Sunny Beach City Guide

Food options range from Bulgarian dishes to many international choices. Seafood is big here, and there are some vegan and vegetarian meals in bigger restaurants. Many places serve food late.

Nightlife is busy in peak summer, with bars, clubs, and beach parties. It’s popular with young travelers.

Most places offer basic espresso drinks. A few specialty cafes might exist but are not common.

10% is usual in restaurants for good service. Small tips are also common for taxis and services. Check for service charge first.

Buy a SIM from A1, Yettel, or Vivacom shops. Bring your passport for registration. Kiosks sometimes carry SIMs.

Tourist areas are cleaned regularly, especially in high season. Beach and promenade are generally tidy.

Many shops, minimarts, pharmacies, and restaurants are open late or all night during summer. Night clinics are available for tourists.

Main supermarkets like Lidl and Janet sell local and international items. Small shops and fresh markets pop up in high season. Supermarkets stay open late.

Card payments are widely accepted in hotels, big restaurants, and supermarkets. Small shops and market stalls often want cash, so keep some on hand.

ATMs are all over Sunny Beach, near banks, hotels, and main streets. Stick to bank ATMs for better security and fewer fees.

Sunny Beach has only local Bulgarian schools, and classes are in Bulgarian. International schools are in Burgas or Varna.

Not a major remote work hub. The nomad community is small and informal, mostly people passing through in summer.

There are not many large parks. The focus is on the beach and promenade. Some hotels have landscaped gardens.

Runners use the long beachfront promenade or the beach itself. It’s busiest early or late to avoid the heat.

Several gyms are available, mostly in hotels and resorts. Day passes may be possible, but some gyms are for guests only.

Some large hotels have tennis courts. Booking is usually through the hotel.

Padel courts are still rare, but interest is growing.

Some hotels offer group yoga, mostly in summer. Permanent studios are rare.

Few dedicated options. Some gyms may have basic boxing or self-defense classes, but not specialized dojos.

No ski resorts near Sunny Beach. Bulgaria’s main ski areas are several hours away inland.

Jet skis, paddleboards, parasailing, and banana boats can be rented everywhere on the beach.

The Black Sea has small waves and is best for beginners or paddleboarding. Surf schools are almost nonexistent.

Diving is possible but not world-class. Some beginner-friendly sites and centers can get you started. Visibility is lower than in other regions.

Private clinics focus on tourists and often speak English. Public healthcare is less used by visitors. Pharmacies are easy to find and stock basic medicine.

Tap water is safe but has a different taste. Most tourists and locals buy bottled water.

Families find playgrounds, mini-golf, and water parks here. Many hotels have children’s pools and entertainment. Baby supplies are easy to get in supermarkets.

Generally tolerant, but Bulgaria is conservative. Public affection might draw attention. No specific LGBTQ+ venues.

Pet policies are mixed. Some hotels accept pets, but you must check ahead. Vet services and pet stores are available, but dog parks are rare.