Welcome to the Bulgarian Riviera

Cruise to Varna, Bulgaria

All the things to do in Varna will delight and surprise you. Varna showcases Bulgaria's rich history at attractions that date back as far as the Roman Empire and as recently as the former Soviet Union, and the city spotlights Eastern Orthodox traditions as well as those from pre-Christian times. The Black Sea is at the center of most trips to Varna — you can see it from almost everywhere in the city. While some travelers will admire the water from the city's beautiful seaside parks, others will mingle with the glamorous locals sunning themselves on the beaches of the Bulgarian Riviera. A cruise to Varna also offers attractions perfect for families with children, or for travelers of all ages who are simply young at heart. Even as you sit down to eat, the sea is top of the mind, especially when you're tearing into tender seafood just reeled in from Bulgarian waters. Like Varna's attractions more generally, shopping opportunities cover a broad spectrum. Varna is as good for retail therapy as it is for a dose of Vitamin Sea.

National Language Bulgarian

Currency Accepted Bulgarian lev (BGN)

Things To Do in Varna

Aerial view of The Cathedral of the Assumption in Varna

Discover Bulgaria's Rich Tapestry

Think of things to do in Varna as a cross-section of Bulgaria's storied past. Admire the contrast between the Eastern Orthodox domes at the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral and Cold War-era brutalism at the Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship. Varna's Roman baths evoke the past, while a trip through Varna Ethnographic Museum spotlights culture indigenous to Bulgaria.

Varna spring time, beautiful aerial view above sea garden.

Get Fresh Air in Primorski Park

A relaxing thing to do in Varna is strolling through Primorski Park, situated on the shore northeast of the port. Admire views of the Black Sea from beneath lush trees that shade footpaths and well-manicured gardens. Sip strong coffee or nibble pastry at one of the park's many cafes, or catch a dolphin show at the at the Dolphinarium.

Aerial view of the beach and hotels in Golden Sands, Zlatni Piasaci.

Catch Rays at the Beach

Take advantage of Varna's many beaches. It's an easy walk from the port to the main Varna Beach, where clear, blue waters and fine sand invite you to take a swim or bask in the rays. Or get a taxi to the resort town of Golden Sands.

Bulgarian Soup Bob Chorba whith been, tomatoes, bread and mint on white wooden table.

LOCAL CUISINE

At local restaurants, tickle your tastebuds with traditional Bulgarian cuisine such as hearty bob chorba bean soup with warm peppers and cooling mint. Or sit down near the water and order grilled fish, such as sumptuous safrid (jack mackerel) or plump popche (goby), caught fresh from the Black Sea waters.

Bulgarian national handmade ceramic souvenirs

SHOPPING

Although Varna's Central Market is great for people-watching, tourists will find more of interest at souvenir shops in the old city north of the port. Wander into gift shops such as Balkanik and Bohotopia to buy postcards and magnets, as well as as colorful, hand-painted pottery and even Russian nesting dolls that harken back to Bulgaria's Eastern bloc past.