicate name.
No one can be disappointed by Byala’s natural beauty: the crystal-clear turquoise sea, clean, phytoncide-rich air – the picturesque views are worthy of admiration. Excellent conditions for a full-fledged vacation for adults and children are created here. Modern three-star and four-star hotels, comfortable resorts, and apartment complexes (15 in total) are open.
A calm and quiet vacation on good beaches, with shallow coastal waters (10 meters from the shore) and a gentle slope into the water, is preferred by parents with children. It is impossible to limit oneself to swimming and sunbathing due to the wide range of entertainment options. All types of water sports, yachting, boating, and sailing are available. Fishing and spearfishing, horseback riding, jeep safaris, walks around the surroundings, and licensed hunting are also accessible.
Elenite
The club complex, created since 1985 amidst wild nature at the foot of the Stara Planina mountain, has become a place of affordable, yet truly aristocratic rest. The complex inherited its name from the deer inhabiting the local forests. Elenite surpasses the famous Ibiza, Spain, in beauty and picturesque views.
Snow-white villas with red-tiled roofs look spectacular against the backdrop of lush forest greenery. The golden strip of sandy beach framed by the sea azure complements the irresistible landscape. The magical beauty of nature combines with a mild climate, healthful air rich in phytoncides, and clean sea. Practically all local hotels have warm pools and spa salons.
The beach has a water park with many intricate slides. The usual sight here is surfers and windsurfers riding the waves. Elenite is loved by the English and French, known for their discerning taste. Signature restaurants offer a diverse national cuisine menu. Cozy bars offer a wide selection of famous Bulgarian wines.
Sveti Vlas
There is unlikely to be a tourist who does not like the small town named after Saint Veles, the god of trade. This absolutely charming place near the forest massif of the Stara Planina mountain has a special microclimate, mineral springs, and beautiful beaches.
Many come to treat lung diseases with the healthful air. However, traditional relaxation amidst magnificent nature provides extraordinary pleasure. Churches and hermitages from the distant past have been preserved here.
In recent years, many star-rated hotels with saunas, fitness and spa centers, pools, and sports grounds have appeared in Sveti Vlas. Prices are relatively cheaper than in other places. Two sandy beaches (Central and Marina) located at opposite ends of the harbor are well-equipped.
Everything is provided for comfortable passive and active rest. South of “Central” is the sandy-pebble strip “Camping.” The city complex “Arena” is a venue for various festivals and performances.
Ravda
This cozy village between Nesebar and Sunny Beach is becoming an increasingly popular resort. Its excellent location, the presence of international children’s camps, and the opportunity to engage in water sports attract tourists from various countries. There is a legend about the winding coastline, carved with enchanting bays and cliffs, named after the beautiful Ravdalina, who fell in love with Neptune.
The village, named in her honor, has sandy beaches, warm sea, and numerous hotels. From here, you can walk to Nesebar and explore its unique attractions. Strolling through Ravda is also enjoyable: picturesque houses are surrounded by blooming roses, there’s plenty of greenery, and an abundance of fruit.
Many people like that hotels and apartments are located next to the homes of very friendly and nice locals. The tranquility, peace, and coziness attract families with children. However, young people won’t be bored here either, as there are activities to suit all tastes.
Dyuni
A truly paradisiacal corner of the nature reserve, surrounded by dense pine forest, creating a unique ecology. The semicircle of sandy dunes along the coast gave the name to this young resort. The beach strip, 100 meters wide and 4.5 km long, is covered with fine golden sand and has been awarded the Blue Flag for several years. The sea here is exceptionally clean, transparent, with a flat bottom and calm waters, making it very child-friendly.
The town is divided into three zones: Marina, Zelenika, and Pelican. High-level European hotels, cafes, restaurants, and entertainment establishments are found everywhere. Tranquil leisure here combines with active pursuits: horseback riding, yachting, windsurfing, tennis, and golf. Excursions to nearby reserves with pristine natural beauty, diverse flora, and fauna are incredibly interesting.
