Sveti Ivan Island: Bulgaria's Black Sea Sanctuary
Explore Bulgaria's largest Black Sea island: a sanctuary of history, nature, and archaeological wonders just off the coast of Sozopol.
Sveti Ivan Island, the largest Bulgarian island in the Black Sea, is a captivating blend of history, nature, and mystery. Located just off the coast of Sozopol, it boasts ancient Thracian roots, monastic ruins, and a wealth of birdlife, including Bulgaria's largest colony of European Herring Gulls. Accessible by boat, the island offers a unique escape into the past and a haven for nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Sveti Ivan
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Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, as the island's paths can be rocky.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially during the hot summer months.
- The best time to visit is during the morning hours in spring or summer for calmer seas and gentler sunlight.
- Consider visiting outside of peak season (July-August) for fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience.
Getting There
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Boat
The only way to reach Sveti Ivan Island is by boat from Sozopol. Head to the Sozopol harbor, where you'll find various boat operators offering trips to the island. A round trip to the island typically costs between 30-60 BGN per person, depending on the type of boat and tour. The boat ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Private boat rentals are also available, with prices varying depending on the size of the boat and duration of the rental.
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Public Transport
To reach Sozopol from Burgas, you can take a bus from the Burgas Central Bus Station. Buses run regularly, and the journey takes around 40-50 minutes. A one-way ticket costs approximately 6-8 BGN. Once in Sozopol, proceed to the harbor to catch a boat to Sveti Ivan Island.
Discover more about Sveti Ivan
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sveti Ivan
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SOZOPOL OLD TOWN
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Statue of Apollo
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A modern tribute to Sozopol's ancient Greek heritage, honoring the god Apollo and the city's rich history as Apollonia Pontica.
Center Za Morska Istoriya Arheologiya I Ekologiya
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Arch of the ancient city of Apollonia
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Rocks on Lasuren Briag
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Castle of Ravadinovo
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Cape Agalina
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Arkutino Beach
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St. Anastasia Island
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Ropotamo Beach
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Lion's Head Rock
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Old houses of Pomorie
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Поморие център
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Historical Museum of Pomorie
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Unmissable attractions to see
Monastery St John the Baptist - ruins Манастир Св Иван Предтеча руини
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Northern fortress wall
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Svatý Ivan
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Панорамна гледка
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Морски скали
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Cape Skamni
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Art Gallery (old school)
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Giorgos Gounaropoulos Monument
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Римски кладенец
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ART SOUL - Gallery and Cultural Center
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Art Gallery "Fire Graphics"
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Art Gallery 505
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Sozopol Ethnographic Museum
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Fortress walls of the late antique and medieval town of Sozopol, V-XIV.
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Art Gallery Laskaridi
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Essential places to dine
Ресторант Tivoli
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The Windmill
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Tangra
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Panorama St. Ivan
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Ksantana Bistro
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RESTAURANT KIRIK Sozopol
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Koral
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Sozopoli Wine & Food
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Механа Созопол
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Restaurant Lazuren Bryag
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Ресторант Ривиера Созопол/Restaurants Riviera Sozopol
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Del Muro
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Di Valli
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Urania
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bistro Old Sozopol
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Roadside Gift Shop
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Boutique Wine Shop
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Умбопо/ UMBOPO
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PAGANE uniques Ателие
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Antiuqe Shop RETRO INTERIOR - Sozopol
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Nature Fashion
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Шапкарница Hat Shop
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Bulgarian wine, liqueur & rakia
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Tofi
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Rock Shop
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Antique Shop BUDA
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Antique Shop BUDA Sozopol
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Артмагазин,,Уникат,,
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Limorada
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Novelty Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Паликари
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Patsi Bar
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GINNY BAR
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Matis Bar and Grill
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Elvis Beach Bar
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Malkata Tekila
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Jack Bar
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Bar Scent
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Фреш бар Fresh Mare
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Hugo's club
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Фреш бар “BUBBLE” Waffles & Tea
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EX BEACH BAR
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Kult Beach
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Tropicana bar
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Bottle Beach Bar
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