Sunny Beach, the most vibrant tourist destination on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, is not only known for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife. For those who enjoy exploring shops and markets, this spot offers a world full of options, from colourful bazaars where you can discover the country’s artisanal spirit to modern shopping centres that cater to every whim. In this article, we’ll take you through the best shopping experiences in Sunny Beach, featuring practical tips and must-visit spots to make the most of your stay.
Local markets and typical souvenirs: Bulgarian essence among the stalls of Sunny Beach
In Sunny Beach, the local markets are the perfect place to experience the everyday essence of Bulgarian life first-hand. Among the best known is Gypsy Market in Kableshkovo, held every Thursday in this town near Sunny Beach. This market is a hive of activity where locals and tourists mingle in search of fresh produce, clothes, crafts and antiques. You can also find the Janet City Market, a spot popular with travellers looking for everything from essentials to local delicacies.
Among the most typical souvenirs of the region are traditional wood carved items, crafted with techniques passed down from generation to generation, as well as hand-embroidered tablecloths, which feature typical motifs of Bulgarian craftsmanship. A bottle of rose essence, an emblem of the country’s most iconic industry and one of the most sought-after products in perfumery, is a must buy.
If you’re after authentic flavours, the local markets and shops offer a wide range of gastronomic products. Be sure to try rakia, a fruit brandy deeply embedded in Bulgarian culture, and lukanka, a spiced cured sausage found on almost every table in the country. Local honey and fruit preserves are also an excellent option to take a piece of Bulgaria home, with intense flavours and traditional recipes that have endured for centuries.
Shopping centres and retail areas: modernity and luxury right on the coast
Although Sunny Beach is known for its laid-back vibe, it also has modern options for shopping lovers. One of the top shopping destinations is Royal Beach Mall, part of the luxurious five-star Barceló Royal Beach hotel. A favourite with foreign tourists, this place offers a selection of international and local shops where you can find clothes, shoes, accessories and cosmetics from various well-known brands.
Another great spot is Flower Street, the main shopping street in Sunny Beach, lined with small shops and boutiques. Here, you can buy anything from summer fashion to sunglasses and hats to add the finishing touch to your beach look. Flower Street is also famous for its art and photography stalls where local artists exhibit and sell their work.
For luxury shopping and exclusive finds, head to Nessebar, just a few kilometres from Sunny Beach, where boutique stores offer unique designs and jewellery featuring local stones such as onyx and coral from the Black Sea.
Tips and useful info: how to make the most of your shopping trip
To make the most of shopping in Sunny Beach, it helps to know how to navigate its streets and markets. In local bazaars and markets, it’s common to haggle over prices, especially if you’re buying in large quantities. Don’t be afraid to haggle, as it’s part of the culture and can get you significant discounts.
If you decide to explore the food markets, take cash with you, as many of the smaller stalls don’t accept credit cards. It’s also a good idea to visit the markets early in the morning to find the freshest produce and avoid the crowds.
On the other hand, if you’d prefer shopping centres and boutiques, most of them accept credit cards and offer a more comfortable experience with air conditioning and extra services like cafés and rest areas. Be sure to keep receipts for major purchases, especially if you plan to claim the VAT back at the airport before flying home.
Lastly, plan your visits with the opening times in mind. Shopping centres typically stay open late, whereas local markets often close by 18:00 or 19:00.
