Varna is Bulgaria’s Black Sea gem—where golden beaches, ancient history, and a buzzing seaside vibe come together effortlessly. Picture yourself wandering through the city’s Roman Thermae, soaking up the sun in the scenic Sea Garden, or diving into its vibrant nightlife. I’ve explored this place myself, and trust me—Varna seamlessly blends history, culture, and coastal charm. Let’s dive into 15 iconic things to do in this vibrant seaside city!
Best Things to See and Do in Varna
Looking for the coolest things to do in Varna? Stroll through the charming Sea Garden, visit landmarks like the Varna Cathedral and the Roman Thermae, and explore the Archaeological Museum. Learn about history at the Retro Museum, relax on the stunning beaches along the Black Sea coast, and savor local specialties like tarator and grilled seafood. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, here are the top attractions to visit in Varna.
1. Explore the Ancient Roman Thermae
The Ancient Roman Thermae in Varna are one of the largest preserved Roman bath complexes in Europe, dating back to the 2nd century AD. Once a hub for socializing and relaxation, these baths were an essential part of Roman life. Walking through the massive stone archways and remnants of heated pools, I could almost imagine the lively conversations that took place here centuries ago. The site features well-preserved hypocaust heating systems, showing just how advanced Roman engineering was.
Located in Varna’s city center, the ruins are easily accessible and great for history lovers. The intricate mosaic fragments and the sheer scale of the site make it a fascinating stop. If you visit in the evening, the soft lighting adds an extra layer of mystery to the experience. Whether you love history or just want to explore something unique, the Ancient Roman Thermae are a must-visit.
2. Take a 4×4 tour into the Bulgarian mountains
If you’ve had enough beach time and want to see a completely different side of Bulgaria, this six-hour 4×4 tour into the mountains is the move. You’ll drive through the Biberna region at 250 meters elevation, stopping at Starite Kashti village to see traditional Bulgarian architecture and crafts. The tour includes archery, horseback riding at The Walnut Ranch, and a three-course lunch with Bulgarian BBQ and local honey tasting at a tavern in Poroy village.
Guides like Sissy keep things fun and informative, sharing stories about the region while you enjoy mountain views. The super soakers add a playful twist that works surprisingly well. Hotel pickup is included.
Great for families or anyone needing a break from the coast. Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dusty or wet.
3. Stroll through the Sea Garden
The Sea Garden is Varna’s largest and most beautiful public park, stretching along the Black Sea coast. A perfect escape from the city’s buzz, this lush green space is filled with walking trails, flower gardens, fountains, and scenic viewpoints. I spent an afternoon strolling under towering trees, stopping at the open-air amphitheater, where a local musician played traditional Bulgarian tunes. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great place for a picnic, bike ride, or a casual coffee break at one of the seaside cafés.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Sea Garden is home to key attractions like the Varna Aquarium, Dolphinarium, and the Naval Museum. Families will love the small amusement park, while nature lovers can explore the botanical section. Whether you’re here to relax, exercise, or take in some culture, Varna’s Sea Garden offers something for everyone.
4. Visit Aladzha Monastery carved into the cliffs
Carved directly into a 25-meter-high limestone cliff, Aladzha Monastery is one of Bulgaria’s most fascinating medieval landmarks. This Orthodox Christian cave monastery, dating back to the 12th century, was once home to hermit monks seeking isolation and spiritual enlightenment. Walking through its rock-hewn chambers, I imagined the monks going about their daily lives in this peaceful but rugged environment. The site includes a chapel, monastic cells, and a crypt, all offering insight into monastic life in medieval Bulgaria.
Surrounded by the Golden Sands Nature Park, the monastery is an ideal half-day trip from Varna. A short trail nearby leads to a second, less-explored cave monastery, adding a sense of adventure. If you visit in summer, the light and sound show brings its history to life in a magical way. Whether you’re interested in history, religion, or scenic landscapes, Aladzha Monastery is a must-see.
5. Taste Bulgarian food and wine on a walking tour
The fastest way to understand Bulgarian culture is through its food and wine, and this four-hour walking tour gets you there. Your guide, often Radul or Natalia, walks you through Varna’s streets while stopping for numerous tastings of local snacks and specialties. The tour ends in a wine cellar where you’ll taste Bulgarian wines selected by experts, sometimes even members of the Varna Wine Lovers Club who share their knowledge with genuine enthusiasm.
This is a private tour, so it’s just you and your group with a guide who’s usually a local historian. I appreciate that you get real stories about the city’s culinary traditions, not rehearsed scripts. It’s ideal for foodies or anyone wanting Varna beyond the beach scene.
Meet at the Cathedral’s Tourist Information Centre. Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking most of the tour.
6. See the Gold of Varna at the Archaeological Museum
For a deep dive into Bulgaria’s ancient past, the Varna Archaeological Museum is the place to go. This museum houses one of the world’s most significant prehistoric treasures—the Gold of Varna, the oldest processed gold in the world, dating back to 4,500 BC. I was amazed by the intricate gold jewelry, ceremonial masks, and burial artifacts that reveal the advanced craftsmanship of the ancient Thracian civilization. The museum also features artifacts from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, offering a complete timeline of Varna’s rich history.
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The exhibitions are well-organized and easy to follow, making it a great experience even for those who aren’t usually museum-goers. Located in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, the museum itself is a piece of history. Whether you love archaeology or just want to see something unique, the Varna Archaeological Museum is a must-visit.
7. Tour Euxinograd Palace and its vineyard
Just north of Varna, the Euxinograd Palace is a former royal residence that offers a glimpse into Bulgaria’s aristocratic past. Built in the late 19th century, this French château-style palace was a summer retreat for Bulgarian monarchs. Though the palace interior is only accessible via guided tours, the stunning gardens, vineyard, and coastal views make it well worth the visit. I took a walk through the meticulously designed gardens, where exotic plants, fountains, and shaded pathways created a peaceful retreat.
One of the highlights of visiting Euxinograd is the on-site winery, which still produces some of Bulgaria’s finest wines. If you plan ahead, you can book a wine-tasting tour and sample local varieties. With its rich history, elegant architecture, and scenic surroundings, Euxinograd Palace is a perfect mix of culture and relaxation.
8. Cruise the Black Sea on a luxury catamaran
Spending an afternoon on a luxury catamaran in the Black Sea is about as relaxing as it gets on the Bulgarian coast. This four-hour cruise departs from Old Nessebar harbor with pickup from Sunny Beach resorts on their red double-decker buses. The catamaran has four netted sunbathing areas on the sundeck plus shaded seating if you need a break from the sun.
You’ll anchor at a beach spot for swimming and snorkeling, and lunch is included with pasta, salads, cold meats, cheese, fresh fruit, plus unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks. The crew keeps the atmosphere calm and welcoming. I’d say the snorkeling is hit or miss depending on conditions, but the swimming and lounging make up for it.
Book morning or afternoon slots. This pairs well with exploring Old Nessebar’s cobblestone streets before or after.
9. Climb the bell tower at Varna Cathedral
The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin, known as Varna Cathedral, is the city’s most recognizable landmark. Built in 1886, this Bulgarian Orthodox cathedral is famous for its golden domes, intricate frescoes, and stunning Byzantine-style architecture. As I stepped inside, the grand chandeliers, detailed iconostasis, and hand-painted murals immediately caught my eye. The cathedral’s rich wood carvings and religious icons give it a deep sense of history and spiritual significance.
A visit to Varna Cathedral isn’t complete without climbing the bell tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the Black Sea. The cathedral is especially breathtaking at sunset, when the domes glow in the golden light. Located in Varna’s city center, it’s easy to visit and is one of the best places to experience the city’s history, culture, and architecture all in one spot.
10. Wander through Pobiti Kamani stone forest
A bizarre natural phenomenon, Pobiti Kamani, also known as the Stone Forest, is one of the most unique places to visit near Varna. Located just 20 km outside the city, this area is filled with tall limestone pillars, some reaching up to 10 meters high. Scientists debate their origins—some believe they formed naturally millions of years ago, while local legends suggest they are petrified giants. Walking among these ancient, hollow rock formations, I couldn’t help but feel like I was on another planet.
The site is best explored at sunrise or sunset, when the rocks cast dramatic shadows across the sandy ground. Unlike anything else in Bulgaria, Pobiti Kamani is a fascinating mix of science, mythology, and breathtaking landscapes. If you’re up for a short trip outside Varna, this stone forest is well worth the visit.
11. Learn about ancient burials at Varna Necropolis
One of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world, Varna Necropolis is the burial site where the oldest known gold treasure was found. Dating back to 4,500 BC, this ancient Thracian cemetery revealed elaborate gold jewelry, weapons, and ritual objects, offering incredible insight into one of Europe’s earliest civilizations. Seeing these 5,000-year-old artifacts up close at the Varna Archaeological Museum was a surreal experience, making me appreciate the advanced culture and craftsmanship of ancient Bulgaria.
Though the original artifacts are displayed in the museum, visiting the actual burial site just outside the city adds another layer to the experience. Walking through the excavated tombs, you get a real sense of history and mystery. For those interested in archaeology and ancient history, Varna Necropolis is an absolute must-see.
12. Try Bulgarian rakia at Rakia & Co
For a true taste of Bulgarian tradition, head to Rakia & Co, a lively bar dedicated to the country’s most famous spirit—rakia. This strong fruit brandy, often made from grapes, plums, or apricots, is a staple in Bulgarian culture. The bar offers a wide selection of locally distilled rakia, ranging from smooth and mild to bold and fiery. I decided to try a grape rakia, which had a surprisingly rich and slightly sweet taste, paired perfectly with a plate of shopska salad.
The cozy, rustic atmosphere makes it an ideal place to unwind and experience Bulgaria’s drinking culture like a local. If you’re new to rakia, the staff is happy to offer recommendations and tasting flights. Whether you come for a quick drink or a long night of toasting with friends, Rakia & Co is a must-visit for an authentic Bulgarian experience.
13. Walk along Primorski Park by the Black Sea
Stretching along the Black Sea coast, Primorski Park is one of Varna’s most scenic and relaxing green spaces. Often called the Sea Garden’s quieter sibling, this vast park is perfect for long walks, jogging, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air. I spent a morning wandering its winding pathways, passing colorful flowerbeds, towering trees, and peaceful fountains. The park’s benches, shaded by lush greenery, provide the perfect spot to relax and take in the view.
One of the highlights of Primorski Park is its direct access to the beach, where you can dip your toes in the Black Sea after a stroll. It’s also home to several cultural landmarks, including the Varna Zoo and the Naval Museum. Whether you’re looking for leisure, nature, or seaside views, Primorski Park is a great place to slow down and enjoy Varna.
14. Step back in time at the Retro Museum
Step into Bulgaria’s Soviet past at the Retro Museum, one of the most unique museums in Varna. Located inside Grand Mall Varna, this museum is a time capsule of life from the 1940s to the 1980s, featuring vintage cars, old propaganda posters, and household items from the communist era. I was fascinated by the collection of restored Soviet-era vehicles, including classic Ladas, Moskvitches, and Volgas—all polished to perfection.
Beyond the cars, the museum showcases old advertisements, vintage toys, and even wax figures of Soviet leaders. Walking through the exhibits felt like traveling back in time, offering a glimpse into everyday life during Bulgaria’s communist period. Whether you’re a history buff, a car enthusiast, or just curious about the past, Retro Museum is a must-visit for an unusual and nostalgic experience in Varna.
15. Stargaze at Varna Observatory and Planetarium
For a cosmic adventure in Varna, visit the Varna Observatory and Planetarium, the first astronomical complex in Bulgaria. Located in the Sea Garden, this observatory is a great place to learn about the stars, planets, and the universe. I attended a planetarium show, where a dome-shaped screen displayed a breathtaking simulation of the night sky, constellations, and distant galaxies. The experience made me appreciate just how vast and fascinating space really is.
If you visit on a clear night, you might even get to look through the observatory’s telescopes, offering an up-close view of the moon, planets, and star clusters. The staff provides insightful explanations, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or just looking for something different to do in Varna, the Observatory and Planetarium is a great stop.
