Sozopol is a Bulgarian beauty that has transformed over the last few years, so if you’re paying it a visit, you’re in for a treat! Sandy beaches, colourful nature and narrow, cobbled streets bring this seaside town to life! Read on for our top tips of what to do during your getaway to Sozopol...

Wander the Old Town

The Old Town of Sozopol is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the Bulgarian Black Sea, and it’s easy to see why. With endless cobbled streets hiding tiny churches and boutique hotels, you'll think you’ve stepped into paradise. Houses decorated by bougainvillea perch along the streets, lining the way to the seafront. Here, you’ll find parts of the ancient city walls which have been pieced back together, along with the watch tower. The fortress walls and tower now sit on the promenade and provide the perfect spot to watch the sun set over the Black Sea. You’ll also stumble across a variety of traditional architecture scattered throughout the Old Town as you explore.

Visit ancient historic sights

Sozopol is a town with over 7,000 years of history waiting to be explored. Recent excavations have revealed remnants of an oval temple and alter, dating back to the fifth century BC, which are worthy of a visit! The town was previously known as Apollonia Pontica, and there’s still an Appolonia Pontica excavation project to discover hidden artefacts. Delve deeper into Sozopol’s archaeological history by visiting the ethnographic or archaeological museums found near the town. Walk along the fortress walls or go inside the ancient tower to get a real feel for the history of Sozopol.

Enjoy the food scene

The Bulgarian food scene is a real treat, and on your visit to Sozopol, you can get stuck into some of the best local delicacies! Bulgarian food resembles Middle Eastern cuisine, with moussakas and kebabs found in abundance, but there are some specific dishes to keep your eye out for. They’re big on salads and soups here, served hot or cold, with any ingredient you desire. They make for great appetisers or side dishes! The Bulgarian take on a mixed grill, called meshana skara, is a mouth-watering must-try, and the Bulgarian salami, lukanka, is a delightful sandwich filler or addition to any pasta dish! The main symbol of Bulgarian cuisine, which you’ll fall in love with, is banitsa. It’s made from filo pastry, rolled with feta cheese or Bulgarian white cheese called sirene, and any other fillings of your choice. Feta and pumpkin is a popular pairing!

Have some family fun

Sozopol is an ideal destination for a family-friendly getaway. If you're after beach days with a side of action, head to the water sports centre on Harmanite Beach for a taste of parasailing or snorkelling. Or head over to the marina to the diving school and book a scuba experience to witness the marine life of the Black Sea! For day-long fun, book a family ticket to the waterpark and slip and slide to your heart’s content! Then, when it’s time for some exploring, hob aboard a day boat at Sozopol’s bay and take a trip to the islands of St Ivan and St Peter. They’re only a short charter away and you’ll be able to explore the remote islands and learn about their historical importance.

Explore Sozopol’s culture

Sozopol and its surrounding areas have an abundance of culture to immerse yourself in during your stay. Venture up towards Bourgas to visit the spectacular nature reserve of Cape Foros and see the vast expanse of land open up before you. Just south of Cape Foros, you'll find the Nature Conservation Centre, which is perfect for birdwatching! Apollonia Arts Festival is one of the most exciting events on Sozopol’s calendar. At the end of summer, the seaside town bursts into life for ten days, and visitors can enjoy over 70 events on offer. Plays, open-air concerts, art exhibitions, jazz concerts, masterclasses... the list goes on. Being in Sozopol at this time of a year is a special experience!