The coastal lakes of Burgas lie along the Via Pontica, a route used by European migratory birds. Their species-rich wetlands make birdwatching a key focus of the region. At the Poda Nature Conservation Centre, you can experience it up close: terraces, a visitor trail and observation hides offer different perspectives. Binoculars, telescopes and ornithological advice round out what is on offer. Poda is also on the Via Pontica and is considered one of Europe's richest birdwatching sites.

Water Landscapes and Bird Migration

The extensive coastal wetland landscape includes Pomorie, Atanasovsko, Burgas and Mandrensko lakes, as well as the lagoons of Poda and Chengene Skele. There are different ways to observe the birdlife: at Atanasovsko Lake, an observation hide can be reached on foot, by bicycle or by car; a cycle path connects it to Burgas. Check road and traffic conditions before setting out. The southern salt pans on the lake offer public access to brine and mud pools. You can reach them on foot or by bicycle along the beach; check access locally.

Getting to Poda can also be planned in detail: take city bus 17 from Burgas South Bus Station, then walk across the old canal bridge to reach the nature conservation centre. Check the bus service before your trip. In another natural area, Strandja, the Silkosiya Reserve protects relict beech and oak forests with evergreen undergrowth and 260 species of higher plants. Tourist visits there are subject to a clear rule: they are allowed only on a marked trail and accompanied by the reserve guard service. Check the access rules before your visit.

Forests, Trails and Protected Nature

Strandja Nature Park offers mountain, ecological, ornithological, sports and cultural-educational routes, as well as guides. Information about accommodation and food is also part of its visitor services. The Green Corridors project in Burgas Province connects natural, cultural and historical attractions with cycling routes. This brings nature experiences and cultural themes together in regional trip planning, without requiring every discovery to have the same focus.

Ropotamo Reserve offers a different experience: a boat trip along the lower river is among the activities on offer; there is also a trail to the river mouth, the Lion’s Head rock formation and an environmental information centre. Access and visitor options may change, so it is worth checking before your visit. Mladezhko is considered one of the most scenic places in Strandja and lies about 50 kilometres from Burgas.

Nature observation is also a focus at Vaya Ecopark, where visitors can encounter rare and protected species and take part in interactive activities about biodiversity and conservation. For exercise in Burgas, there is another way to explore. A cycle route follows a pedestrian and cycle path along Atanasovska Spit, between the sea and Atanasovsko Lake, and provides access to Burgas Surf Club. Ezero Park complements Burgas Sea Garden as a place to walk, cycle and jog.

Ancient Baths and Local Fishing Culture

At Aquae Calidae, visitor walkways run along the walls of the ancient Thermae Thermopolis, Roman baths dating from the first century, and medieval rooms. A restored bath used by Suleiman the Magnificent serves as a museum; a film with 3D mapping is also shown there. The collection includes coins, jewellery, bathing objects, seals, ceramics, marble details, inscriptions and ritual objects found on the site. The complex brings together different historical layers and different ways to discover them.

Chengene Skele presents local fishing traditions, objects, fishing methods and ways to identify Black Sea fish. Dining options include a café and a restaurant serving specialities based on established recipes; offerings and operators may change. The site thus combines insights into fishing with regional food culture, so you can explore the two themes together.

Island History on St. Anastasia

St. Anastasia has a monastic history and also served as a prison. Today, its visitor offerings include a museum, a small amphitheatre, a beach, a pharmacy café and a fish restaurant. Municipal catamarans depart from Magazia 1 at the Port of Burgas. Check the timetable before planning your island visit. The island’s different chapters of history sit alongside its present-day cultural and visitor offerings.

Whether you are interested in birdwatching, forest conservation, cycling, archaeological finds or fishing culture, Burgas Province offers several distinct ways to explore nature and history. You can choose the focus of your trip according to your own interests.

Discover more destinations: Sveti Vlas, Pomorie, Tsarevo, Sungurlare, Malko Tarnovo, Nessebar, Sredets Municipality, Primorsko, Aytos, Burgas, Sozopol, Karnobat, Ruen.

For the main travel overview: Bulgaria.