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Things to do in Varna

• Relax at Varna Beach

  
  

  Varna’s city beaches offer a pleasant experience for an urban coastline, with long stretches of soft golden sand and fairly clean water. During the summer, the area becomes active with beachgoers, volleyball matches, and children playing in the sand. Along the shore, a variety of beach bars serve refreshing drinks and simple meals, providing an easy way to relax after swimming.

  The beach atmosphere is a balanced mix of locals and visitors, creating an energetic yet comfortable setting. Early mornings are ideal for a quiet swim, while the evenings bring softer light and a more laid-back crowd. The gradual slope of the sea makes it suitable for families with children. For those seeking more space, quieter spots can be found with a short walk away from the main area. Umbrellas and loungers are available for rent, though many choose to simply lay out a towel and enjoy the sand.

  
  

• Grand Mall Shopping Spree

  
  

  When the weather turns or you just need a break from sightseeing, Grand Mall Varna offers a perfect escape. This modern shopping center has everything you'd expect from a big city mall, but with prices that might surprise you (in a good way) compared to Western Europe. The mall spans several floors with a good mix of international brands like H&M and Zara alongside local Bulgarian boutiques that offer unique clothes and souvenirs you won't find back home.

  Beyond shopping, the food court is actually pretty decent with options ranging from quick fast food to sit-down restaurants serving traditional Bulgarian dishes and international cuisine. There's this great ice cream place on the ground floor that makes for a perfect afternoon treat. The mall also has a cinema showing movies in their original language with Bulgarian subtitles, so English speakers can easily catch a film.

  What makes this place worth a visit is that it's not just a tourist spot - it's where locals actually hang out, especially on weekends or rainy days. You'll get a glimpse of everyday Bulgarian life, and the air conditioning is a welcome relief during those hot summer months. It's easy to spend a few hours here browsing, grabbing lunch, and maybe catching a movie if you have the time.

  
  

• Varna VIP Countryside Experience

  
  

  This 7-hour VIP tour from Varna offers a deeper look into Bulgaria's local culture and history, away from the usual tourist spots. The journey begins with a visit to the oldest church in Varna, followed by a guided walk through the ancient Roman Baths. From there, the tour continues to the Stone Forest, a unique natural rock formation surrounded by folklore and legends that add depth to the experience.

  The next destination is the Roman Mosaics in Devnya, where intricate patterns and preserved details reflect the artistic skill of ancient times. A visit to a local distillery follows, offering the chance to taste traditional Bulgarian Rakia, a strong fruit brandy that holds cultural significance. This stop gives a glimpse into local customs and the role of handmade spirits in everyday life.

  One of the most memorable parts of the tour is lunch at 'Dom Kasata,' a traditional Bulgarian home. Guests are welcomed by Mrs. Kasata, who prepares and serves homemade Musaka using family recipes passed down through generations. The tour is conducted in a comfortable Mercedes Vito minibus and guided by a licensed professional who provides insight in your preferred language, ensuring a meaningful and engaging experience.

  
  
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• Rock Monasteries Hike: Shumen Plateau Adventure

  
  

  The Shumen Plateau offers a full-day hiking experience that combines rich historical significance with natural beauty. Beginning in the quiet village of Osmar, the trail leads through forested paths to a series of ancient cave monasteries carved into rock during the 13th and 14th centuries. Along the way, hikers visit Kostadinov Monastery, the Eye, which is considered a powerful energy site, and Direclia Monastery, known for its panoramic views.

  As the journey continues, the trail passes through tranquil woodland areas to reach Momina skala, then moves on to the Cell monastery, a secluded site accessible by a wooden ladder. This section of the hike invites reflection and offers a glimpse into the spiritual lives of hesychast monks who once inhabited the area. The surrounding landscape enhances the quiet atmosphere, creating a sense of connection with both history and nature.

  The final stop is Khankrumovsky monastery, where visitors can rest, take photographs, or spend time in peaceful contemplation. Spanning six hours, the hike is physically challenging but deeply rewarding. It blends cultural heritage, spiritual energy, and the calm of nature into a well-rounded and memorable day trip from Varna.

  
  
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• Varna Gourmet & Wine Tour

  
  

  This 4-hour walking tour through Varna offers a flavorful journey that blends cultural discovery with local cuisine. As you explore the charming streets of Bulgaria’s seaside city, a knowledgeable guide leads you to hidden spots where you can sample traditional foods that reflect the depth and variety of Bulgarian culinary traditions. The experience goes beyond sightseeing, offering a more personal look at the everyday flavors that define local life.

  The highlight of the tour comes at the end with a visit to an authentic Bulgarian wine cellar. Here, you take part in a guided tasting session featuring carefully selected wines. As you sample different varieties, you learn about Bulgaria’s long-standing winemaking history, which stretches back thousands of years and continues to shape the local culture today.

  Combining street food, regional specialties, and expertly curated wines, the tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Bulgarian gastronomy. All tastings are included in the price, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience without concern for additional costs.

  
  
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• Nessebar Historic City Tour: A Walk Through Time

  
  

  Stroll through the quaint cobblestone streets of Nessebar, a historical gem on the Black Sea and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This guided tour begins in the Varna area and winds through the scenic Balkan foothills, leading to the ancient peninsula city. Visitors can explore fascinating landmarks such as the old city gates, Roman baths, and well-preserved wooden houses that contribute to the town’s distinct charm. The panoramic view of Nessebar’s bay upon arrival offers a stunning photo opportunity.

  The highlight of the visit is St. Stephen’s Church, where the remarkable craftsmanship is truly impressive. The intricate details and historical importance of the church vividly reveal the rich heritage of this former Greek colony. With the guidance of a knowledgeable expert, you learn stories and historical insights that bring the ancient stones to life, uncovering the many civilizations that have shaped the town over time.

  After immersing yourself in the history and architecture, there is free time to explore local shops for unique souvenirs or unwind at a café by the sea. This combination of guided discovery and personal leisure creates a memorable day trip. The narrow winding streets and breathtaking Black Sea views evoke a magical atmosphere that feels like stepping back into history while still enjoying present-day comforts.

  
  
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• Wander through the Roman Baths

  
  

  The Roman Baths in Varna stand as one of the best-preserved thermal complexes in Eastern Europe, dating back to the 2nd century AD. Walking through the large ruins reveals the scale and sophistication of Roman engineering, with clearly defined areas for cold, warm, and hot baths, as well as visible remnants of the underground heating system. The layout allows visitors to appreciate how the baths once operated as a central part of daily life in Roman Odessos.

  The site offers open access to most sections, allowing a closer look at ancient stonework and arches. Informative panels describe the purpose of each area, helping visitors visualize the structure in its original form. Its location in the city center makes it easy to include in a day’s itinerary, and the peaceful atmosphere lets you explore without the usual crowds. The surrounding modern buildings create a striking contrast, highlighting the depth of history embedded in the cityscape.

  
  

• Sea Garden Stroll

  
  

  The Sea Garden serves as a central green space in Varna, stretching along the coastline and offering a peaceful escape from the city without the need to travel far. Shaded by rows of trees, its winding paths are ideal for a quiet morning walk or a relaxed evening stroll during the warmer months. Throughout the park, visitors come across fountains, sculptures, and an open-air theater that occasionally hosts free summer concerts.

  Several spots provide scenic views over the Black Sea, with benches positioned to let you sit and enjoy the moment. The park also features casual cafes with outdoor seating, an aquarium, and a small amusement area that appeals to children. Both locals and visitors use the space for exercise, leisure, or social gatherings, making it a lively but calming place to spend a few hours exploring.

  
  

• Visit the Archaeological Museum

  
  

  The Archaeological Museum in Varna is home to the world’s oldest gold treasure, dating back to between 4600 and 4200 BC. The gold artifacts from the Varna Necropolis highlight the advanced craftsmanship of early civilizations despite the absence of modern tools. In addition to this remarkable collection, the museum presents a well-organized journey through various periods of Bulgarian history, offering insight into the cultural and historical development of the region.

  Housed in a former girls' school with grand architectural features, the museum provides an inviting and manageable experience. Visitors can explore the entire collection in about two hours without feeling overwhelmed. The staff is knowledgeable and often willing to share additional information beyond the display descriptions. One particularly notable exhibit is the detailed model of the Roman baths, which illustrates the complexity of ancient engineering practices.

  
  

• Explore Aladzha Monastery

  
  

  Aladzha Monastery is a fascinating rock-carved medieval monastery just outside Varna. Carved into a 25-meter-high vertical cliff face, this place feels like something out of an adventure movie. The monastery consists of two levels connected by stone stairs, with monks' cells, a church, and a small chapel all cut directly into the rock.

  What makes Aladzha special is its unique setting and the sense of mystery that surrounds it. Walking through the small rooms and corridors, you can imagine the monks who lived here in isolation centuries ago. Some faded frescoes still cling to the walls, giving hints of how colorful the place once was. The surrounding forest creates a peaceful atmosphere, especially if you visit in the morning before tour groups arrive. There's a small museum at the entrance with artifacts and information about the monastery's history. If you visit during summer evenings, they sometimes have a sound and light show that projects images onto the rock face while telling the monastery's story. It's worth combining this visit with the nearby Golden Sands nature park for some light hiking trails that offer beautiful forest views.

  
  

• Kayaking Adventure through Kamchia Biosphere Reserve

  
  

  Exploring the calm waters of the Kamchia River is one of Bulgaria’s lesser-known yet rewarding outdoor activities. Located within the Kamchia Biosphere Reserve, this kayaking tour offers a peaceful alternative to the busy beaches of Varna. The journey begins with a short orientation session, ideal for beginners, before heading upstream. Eventually, paddlers follow the current downstream toward the point where the river flows into the sea, surrounded by the quiet beauty of dense forest and reflective dark waters.

  What sets this tour apart is the smooth transition from a shaded, forest-lined route to more expansive views as the river nears Bulgaria’s longest beach. With a knowledgeable guide managing the logistics, participants can stay focused on paddling and taking in the scenery. The route is designed to balance effort and enjoyment, offering moments of both physical activity and quiet observation of the natural surroundings.

  Lasting about five hours, including travel from Varna, the tour is ideal for a full-day activity. Tandem kayaks allow for shared paddling, and all equipment is included. After the excursion, participants can unwind on the wide, less crowded Kamchia beach before choosing to enjoy an optional meal at a nearby riverside restaurant, reflecting on the water route just completed.

  
  
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• Dolphinarium Show

  
  

  The Varna Dolphinarium is a total crowd-pleaser and one of the coolest attractions in the city. The dolphin shows run for about 40 minutes and feature these incredibly smart dolphins doing all sorts of acrobatics, jumps, and tricks that'll leave you amazed at how intelligent these creatures are. The trainers clearly have great relationships with the dolphins, and this is evident in their performances.

  The show combines music, comedy elements, and of course, the dolphin performances that make everyone from little kids to grandparents break into smiles. The arena is set up so that pretty much every seat has a good view, but if you want the best experience (and possibly get splashed!), try to sit in the first few rows. Just know that those seats fill up fast, so it's worth getting there early.

  After the show, there's usually an opportunity to take photos, and sometimes they even offer a chance to meet the dolphins up close for an extra fee. The whole place has been renovated in recent years, making it more comfortable for visitors. It's a fun way to spend an hour or so, especially if you're traveling with kids who will absolutely love this experience.

  
  

Where to stay in Varna

Best hotels in Varna:

• Hotel Divesta (budget hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Hotel Divesta is ideally located in the center of Varna, just a short walk from the Cathedral and the pedestrian shopping area. The rooms are clean and comfortable, featuring modern furnishings and amenities like free WiFi. Some rooms also offer balconies with lovely views of the city.

  The friendly staff ensures a smooth check-in process, with the option for self check-in if you’re arriving late. The hotel’s location is perfect for easy access to nearby cafes and restaurants, yet the rooms remain quiet for a restful stay.

  With its excellent location, clean rooms, and attentive service, this hotel is a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers. Just note that parking is limited, so it’s best to book in advance if you need a space.

  
  

• Graffit Gallery Design Hotel (luxury hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  The Graffit Gallery Design Hotel offers a chic and modern stay in Varna, just a short walk from the Black Sea coast. Its location is ideal for exploring the city or enjoying the nearby beaches, with stylish rooms that feature an artistic flair and high-end amenities for maximum comfort.

  A standout feature is the indoor pool, complete with large windows that provide sweeping views of the city, making it an excellent spot to relax after sightseeing. Guests can also enjoy flavorful Bulgarian and international dishes at the on-site restaurant or unwind with coffee or cocktails at the cozy café.

  With landmarks like the Archaeological Museum and Roman baths just a short stroll away, the hotel’s location is perfect for immersing yourself in the city while enjoying a luxurious and peaceful atmosphere.

  
  

• Hotel Golden Tulip (medium range hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Hotel Golden Tulip in Varna offers a convenient stay in the city center, just a 15-minute walk from the beach and close to major attractions. The spacious and comfortable rooms provide lovely views of the Cathedral, making it a pleasant choice for travelers.

  Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and meeting rooms, making it suitable for both leisure and business trips. The restaurant serves delicious European dishes, and the cozy bar is perfect for relaxing with a drink after a day of exploring.

  The friendly and attentive staff are a highlight, known for their helpful service. With its excellent location, guests can easily access museums, gardens, and shops, making it an ideal choice for discovering Varna.

  
  

Best hostels in Varna:

• Nomado Hostel (boutique hostel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Nomado Hostel in Varna is a relaxed spot located in the city center, offering a laid-back atmosphere with a lovely garden area where guests can unwind and meet fellow travelers. Its prime location makes it easy to access the main attractions, and the beach is just a 20-minute walk away.

  The rooms are simple yet comfortable, with free WiFi available throughout the hostel. Guests also have access to a shared kitchen, allowing them to prepare their own meals and save money. The staff is friendly and always ready to offer helpful suggestions for things to do in Varna.

  This hostel is an excellent option for exploring the city on a budget. Its social vibe makes it easy to connect with other guests, while still offering a peaceful space when you need some downtime. If you're after an affordable and relaxed place to stay in Varna, Nomado is definitely worth considering.