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As you tour Bulgaria, you can’t possibly miss visiting Varna. When you walk about this charming city and note the plethora of popular tourist attractions in Varna that dot the streets, you may get the impression that it is a unique travel destination.
A Varna blog is all you need to decide amongst the top things to do in Varna.
An itinerary of 5 days is good to see the most popular tourist attractions in Varna. But if you can spare couple of days more that’s even better, you can take the sights more slowly. Let me share with you the best things to do in Varna and tips to make the most out of your trip.
1. Aladzha Monastery
Aladzha Monastery is a religious sanctuary, a monastery located in a natural setting close to Varna.
In the monastery complex you will find the brilliant library with priceless manuscripts. There are workshops on candle making and winemaking held by the resident monks.
Quick Facts:
- The christian monastery belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
Address: ul. ‘Цар Симеон I’ 6А, 9000 Varna Center, Varna, Bulgaria
2. Sea Garden
Sea Garden is an expansive landscaped park located by the sea.
There are numerous shade trees in the seaside park. Sea Garden is quite popular with picnickers, thanks to its greenery.
Quick Facts:
- The seaside park houses a swimming complex.
- Sea Garden was also designated as a national monument.
A natural crowd puller, Sea Garden is right up there in the list of best things to do in Varna.
3. Varna Archaeological Museum
The Varna Archaeological Museum carefully collects and presents various archaeological finds of the area.
Look no farther than Varna’s superb archaeological museum to properly comprehend the old civilization that once inhabitated this region.
The galleries are packed with stellar exhibitions that have fascinated academics for decades. As you go from room to room, you’ll discover everyday items from earthenware to farm tools, and decorative items from jewelry to vases.
4. Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral
Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral is a charming old Cathedral located in the city of Varna, Bulgaria.
Another highlight of Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral is its crypt, accompanied by sculptures on either sides, it is a resting place for prestigious noblemen. The cathedral’s importance is further underscored by the presence of the tomb of the patron saint.
Quick Facts:
- Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral is used as a residence by the the bishop of Varna.
- The cathedral was opened on 1886.
- The cathedral belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
With so much to offer, no wonder Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral is one of the top things to do in Varna.
Address: pl. ‘Sveti Sveti Kiril I Metodiy’ 2, 9000 Hristo Botev, Varna, Bulgaria
5. Roman Thermae
Spread over a large area Roman Thermae are the ruins of the ancient Rome.
In the attached museum you can see a display of coins & ceramics that the ancient civilization used. As the afternoon could be very harsh, don’t forget to wear a hat and use a good Sun cream.
Address: Varna, Bulgaria Independence Day might affect these hours
6. Aquapolis
On a hot summer day there can’t be a better idea than to visit Aquapolis.
The water park has several fun rides, water slides, tubing wave pool and a wave machine.
In Aquapolis you will find conveniences such as changing rooms, towels to rent, and can swimsuit on sale. Young children have their own tiny pool so they can have fun too.
An incredible sight, Aquapolis scores high in the list of the best things to do in Varna.
Address: 9007 Golden Sands, Bulgaria
7. Evxinograd
A winery with a tour of the vineyard and wine making facilities.
And if you want to learn more about winemaking in this region of Bulgaria consider staying at a local guest house. Sampling sessions are towards the end and are generally hosted in the lovely gardens of the estate.
Quick Facts:
- Brought to life by the architect Viktor Rumpelmayer, winery is a classic example of fine Châteauesque.
- The winery was built somewhere around 19th-century.
- The winery stretches for about 8 kilometres in length.
8. Dolphinarium Varna
Dolphinarium Varna is a fun dolphin show that takes place in Varna.
The well trained dolphins will keep you entertained. Seals are there too performing their cute, neat tricks.
Quick Facts:
- The dolphin show’s collection include a dolphin attraction for elaborate shows or private swimming sessions.
Without a doubt this wonderful dolphin show is one amongst the top things to do in Varna.
9. Retro Museum
Retro Museum is a museum with unique collection situated in Varna.
Quick Facts:
- The niche museum’s collection include Vintage items including old cars.
- Also worth seeing here include wax figures of famous people.
Address: ГРАНД МОЛ,паркинг ниво 1, ul. ‘Akademik Andrei Saharov’ 2, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria Mon-Sun 10am–9pm
10. Varna beach
Varna beach offers you a quick access to one of the finest sandy spots close to the Varna city.
The restaurant at the beach serve a variety of seafood. Remember, this is an award winning Blue Flag beach with amenities such as showers, lifeguard towers, drinking water and medical faciility.
Without a doubt this wonderful beach is one amongst the top things to do in Varna.
11. Varna Necropolis
Varna Necropolis is an ancient burial site, one of the key archaeological place in the region’s history.
Also, checkout the nearby archaeological museum with related exhibits.
Quick Facts:
- The highlight of the place includes display related to one of the oldest known gold discovery.
- The ancient burial site traces its origin back to 4.
12. Varna Zoo
A nice city zoo sheltering a myriad of animals.
It also has an animal hospital that cares for the zoo’s whole population. The area is very well laid-out and a well organized map will help you hit the best spots.
Quick Facts:
- Varna Zoo was opened in 30 April 1956.
Without a doubt this wonderful zoo is one amongst the top things to do in Varna.
13. Golden Sands Nature Park
Golden Sands Nature Park is a nature and animal reserve located not far from Varna.
You can either walk or enjoy riding a bicycle through the lush greenery. As for wild life, a variety of animal and bird species is found here.
Quick Facts:
- Spread over a total area of 13.2 square kilometres, it stretches for around 9.2 km on the longer side.
- It was in 1943 when it was established.
- The national park houses an old monastery.
14. Aquamania
Spread over a large, Aquamania is a fun destination for the whole family.
The water park has several fun rides, water slides, tubing wave pool and a wave machine.
Life guards as well as staff keep watch on the guests at all times. There is also a children’s pool to keep them engaged.
Add it to your Varna trip if you have time.
Address: Ул 1ва Албена, 9620 К. К. Албена, Bulgaria
15. Varna Aquarium
Located in the central part of Varna, Varna Aquarium makes for a good fun visit.
The rescued sea turtles and the small sharks are one of the most interesting highlights. You will find the visit to Varna Aquarium as much as educational as it is fun.
16. Lake Varna
Lake Varna is an alluring lake, a drop from heaven with clean, clear water.
With water so clear that you can see through, swimming is a good option. There is also a park on shore, with a playground for little ones too.
Quick Facts:
- Spreading over an expanse of 17 km², it’s difficult to see it all in one go.
- The lake is located near the Black Sea.
- Provadiya is the source of the inflow to the lake.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Varna trip.
17. Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship
Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship is a heart-felt monument located in Varna.
18. Port Varna
If you are interested in seeing a working port in action you are at the right place.
Quick Facts:
- Bulgarian Ports Authority is the port authority that runs it.
Add it to your Varna trip if you have time.
19. Asparuhov Bridge
Asparuhov Bridge is a spot quite popular with the bungee jumping enthusiasts.
Quick Facts:
- The Bungee jumping bridge measures a total length of 2,050m with a longest span of 160 m.
- This 50 m tall structure is certainly magnificent to look at.
Address: ul. ‘Rostov’ 3, 9003 Asparuhovo, Varna, Bulgaria
20. Children’s playground
A small amusement park meant specially for children.
Add it to your Varna trip if you have time.
21. Nirvana Beach
A nice wide beach, Nirvana Beach has all the amenities you need to make for a great experience.
After a busy day of looking around, it is just the right place to unwind by the sweeping ocean. Swim, surf, sunbath, walk, run or play – you can sketch your day as you want.
22. Ethnographic Museum
Ethnographic Museum is an ethnography museum showcasing the people and culture of Varna region.
The museum depicts Bulgaria’s rich heritage with details spanning centuries. Everything that defines a civilisation, an era can be found here – traditional clothing, decorative items such as jewelry, household items such like furniture, and crafts such as pottery.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Varna trip.
23. Naval Museum
Naval Museum is a naval museum with a focus on military ships and shipbuilding.
Practically scaled models of ships and submarines keep things interesting. The exhibits gives you good insight into the naval power of the times.
24. Rappongi Beach
A prominent beach, Rappongi Beach offers plenty of sun and sand for its visitors.
If you like seafood, the restaurants here are a good option. A great way to finish your day after a day of sightseeing, relax next to the balmy sea.
Quick Facts:
- The beach is located near seaside cafes.
Add it to your Varna trip if you have time.
26. Varna Karting Track
If you are someone who enjoy the thrill of speed, Varna Karting Track would be a great day out in the sun.
Tracks are good and smooth to ride on, go and have lot of fun.
Add it to your Varna trip if you have time.
Address: ГРАНД МОЛ,паркинг ниво 1, ul. ‘Akademik Andrei Saharov’ 2, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria Pending review
27. AquaMania Albena
On a hot summer day there can’t be a better idea than to visit AquaMania Albena.
The water park has several fun rides, water slides, tubing wave pool and a wave machine.
Young kids have their own pool that keeps them engaged.
Address: Ул 1ва Албена, 9620 К. К. Албена, Bulgaria
Thanks for reading this travel blog, hope now you know plenty of must see places in Varna. All in all, whether you are a backpacker, a solo traveler, slow traveler, a female traveler or a couple there are plenty of interesting things to do in Varna for everyone.
And it’s not difficult to create an itinerary that includes some of the best tourist attractions in Varna. So what are Varna sights to see or you have already been here? Let me know in the comments along with your tips and experiences.