May 8, 2026
156 km, Flat — Sprint finish
Representatives of leading European media outlets today learned about the preparations of the Burgas Municipality for hosting the first stage (Grande Partenza) of the prestigious...
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In connection with the Giro d'Italia, we inform you about the traffic organization during the race. 06/05 (Wednesday) 8:00 - Adam Mickiewicz St. (closure and parking prohibited)...
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Giro d'Italia Route and Schedule - Stage 1 and Stage 2 The first stage of the prestigious Tour of Italy will pass through Burgas twice, with the route including the following...
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Burgas turns pink for Giro d’Italia 2026 The Color Pink: A Symbol of Passion, History, and Victory The Municipality of Burgas invites all citizens, businesses, hotels,...
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On the 8th of May Giro d'Italia will start from the Black coast city Nessebar, after which the participants will ride to Sozopol.
Read more3 stages · 550 km · 5,100 m
The Grande Partenza takes the Giro across Bulgaria from east to west, visiting some of its most striking landscapes and most important cities.
A very fast and essentially flat stage tailor-made for sprinters. Starting from the enchanting peninsula of Nessebar — linked to the mainland by a man-made isthmus — the route hugs the Black Sea shore to Burgas. After an 11-km finishing circuit, the last straight is slightly uphill: perfect for a powerful, long-range sprint to claim the first Maglia Rosa.
The first Maglia Rosa will almost certainly go to a fast man
A long, rolling stage departing from Burgas toward Veliko Tarnovo, perched on the rocky banks of the Jantra River. In the finale, riders face the steep Lyaskovets Monastery climb — 3.5 km at 7.5% with sustained double-digit gradients in the opening section. From the top, a fast descent of just a few kilometers leads into the finish.
Expect a reduced group or punchy finisher to seize the day
Another day likely destined for a sprint, though the route features a long, steady climb midway: the Borovets Pass, near the famous ski resort. After cresting the pass, riders face about 70 km of descending or false-flat terrain into the Bulgarian capital. The final 7 km are dead straight — a pure drag race for the fast men.
Dead straight final 7 km — a pure drag race to the line
Stage 1 & 2 Host City
Burgas sits at the crossroads of ancient history and modern vibrancy. As both the Stage 1 finish line and Stage 2 starting point, the city offers visitors an unforgettable blend of world-class cycling, Black Sea beaches, and cultural experiences.
11-km finishing circuit through the Sea Garden and city center
Category 4 KOM climb near the scenic Burgas Lakes
Vibrant Fan Zone with live screens, food courts, and entertainment
Just steps from golden beaches and the famous Sea Garden promenade
Everything you need to make the most of this historic cycling event
Burgas Airport (BOJ) has direct flights from major European cities. The city center is a 15-minute drive from the airport. Trains and buses connect Burgas to Sofia and Plovdiv.
Book early! Hotels along the Sea Garden promenade offer the best views of the finishing circuit. Sarafovo Beach and the city center provide excellent alternatives.
Arrive early to secure your spot along the 11-km circuit. The Fan Zone opens at 10 AM with live coverage, food, and entertainment. The finish is expected around 4-5 PM.
109th Giro d'Italia · May 8, 2026
3stages
Bulgaria
550km
550 km
5,100m
5,100 m
For the first time in its 109-year history, the Giro d'Italia begins in Bulgaria — the 16th foreign start and second consecutive international departure. Three stages, three cities, 550 km of racing from the Black Sea to the capital.