Ultimate travel guide to Varna, Bulgaria

Things to do in Varna city

Landmarks and popular sights

Varna’s not huge, so you can hit most of the key sights in a couple of days, but each one is worth the time. 

Here are a few places I always recommend to first-timers:

• Roman Thermae: Some of the best-preserved Roman baths in the Balkans
• Galata panoramic site: А great viewpoint where you’ll get one of the best views of Varna (especially during sunset)
• The Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral: Varna’s iconic cathedral, right in the heart of town
• Varna Dolphinarium: A popular stop in the Sea Garden.

Galata panoramic site

Museums in Varna

Varna has a pretty solid museum scene for its size. You won’t need a whole week to see everything, but if you’re into history, odd collections, or sea stuff, these spots are worth a visit.

Here’s my top list:

• Naval Museum: Old ship parts, anchors, torpedoes, and even a real torpedo boat
• Archaeological Museum: Parts of the Varna Necropolis, home to the oldest processed gold in the world
• Retro Museum: Packed with items from Bulgaria’s socialist era
• Varna Aquarium: Local Black Sea species and a few saltwater tanks.

Naval Museum

Hidden gems

If you’re the type who likes to wander off the main tourist path, Varna’s got a few low-key spots that most people miss, or attend unintentionally by accident. 

They are all epic:

• Park-Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship: A huge concrete monument and one of the most impressive leftovers from Bulgaria’s socialist era
• ReBonkers: Varna’s underground art scene and creative space, hidden in an Ottoman gunpowder warehouse built in 1823
• Talyana: Varna’s modern creative district and a part of old Varna packed with historic buildings and archaeological heritage
• Wake Park Varna: A wakeboarding setup with a chill-out area, small beach bars, music, and a young local vibe.

Talyana creative district (Old Varna); Image source: Unsplash.com

City center

Varna’s city center is pretty big, but when people talk about the “real” center – especially for tourists – they usually mean the area below Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd, stretching down toward the sea. That includes the Primorski and Odesos districts, covering everything from the cathedral to the Sea Garden and the port.

Main pedestrian zone

The main pedestrian area is the heart of it all – and it’s where you’ll naturally end up if you’re exploring on foot.

Start at the Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral – it’s hard to miss. From there, head through the underpass and onto Preslav Street, where the colorful “VARNA” sign stands as a send-off for those leaving the center. If you’re visiting in late December, this is where the Christmas market kicks off, right at the start of the alley.

As you walk down Preslav Street, you’ll pass the District and Appellate Courts, a central fountain, and Ploshtad Nezavisimost (Independence Square). This area is also home to the Varna State Opera.

From there, the route turns slightly left and becomes Knyaz Boris I Blvd, a wide pedestrian-only street lined with shops, cafes, and bars. Keep walking and you’ll reach the Fisherman and the Golden Fish statue – a quirky little landmark and photo spot.

Here, the pedestrian zone splits into two directions, but the typical tourist route continues along Knyaz Boris I Blvd. You’ll pass St. Nicholas Church, and eventually hit the area around Hotel Cherno More, one of Varna’s most well-known (and tallest) buildings.

Turn right at Slivnitsa Blvd, and walk straight until you reach the main entrance to the Sea Garden – one of the city’s highlights. From there, you can head toward the beach or take your time exploring the park.

Image source: Unsplash.com

Nightlife

Varna’s nightlife really comes alive in the summer. Between June and early September, the city turns into one big open-air party – especially down by the beach.

The top spot for nightlife is the seaside promenade, just below the Sea Garden. It’s the go-to area on warm nights, and you’ll find everything from laid-back beach vibes to full-on dance clubs.

That whole stretch is lined with:

• Beach bars
• Clubs
• Cocktail lounges
• Restaurants

You’ll also find bars and nightclubs in the city center and inside the Sea Garden.

Local tip

Some beach bars and clubs only operate in summer, so check hours or social media if you’re visiting off-season, as locals will tell you it’s tough to find something going on every night during the colder months.

Festivals and events

There’s always something happening in Varna. The city’s event calendar is packed during the warmer months. There are festivals and events covering everything from music and street food to film, dance, history, and business. 

Here are a few of the most popular festivals worth checking out:

• Varna Summer Fest: One of the city’s biggest and best-known festivals, Varna Summer Fest brings together a mix of music, theater, and dance performances.Events take place in various venues around the city, including outdoor stages, theaters, and parks.
• “Sky wonders” (Kite Festival): A colorful and super family-friendly event, the kite festival usually takes place on Asparuhovo beach. Expect creative kite designs, flying demos, and workshops for kids and adults alike.
• The Quarantine: А short film festival held every year at the Karantinata fishing village, at the southern end of Asparuhovo Beach. It’s focused on giving young and unknown filmmakers a platform to reach wider, professional audiences. The setting is super unique – think open-air screenings right by the sea.

Parks

Varna isn’t just about beaches and nightlife.

Тhe city has some really nice green spaces too:

• The Sea Garden (Park Primorski): Stretching along the entire coastline, this is one of the city’s biggest symbols. Locals love it, tourists love it, everyone loves it! The main entrance is iconic and will greet you with its large columns built back in 1939. From here, the paths take you through a mix of landscaped gardens, natural greenery, and cultural spots like the Naval Museum, the Aquarium, and the Dolphinarium. 
• Asparuhov Park: This is a calm, well-maintained park above Asparuhovo Beach. The walking paths are paved, there are plenty of benches, and the trees and bushes are lit up with subtle lighting in the evening. It’s especially nice for a quiet morning or an evening stroll after the beach.
• University Botanical Garden (Ecopark Varna): Located in St. St. Constantine and Helena, this is Bulgaria’s first official ecopark. It combines natural and landscaped ecosystems. meaning you’ll see both wild and cultivated plant life. Unlike a public park, it has opening hours and a small entrance fee, but it’s worth it if you’re into plants, peaceful walks, or photography.

Beaches

There are lots of great beaches in and near Varna. This part of the coast is known for its long, sandy stretches. There are also plenty of wild, undeveloped beaches in the Varna area – perfect for camping fans and anyone who wants to stay away from the crowds.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most popular spots within the city:

• Central Beach: Right below the Sea Garden, this is the easiest and most accessible beach in Varna. You’ll find bars, restaurants, and beach clubs all along the promenade. It gets busy in summer, but it’s got everything you need – sunbeds, showers, and drinks within arm’s reach.
• Asparuhovo Beach: On the south side of the bay, this one’s more relaxed and local. It’s got a wide sandy area, calmer waters, and a family-friendly vibe. Plus, it’s close to Asparuhov Park, so you can combine a beach day with a walk in nature.
• St. St. Constantine and Helena: This beach resort area is very popular for both locals and tourists. Here, the beaches are cleaner and more upscale, and there are mineral pools and spa hotels nearby if you’re looking to relax.

Favourites outside the city include:

• Golden Sands (Zlatni Pyasatsi): This is the biggest and most famous beach resort near Varna – about 20 km north. It’s full of hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and water sports. Think of it as a mini beach city in summer.
• Fichoza: South of Varna, Fichoza is quieter, with fewer crowds and more natural surroundings. It’s popular with locals, and it’s a solid pick if you want a chill day away from the main tourist spots.
• Kamchiya: A bit further south, Kamchiya is where the river meets the sea. It’s surrounded by nature and has a very calm vibe. Some parts are more developed, but it’s still peaceful compared to the bigger resorts.

Beach Kamchiya

Shopping and markets

If you feel like doing some shopping while you’re in Varna, you won’t run out of options. 

The city has plenty of malls, retail parks, shopping centers, and small markets. Even just walking through the central streets, you’ll come across all kinds of shops – fashion, jewelry, souvenirs, and local food.

Where to stay in Varna

Varna is one of the most popular destinations in Bulgaria for international travelers, so you’ll find plenty of accommodation options in and around the city. 

You’ve got everything here: 

• Guesthouses
• family-run hotels
• Hostels
• luxury resorts
• Apartments and more 

That said, if you’re planning to visit during the summer, I definitely recommend booking at least a month in advance – especially if you want to stay in one of the best hotels in Varna. Last-minute bookings are still possible, but chances are you’ll have to compromise on location, comfort, or price.

Where to eat in Varna

Varna has food for every taste – and in a lot of cases, you’ll get it with a pretty great sea view. 

The city has no shortage of restaurants with skilled chefs and tasty dishes, so you won’t have trouble finding a good meal. I always recommend going for the seafood – and definitely try the fish soup while you’re here.

Personally, I love grabbing a bite somewhere by the coast, but that doesn’t mean you should skip the city center restaurants. Some of the best spots are tucked away along the pedestrian zone or side streets. 

Just keep in mind – since Varna is a major tourist destination, prices can sometimes be even higher than in Sofia (Bulgaria’s capital city), especially during the summer season.

Varna city tours

If you want to get the most out of your time in Varna without overthinking the itinerary, joining a city tour is a solid choice. There are several walking tour options available – great for your daily dose of sights and attractions. Most of them are led by well-trained local guides and consistently get great reviews from travelers.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, Varna has a few more adventurous options too. 

Here are only some of the options available:

• Hop on a catamaran trip
• Go river kayaking
• Book a full-day tour that covers the must-see places around the Varna region.