Varna

Bulgaria's seaside star

Known by its ancient Greek settlers as Odessos, Varna is Bulgaria's third largest city, and certainly its main settlement along the coast. The city's deep history is testified to by the discovery of the world's oldest gold treasure, dating back to the 5th millennium BC. One of the most important prehistoric finds in the world (one grave alone had more gold than has been found anywhere else in that epoch), you can visit the treasure for yourself in the city' archaeological museum. Varna is a great spot for those who want to combine beachside relaxation with day trips and perhaps the occasional visit to one of the many thermal baths in the area. Popular among tourists for decades, Varna has plenty of good beach bars and restaurants, and the kinds of beaches that bring families back year after year.

Popular Tour Itineraries Featuring Varna

Spend some time in Varna on a tour that takes in other cities in Bulgaria and neighboring countries. Our vacation packages including Varna and other destinations throughout Bulgaria and Europe hassle-free. We take care of getting you from place to place, accommodation, excursions and activities.

The Best of Bulgaria: From Sofia to the Coast and Back

Sofia, Plovdiv, Sozopol, Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Sofia

11 Days

from$2,575 pp^*

Romania & Bulgaria: Capitals, Coast & Countryside

Sibiu, Brasov, Bucharest, Veliko Tarnovo, Varna, Plovdiv, Sofia

14 Days

from$3,500 pp^*

UNESCO Heritage in Romania & Bulgaria

Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, Bucharest, Danube Delta, Brasov, Gura Humorului...

20 Days

from$5,625 pp^*

* Starting price is per person, based on double occupancy in 3 star accommodation, in the most affordable month an itinerary is offered. Airfare to Europe is not included.

Click on your choice of itinerary, select number of travelers in your party, month of travel, and desired star level of accommodation to get an approximate price. Submit the enquiry form with any additional details and we can start planning your customized trip.

What I love about Varna

Olivia

Trip Planner

What I love most about Varna are its restaurants and lounges, located along the seaside promenade. Some venues have their own beach bars, but many have created outdoor terraces as an extension of the restaurants so you can have lunch or dinner while on the beach itself. It’s cool to eat so close to the water and then continue with a drink at the restaurant’s beach lounge. After enjoying some great dishes and drinks, I loved taking a walk in the Sea Garden, a large park that stretches along the beach.

Where to stay in Varna

We have selected only the best accommodation options in terms of quality and location to make your stay as comfortable as possible, with possibilities ranging from 3-4 star boutique hotels and guesthouses in the center or near the Sea Garden, to a beachfront luxury hotel up the coast. Once we start preparing your customized itinerary we will present our recommended options for you to select from.

Modern Boutique Hotel

Our favorite option for Varna, with its modern design, friendly staff, and great location.

Modern Seaside Hotel

Modern hotel by the sea.

Luxury Seaside Resort

An impressive luxury complex in a resort town a 15 minute drive from Varna.

Things to do in Varna

Varna has plenty to offer, from its museums to the quiet Sea Garden, which you can explore via a private walking tour, but we also recommend visiting the quaint UNESCO-protected town of Nessebar, down the coast. To get to know different parts of Bulgaria's historic and natural heritage, embark on day trips to the Balchik Palace, built by a Romanian queen (and former Scottish princess) to exacting standards, or the Stone Forest or Madara Rider, a 7th century rock carving of a knight and dog hunting a lion, accompanied by inscriptions chronicling pagan Bulgarian history. The nearby Cape Kaliakra is worth visiting, not so much for its medieval fortress as for its high cliffs and dramatic views. Varna's surroundings have many spas built atop hot springs offering mineral water and mud. When we send you your customized itinerary, you will be able to choose additional excursions to include in your vacation package or consider adding later.

Balchik Palace and Gardens Private Day Trip

Stone Forest, Mosaic Museum, and Madara Rider Private Day Trip

Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Varna

How long should I stay in Varna?

We recommend spending 2-3 days in Varna. On your first day, you could enjoy a morning walking tour, then spend the afternoon by the beach. On the following day, you head to the city's outskirts to visit the Stone Forest, Mosaic Museum, and Madara Rider, or head out on a day trip to the Balchik Palace and Botanical Garden. If you aren't staying at another part of the coast, make a day trip to Nessebar, a gorgeous 3,000-year old town on a peninsula, stuffed with 19th century architecture and older churches. No matter how many days you spend in Varna, or on the Bulgarian coast in general, a visit to Nessebar is an absolute must.

What are Varna's must-see sights?

Start with the Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral, Varna’s symbol and the country's second largest cathedral. At Nezavisimost Square next door, you can admire surrounding buildings like the Theatre, Opera, or Clock Tower. Further on, you can have a quick stop at the ancient Roman Baths, then visit the Archeological Museum. One of the city's main attractions is the Primorski Sea Garden, a large park stretching for miles along the shoreline. Last but not least, head to Varna's beaches, and have fun discovering the numerous restaurants, cocktail bars, lounges, and beach bars.