What to do in Sozopol?

Sozopol offers a mix of history and seaside relaxation, with top activities including exploring the charming Old Town, visiting the unique Castle of Ravadinovo, delving into history at the Archaeological Museum, and relaxing on beaches like Kavatsi Beach or Harmani Beach. Don't miss wandering through ancient streets, discovering churches like Sveti Georgi, and enjoying local culture.

Is Sozopol worth visiting?

Situated on the Black Sea coast, the city is divided into two parts – the Old Town and the New Town. Sozopol is worth visiting, as its atmosphere stands out from other towns on Bulgaria's Black Sea coast.

Which is better, Nessebar or Sozopol?

I know that Sozopol is maybe more romantic, less touristic, but still I like Nesebar more - those beautiful medieval churches, especially Jesus Pantocrator and Joan the Baptist (that gave Nesebar the UNESCO protection and listed the town in the world heritage) and the unbeatable view to the bay of Sunny Beach and ...

What is the most beautiful area in Bulgaria?

Nessebar

Historical city of Bulgaria, Nessebar and its peninsula, is one of the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Bulgaria. Located north of Burgas, another popular seaside resort for Bulgarian holidaymakers, Nessebar has it all.

What time of year is busy in Sozopol?

About Sozopol

The busiest times of the year are the summer months, ranging from May to September as tourists from around the world come to enjoy the weather, sandy beaches, history and culture, fusion cuisine (Balkan, Mediterranean), and atmosphere of the colorful resort.

Top 5 Hidden Gems of Sozopol: Bulgaria's Best Kept Secret

Why is nodding no in Bulgaria?

In Bulgaria, nodding your head up and down means "no," while shaking it side-to-side means "yes," the opposite of many cultures, likely stemming from centuries of Ottoman rule where people used the reversed gesture as a subtle form of defiance or to avoid forced conversion, though it's also a common Balkan practice. While folklore points to this origin, it's also a deeply ingrained cultural norm in the Balkans, also seen in places like Greece, Albania, and Turkey. 

What to be careful of in Bulgaria?

Watch out for pickpockets and bag thefts in tourist areas, on buses and trains and major public transport hubs, including airports. Thefts from unattended cars at petrol stations have increased. Lock your car when going inside the petrol station to pay for your fuel.

Where do Brits go in Bulgaria?

Brits head to Bulgaria for affordable holidays and expat living, flocking to the Black Sea resorts like Sunny Beach, Varna, and Sozopol for beaches and nightlife, while Veliko Tarnovo is a major hub for expats seeking history and culture, and Bansko attracts skiers; they also visit Sofia and Plovdiv for city breaks, and explore monasteries like Rila and natural areas.
 

What is the most beautiful village in Bulgaria?

Trigrad – A small village in the Rhodope Mountains of Bulgaria, known for its natural beauty, with stunning mountain scenery, waterfalls, and caves. Travelers can explore nearby nature reserves and experience traditional Bulgarian culture and music.

Where do Brits buy in Bulgaria?

Brits buy property in Bulgaria mainly in coastal areas (Varna, Golden Sands, Sozopol) for sea views, ski resorts (Bansko) for winter sports, and the historic city of Veliko Tarnovo, a major expat hub known for affordable traditional homes. Other popular spots include the capital Sofia for buy-to-let, and quieter villages near the coast or mountains for peaceful living.
 

What is Bulgaria's famous food?

Here's what you can expect from a traditional Bulgarian meal.

• Bulgarian Gyuvech - Vegetable Casserole with Meat in a Clay Pot. ...
• Banitsa - A symbol of the Bulgarian cuisine. ...
• Lukanka - The Bulgarian Salami. ...
• Shkembe (Tripe Soup) ...
• Tarator (Cold Soup) ...
• Meshana Skara (Mixed Grill) ...
• Lozovi Sarmi (Stuffed Grape Leaves) ...
• Moussaka.

Are Bulgarians friendly to foreigners?

Bulgarians are generally considered friendly, hospitable, and helpful to foreigners, especially in smaller towns and rural areas where traditional warmth shines through with offers of food and drink, but their demeanor can seem reserved or gruff initially, often lacking the exaggerated "fake" smiles common in Western service industries. Expect helpfulness but also a direct, sometimes stoic, approach, with friendliness growing once you connect beyond superficial interactions, though some visitors report negative experiences, particularly in tourist hotspots like Sunny Beach or with prejudice towards specific nationalities.
 

Can you swim in Sozopol?

This beach is served by bay watch people, but be careful because there are underwater streams that could be dangerous. If the waves are too big and the flag is red the bay watch people will ask you not to enter the Sea. Top-less sunbathing is allowed, nudists are not allowed here. Entering the beach is free of charge.

What are some day trips from Sozopol?

• Ravadinovo Castle Unseen. ...
• Southern Black Sea Quad Bikes Fun. ...
• A Romantic Escape to Sozopol: Bulgaria's Seaside Heaven. ...
• 4 Hour Introduction to Sailing Experience near Sozopol. ...
• The best of Sozopol walking tour. ...
• Half-Day Group Guided Birdwatching Tour with Ravadinovo Castle.

What is the most beautiful city in Bulgaria?

One of the most BEAUTIFUL cities in Bulgaria is certainly Veliko Tarnovo ✨🇧🇬 Known as Tarnovo at the time, this was the capital city of the Second Bulgarian Empire, this was one the seat of political and cultural power through the 12-14th centuries.

Is Bulgaria friendly with the UK?

The two were enemies during World War I, most of World War II, and the Cold War. Following the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union, trade between the United Kingdom and European Union members such as Bulgaria has been governed by the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement since 1 January 2021.

Can I use euro in Bulgaria?

Yes, you can use euros in Bulgaria, as the country officially adopted the euro as its currency on January 1, 2026, replacing the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). While the lev was still accepted until January 31, 2026, euros are now the official money, and it's best to use them, though you might find cards widely accepted in cities, with cash useful for markets. 

Is tipping expected in Bulgaria?

It's normal to tip for good service in restaurants, bars and cafes in Bulgaria - especially in touristy or business areas.

Do you get mosquitoes in Bulgaria?

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Bulgaria. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine.

Why is Bulgaria on the grey list?

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has placed Bulgaria on its grey list, jurisdictions “under increased monitoring”, due to identified deficiencies in its Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CFT) systems.

Can you drive with flip flops in Bulgaria?

You are not allowed to wear dark sunglasses, high heels or flip flops while driving in Bulgaria. Eating and smoking at the wheel are also forbidden. During the winter months (November 1 – March 1) drivers must have their headlights on at all times.

What is the etiquette in Bulgaria?

Social etiquette in Bulgaria is still rather formal. Shaking someone's hand is the most common form of greeting and you should address someone with their title and surname unless you know them well. It is appropriate to wait for the Bulgarian person to decide when to become less formal with you.