Older than its traditional rival Nessebar, Sozopol is more off-the-beaten-path and authentic, with a quiet, memorable Old Town. Although Sozopol's land has been a port since at least Bronze Age times, the present town was founded by Greek settlers as Antheia, 2800 years ago. Later renamed Apollonia, the town became a wealthy regional power, and while it slowly fell into obscurity, was almost entirely home to Greeks until the 20th century. Sozopol's deep history remains clear, from the local cuisine, which combines Mediterranean and Balkan traditions, to the town's diverse mix of ancient stone ruins and wooden Bulgarian Revival architecture, some lining the lovely coast.

Naturally, nearby Nessebar makes for a natural day trip, with its UNESCO-protected Old Town. If Sozopol drew you for your love of quiet, naturally preserved seaside villages and hidden gems, head south, close to the Turkish border, and discover Sinemorets. With its serene, quiet beach running between the sea and an estuary, there's natural beauty there aplenty. This formerly Greek village's name translates to "Place on the Blue Sea," and certainly delivers.