Things To Do
in Varna
Varna sits on Bulgaria's northern Black Sea coast, offering a long sandy shoreline, a lively promenade, and a broad seafront park. It blends seaside leisure with rich history, from ancient ruins to a thriving modern cultural scene. The city serves as a gateway to nearby nature reserves, archaeological sites, and sun-drenched beaches.
Visitors can enjoy seafood-rich cuisine, markets, and a vibrant summer nightlife by the sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a cozy café in the historic center of Varna, savoring local pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to the Cathedral of the Assumption, marveling at its stunning architecture and vibrant frescoes. Spend some time wandering the charming cobblestone streets, soaking in the history that surrounds you.
In the afternoon, visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses incredible artifacts from Bulgaria's rich history, including Thracian gold treasures. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can sample traditional Bulgarian dishes like Shopska salad and grilled meats. Afterward, explore the Sea Garden, a beautiful coastal park that offers breathtaking views of the Black Sea.
As the sun sets, head to the beach promenade for a relaxing evening walk, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore. Choose a seaside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the horizon. Conclude your day with a visit to a local bar or café for a taste of Bulgarian wine or rakia.
Begin your morning by enjoying a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for a day of adventure. Head to Varna's main beach, where you can rent a sunbed and umbrella to soak up the sun. Take a refreshing dip in the Black Sea to kickstart your day.
After some relaxation, try your hand at exciting water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding, available from various rental shops along the beach. For lunch, grab a quick bite at a beachside shack, where you can find fresh seafood and local snacks. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or joining a beach volleyball game with fellow travelers.
As the evening approaches, enjoy a cocktail at one of the beach bars while watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink. Treat yourself to a beachfront dinner, indulging in local specialties and fresh catches of the day. End your night with some live music or dancing at a nearby club, experiencing Varna's vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🚎Public transport ticket (1 ride) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (1 night) | $25-45 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful seaside setting with a vibrant promenade and Sea Garden
- Rich history with accessible museums and Roman ruins
- Wide range of fresh seafood and Bulgarian cuisine
- Good base for day trips to Kamchia, Aladzha Monastery, and nearby beaches
- Relatively affordable compared with Western European destinations
- Seasonal crowds and higher prices in peak summer
- Beaches can get crowded; water clarity varies by location
- Some older parts of the city may feel touristy or less polished
- Seasonal weather can bring gusty winds and occasional rain
- "Здравейте" - Hello
- "Добър ден" - Good day
- "моля" - Please
- "Благодаря" - Thank you
- "Извинете" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Колко струва?" - How much does it cost?
- "Достаточно добре говорите ли английски?" - Do you speak English?
- "Можете ли да ми помогнете?" - Can you help me?
- "Да" - Yes
- "Не" - No
Places to Visit in Varna
Visit one of these nice places.
A long, tree-lined promenade with fountains, sculptures, and panoramic sea views—great for golden-hour photography.
A striking sea-facing cathedral with ornate domes and spacious surroundings, ideal for architectural shots and interior details.
Ancient bath ruins near the museum offering atmospheric ruins against the modern city backdrop.
Colorful, sunlit rows of traditional houses perfect for street photography and texture shots.
Food in Varna
Varna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and sirene cheese.
Must-Try!
Chilled cucumber-yogurt soup seasoned with dill and crushed walnuts in some versions.
A baked filo pastry layered with eggs and white cheese; common for breakfast.
Slow-cooked meat with vegetables in a clay pot, often finished with a smoky, aromatic finish.
Fresh catches like seabass, mackerel, or calamari grilled with herbs and lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, breads, and local snacks; try mekitsi or flaky baked goods.
Casual stalls along the promenade offering grilled fish, prawns, and calamari with simple sides.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common in formal settings; greet with a friendly hello (Zdraveyte) in Bulgarian. Use formal address with elders or in business settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and remove hats when appropriate.
Keep small denominations for tips and small purchases; cash is often preferred in markets and casual venues.
Safety
Tipping in Varna
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and cafes. 5-10% is typical in casual places; 10%+ is common in nicer establishments. Tipping in cash is appreciated, even if the bill is paid by card.
Cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are common in city centers. Cash is useful in markets and smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with peak beach activity. Expect lively promenades, warm sea water, and frequent coastal events; stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Great for coastal walks, photography, and enjoying local cafes without summer heat.
Cool but generally milder than inland Bulgaria; some attractions may have reduced hours. Coastal winds can be strong; pack warm layers.
Pleasant temperatures with blooming greenery; ideal for outdoor markets, hiking in nearby areas, and low-key beach days.
Varna at Night
Hiking in Varna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails along the Kamchia River with possible canoe routes and birdwatching.
Rock-cut monastery paths and surrounding woodlands offering short, scenic hikes.
Gentle coastal hikes linking beaches and pine forests suitable for varied fitness levels.
Airports
How to reach Varna by plane.
Located close to the city, Varna Airport handles regional and some international flights; taxi or bus connections to the city center are readily available.
Located further south along the coast, Burgas Airport serves many international routes and is about 100-120 km from Varna, with highway and rail options linking the two cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group; a mix of urban professionals, families, and students.
Active communities contributing to the cultural and culinary diversity of the city.
A growing presence due to universities and coastal living, especially in summer months.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Bulgaria; local clubs and casual play are common in parks and beaches.
Sailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding are active along the coast, with rental centers in tourist districts.
Common on beach fronts and in sports areas during summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Varna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for shopska salad, vegetarian mains, and egg/dairy dishes. When in doubt, ask for vegetable-based dishes or clearly dairy-free options.