Burgas is the second largest city on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, located at the largest bay – the Gulf of Burgas. Incredibly, in recent years it has become a magnet for many – both Bulgarians and foreigners. And Burgas private tour experience is worth the effort.
At first, let’s start with a walk along the pedestrian streets of Burgas, starting at “Troika” Square. You will understand where the name of this iconic place for Burgas residents comes from. And the story is simple – in 1934 a tall pillar with three lamps was erected on this square, which gave it its present name “Troika”. The busiest pedestrian street in Burgas, which leads to the sea and is exactly 666 m long, is Stefan Bogoridi Street.
It is also home to the History Museum, which tells the story of the town’s origins as a fishing village in the 17th century. Burgas developed as an industrial centre after 1890, following the construction of the railway from Sofia.
Certainly, a private tour with a local will save you time and answer all your queries.
Start with the Sea Garden (Morska Gradina)
To start with, your Burgas private tour experience will take you to the Sea Garden. Begin at this iconic park, a symbol of Burgas. Stroll through its lush greenery, enjoy views of Burgas Bay, and take in the vibrant atmosphere with cafes, statues, and beach access. From the terrace of the Sea Casino you will enjoy a fascinating view. Surely, on a private tour there is always time for a rest and a coffee break.
Visit “The Bridge” (Mosta), a T-shaped pier offering scenic views and a chance to reconnect with the sea.
Continue to the harbour area. This part of Burgas has been renovated and is now a favourite place for walks, especially at sunset.
Explore the Lakes and Nature
Head to Lake Atanasovsko, known for its pink saltwater and flamingos. Carry on with your Burgas private tour experience. You can also explore the salt-pans to learn about traditional salt production.
Visit Poda Protected Area, a haven for birdwatchers with over 260 bird species.
The region around Burgas, Bulgaria, is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a stunning blend of lakes, wetlands, and coastal beauty. The Burgas Lakes—Atanasovsko, Vaya, Mandrensko, and Pomorie—are rich in biodiversity. They attract thousands of migratory birds. The Poda Protected Area is a must-visit for birdwatchers, home to rare species like the Dalmatian pelican and pygmy cormorant. Nearby, the Burgas salt mines provide a unique landscape where salt extraction supports both industry and wildlife. The area’s pink-hued salt pans also offer healing mud baths. This natural wonderland is perfect for eco-tourism, photography, and peaceful outdoor escapes.
The best seasons for birdwatching in the Burgas region, especially in the Poda Protected Area and the Burgas Lakes, are spring (March-May) and autumn (August-October). These are peak migration periods when thousands of birds pass through the region on the Via Pontica migration route.
Birds You Can See on a Private Tour
Spring/Summer: Dalmatian pelican, pygmy cormorant, white-tailed eagle, black-winged stilt, spoonbill, glossy ibis
Autumn: Storks, pelicans, honey buzzards, eagles, and falcons
Winter: Red-breasted goose, greater white-fronted goose, smews, and various ducks
In short, the diversity makes Burgas a year-round birdwatching destination!
Discover the Lye and Healing Mud SPA with a Private Tour
- Location: Lye and mud pools at Atanasovsko Lake are located North of Burgas, a 20-minutes’ drive away.
- Experiences: Are you ready to spend some time floating in the salt lake, covering oneself in healing mud? And then wash off in the nearby Black Sea? This natural spa is no longer free of charge, as it used to be. For a small fee you will be able to feel the magic of 4 natural factors: Sun – Sea – Lye – Mud
- Lye info: Lye is a product of salt extraction and contains only inorganic substances – sodium chloride, magnesium, potassium, sulphur etc. It is obtained after evaporation and concentration of the salts in the lake water during the salt extraction process.
The Black Sea lye has a proven medical effect. It is used in the treatment and prophylaxis of conditions related to the locomotor system, skin inflammations, varicose veins and colds. It is recommended for arthrosis, arthritis tendinitis, discopathy, joint dislocation.
MUD SPA – A Presious Resourse
- Mud info: The healing mud is a sediment product of the closed salt lake. It is clean and homogenous, with dark grey to black colour and smell of hydrogen sulphide. It contains inorganic compounds such as silicates, sands, gypsum, iron and aluminium compounds, various hydroxides and salts. This composition has been formed for millennia by the putrefaction of unicellular organisms, algae, fish, crayfish, mussels. One centimetre of healing mud is formed for a minimum period of one year.
The essence of the healing mud treatment is its complex effect on the entire peripheral nervous system. Thus, mud treatment reduces swelling and pain, heals scars, improves the metabolic and regenerative processes.
In addition to healing, the mud is beautifying and rejuvenating. All the minerals, i.e. calcium, iodine, phosphorus are absorbed by the skin. You will see for yourself why local people often visit the pools daily, after work.
Dive into History at Aquae Calidae
Discover the ancient baths and thermal springs at Aquae Calidae. (In translation – hot springs) Aquae Calidae is an ancient settlement with a rich history spanning millennia. It has been a renowned spa and healing center since antiquity, drawing visitors due to its mineral springs.
Located just 14 km northwest of Burgas, Aqua Calidae is an interesting site for all those tempted by ancient and mediaeval history. You can see the fully restored Baths of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. He visited Aquae Calidae in 1562 and ordered the construction of a Turkish bath. The culrative waters here helped the Sultan gwt rid of a gout . Beautuful marble and cermics, typical of Ottoman architecture, make this bath a key attraction today.
A Private Tour Visit to St. Anastasia Island
Getting to this mysterious island requires a boat trip from Burgas. Regular boat services connect the island to Burgas, making it easily accessible for day trips.
Visiting St. Anastasia Island offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is an attractive destination for travellers. Here are some compelling reasons to visit:
Historical Significance
- Monastery and Church. The island is home to the oldest church in the Burgas region, the ”Ascension” church. It dates back to the 12th – 14th centuries. It features beautiful frescoes and an impressive iconostasis (1802)
- Former prison: The monastery was converted into a prison during the early 20th century.
Cultural attractions:
- Interactive museum: The former monastery building now houses and interactive museum showcasing the island’s history .
- Lighthouse: Built by a French company in 1889q the lighthouse offers a stunning views and is a notable landmark.
Natural Beauty and Legends
- Rock Formations: The island is famous for its unique rock formations. You will see “The Mushrooms” and “The Fossilized Pirate Ship” and hear the local legendaty stories.
- Herbal Garden: It’s fun to explore a healing garden. You can learn how to grow herbs and prepare aromatic teas.
Romantic experiences
- Enjoy breathtaking sunset from the island, which are particularly popular during summer evening.
Sea-side and Beaches
There are several beautiful beaches close by, each offering unique experiences.
It’s up to you to choose between the Central Beach Burgas, the Northern Beach Burgas, Kraymorie or Sarafovo. You might find it strange, but the sand at some areas is black. This dark coloration is due to the presence of minerals such as iron and manganese, which are common here.
Should you need golden sands, just drive 40 km south to Sozopol, or 40 km north, to the resort area of Sunny beach. You will find long sandy beaches in Obzor, too.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants offering dishes like vine-wrapped trout or mussels in tomato sauce. Pair your meal with traditional Bulgarian sides for an authentic experience.
As the restaurant business nowadays is quite dynamic, the best advice to follow is to ask the locals. The best restaurants provide a blend of local Bulgarian cuisine and international flavours, catering to various tastes and preferences.
My personal experience from last summer was quite positive. We spend hours at “Al Mare” beach restaurant and bar, enjoying the sea view. “Doc 5” is another fine place, located at Burgas Port, with gorgeous sunset vibes. Walking downtown, stop at “Oreha” or at “Di Verso “. Each place offers quality food and friendly service.
Summer Festivals – Burgas Private Tour Experience
Burgas is a coastal city that comes alive in the summer with an exciting lineup of festivals. From music and arts to food and film, Burgas offers a festival for every taste. With the Black Sea as a backdrop, these events attract locals and tourists alike, creating an unforgettable summer atmosphere.
For example, to name only the most popular: Spirit of Burgas (SPICE Music festival), Burgas Sand Festival, Burgas Jazz Festival , International Folklore Festival, Kite Festival, Puppets Festival.
With its diverse and exciting festivals, Burgas is a summer hotspot for music, art, and cultural experiences. Actually, whether you love live concerts, artistic displays, or traditional folklore, this beautiful seaside city has something special to offer.
All things considered, only few of us are the lucky ones who can stay in Burgas longer. No matter how much time you have, you will always be able to explore Burgas and feel the spirit of this vibrant city.
