SOFIA, BURGAS, SOZOPOL, AKHELOY, NESSEBAR, SUNNY BEACH

One of the most favorite European destinations became a top spot in recent years. Thanks to its good location, warm sea and affordable prices we also decided to give it a try as many others and went to relax on the Black Sea coast…

We arrived in the capital city of Bulgaria – Sofia and in front of the entrance hall we got on a bit outdated bus which took us directly to the city center. We were heading to the dominant of the city and probably the most famous monument – Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. A beautifully designed cathedral was built to honor 200,000 Soviet soldiers who had fallen under the liberation of Bulgaria from the Turks in the 19th century. The gold-covered dome can be seen from a distance but it’s also worth going inside and seeing one of the largest collections of Orthodox icons in the world.

Not far from there is another important monument that is worth a visit. It is a church of Saint George which consists of a brick rotunda and is considered the oldest building in Sofia. It was built by the Romans in the 4th century and inside are precious frescoes of the Ottoman Empire.

From here we carry on along the National Theater to the Presidential palace where we experienced the change of guards. Afterward, we just carried on to stroll around the historic center of Sofia with many cozy restaurants, little shops, and historic buildings. Along the way, we’ve seen lovely parks with many statues and fountains.

From Sofia, we continue to the first sea resort – Burgas. Just walk through the main boulevard Alexandrovska Street which leads directly to the center and this city will immediately get you with its relaxed atmosphere. When you turn right from Alexandrovska Street you will reach a large park where a number of concerts take place in summer and is a favorite place for locals and tourists. Walk down the stairs and you will get to a promenade along the seashore with sandy beaches. With many shops, restaurants, and playgrounds, this is the cultural heart of the city and it’s definitely worth a visit.

From Burgas, we move further south to the historical town of Sozopol. The picturesque town which is in the beauty contest the biggest rival of Nessebar. This place is ideal for those who want an active vacation and want to experience something. The city is famous for its wooden houses from the 19th Century and is the main fishing and seaport of Bulgaria. The place is located on a narrow peninsula and there is nothing better than to walk through its narrow streets and soak up the atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the church of St. Bogorodice, the central park and of course the local beach.

From Sozopol, we are heading north of Bourgas to the little town of Akheloy where we stay in a holiday complex – Midia Grand Resort. This privately owned apartment complex provides everything you need for a summer vacation by the sea. The location of the resort is in the first line so the sea is just around the corner (or literally just down the stairs). The town is about 15 minutes by walk but you will find everything in the complex. Restaurants, shops, bars, exchange office, gym, children’s clubs, massages, pools for kids and adults, children’s playgrounds, car & bike rentals, and all kinds of playgrounds. WIFI in the complex is good and at reception, you can order All-inclusive for a fee. There is an interesting cultural program (like competitions, karaoke, disco, etc.) throughout the day and in the evening.

From Akheloy it’s just a few minutes’ drive to one of the most beautiful cities in Bulgaria – Nessebar. The historical town of Nessebar which is also one of the oldest European cities is due to its authenticity written in UNESCO’s cultural heritage. It lies on a small peninsula and is connected with the mainland only by a narrow embankment. Stone streets, wooden houses, and ancient brick churches are the unmistakable feature of this historic city. Despite a large number of tourists, there is still room for peace. Try to avoid the city’s commercial center with lots of shops, restaurants, and souvenir shops, and take the outer circle with scenic views. Do not miss the visit to St. Stephen’s Church and the Archaeological Museum with antique ceramics and medieval icons.

The last stop during our stay in Bulgaria was the visit to the secluded resort and the most prominent place for all holidaymakers – Sunny Beach. The most beautiful holiday complex in Bulgaria is an ideal place for a pleasant and affordable holiday. Wide sandy beaches, lots of shops, cafes, and restaurants, and all kinds of water sports, discotheques, fun parks, and water parks can be found here. The resort has many accommodation facilities ranging from expensive hotels, cheaper guesthouses to the most affordable private accommodations like Airbnb, etc. Thanks to its sandy beaches and gradual entry to the sea Sunny Beach is an ideal place also for families with children.

Bulgaria became a huge travel magnet in recent years and it has to be said that it is legitimate. Only a few European countries can beat Bulgaria in quality/price ratio. Good location, cheap accommodation, and flights, tasty food, plenty of attractions, rich history, plenty of cultural events, sandy beaches, and warm Black Sea make the country an ideal travel spot. With every year’s increasing quality of service, it has a huge potential of being one of the top holiday destinations in Europe and competing with leaders in this business like Italy, Spain, Greece, and other countries.

Tip 1: In Sofia don’t forget to visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Presidential Palace. 

Tip 2: You can get very good and cheap food in Burgas right in the city center on Alexandrovska Street.

Tip 3: In Sozopol and Nessebar is better to stay away from commercial city centers and see wooden houses and historic churches on the outskirt of the cities.

Tip 4: Right next to the entrance to Nessebar is the biggest aqua park in Bulgaria with loads of water attractions ideal for families with children.

Total costs:  5 nights All Inclusive (Flights + Accommodation + Meals):  £300

(Prices as of June 2015)

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