7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Burgas

Bulgaria is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and cultural experiences, making it an ideal base for digital nomads seeking adventure. Burgas, nestled on the Black Sea coast, offers more than just urban charm; it's a gateway to a variety of weekend getaways. From popular seaside resorts to hidden gems in the countryside, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven destinations that promise to enrich your stay in Bulgaria with unique memories and experiences.

Nessebar

Just a stone's throw away from Burgas, Nessebar is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a blend of history and beach relaxation. This ancient town is known for its picturesque old buildings, churches, and narrow cobblestone streets. Spend your weekend exploring the rich history of the peninsula, sunbathing on the nearby beaches, or enjoying the local seafood cuisine.

How to Get There: Nessebar is easily accessible by bus from Burgas, with the journey taking about 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Archaeological Museum, which provides a fascinating insight into the town's history and houses many ancient artifacts.

Where to Stay: For a luxurious stay, consider the Italia Hotel Nessebar, which offers comfortable accommodations and is close to the old town. If you prefer to be by the sea, the Sol Marina Palace has stunning views and a rooftop pool.

Where to Eat: Plakamoto is a traditional Bulgarian restaurant in the old town known for its fresh fish and local wines. For a more casual setting, head to FOYER Cafe & Bakery for their delicious pastries and coffee.

Sozopol

Sozopol is another coastal gem with a rich history and beautiful beaches. The old town is a labyrinth of wooden houses and narrow lanes, leading to small, intimate beaches. Art and culture thrive here, with numerous galleries and summer festivals. Take a boat trip around the island of St. Ivan, where you can see dolphins and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.

How to Get There: Regular buses run from Burgas to Sozopol, and the trip takes approximately 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the Southern Fortress Wall and Tower Museum for panoramic views of the sea and an understanding of the town's ancient fortifications.

Where to Stay: Diamanti Hotel offers rooms with sea views and is situated right in the heart of the old town. For a more secluded experience, Santa Marina Holiday Village provides peaceful villas set among pine forests.

Where to Eat: The Windmill Restaurant is a unique dining experience set in an actual windmill, offering local Bulgarian dishes and stunning sea views.

Strandzha Nature Park

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Strandzha Nature Park is Bulgaria's largest protected area and a biodiversity hotspot. It's a place where you can hike through ancient forests, discover Thracian sanctuaries, and visit remote villages that seem frozen in time. The park's unique cultural and natural heritage makes it a perfect weekend escape for nature lovers and hikers.

How to Get There: The best way to explore Strandzha Nature Park is by car, as public transport options are limited. It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Burgas.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the village of Bulgari to witness the enigmatic fire-dancing ritual, an intangible UNESCO heritage.

Where to Stay: While accommodation options within the park are sparse, the nearby town of Malko Tarnovo offers guest houses like Elit for a comfortable stay.

Where to Eat: Try the Restaurant Malko Tarnovo for traditional Bulgarian dishes in a cozy setting, often accompanied by live folk music.

Ropotamo Nature Reserve

Ropotamo Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy the tranquility of nature. The reserve is known for its river, dense forests, and diverse species of birds. Take a boat tour along the Ropotamo River to witness the lush vegetation and the serene atmosphere, or explore the walking trails that crisscross the reserve.

How to Get There: The reserve is about an hour's drive from Burgas. There are also organized tours that include transportation to and from the reserve.

Travel Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chances to observe the reserve's wildlife, including river turtles and kingfishers.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations within the reserve, the nearby town of Primorsko offers various options like the Perla Sun Park Hotel, which has a great pool and beach access.

Where to Eat: In Primorsko, you can enjoy a seaside meal at Restaurant Sirena, known for its fresh seafood and Bulgarian specialties.

Thracian Cliffs

The Thracian Cliffs offer some of the most breathtaking views of the Black Sea. This unusual destination is not just for golf enthusiasts who come for the stunning course but also for those who appreciate dramatic landscapes. The cliffs provide a perfect backdrop for hiking, photography, and relaxation away from the crowds.

How to Get There: The Thracian Cliffs are best reached by car, with a drive of about 2 hours from Burgas.

Travel Tip: Even if you're not a golfer, the Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort is worth a visit for its incredible sea views and luxurious amenities.

Where to Stay: The Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort offers upscale accommodation with stunning vistas and excellent facilities.

Where to Eat: The resort's restaurant, Bendida Beach, provides exquisite dining right on the beach, with a menu that features fresh, local ingredients.

Beglik Tash

Beglik Tash is an ancient Thracian rock sanctuary that remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. This archaeological site, set amidst a natural rock formation, dates back to the 14th century BC. It's a place shrouded in mystery and legend, offering a peaceful retreat for those interested in history and archaeology.

How to Get There: Located near Primorsko, Beglik Tash is about an hour's drive from Burgas.

Travel Tip: Visit during the off-peak season to have the site mostly to yourself, allowing for a more contemplative experience.

Where to Stay: Stay in Primorsko at the Hotel Sunarita, which is close to the beach and offers a comfortable base for exploring the area.

Where to Eat: After exploring Beglik Tash, head to Restaurant Prima Vera in Primorsko for a taste of the local cuisine in a relaxed garden setting.

Emine Cape

Cape Emine is one of the most dramatic spots on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. As the endpoint of the Balkan Mountains, it offers stunning cliff views and a sense of solitude that's hard to find elsewhere. It's a great spot for hiking and bird watching, especially during the migration seasons.

How to Get There: Cape Emine is best accessed by car, and the journey from Burgas takes around 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Be sure to check out the remains of the medieval fortress and the lighthouse for a touch of history amidst the natural beauty.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited near Cape Emine, but the nearby town of Obzor offers options like the Cliff Beach & Spa Resort, which has excellent facilities and sea views.

Where to Eat: In Obzor, The House Bar & Dinner offers a varied menu with something for everyone, including stunning views of the sea.

Whether you're looking for a cultural experience, a nature retreat, or just a relaxing beach weekend, these destinations around Burgas offer a perfect escape for digital nomads seeking to balance work and exploration.