Nessebar
About 35 km north
UNESCO-listed old town on a rocky peninsula, packed with medieval churches and wooden Revival houses. Busy in high summer — go early or late in the day.
How: Frequent buses from Yug station, roughly 40 minutes; seasonal boats from the port
Sozopol
About 35 km south
The oldest town on the Bulgarian coast, founded by Greek colonists as Apollonia. Cobbled lanes, art galleries, an archaeological museum and two good beaches either side of the old town.
How: Buses from Yug station, roughly 40 minutes
Pomorie
About 20 km north
Salt town with a working salt museum, healing mud, a monastery and a long spit of beach between the sea and the salt lake. Also known for its brandy and wine cellars.
How: Buses and seasonal trains, around 25 minutes
Sunny Beach
About 35 km north
Bulgaria's biggest resort strip: kilometres of sand, water parks and nightlife. Best treated as a half-day if you want the busy resort experience.
How: Buses every 20-30 minutes in summer
Ropotamo Nature Reserve
About 50 km south
River boat trips through a flooded forest of water lilies and rock formations, with the Arkutino wetlands and dunes nearby.
How: Bus towards Primorsko, or a rental car
Strandzha Nature Park
60 km and beyond, south
Bulgaria's largest protected area: oak forests, quiet villages with fire-dancing traditions, ancient sanctuaries and the wild beaches around Sinemorets and Silistar.
How: Car strongly recommended