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The Bulgarian city of Burgas has been confirmed as the host city for the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest.
Situated on the Black Sea coast, it is Bulgaria’s fourth-largest city after Sofia, Plovdiv and Varna and is best known for its pristine beaches, wetlands and birdlife, as well as a lively cultural scene.
This marks the first time the music extravaganza will be held in the Balkan country; Bulgaria secured its first-ever victory in May with Dara’s party anthem “Bangaranga”.
While the Bulgarian capital had applied to host the event, Burgas pipped Sofia to the post.
“It is a dynamic and welcoming city on the Black Sea coast with a strong musical and cultural identity, which possesses the ambition, infrastructure, and passion needed to welcome the big Eurovision family,” Eurovision director, Martin Green, said in a statement.
“Burgas will bring something truly special to Eurovision.”
What is Burgas best known for – and what are the best things to do?
Visitors seeking green and blue therapy will be well served in Burgas, as the city enjoys a wealth of beaches, green spaces and nature.
One of its most famous attractions is the Sea Garden. At around 5km in length, this vast green space packed with trees, flowers, sculptures, fountains, paths and viewpoints, runs along the waterfront. Day or night, it’s a glorious place to linger, take a stroll and sniff the flowers.
On sunny days, join the crowds on the clean, golden sands at Central Beach and North Beach. Fringed by restaurants, cafes and museums, there’s plenty to occupy, whether you’re seeking culture, a bite to eat or a dip in the water.
For a quieter experience, head to Sarafovo Beach, located 8km north of the city. The seabed is shallow and a great option for travellers with children looking to splash around.
Visiting between July and October? Don’t miss the sand sculpture festival where craftspeople create giant, elaborate sand creations.
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At sunset, take a stroll along Burgas’ pier, which extends 300 metres out into the Black Sea for a relaxing walk and plentiful people-watching opportunities.
Burgas is also renowned for its exceptional birdwatching. Several major wetlands surround the city, including Lake Atanasovsko, Lake Burgas (Vaya), Lake Mandra and Lake Pomorie, all of which are located on important migratory routes attracting vast numbers of birdlife.
Seeking a culture fix? Burgas museums include the Archaeological Museum, home to Greek pottery, ancient relics, jewellery, coins and unique marine artefacts found along the Black Sea coast. Less than a five-minute walk away sits the Ethnographic Museum, with a collection that explores traditional life in the region and includes traditional Bulgarian costumes. Elsewhere, the Natural History Museum houses flora, fauna and geological treasures.
And when it comes to music, Burgas has plenty to offer, from Balearic beats to opera, techno to indie, rock, jazz and blues.
Time for a day trip? Don’t miss a visit to Atanasovsko Lake, the famed pink lake that’s the residence of a flamboyance of flamingo. It’s also salty enough to float in and packed with healing minerals and muds that promise to leave visitors invigorated and revitalised.
What dates will Eurovision take place in Burgas?
The 2027 Eurovision song contest will take place in Burgas from 12 to 15 May.
Where is Burgas and where will Eurovision be held?
Burgas is located in the east of Bulgaria on the country’s Black Sea coastline.
The contest, including rehearsals, the semi-finals and grand final, will be held at Bulgaria's newest sports and entertainment venue, Arena Burgas, which opened in 2023.
Read more: Has Eurovision rebranded Vienna as Austria’s capital of cool?
Where should I stay in Burgas?
Burgas has around 189,000 residents, is eminently walkable and very affordable.
A good place to look for accommodation is the area between the city centre and the Sea Garden. From here, you can enjoy almost everything the city has to offer on foot without needing taxis or public transport. Here, the Art Nouveau-inspired Hotel Residence Promenade has seaview rooms that won’t break the bank.
Alternatively, the Hotel Ruvan, situated in the heart of the city, is a mid-range option with private terraces and city views.
How do I get to Burgas?
Jet2 and easyJet both fly regularly to Burgas from airports across the UK, with an average flight time of three hours 25 minutes.
Burgas International Airport is located 10km northeast of the city centre, with a regular bus route into town.
Visitors can also get a direct train from Burgas to Sofia. Fares are cheap, but the nearly 400km journey is long and delays are common.