South-East Bulgaria

South-East Bulgaria covers the southern Black Sea coast and the rolling plains between Stara Planina and the Sakar and Strandzha ranges, across the oblasts of Burgas, Yambol, Sliven, and Stara Zagora. It is the country's busiest summer region — but the coast hides ancient towns and nature reserves far from the resort crowds.

Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage site on an island-like peninsula, packs dozens of medieval churches into a few blocks. Sozopol preserves wooden revival-era houses and a summer arts scene. South of Burgas, the Strandzha Nature Park is the largest protected area in Bulgaria, with rare oak forests and Thracian burial mounds. Stara Zagora and Sliven add Roman history and the Blue Stones mountain above town.