Eurovision 2027: A guide to Burgas, Bulgaria’s sunny seaside host city

Eurovision 2027: Discover Burgas, Bulgaria’s Coastal Gem

Poinews.com – When Bulgaria claimed victory at the Eurovision Song Contest, many assumed the capital Sofia would host the 2027 event. Instead, the spotlight falls on Burgas—a coastal destination that has long been cherished by locals but is now stepping onto the global stage. With Eurovision arriving next May, this Black Sea city is set to showcase its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant waterfront, and easygoing summer charm to an international audience.

Beyond the contest itself, Burgas offers visitors a wealth of experiences. From expansive sandy shores and shaded green spaces to seafood-focused dining venues, cultural landmarks, and an energetic creative community, there is much to explore outside the Eurovision bubble.

Getting There and Around

As Bulgaria’s fourth-largest urban center, Burgas sits along the Black Sea coastline. The city lies approximately 400 kilometers from Sofia and less than 150 kilometers south of Varna, the hometown of 2026 Eurovision champion Dara.

Travelers will find the airport conveniently positioned just 10 kilometers from downtown. Direct connections are available from several major European cities, including London, Rome, and Berlin. A regular bus service links the airport terminal to the city center, making arrival straightforward.

For those traveling from Sofia, rail options depart roughly eight times daily, with the quickest trip lasting five hours and 43 minutes. Bus services operate about six times per day and can complete the journey in as little as five hours.

Once in Burgas, navigating the city is effortless. E-bike rentals are widely available throughout the area, and the local transit system—led by Burgasbus—provides reliable connections across the city.

Where to Stay

While Eurovision typically triggers accommodation price increases, Burgas remains comparatively affordable. According to a recent survey by the Euronews Travel team, private rooms start at €32 per night during August, while four-star properties begin around €67 nightly. For a more luxurious option, the five-star beachfront Hotel Residence Promenade offers one-night stays for €130.

Beaches and Outdoor Spaces

No visit to Burgas is complete without experiencing its coastline. Central Beach and Northern Beach attract crowds with their lively atmosphere and abundance of dining and drinking venues. Meanwhile, Sarafovo Beach and Kraymorie Beach provide a more tranquil setting, celebrated for their unspoiled natural scenery.

After spending time on the sand, the Pier of Burgas offers panoramic views of the city and serves as a prime sunset location. Adjacent to the pier lies the Sea Garden, an extensive 5-kilometer network of paved pathways winding through a large public park. The garden accommodates both walkers and cyclists, and visitors can observe exotic plant varieties, historical monuments, and some of the region’s finest Balkan architectural examples.

Culture and Entertainment

Burgas’ pedestrianized Old Town features numerous restaurants, bars, and retail outlets alongside the Orthodox Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius. Cultural programming plays a significant role in the city’s calendar.

The Sand Sculptures Festival, running from early July through late September, presents works inspired by international pop culture. Additionally, the Spice music festival draws major acts, with Luis Fonsi—the artist behind “Despacito”—performing as headliner earlier in August.

Local Cuisine and Beverages

Bulgarian food may not enjoy the same global recognition as other European cuisines, yet Burgas delivers distinctive local flavors. Seafood dominates the menu, with midi po burgaski—a dish of mussels prepared in their shells with onions, tomatoes, peppers, and aromatic herbs—standing out as a regional favorite. Black Sea turbot, typically grilled, is another staple.

Visitors can also sample broader Bulgarian specialties such as strandzhanski dyado, a traditional spiced cured meat, and Shopska salata, a refreshing salad composed of diced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers, finished with grated sirene white brine cheese.

For drinks, Burgas 63 rakia crafted from local grapes, the robust red Mavrud wine, and Burgasko lager—produced in the city since 1971—provide authentic taste experiences.

Cost of Living

According to Numbeo’s cost-of-living platform, dining in Burgas remains highly economical. An inexpensive restaurant meal averages €12.39, a half-liter of local draft beer costs €1.79, and a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range establishment runs approximately €40.90, excluding beverages.

Whether attending Eurovision or simply seeking a Mediterranean getaway, Burgas delivers an accessible, culturally rich experience with something for every type of traveler.