Varna

Варна

Bulgaria's third-largest city and maritime capital, home to a superb archaeological museum displaying the world's oldest gold treasure. Its long Sea Garden, beaches, Roman baths and lively cultural scene make it the region's essential base.

Things to do

• Archaeological Museum — See the Varna Gold, the world's oldest processed gold treasure dating to around 4600 BC.
• Sea Garden stroll — Wander Bulgaria's largest seaside park with alleys, monuments, cafes and sweeping Black Sea views.
• Roman Thermae — Explore the massive 2nd-century Roman bath complex, one of the largest surviving in Europe.
• Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral — Admire the city's grand domed Orthodox cathedral and its ornate frescoes near the main square.
• Varna Central Beach — Relax on the wide city beach with its bars and pools right below the Sea Garden.
• Aladzha Monastery — Visit the medieval rock-hewn cave monastery carved into cliffs just north of the city.
• Naval Museum — Discover Bulgaria's maritime history including the torpedo boat Drazki from the Balkan Wars.

Food to try

• Midii (mussels) — Fresh Black Sea mussels served fried or in white wine sauce at seafront restaurants.
• Tsatsa — Small fried sprat fish eaten whole, a classic Varna seaside snack with beer.
• Rapan — Local sea snails pulled from the Black Sea, typically breaded and pan-fried.
• Shopska salad — The national salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and grated white brine cheese.
• Boza and banitsa — A traditional breakfast of flaky cheese pastry paired with the malty fermented drink boza.

Local customs & good to know

• Nod means no — Bulgarians often shake the head for yes and nod for no, so confirm verbally to avoid confusion.
• Summer festival season — Varna hosts an international music, film and ballet program, so check listings if visiting June to September.
• Cash and small change — Carry Bulgarian lev in cash for beach vendors, markets and small eateries that may not take cards.

Nearby

• Aladzha Monastery — 11 km
• Golden Sands — 13 km
• Balchik — 29 km
• Kavarna — 42 km