Bulgaria's largest Black Sea city has a 5,000-year history. Its beaches, Archaeological Museum, and Naval Museum draw visitors. The Dolphinarium and active nightlife are popular attractions.
Varna, Bulgaria's third-largest city, sits on the Black Sea coast. You can walk through the vast Sea Garden park, relax on golden sand beaches, or visit the Archaeological Museum to see ancient gold treasures. The city's mild climate and coastal location make it suitable for both summer beach trips and off-season visits.
Exploring Varna's Beaches
The beaches around Varna extend for miles along the Black Sea coast. You'll find the main urban beach next to the Sea Garden park, where you can rent loungers and umbrellas or have a drink at one of the beachfront bars. For a calmer experience, head north to Rappongi Beach, known for its clean sand and clear water. You can swim comfortably from May through October, with sea temperatures peaking at 23-27°C in July and August.
Wandering Through the Sea Garden
The Sea Garden, Varna's large seaside park, covers over 850 acres along the coast. As you walk its tree-lined paths, you'll encounter various attractions. You can watch dolphin shows at the Dolphinarium or explore maritime exhibits at the Naval Museum. The park also has an open-air theater that hosts performances and concerts during summer. You can pack a picnic or stop at one of the cafes in the garden for a relaxing afternoon.
Sampling Local Flavors
Bulgarian food incorporates elements from its Balkan neighbors and Ottoman past. In Varna, you'll find plenty of fresh seafood alongside traditional dishes. Try tarator, a cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, and dill, which is refreshing on hot summer days. For a filling meal, order kavarma, a rich stew typically made with pork, vegetables, and spices. Don't miss banitsa, a savory pastry filled with cheese that's popular for breakfast. You can accompany your meal with a glass of rakia, Bulgaria's strong fruit brandy.
Uncovering Ancient History
At Varna's Archaeological Museum, you can see the oldest gold treasure in the world. The intricate gold jewelry and decorative items, dating back to 4600-4200 BCE, were discovered in a nearby Neolithic necropolis. You can also explore the remains of Roman baths from the 2nd century CE, which are among the largest surviving examples outside of Rome. The baths complex covers over 7,000 square meters, indicating the city's importance during the Roman era.
Getting Around Varna
Varna's compact city center is easy to explore on foot. For longer trips, the city has an extensive bus network with tickets costing about 1 lev (€0.50) per ride. Taxis are common and relatively inexpensive, but ensure the driver uses the meter. If you're staying for a while, consider renting a bike to explore the Sea Garden and beachfront areas. Varna also serves as a good base for day trips to nearby places like Golden Sands resort or the unusual rock formations at Pobiti Kamani, both accessible by public bus.
