Nessebar is a town in Burgas Province, on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. The cobbled streets of the old town, which sits on a promontory, are lined with ruins such as Byzantine-era fortifications and baths. The ruins of the 5th-century Church of St. Sofia include stone columns and large arched windows. The 11th-century Church of St. Stephen houses hundreds of mural paintings and a huge, richly decorated altarpiece. ― Google
Area: 31.85 km²
Postal code: 8230
Area code: 0554
Elevation: 30 m (100 ft)
Province: Burgas
May to September is ideal for beach time, sightseeing, and pleasant weather.
June to August is high season — perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and cultural festivals, but it’s more crowded.
May or September offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists, making them great for exploring the old town peacefully.
By Air:
Fly into Burgas Airport (BOJ) — the closest airport (~25 km away). It serves international flights, especially during summer.
By Bus:
Regular buses from Burgas (45 min), Varna (2 hours), and Sofia (6.5–7 hours).
Buses arrive at Nessebar’s new town bus station, from where you can walk or take a taxi to the Old Town.
By Car:
From Burgas: ~30-minute drive via Route 9.
Parking is limited in the old town (often restricted), so park outside and walk in.
Old Town of Nessebar (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Cobbled streets, ancient ruins, and preserved medieval architecture make it an open-air museum.
Church of Christ Pantocrator
A beautifully preserved medieval church with stunning brickwork, now an art gallery.
Church of Saint Sophia (Old Bishopric)
A 5th-century basilica in ruins, but hauntingly beautiful and open to the sky.
Archaeological Museum
Excellent introduction to Nessebar’s ancient Thracian, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine history.
Wooden Revival-Period Houses
18th–19th-century traditional wooden homes showcasing Bulgarian architecture.
Ancient Fortress Walls
Impressive stone and brick remnants of Nessebar’s fortifications.
Nessebar Ethnographic Museum
Housed in a 19th-century house; exhibits traditional Bulgarian culture and crafts.
Sunny Beach (nearby)
A lively resort just 5 km away with wide beaches, clubs, and water activities — popular with partygoers and families.
Stroll Through the Old Town
Walk the cobblestone streets, browse souvenir shops, and admire historic churches and houses.
Visit Historic Churches
Don’t miss the Church of Saint John the Baptist, Church of Saint Paraskeva, and Church of Christ Pantocrator.
Enjoy the Beaches
Relax at South Beach or head to Sunny Beach nearby for more amenities and water sports.
Take a Boat Tour
Boat excursions from Nessebar harbor offer panoramic views of the peninsula and the Black Sea.
Explore the Nessebar Archaeological Museum
Learn about the town’s 3,000-year history, from Thracian to Byzantine eras.
Join a Cultural Festival
Summer events include folklore concerts, craft fairs, and open-air performances.
Scuba Diving or Snorkeling
Discover underwater archaeological sites and marine life with local dive centers.
Luxury:
Sol Nessebar Palace – Beachfront all-inclusive resort with pools, spa, and family-friendly entertainment.
MPM Hotel Arsena – 4-star comfort close to the beach and old town.
Mid-Range:
Italia Hotel – Cozy rooms and friendly service in new Nessebar.
St. Stefan Boutique Hotel – Located right in the Old Town, charming with a sea-view terrace.
Budget:
Panorama Blue Hotel – Affordable, sea-view, and clean.
Nessebar Royal Palace Hotel – Great location in the Old Town with traditional décor.
Traditional Bulgarian:
Plakamoto – Local cuisine with a sea view; try stuffed peppers and grilled meats.
Mehana Pri Shopite – Rustic tavern serving hearty dishes and homemade wine.
Seafood:
Hemingway Restaurant – Right by the water, offering fresh catch of the day and Mediterranean flavors.
White Rose – Family-run, known for generous seafood platters and friendly service.
Romantic/Fine Dining:
Restaurant Kristal – Elegant setting and refined Bulgarian-European fusion.
Old Sailor Restaurant – Tucked in a quiet Old Town alley, ideal for seafood and wine.
Street Food & Snacks:
Grab a banitsa (cheese pastry), ice cream, or kebapche from kiosks along the old town streets.
UNESCO Heritage & Architecture:
Nessebar blends Thracian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Bulgarian influences. Ancient ruins and 40+ churches tell its 3,000-year-old story.
Crafts & Souvenirs:
Artisans sell lace, woodcarvings, pottery, and traditional embroidery. Look for handwoven textiles and rose oil products.
Traditions:
Folk music and dance are central to summer celebrations. You might catch live performances of horo (circle dance) in town squares.
Language & Etiquette:
Bulgarian is spoken, but English is common in tourist areas. Greet with a smile and “Zdraveyte” (Hello). Tipping (10%) is appreciated.