Explore the ancient city of Nessebar on an Exeter International Private Shore Excursion. Enjoy behind the scenes access and expert guiding while you are in port.
The following is just a suggested shore excursion itinerary.
For custom luxury travel, tours and shore excursions to Nessebar and Bulgaria, please contact one of our travel experts.
Please contact Exeter International for specific pricing and availability.
Nessebar was originally a Thracian settlement called Menebria before a trade colony was founded here by Greek seafarers, which was known as Messambria. Today, Nessebar’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most charming towns in Bulgaria.
Explore the Old Town with your guide. Walk into the historic part of Nessebar. Stroll among authentic houses and exquisitely preserved churches, which create a stunning landscape against the backdrop of the Black Sea. Ruins that date mostly from the Hellenistic period, are parts of the walls from the Thracian fortifications. Other parts of the fortress date from the Middle Ages, when this was one of the most important Byzantine towns. Several churches and wooden houses have been preserved, which are typical of the Black Sea Renaissance architecture of the period.
We suggest that you do not miss the Church of Christ Pantocrator, richly adorned with Byzantine-style architectural elements – blind arches, alternate courses of white stone and red brick, and decorative motifs symbolizing the sun. Continue on to the ruined Church of St. Sophia, also known as the Old Metropolitan church, which is considered the centerpiece of Nessebar. This church is the oldest and largest in the Old Nessebar – a classic example of medieval Byzantine architecture.
The church of St. John Aliturgetos (meaning ‘not-consecrated’) is architecturally significant as it represents the transition from the basilica with its domed roof, to a later cruciform church architecture.
Visit the Church of Sveti Stefan (St. Stephen), named for the patron saint of Nessebar and by far the most important of all. Unique frescos date back to the 16th and 17th centuries.
Walk back to the cruise ship for an afternoon at leisure before its sailing.
Please note that the touring today is on foot and includes climbing some steps and walking on cobblestone surfaces. Please wear comfortable walking footwear.
Exeter Services: Guide for Half Day
