2-Day Hidden Gems and Outdoor Adventures in Varna, Bulgaria
Varna, Bulgaria
2 days
About Varna, Bulgaria
Experience the vibrant city of Varna, Bulgaria's maritime capital. Known as the 'Black Sea Pearl', it offers a unique blend of ancient history, dynamic nightlife, and stunning nature. Explore the Archaeological Museum, home to the world's oldest gold treasure, or visit the Roman Thermae, the largest Roman ruins in Bulgaria. Stroll along the Sea Garden, a vast park with a zoo, planetarium, and an open-air theatre. Enjoy the sun on the golden sands of Varna Beach, or take a boat trip to explore the Black Sea. Savor the local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and traditional Bulgarian dishes. Varna is a city that truly caters to all tastes.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Visiting Aladzha Monastery and Stone Forest
Morning
Visit the Aladzha Monastery, a medieval Orthodox Christian cave monastery complex. Explore the monastery and the surrounding forest park.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant near the monastery. Try the kavarma, a traditional Bulgarian stew.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Stone Forest, a natural landmark consisting of stone columns up to 7 meters high. Take a walk around the site and marvel at this unique natural phenomenon.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the city center. Try the moussaka, a traditional Bulgarian dish made of potatoes and minced meat.
Evening
End your day with a relaxing walk along the Varna promenade. Enjoy the night view of the city and the sea.
Attractions in Itinerary (4)
1Archaeological Museum
A museum showcasing artifacts from prehistoric, Thracian, Ancient Greek and Roman times, as well as from the times of the Bulgarian Empire.
2Sea Garden
A large park containing a zoo, an open-air theatre, a planetarium, and many more attractions. It's a perfect place for leisurely walks and picnics.
3Aladzha Monastery
A medieval Orthodox Christian cave monastery complex. It's a unique religious site that offers a glimpse into the past.
4Stone Forest
A natural landmark consisting of a group of stone columns, formed by the erosion of softer stone. It's a fascinating place for nature lovers.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Banitsa
A traditional Bulgarian pastry made with whisked eggs and cheese between filo pastry sheets, often enjoyed for breakfast in Varna.
Shopska Salata
A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and sirene (Bulgarian cheese), a staple in Varna's local cuisine.
Kavarma
A slow-cooked stew with meat (usually pork or chicken), mushrooms, onions, wine, and various spices, a popular dish in Varna.
Tarator
A cold soup made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, walnuts, dill, water, and sunflower or olive oil, perfect for Varna's summer heat.
Moussaka
A hearty oven-baked dish made with potatoes, minced meat, and a topping of yogurt and eggs, a common meal in Varna.
Kebapche
A grilled minced meat dish, seasoned with traditional Bulgarian spices, a favorite in Varna's local cuisine.
Sirene po Shopski
A traditional Bulgarian dish made with sirene cheese, tomatoes, peppers, and egg, baked in a clay pot, a must-try in Varna.
Rakia
A potent fruit brandy that is considered Bulgaria's national drink, often served as an aperitif in Varna.
Shkembe Chorba
A hearty tripe soup considered a hangover remedy, a popular choice in Varna after a night of rakia.
Lyutenitsa
A tasty spread or relish made from peppers, aubergines, carrots, garlic, and tomatoes, a staple in Varna's households.
Kiselo Mlyako
A Bulgarian yogurt drink known for its health benefits, commonly consumed in Varna.
Tutmanik
A traditional Bulgarian bread made with sirene cheese and eggs, often served as part of a typical breakfast in Varna.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Varna, Bulgaria, is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the city's beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. The city also hosts various cultural and music festivals during the summer, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, the shoulder seasons of May and October also offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
March 3 | Sun | Liberation Day |
March 4 | Mon | Day off for Liberation Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day |
May 3 | Fri | Good Friday |
May 4 | Sat | Holy Saturday |
May 5 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
May 6 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 6 | Mon | St. George's Day |
May 24 | Fri | Culture and Literacy Day |
September 6 | Fri | Unification Day |
September 22 | Sun | Independence Day |
September 23 | Mon | Day off for Independence Day |
December 24 | Tue | Christmas Eve |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Second day of Christmas |
How to get around
Walk
Varna is a walkable city with many of its main attractions located close to each other. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace and take in the local atmosphere.
Bicycle
Varna has a good network of bicycle lanes. You can rent a bike from various locations around the city and enjoy a leisurely ride along the sea garden or to other attractions.
Public Bus
Public buses are a common way to get around Varna. They cover most areas of the city and are relatively frequent. Bus stops are clearly marked and routes are easy to understand.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Varna and can be hailed on the street, ordered by phone, or picked up from designated taxi ranks. They are metered and provide a quick and convenient way to get around.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Bolt, operate in Varna. They can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
Car Rental
If you prefer to drive, there are several car rental companies in Varna. This gives you the flexibility to explore the city and the surrounding areas at your own pace.
Train
Varna's central train station connects the city to other parts of Bulgaria. It's a good option if you're planning to visit other cities or regions during your stay.
Dolmus (Shared Taxi)
Dolmus are shared taxis that operate on fixed routes. They are a popular and inexpensive way to get around Varna. You can hop on and off at any point along the route.
Boat
Boat tours are available from Varna's sea port. They offer a unique perspective of the city and its coastline. Some tours also include visits to nearby islands or wildlife spotting.
Important information
Currencyлв BGN
Time zoneUTC+2
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 150; Fire: 160; Police: 166
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Varna, Bulgaria as a first time visitor
1
Bulgaria is a member of the European Union, so the currency used is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN).
2
The official language is Bulgarian, but English, German, and Russian are also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
3
Varna is known as the maritime capital of Bulgaria and is a major tourist destination.
4
The city has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 75-85°F (24-29°C), while winter temperatures are usually between 35-45°F (2-7°C).
5
Varna is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).
6
Varna is a safe city for tourists, but like in any other city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take care of your belongings.
7
Tipping is customary in Bulgaria. It's common to leave around 10% of the total bill in restaurants and cafes.
8
Public transportation in Varna is reliable and affordable. It includes buses, taxis, and a trolleybus system.
9
Varna has a rich history, with numerous archaeological sites and museums. It's worth hiring a local guide to learn more about the city's past.
10
Bulgarian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Be sure to try local dishes like banitsa, shopska salad, and kavarma.
11
Varna is located on the Black Sea coast, so it's a great destination for beach lovers. The city has several beautiful beaches, including the famous Golden Sands.
12
Bulgaria uses the Type F power plug, so you may need a travel adapter depending on your country of origin.
13
Varna has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants open until late.
14
The city is also known for its cultural events and festivals, such as the Varna Summer International Music Festival and the International Ballet Competition.
15
Bulgaria has a universal healthcare system, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
16
Varna has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and vacation rentals.
17
The city is also a great base for exploring other parts of Bulgaria, such as the historic cities of Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo.
18
Credit cards are widely accepted in Varna, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or emergencies.
19
Varna has a modern and well-equipped international airport, making it easily accessible from many European cities.
20
The city is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Sea Garden, which is the largest landscaped park in the Balkans.
Basic Bulgarian to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Здравей | Zdravey | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Довиждане | Dovizhdane | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | Моля | Molya | Making a request |
Thank you | Благодаря | Blagodarya | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Да | Da | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Не | Ne | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Извинете | Izvinete | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Съжалявам | Sazhalyavam | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Говорите ли английски? | Govorite li angliyski? | Trying to communicate |
I don't understand | Не разбирам | Ne razbiram | Communication difficulties |
Where is...? | Къде е...? | Kade e...? | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Баня | Banya | Looking for a bathroom |
Help | Помощ | Pomosht | In case of emergency |
Food | Храна | Hrana | Looking for a place to eat |
Water | Вода | Voda | Asking for water |
Beer | Бира | Bira | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Вино | Vino | Ordering wine |
How much does it cost? | Колко струва? | Kolko struva? | Asking for the price |
I would like... | Бих искал... | Bih iskal... | Making a request |
Good night | Лека нощ | Leka nosht | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Shorts
Lightweight pants
Swimwear
Sleepwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Light jacket or sweater
Hat or cap for sun protection
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Basic first-aid kit
Prescription medications
Contact lenses and solution (if needed)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport or ID
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Headphones
Camera
Memory card for camera
Travel adapter
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for the journey
Water bottle
Travel guidebook for Varna
Notebook and pen
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Reusable shopping bag
Weather Conditions
Varna, Bulgaria, is a beautiful coastal city with a climate that varies throughout the year. It experiences a humid subtropical climate, with influences of continental air masses. During the summer months, from June to August, Varna is typically warm and sunny, with average high temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). This is the perfect time for beach activities and exploring the city's outdoor attractions. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen, hats, and light clothing to stay comfortable in the heat. The shoulder seasons, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), offer milder weather, with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C). These periods are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, as the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller. Pack layers to accommodate the changing temperatures. Winter, from December to February, is relatively mild compared to other parts of Bulgaria, with average high temperatures ranging from 41°F to 50°F (5°C to 10°C). However, it can occasionally get quite cold, and snowfall, while rare, is possible. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're prepared for any unexpected weather changes. Enjoy your visit to Varna!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 8° / -1° | January is the coldest month in Varna, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Pack warm clothing if you plan to visit during this time. |
February | 9° / 0° | February is still quite cold, but temperatures begin to rise slightly. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather. |
March | 12° / 2° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to warm up. It's a great time to visit for those who prefer mild weather. |
April | 16° / 6° | April is a pleasant month in Varna, with temperatures often reaching the mid-teens. It's an excellent time to explore the city's outdoor attractions. |
May | 21° / 11° | May is the start of the warm season, with temperatures often reaching the low twenties. It's a great time to visit the beaches. |
June | 25° / 15° | June is a warm month, perfect for beach activities and exploring the city. The weather is usually sunny with little rainfall. |
July | 28° / 18° | July is the hottest month in Varna, with temperatures often reaching the high twenties. It's the best time to visit for sunbathing and water sports. |
August | 28° / 18° | August is equally hot as July, making it a great time for beach activities. The city is lively with many summer events. |
September | 24° / 14° | September is a warm month with less crowd, making it a perfect time for a peaceful vacation. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities. |
October | 19° / 9° | October sees the start of autumn, with temperatures starting to cool down. It's a great time to visit for those who prefer mild weather. |
November | 15° / 5° | November is a cool month, with temperatures often dropping to the low teens. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather. |
December | 11° / 1° | December is a cold month, with temperatures often dropping to the low single digits. Pack warm clothing if you plan to visit during this time. |
Did you know?
Places near by Varna, Bulgaria
Balchik Palace
A striking palace complex with a botanical garden, built for Queen Marie of Romania.
Aladzha Monastery
A medieval Orthodox Christian cave monastery complex.
Madara Rider
A large rock relief carved on the Madara Plateau.
Kaliakra
A long and narrow headland in the Southern Dobruja region with a nature and archaeological reserve.
Pobiti Kamani
A desert-like rock phenomenon located on the north west Varna Province border.
Golden Sands Nature Park
A national park of Bulgaria located in the vicinity of the resort of Golden Sands.
Botanical Garden - Balchik
The garden is part of the Balchik Palace of the Romanian queen Maria. It is home to over 2000 plant species.
Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort
A golf resort with a course located on the cliffs near Kavarna.
Shumen Fortress
A medieval fortress located on the Shumen Plateau.
