Burgas isn’t just a gateway to Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast; it’s a place where genuine experiences and scenic adventures await. The city offers a surprising array of tours that cater to different interests—whether you want to explore Bulgaria’s only inhabited island, sample regional wines, or enjoy convenient transfers. Among the highlights we love are the Return Boat Trip to St. Anastasia Island for its picturesque scenery and the chance to wander a medieval monastery, and the Burgas Exquisite Wine Tasting for a taste of Bulgaria’s best regional wines. These experiences offer authentic moments and memorable views, making Burgas a versatile destination for all kinds of travelers.
While some tours focus on cultural exploration, like the sand festival, others prioritize comfort and convenience, such as airport transfers or private shuttles. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the water or a quick, fuss-free transfer from the airport, the options below will help you navigate the best of Burgas.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a mix of outdoor excursions, like boat trips and sightseeing cruises, culinary experiences such as wine tastings, and practical transfers to and from Burgas Airport and nearby resorts. We also feature unique local events like the Self-Guided Sand Festival, perfect for those wanting to explore at their own pace. Check out these options to see which match your travel style and schedule.
1. Burgas: Return Boat Trip to St. Anastasia Island
Sailing across the Black Sea to visit Bulgaria’s only inhabited island, St. Anastasia, is a must-do for anyone interested in combining nature, history, and tranquility. This boat trip offers a 3-hour adventure that allows ample time to explore the island’s medieval monastery and museum at your own pace. The boat is well-rated at 4.8/5 from 31 reviews, with travelers praising the scenic cruise and the charming monastery.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of beautiful sea views, the chance to visit Bulgaria’s unique island, and the opportunity to try the herbal tea made from monastery herbs. The digital e-guide enhances your experience, offering insights that bring the island’s history alive. The island itself is a peaceful spot, with stunning vistas and a small museum showcasing its past.
This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxing half-day trip with historical interest. The only downside might be the weather dependency—bad weather can cancel or delay trips, so check availability early. Bottom line: This boat trip offers a peaceful retreat with rich scenery and a touch of history, perfect for curious travelers.
2. Private One-way Transfer Burgas Airport to Hotel or vice versa
For travelers arriving or departing from Burgas Airport, this private transfer guarantees a smooth start or end to your trip. Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 6 reviews, it provides up to 15 people a comfortable, door-to-door service for around $79. It’s a quick 20-minute ride from the airport, but what sets this apart is the convenience and reliability.
Booking this transfer means you avoid the hassle of waiting in taxi queues or relying on public transportation. The service is flexible, with options for small groups, families, or larger parties, and it’s a good value considering the stress saved. Your driver will meet you directly at the airport, helping you get settled quickly.
This is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort and efficiency, especially those arriving late or with lots of luggage. The only potential drawback is that this service is limited to pre-booked trips; spontaneity isn’t part of the package.
Bottom line: If you want a hassle-free start or end to your Burgas trip, this private transfer offers peace of mind at a fair price.
3. Visit the Unique & Only Bulgarian Black Sea Island Saint Anastasia
This tour offers a 2 to 4-hour visit to St. Anastasia Island with the option of a same-day return ticket or an overnight stay. For just around $44, you get a 40-minute boat cruise from Burgas, with additional free time to explore the island itself. The water route offers spectacular views of Strandzha National Park, Vaya Beach, and Burgas, providing a different perspective than land-based tours.
What makes this tour unique is its flexibility and the small group size—limited to 15 people—creating an intimate experience. The island features a historic church and museum, and the return route is scenic, with views of the Bulgarian coastline and the Black Sea. Travelers mention the island is “nice with a church and museum” and are happy with the scenic boat ride.
This tour suits those interested in quick cultural visits combined with scenic water views. It’s not ideal for travelers seeking a full-day experience, but perfect for a short, memorable excursion. The only minor concern is potential delays, as with any boat trip.
Bottom line: A compact, scenic trip with cultural highlights, great for those wanting a quick escape to Bulgaria’s unique island.
4. Burgas Exquisite Wine Tasting
Bulgaria is increasingly recognized for its excellent regional wines, and this 1-hour tasting session is a sparkling opportunity to sample the best. Rated 4.5/5 from 8 reviews, it features four carefully selected Bulgarian wines paired with delicious appetizers. The tasting takes place in Burgas, making it easy to fit into a city itinerary.
The tour is designed for wine enthusiasts wanting to experience Bulgaria’s wine culture firsthand. The expert-led tasting spotlights regional varieties, with the opportunity to learn about Bulgaria’s wine history and production. The staff curates the selection to ensure quality and authenticity, making this a worthwhile investment at just over $67 per person.
Perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening activity, this tour offers good value considering the quality of wines and the intimate setting. It suits those who appreciate culinary experiences or want to deepen their understanding of Bulgaria’s wine heritage. The only limitation is that it’s a quick session—ideal if you’re short on time.
Bottom line: An engaging, flavorful experience that introduces you to Bulgaria’s best wines, perfect for wine lovers or those wanting a taste of local cuisine.
5. Bourgas Airport – St. Constantine and Elena | Airport Transfer, Taxi, Bus service
This airport transfer service offers a reliable, fuss-free journey from Burgas Airport to St. Constantine and Elena. Rated 5.0/5 from 1 review, it makes travel seamless, especially for families or small groups. The journey lasts about an hour, and you can choose the right vehicle for your group size, up to 15 people.
Recognized as a premium transport provider since 2004, the service emphasizes comfort, safety, and punctuality. Booking in advance means avoiding the stress of catching a taxi or public transport after a long flight, allowing you to focus on your trip.
Ideal for travelers who value convenience and security, this transfer is particularly useful if you’re arriving late or have heavy luggage. Its major advantage is the door-to-door service, making your transition from airport to hotel smooth.
The main consideration is the cost—though it’s more expensive than hailing a taxi, the guaranteed quality and reliability justify the price.
Bottom line: For stress-free arrivals or departures, this private transfer offers excellent value, especially if you’re traveling with family or in a group.
$174.53 per group (up to 3)
6. Private Transfer from Burgas (BOJ) Airport to Nesebar
Travelers heading to the charming seaside town of Nesebar will find this private transfer a perfect choice. For about $44, your group of up to 4 people will enjoy a 45-minute drive with the comfort of a private vehicle. The service is highly rated at 5.0/5 from 1 review, emphasizing reliability and convenience.
This transfer avoids the hassle of waiting for taxis or sharing rides, ensuring you arrive relaxed and ready to explore. It’s especially useful if you have luggage or are arriving late in the day, as pre-booking guarantees your driver will be waiting at Burgas Airport.
The service is suitable for small groups or families who want fast, direct transport. It offers excellent value, considering the comfort and time saved. The only limitation is that larger groups will need a different vehicle option.
Bottom line: A reliable, efficient way to get from Burgas Airport to Nesebar, especially valuable for travelers seeking convenience and time savings.
$44.03 per group (up to 4)
7. Transfer from Burgas to Plovdiv
If you’re headed inland to Plovdiv, this luxury transfer provides a smooth ride in a brand-new, comfortable vehicle. For approximately $253, your group of up to 4 can enjoy a 2-3 hour trip with amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and free drinks.
The service is delivered by a team of professional drivers committed to safety and comfort, making it ideal for travelers who value style and convenience. The modern cars and extra features mean you can relax or catch up on work while en route. The review of 5/5 reflects satisfaction with the quality of service.
This option is best suited for those who prefer private, stress-free transportation during longer trips, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or need a reliable schedule. Its main drawback is the higher price, but for comfort and convenience, it’s worth it.
Bottom line: For a premium transfer experience from Burgas to Plovdiv, this service delivers comfort, reliability, and a touch of luxury.
$253.20 per group (up to 4)
8. Bourgas Airport – Sunny Beach | Airport Transfer, Taxi, Bus Service
This pre-booked transfer from Burgas Airport to Sunny Beach simplifies your arrival on Bulgaria’s most popular resort coast. Rated 4.0/5 from 4 reviews, it costs about $57 for a group of up to 3 people and takes approximately 30 minutes.
The key benefit is avoiding the crowds and long taxi queues upon landing. Your driver will meet you directly at the terminal, giving you peace of mind. The vehicle has enough space for luggage, and the service is quick and reliable. It’s a practical choice for travelers who prioritize time and convenience.
Ideal for families or small groups arriving at Sunny Beach, this transfer can be booked in advance to ensure a smooth start to your holiday. Keep in mind that some reviews note delays and minor hiccups, so plan accordingly.
Bottom line: A straightforward, hassle-free way to reach Sunny Beach from Burgas Airport, especially good if you want to skip public transport.
9. Self-Guided Sand Festival in Burgas
Finally, for travelers interested in art and local events, the Self-Guided Sand Festival is an affordable and flexible option. For just about $10, you receive an e-guide to explore Burgas’ famous Sand Festival at your own pace. This annual event showcases amazing sand sculptures created by artists from around the world, filling the beaches with creativity.
The guide includes historical insights and practical logistics, allowing you to plan your visit without a guided tour. You can download it to your device and enjoy the sculptures whenever suits you, making it a cost-effective way to experience this vibrant event over 3 to 5 hours.
This option is perfect for independently-minded travelers who like to set their own pace. It’s flexible, informative, and immerses you directly in the festival atmosphere. The only consideration is that entrance to the festival itself is at your own expense.
Bottom line: For art lovers and festival-goers, this self-guided tour offers an affordable, flexible way to enjoy Burgas’ iconic sand sculptures.
$10.43 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Burgas
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want a scenic day on the Black Sea, the boat trips to St. Anastasia Island are hard to beat—especially if you enjoy a mix of history and nature. The Return Boat Trip is perfect for a relaxing half-day, while the Only Bulgarian Black Sea Island appeals to those seeking a shorter, scenic escape.
For cultural and culinary delights, the Wine Tasting offers a quick yet rich introduction to Bulgarian wines. If convenience is your priority, the various airport transfers—whether to Nesebar, Sunny Beach, or St. Constantine and Elena—ensure smooth arrivals and departures.
Travelers on a budget or wanting personalized exploration might prefer the Sand Festival, which is flexible and affordable. On the other hand, those seeking comfort and style for longer trips, like from Burgas to Plovdiv, will find the luxury transfer well worth the splurge.
Always book in advance where possible, especially during peak season, and check the weather forecast for outdoor activities. Whether you’re after adventure, culture, or convenience, Burgas offers a range of tours to match your style.
Burgas has something for every traveler, from scenic boat rides and wine tastings to hassle-free airport transfers. Whether you’re a dedicated explorer or just want a comfortable start to your trip, these options will help you make the most of your time. Don’t wait—reserve your favorite experiences early to ensure a smooth, memorable visit.