19 Activities
Nessebar - The Black Pearl of Bulgaria
Starts from
Varna
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Activities
19
Duration
15 hours
Length
132 mi
Guide details
Starts from
Varna
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Duration
15 hours
Length
132 mi
Desi Kadra
Travel Expert
- Visit some of the oldest remaining sites of ancient Bulgaria that date back to the 6th century BC.
- Experience a true trading capital of the ancient times, while visiting some of the coolest crafts and souvenirs shops of the city.
- Taste true, authentic Bulgarian cuisine while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Black Sea.
This road trip will take you far back into the ancient past, where you will discover places since Eneolithic, Thracian, Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Bulgarian eras.
Nessebar, also known as the Black Pearl of Bulgaria is indeed a true gem to visit. It is not only incredible beautiful, featuring religious sites and architecture with many different influences, but it was also an important trading city which was one of the first in the world to produce coins, since the 6th century BC. Even now its trading spirit can be observed, with many local souvenir and gifts shops throughout the city. On this trip you will learn all about the ancient history of Bulgaria by visiting the old part of the town and be inspired by some of the most beautiful sacred sites the city has to offer.
Nessebar, also known as the Black Pearl of Bulgaria is indeed a true gem to visit. It is not only incredible beautiful, featuring religious sites and architecture with many different influences, but it was also an important trading city which was one of the first in the world to produce coins, since the 6th century BC. Even now its trading spirit can be observed, with many local souvenir and gifts shops throughout the city. On this trip you will learn all about the ancient history of Bulgaria by visiting the old part of the town and be inspired by some of the most beautiful sacred sites the city has to offer.
This road trip will take you far back into the ancient past, where you will discover places since Eneolithic, Thracian, Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Bulgarian eras.
Nessebar, also known as the Black Pearl of Bulgaria is indeed a true gem to visit. It is not only incredible beautiful, featuring religious sites and architecture with many different influences, but it was also an important trading city which was one of the first in the world to produce coins, since the 6th century BC. Even now its trading spirit can be observed, with many local souvenir and gifts shops throughout the city. On this trip you will learn all about the ancient history of Bulgaria by visiting the old part of the town and be inspired by some of the most beautiful sacred sites the city has to offer.
Nessebar, also known as the Black Pearl of Bulgaria is indeed a true gem to visit. It is not only incredible beautiful, featuring religious sites and architecture with many different influences, but it was also an important trading city which was one of the first in the world to produce coins, since the 6th century BC. Even now its trading spirit can be observed, with many local souvenir and gifts shops throughout the city. On this trip you will learn all about the ancient history of Bulgaria by visiting the old part of the town and be inspired by some of the most beautiful sacred sites the city has to offer.
Desi Kadra
Travel Expert
- Visit some of the oldest remaining sites of ancient Bulgaria that date back to the 6th century BC.
- Experience a true trading capital of the ancient times, while visiting some of the coolest crafts and souvenirs shops of the city.
- Taste true, authentic Bulgarian cuisine while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Black Sea.
Day Itinerary
19 Activities
Day 1
132 mi2 mi
Ancient History, Breathtaking Views and Delicious Bulgarian Cuisine
Today you will be visiting some of the most ancient and beautiful sites of Bulgaria, all within one city. You will start your trip by visiting the Byzantine baths, where locals used to bathe. You will then experience the beauty of religious sites and sacred art at some of the oldest places of worship in the town. Learn about the rich history of the town and Bulgaria, by visiting the local museum that contains artefacts covering the 3000 years of the town’s existence. Finally, you will have the chance to taste some of the most delicious Bulgarian food and authentically made and fresh from the day's catch of the local fishermen. A truly magical day indeed.
08:30
Varna
Time to go on your road trip. Make sure to bring your camera and some refreshments for the road.
38.4 mi
1 hr
09:351 min
Безплатен паркинг
Parking
Open Details
Stop off at this charming beach town, and head to the beach for some refreshments.
0.1 mi
5 min
09:4510 min
Рошавата Чайка
Restaurant
Open Details
A great beach bar, spend a few minutes here to enjoy the scenery over a drink.
0.2 mi
5 min
10:0010 min
South beach
Open Details
Take a stroll along the south beach where you might a number of wind-surfers making the most of the waves and beautiful weather.
22.5 mi
50 min
11:001 min
Sunny Beach Panorama
Landmark
Open Details
Slow down a bit here, you'll see a beautiful panorama
7.8 mi
20 min
11:305 min
Old town Nessebar Parking
Parking
Open Details
Park your car here to begin the adventure into the town of Nessebar.
0.1 mi
5 min
11:4015 min
Ранновизантийски терми
Landmark
Open Details
Your first stop is the Byzantine baths, that is one of the oldest sites in the city. Dating back to 6th century, these baths were in used by people of Mesambria, the Thracian name of Nesebar. According to old records in 680 the emperor Constantine IV Propulsion also used to bathe here. A great place to visit and re-imagine what life was back then. The site itself is surrounded by neighbouring houses and although seems a little bit abandoned is a great stop off as part of this historic trip.
0.2 mi
5 min
12:005 min
Stone fountain
Open Details
This water fountains is very emblematic of the town of Nesebar and a great look into how the locals here used to live back in these times. It even features a copper bowl which you can use to drink the water. Many of these natural water fountains can be found throughout the country. Old tales in Bulgaria would talk about the healing magic of the spring water coming straight from the mountains, where people would travel distances to collect water and use it to heal ailments they are suffering from. Bring a bottle with you to fill up for the rest of the day.
0.1 mi
5 min
12:1030 min
Church of Saint Sophia
Landmark
Open Details
Built in 5th century, this basilica is one of the oldest remaining buildings in the town. It was an important place of worship and part of Nesebar’s bishops residence. Although a big part of the site has been destroyed, the main architecture still remains standing, featuring stone-brick arches and an altar at the front of the church. It’s a beautiful site to see and feel into the ancient energy of this land that has been walked by so many people over the different eras, from the Thracian to Roman and Greek.
0.1 mi
5 min
12:451 hr 30 min
Emona
Restaurant
Open Details
One of the best restaurants in all of Nesebar. This place not only features an amazing fusion of typical Bulgarian and Eastern European food, but it is also located right on the sea edge, where you can enjoy an incredible view of the sea. Here you can try tradition Bulgarian cuisine like Shopska Salada, Zaza, Mussels and Chips with Feta cheese. Absolutely mouth watering taste experiences.
Open only from 1 May to 30 September
Open Hours: Everyday: 10:00-00:00
If you are visiting outside of the months in operation, you can visit Restaurant "Breeze" open from 9:30-23:00 throughout the year.
Open only from 1 May to 30 September
Open Hours: Everyday: 10:00-00:00
If you are visiting outside of the months in operation, you can visit Restaurant "Breeze" open from 9:30-23:00 throughout the year.
0.3 mi
10 min
14:3030 min
"Holy Mother Eleusa" Church
Landmark
Open Details
Set on the hilltop overlooking the city, this is another must-see place of worship. It is visible that religious places are a huge part of the ancient Bulgarian history. Built in the 6th century with red bricks and white stones, this church also features 5 tombs in the narthex. According to historic writings, this church played an important role in town, as it has been mentioned in several deeds of Tsar (king) Ivan Alexander. Spend some time to observe and appreciate the beauty of this place.
0.4 mi
10 min
15:1030 min
Church of Christ Pantokrator
Museum
Open Details
A real architectural gem from the 15th century, that features a small museum inside. The church is beautifully decorated with red and yellow bricks, arched windows and it has a medieval tomb. Walking inside of it feels like traveling back into the past, where you can almost imagine the locals who walked down the corridors of this sacred site. Spend some time admiring the sacred art inside from the Byzantine times and absorb the ancient atmosphere while you are here.
Open Hours: Everyday: 09:00-20:00
Open Hours: Everyday: 09:00-20:00
0.2 mi
5 min
15:451 hr 30 min
Nesebar Archaeological Museum
Landmark
Open Details
This museum is a great place to learn all about the town and Nessebar and it’s fascinating past. With so many different influences crossing over in this very spot over the 3000 years of its existence, it provided the perfect place for a historic look into how the town has over the years. The museum features great information and artefacts of the Eneolithic, Thracian, Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Bulgarian eras. Each one unique in it's style and objects, here you will be able to find anything from stunning gold jewellery, to art, to pottery and crafts of the Bulgarian influences.
Open Hours: Everyday: 9:00-18:00
Open Hours: Everyday: 9:00-18:00
0.1 mi
5 min
17:2030 min
Западна крепостна стена
Landmark
Open Details
Visit another ancient site that formed part of the fortress around the old town. It provides a great example of the ancient city and you can use your imagination to picture the soldiers who used to defend these walls. It’s very emblematic of the Old Town of Nessebar and provides some great opportunities for photos and souvenirs, especially during the golden hour.
0.1 mi
5 min
18:0015 min
Statue of St. Nicholas / Noah
Landmark
Open Details
The Statue of St. Nicolas is said to be the patron saint of sailors, protecting the town’s sailors going into the sea. A beautiful and emblematic moment to celebrate the locals of the region. The walk to there is equally lovely, as you walk through a curved stone path, that extends into the water to arrive at the statue. Definitely worth passing through here.
0.2 mi
5 min
18:2045 min
Port Nessebar
Open Details
Very closely after you have the port of Nessebar, where the Greek influence of fishing boats really comes through here. Spend some time walking around this part of the town, where you will find many souvenir shops along way and observe the rich fishing culture too.
0.3 mi
5 min
19:1045 min
Ancient Theatre
Landmark
Open Details
Get transported to the ancient times and imagine hundreds of locals sitting on the steps of this theatre and watching an opera with the Black sea as the backdrop. A stunning site to visit, this ancient theatre is another well-preserves building with majestic Roman architecture. It right next to the sea and provides an incredible to sit in and absorb the beauty and history.
0.2 mi
5 min
20:001 hr 30 min
Plakamoto
Restaurant
Open Details
An amazing restaurant that features beautiful decor and a breathtaking view of the sea, surrounded by walls covered with red flowers. The food is as good as you can get. Fresh fish from the sea, homemade and delicious ingredients and many options to choose from. This is one of local’s favourites for a reason.
Open hours: Everyday: 10:00-00:00
Open hours: Everyday: 10:00-00:00
63.3 mi
1 hr 50 min
23:30