The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Varna, Bulgaria

Discover the hidden gems of Bulgaria's coastal city with a trip to Varna.

03 May 2023

A trip to Varna, Bulgaria as a tourist presents an opportunity to explore the city's vibrant cultural heritage. One can visit the ancient Roman baths, indulge in a lively nightlife scene, and enjoy the picturesque beaches in the area. The city also offers delicious cuisine and warm hospitality from the locals.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Beach Day in Varna

  • Check in to the Oceanic Hotel, with stunning views of the Black Sea.
  • Hit the beach! Varna has three Blue Flag beaches to choose from try the vibrant Golden Sands or cozy Kabakum Beach.
  • Take a dip in the sea, rent a sun lounger, or go for a stroll on the promenade.
  • Don't forget to try some local beach snacks, like sunflower seeds or grilled corn.
  • Head to the Sea Garden, a lush park with fountains, playgrounds and beautiful sea views.
Day 2

Varna Culture and Cuisine

  • Start the day with a traditional Bulgarian breakfast at Happy Bar & Grill.
  • Visit the stunning Aladzha Monastery, carved into a rock face and filled with ancient frescoes.
  • Check out the Roman Baths, a well-preserved ancient site with impressive arches and mosaics.
  • Have lunch at Made in Home, a cozy restaurant serving organic, locally-sourced dishes.
  • Explore the Archaeological Museum, with fascinating exhibits on ancient Bulgarian history and culture.
  • Finish your day with a cocktail at the trendy Horizont bar, overlooking the city.

How to get there

Plane

The easiest way to get to Varna, Bulgaria is to fly into Varna International Airport, which is located just a few kilometers from the city center. There are several airlines that offer direct flights to Varna, including Bulgaria Air, Ryanair, and Wizz Air.

Car

If you prefer to travel by car, Varna is easily accessible by road from other parts of Bulgaria and neighboring countries. The city can be reached via major highways such as the A2 and A5, which connect Varna to Sofia and the Black Sea coast. However, it is important to note that traffic in and around Varna can be heavy, especially during the summer months.

Train

While it is possible to travel to Varna by train, the journey can be long and time-consuming. The main train station in Varna is called Varna Central Station and offers connections to other Bulgarian cities, as well as international destinations such as Bucharest and Istanbul. However, it is recommended to check the schedules and plan ahead as the train connections are limited and often not very comfortable.

Boat

While there are no direct boat connections to Varna, it is possible to travel by ferry from other ports on the Black Sea coast such as Burgas or Constanta. The Port of Varna is well-developed and offers several docks for passenger and cargo vessels, making it a popular stop for cruise ships traveling through the Black Sea region.

Bus

Traveling to Varna by bus is another option. There are several bus companies that operate routes to Varna from other Bulgarian cities, as well as from nearby countries such as Romania and Serbia. The main bus station in Varna is called Varna Bus Station and is located close to the city center.

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