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Living in Istanbul offers an incredible mix of history, vibrant culture and nonstop city energy. Yet for many foreigners calling this dynamic city home, the desire for a refreshing escape is real. That’s why Burgas, a stunning coastal city just a short ferry ride across the Black Sea, is quickly becoming a top choice. It perfectly balances relaxation, adventure and cultural richness, making it an ideal getaway destination for expats looking to explore beyond Istanbul’s borders.
Get ready for a new way to explore the Black Sea. Starting June 24, Istanbul Sea Buses (IDO) will launch a regular ferry service between Istanbul’s Sarayburnu Port and the coastal city of Burgas, Bulgaria.
This five-hour sea journey offers passengers a scenic and comfortable connection between Türkiye and Bulgaria. With departures from Istanbul at 3 p.m. and from Burgas at 8 a.m., the route will operate three times a week, making it an ideal option for both leisure travelers and professionals seeking a smooth cross-border experience.
The Sea Garden (Morska Gradina): This sprawling seaside park is the heart of Burgas. Stroll along its shaded boulevards, adorned with vibrant flower beds and artistic sculptures, offering stunning panoramic views of the Black Sea. Find open-air cafes for a relaxing coffee or catch a performance at the summer theatre. Don't miss the iconic Pier of Burgas, jutting out into the sea, offering breathtaking vistas.
Golden beaches for every mood: Burgas offers a variety of stunning beaches. Central Beach and Northern Beach are easily accessible and lively, perfect for swimming and sunbathing with all the amenities. For a more tranquil experience, head to Sarafovo Beach, known for its calm, shallow waters and unique dark, iron-rich sand, ideal for families. For those seeking an escape into nature, Kraimorie Beach promises a rustic, peaceful setting.
Healing mud and salty lakes: Venture just outside the city to Lake Atanasovsko, famous for its pink hue and therapeutic black curative mud and lye. Join locals in a free, open-air spa experience that's said to have incredible healing properties for the skin. The Poda Protected Site nearby is also a birdwatcher's paradise, home to a diverse array of avian species, including flamingos and pelicans.
Journey through history and culture: Delve into Burgas' rich past by visiting the magnificent Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius, a stunning example of Neo-Byzantine architecture. Explore the Historical Museum of Burgas to trace the city's journey from ancient Thracian times to the present. For a unique historical excursion, take a short ferry ride to St. Anastasia Island, Bulgaria's only inhabited island, steeped in pirate legends and home to a medieval monastery.
One of the most famous legends of St. Anastasia Island is about the pirates who attacked the island when it housed a monastery. The monks, seeking divine intervention, hid in the church and fervently prayed to Saint Anastasia for protection. Their prayers were answered when a fearsome storm suddenly arose, breaking the pirate ship in two. Even today, visitors can see the fossilized remains of the ship embedded in the rocks near the shore. It's believed that the pirates were drawn to the island by rumors of a golden treasure, buried and guarded by the ghost of a dead pirate.
Beyond its historical and cultural offerings, St. Anastasia Island is a haven for nature lovers. The island boasts unique rock formations like the "Mushroom" and "Dragon," as well as the "Sun Gate," a natural arch that frames the first rays of the sun each morning. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, savor fresh seafood at the island's restaurant, or relax on the small beach.
Vibrant Events and Artistic Flair: Burgas is a city that loves to celebrate! Keep an eye out for its lively music festivals, colorful street art, and the famous Sand Sculptures Festival (typically in July), where incredible artworks are carved from sand. The city's cultural scene offers a blend of traditional Bulgarian charm and contemporary energy.
Just a short journey from Burgas lies Nesebar, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for any traveler. Often dubbed the "Pearl of the Black Sea," this ancient town is perched on a picturesque peninsula, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway.
A living museum: Wander through Nesebar's cobblestone streets and discover a captivating open-air museum. The town boasts over 40 churches, many dating back to the Byzantine era, showcasing intricate architectural details and rich frescoes. Don't miss the iconic Church of Christ Pantocrator or the ancient ruins of the Church of Saint Sophia.
Architectural marvels: Admire the unique wooden houses from the Bulgarian Revival period (18th-19th centuries) that line the charming alleys, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. The ancient fortifications, including the recognizable wooden windmill at the town's entrance, add to its historic allure.
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