Varna on a Budget: Beaches, History, and Fun!

Experience the Bulgarian Riviera without breaking the bank in Varna.

21 June 2023

Varna, Bulgaria, is a destination that can be enjoyed on a limited budget. Visit the city's magnificent beaches like the golden sands. Enjoy local food from street-side vendors, and take a walking tour of the city to see some of its most historic attractions.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Singing Lamb hostel, known for its delicious omelets and budget-friendly prices!
  • Take a stroll in the Sea Garden, a beautiful green space with a small zoo, amusement park, and a breathtaking view of the Black Sea
  • Visit the Roman Baths, a historical monument of Varna's ancient past
  • Pop into the Varna Archaeological Museum, where you can see fascinating exhibits about the city's rich history
  • Enjoy a sunset dinner at the cozy and wallet-friendly Martini Restaurant, offering a variety of Bulgarian and Mediterranean dishes
Day 2

A Day at the Beach

  • Grab breakfast at a local bakery, then hop on a bus to the stunning Golden Sands Beach, just 20 minutes away from the city center
  • Spend the day lounging on the sandy shore, swimming in the crystal clear water, and trying out exciting water sports like parasailing or jet-skiing
  • Head back to Varna in the evening and take a leisurely walk through the trendy Primorski Park, lined with charming cafes and bars
  • Dine at the quirky and fun Kotka i Mishka restaurant, known for its delicious pizzas and homemade desserts like chocolate ganache cake
  • End the night with a couple of drinks at the popular Horizont Club, a lively spot with a great dance floor and live music
  • Varna is a city that offers a mix of history, culture, and beach vibes, all on a budget-friendly scale. These two days will surely leave you with a memorable experience and a taste of the Bulgarian seaside life.

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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