General Information
Varna, often called the “Sea Capital of Bulgaria,” is a beautiful coastal city on the Black Sea. It is Bulgaria’s third-largest city and a major cultural, economic, and tourist hub. With golden beaches, historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and delicious seafood, Varna is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Location
Varna is situated on the northeastern coast of Bulgaria, along the Black Sea, making it a prime summer destination. It is also an important port city and a gateway to the Bulgarian Riviera.
Nearby Destinations:
- Golden Sands – 17 km (Famous resort with sandy beaches)
- Balchik – 40 km (Charming coastal town with a palace and botanical garden)
- Nessebar – 100 km (UNESCO-listed ancient town)
- Burgas – 130 km (Another major coastal city)
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Varna Airport (VAR): Well-connected with European cities and domestic flights from Sofia.
- By Train:
- Direct trains from Sofia and other Bulgarian cities.
- By Bus:
- Regular buses from Sofia, Plovdiv, Burgas, and Bucharest (Romania).
- By Car:
- Highways connect Varna to Sofia, Bucharest, and other parts of Bulgaria.
- By Ferry:
- Some ferry services connect Varna to ports across the Black Sea.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June – September): Best for beach vacations, warm temperatures (25–35°C).
- Spring & Autumn (April – May, September – October): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds.
- Winter (November – March): Mild winters with occasional snow, great for sightseeing.
Key Festivals & Events
- Varna Summer International Music Festival (June – August): Classical music concerts.
- Varna International Ballet Competition (July): Prestigious ballet event.
- Varna Rock Festival (August): A must for rock music lovers.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Grand Hotel London – A historic 5-star hotel.
- Graffit Gallery Hotel – Stylish and modern with artistic decor.
- Mid-range:
- Hotel Panorama – Offers sea views and a great location.
- Golden Tulip Varna – Comfortable and central.
- Budget:
- Yo Ho Hostel – A backpacker-friendly option.
- Hostel Musala – Affordable and cozy.
Top Attractions
- Varna Sea Garden: A large park with scenic walks and entertainment areas.
- Varna Beach: A long stretch of sandy coastline.
- Roman Baths of Varna: Ancient Roman ruins in the city center.
- Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral: The city’s most iconic landmark.
- Varna Archaeological Museum: Home to the world’s oldest gold treasure (6,000 years old).
- Aladzha Monastery: A medieval rock monastery outside the city.
- Golden Sands Nature Park: A green escape near the famous beach resort.
- Euxinograd Palace: A stunning summer residence of Bulgarian royalty.
- Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani): A unique natural rock formation.
- Dolphinarium Varna: A fun spot for families with dolphin shows.
Getting Around
- Public Buses & Trolleybuses: Cheap and widely available.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Use licensed taxis or ride apps like TaxiMe.
- Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance in the center.
- Bike Rentals: Available along the Sea Garden and beach promenade.
Local Cuisine
Varna offers a mix of Bulgarian, Mediterranean, and seafood specialties.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Shopska Salad: Bulgaria’s national salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
- Tarator: A cold yogurt and cucumber soup, perfect for hot summers.
- Kavarma: A slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew.
- Mussels in Wine Sauce: Fresh Black Sea mussels.
- Banitsa: A traditional cheese-filled pastry.
Top Restaurants
- Staria Chinar: Traditional Bulgarian food.
- Mr. Baba: A unique seafood restaurant in a ship-shaped venue.
- Parmy Family Restaurant: Great for families and local cuisine.
Shopping in Varna
- Grand Mall Varna: The largest shopping mall in the city.
- Varna Central Market: A great place for local products.
- Boutiques on Knyaz Boris I Boulevard: Perfect for fashion and souvenirs.
Nightlife in Varna
Varna has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in the summer.
- Beach Bars & Clubs: Cubo, Horizont Club, and 4as Pik.
- Ladadika District: Traditional taverns with live music.
- Memento Bar: A stylish cocktail lounge.
Day Trips from Varna
- Golden Sands: One of Bulgaria’s most famous beach resorts.
- Balchik: Visit the Balchik Palace and Botanical Garden.
- Nessebar: A UNESCO-listed historic town.
- Cape Kaliakra: A breathtaking coastal cliff with panoramic views.