In recent years, money-savvy travelers have quietly exchanged familiar names for Santorini and Mykonos, offering a surprisingly similar experience. Fred Harrington of SavemyCent, a digital savings platform, believes that the lesser known coastline is one of Europe's most protected secrets.
“Dreaming island hopping and ocean views without raising prices on Greek islands? Heading towards Bulgaria's Black Sea coast,” he said. Bulgaria's Sunny Beach, along with nearby coastal spots like Sozopol, is being praised as a go-to holiday haven for budget-conscious Britons.
Fred added: “Resorts like Sunny Beach and Sozopol offer golden sand and lively nightlife, but pay the cost of accommodation and meals compared to Santorini and Mykonos.”
This is a bill backed by numbers as the latest post office holiday money report comparing 47 destinations on the cost of typical holiday essentials, which have placed Bulgaria's sunny beaches as one of the most wallet-friendly spots.
Local beer costs just £2.47, with wine and a three-course dinner for two at just £48.25, which is barely conceivable on most Greek islands during peak season.
Beyond affordable prices, this stretch on the Black Sea coast has its beauty and character.
As the name suggests, Sunny Beach has a golden sun-stained coastline with turquoise waters and a lively promenade that is bustling until the evening.
And on days off the beach, you'll soon find the ancient city of Nesseva, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is famous for its cobblestone streets, ruins and historic structures, including the ruins of a 5th century church.
Furthermore, inland, Pomory Roman tomb peers into Bulgarian past with highly preserved architecture.
To the south of Sunny Beach is Sozopol, one of the oldest towns on the Bulgarian coast, boasting cobblestone lanes, traditional wooden houses and a fishing port where you can work.
Located on a small rocky peninsula, the old town is dotted with art galleries overlooking the ocean, ancient ruins and cozy taverns.
