Things To Do
in Varna
Varna is a coastal city located on the Black Sea in Bulgaria. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historical landmarks such as the Sea Garden and the Cathedral of the Assumption. The city also boasts a rich cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and annual festivals attracting visitors from around the world.
Varna's charming mix of ancient history, modern amenities, and scenic beauty make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
- "Zdraveite" - Hello
- "Blagodaria" - Thank you
- "Dobar den" - Good day
- "Izvinete" - Excuse me
- "Kak si?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Varna Beach. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a seaside café as you soak in the sun.
Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or trying out various water sports. Explore the nearby beach bars for a quick snack and some local drinks.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the promenade. Cap off the day with a delicious dinner at a beachfront restaurant.
Visit the Varna Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from ancient times. Take your time to appreciate the impressive gold treasures on display.
Head to the impressive Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin for some stunning architecture. Enjoy lunch at a nearby Bulgarian restaurant to try local cuisine.
Finish your day at the Opera House with an enchanting performance. Grab a dessert at a cozy café nearby afterward.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal city with access to the Black Sea
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including Roman ruins and museums
- Vibrant nightlife and a variety of restaurants and cafes
- Mild climate, making it attractive for year-round living
- Growing expat community and friendly locals
- Economic opportunities can be limited compared to larger Bulgarian cities
- Public transportation may not be as developed as in Western Europe
- Language barrier for non-Bulgarian speakers, as English is not widely spoken by all locals
- Seasonal tourism can lead to crowded areas in summer and quieter off-seasons
- Limited healthcare facilities compared to major cities
Best Activities in Varna
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Varna is known for its beautiful beaches, such as the Golden Sands and Sunny Day resorts, where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports.
Explore the Sea Garden, a lovely park along the coastline of Varna, ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying the sea views.
Engage in water-based activities like sailing, windsurfing, and jet skiing on the Black Sea, taking advantage of Varna's favorable coastal conditions.
Discover the natural beauty of Golden Sands Natural Park, offering hiking trails through forests, cliffs, and diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy cycling along the scenic coastal paths, offering a refreshing way to explore the coastline and enjoy the sea breeze.
Tours
Uncover the best of Varna with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Varna
Visit one of these nice places.
A large park with seafront promenade offering stunning views of the Black Sea and opportunities for great photography.
Iconic cable-stayed bridge providing panoramic views of Varna Bay and the coastline, perfect for photos at sunset or sunrise.
Ancient cave monastery set in a cliff, offering unique photo opportunities and a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.
Food in Varna
Varna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing cold soup made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill, and walnuts. Best enjoyed in local eateries and traditional Bulgarian restaurants like Happy Bar & Grill.
Must-Try!
A hearty tripe soup flavored with garlic, paprika, and vinegar, often served late at night as a favorite after-party dish. You can try it at classic local taverns like Pri Didi.
Cabbage leaves filled with a mix of rice and minced meat, cooked in a savory broth. Found in traditional family-run restaurants such as Mehana Chuchura.
Varna's proximity to the Black Sea means fresh and delicious mussels which are best enjoyed at seafood restaurants like Captain Cook.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Varna better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and local delicacies. It's also a great place to sample banitsa, a traditional pastry filled with cheese or spinach.
This coastal park is dotted with food stalls offering an array of grilled meats, kebapche, and kyufte – traditional Bulgarian street food. Perfect for grabbing a quick bite while exploring the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Varna, it's common to greet people with a handshake, and close friends and family with a kiss on the cheek. It's polite to address people using their titles and last names, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
When dining in Varna, it's customary to wait for the host or the eldest person to start eating before you begin. It's also polite to try a little bit of everything that is offered and to express your gratitude for the meal.
Bulgarians have deep respect for their traditions, customs, and folklore. It's important to show respect for these cultural aspects, such as participating in traditional celebrations and showing interest in the country's history and heritage.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Varna with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Varna
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Varna, Bulgaria is generally discretionary, with 10% of the total bill being a common practice in restaurants and for various services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. However, tipping is not obligatory and should be based on the quality of service received.
In Varna, Bulgaria, cash is widely used for everyday transactions, although credit and debit cards are becoming increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Varna.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Varna in spring is from April to June. The weather is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and greenery. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city without the crowds of the summer season.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Varna, with warm and sunny weather from July to August. It's perfect for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts, and the city comes alive with festivals, concerts, and events. However, it can be crowded and prices may be higher.
Autumn, from September to November, offers a quieter atmosphere in Varna with comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a good time for sightseeing, enjoying the local cuisine, and taking advantage of off-peak prices.
Winter, from December to February, is the quietest time in Varna. The weather is chilly, but it rarely gets very cold. It's a great time for budget travelers, and the city's attractions and cultural scene are still accessible, albeit with fewer tourists.
Varna at Night
Hiking in Varna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature reserve offering numerous hiking trails, lush forest, and stunning views of the Black Sea.
An ancient rock monastery located in a forested area, featuring hiking paths that lead to historical sites and natural landscapes.
A popular resort area with various hiking paths along the coastline and through the surrounding parks.
A large park alongside the coast of Varna, offering pleasant walking and hiking trails with beautiful sea views.
A park with scenic walking routes and trails that lead through forested areas, perfect for a day of hiking near the city.
Located a bit further from Varna, this reserve offers spectacular hiking trails through diverse landscapes, including forests and river valleys.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Varna through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Varna by plane.
Burgas Airport is located approximately 130 kilometers south of Varna and serves domestic and international flights, primarily during the summer tourist season.
Sofia Airport is the main international airport of Bulgaria, located around 400 kilometers northwest of Varna. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
Plovdiv Airport is located about 400 kilometers to the west of Varna. It is smaller and mainly caters to domestic flights, with some international connections.
Also known as Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport, it is located roughly 150 kilometers to the northeast of Varna in Romania and serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Varna, comprising around 85% of the population.
A significant minority group, making up approximately 5% of the population.
An ethnic minority group present in Varna, estimated to constitute around 3% of the population.
This includes Armenians, Greeks, and a small percentage of immigrants from various countries, accounting for about 7% of the population combined.
The Soul of Varna
Discover the essence of Varna through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Varna, with several local clubs competing in national leagues and a strong fan base.
Volleyball enjoys significant popularity in Varna, with the city being home to competitive teams and numerous beach volleyball events along the Black Sea coast.
Given Varna's proximity to the Black Sea, swimming is a favored activity, with many residents participating in swimming competitions and recreational swimming.
Basketball is widely played in Varna, featuring local clubs that compete in national championships and fostering youth participation.
Athletics is promoted through various local events and competitions, with facilities available for track and field training.
Due to its coastal location, Varna is a hub for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding, attracting both local enthusiasts and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Varna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Varna offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like stuffed peppers, eggplant moussaka, and various salads made from fresh local produce.
While traditional Bulgarian cuisine heavily features bread and pastries, several cafes and restaurants in Varna, like Briz 1, now offer gluten-free alternatives to cater to the growing demand.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Varna with these cultural adventures.