Ancient coastal town on Bulgaria's Black Sea. Known for its 7th-century BC Greek ruins, medieval churches, and annual Apollonia arts festival in September.
Sozopol is an ancient seaside town on Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, 35 km south of Burgas. This small town has cobblestone streets, traditional wooden houses, and sandy beaches. You can explore the Old Town's narrow lanes, see archaeological sites like the southern fortress wall, or attend the Apollonia Festival in early September. Central Beach and Harmani Beach offer opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
Exploring Sozopol's Old Town
As you walk through Sozopol's Old Town, you'll see over 180 houses from the 18th and 19th centuries. These buildings have stone foundations and wooden upper floors with overhanging balconies. Many now house small guesthouses, art galleries, and restaurants. Take time to wander the winding lanes, peek into courtyards adorned with grape vines, and examine the intricate woodcarving on the facades.
Beaches in Sozopol
Sozopol has two main beaches within easy reach of the town center. Central Beach, located next to the Old Town, is a calm stretch of sand good for swimming and sunbathing. The water here is shallow and clear, making it suitable for families with children. Harmani Beach, in the newer part of town, is longer and more active, with beach bars and water sports facilities. Both beaches have fine golden sand and calm waters typical of the Black Sea coast. In summer, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, or bring your own towel and find a spot on the free sections of the beach.
Local Cuisine
Sozopol's seaside location means you'll find plenty of fresh seafood in local restaurants. You can try traditional dishes like fish soup, grilled mackerel, or mussels prepared in various ways. Many restaurants in the Old Town offer outdoor seating with views of the sea or the narrow streets. For a quick snack, look for banitsa, a savory pastry filled with cheese, or mekitsi, fried dough often served with jam or honey. Local wines from the nearby Strandzha region pair well with seafood dishes.
Apollonia Art Festival
If you visit Sozopol in early September, you can experience the annual Apollonia Festival of Arts. This cultural event fills the town with creative activities for ten days. The festival program includes theater performances, art exhibitions, literary readings, and concerts held in various venues around town. Many events take place in settings like the Amphitheater, which offers views of the sea as a backdrop. The festival brings artists and visitors from across Bulgaria and beyond, increasing activity in the usually calm town.
Archaeological Treasures
Sozopol's history dates back to the 7th century BC when it was founded as a Greek colony called Apollonia. The Archaeological Museum houses artifacts from this period, including ancient Greek pottery, coins, and stone anchors. You can see remnants of the town's medieval fortifications, including sections of the southern fortress wall and tower. Near the beach, you'll find ruins of an ancient Christian complex with foundations of early churches. You can also take a short boat trip to nearby St. Ivan Island, where archaeologists discovered relics believed to belong to John the Baptist.
Getting to Sozopol
You can reach Sozopol by bus from Burgas, the nearest major city with an international airport. Buses run frequently during summer, taking about 40 minutes to cover the 35 km distance. You can catch the bus at Burgas South Bus Station, and it will drop you off in the center of Sozopol. If you're driving, follow the coastal road south from Burgas. Parking can be limited in the Old Town during peak season, so consider leaving your car at one of the parking lots on the outskirts of town.
Best Time to Visit
The warmest months to visit Sozopol are from June to September, which is good for beach activities. July and August are the busiest months, with higher prices and more crowded beaches. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in June or September when the weather is still warm but there are fewer tourists. Keep in mind that many restaurants and guesthouses close during the off-season from October to May.
