Best Travel Guide Varna | ArrivalGuides.com

VarnaGuide was updated: 2026-04-30

Varna is a vibrant seaside city on Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, known for its sandy beaches, rich Greco-Roman history and lively cultural scene. Enjoy golden sands and clear waters, explore the world’s oldest gold treasure at the Varna Archaeological Museum and stroll through the scenic Sea Garden. The Roman Baths reveal the city’s ancient roots, while festivals, art exhibitions, and a buzzing nightlife add modern energy.

Do & See

Although Varna is primarily a summer destination, it offers plenty to see and do year-round. The Sea Garden is a must-visit, with scenic walking paths, beautiful flowerbeds, and stunning sea views stretching from the marina into the heart of the city. The marina and its iconic lighthouse are also worth exploring. History and architecture enthusiasts can visit the Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and Varna’s famous cathedral. For a glimpse into Bulgaria’s communist past, the Monument of Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship is a striking historical landmark. As for watersports, the Black Sea offers a wide range of activities, including diving, snorkelling, boat tours and waterskiing.

Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral

The Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral, located in the heart of Varna, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Built in the 19th century, it features stunning golden domes, intricate murals, and beautiful stained glass windows. Inside, you can admire the finely carved iconostasis and the bishop's throne. Entry is free, but visitors can purchase small candles at the reception as a contribution to the church, following the local tradition of lighting them while praying.

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Roman Thermae Varna

The Roman Thermae are the largest ancient public building ever uncovered in Bulgaria and the fourth-largest Roman baths in Europe — a considerable claim for a site sitting quietly in the southeastern corner of a modern city. Built in the late 2nd century AD across more than 7,000 square metres, the complex served as a social hub as much as a place to bathe. You can clamber freely around the chambers and pick out surviving elements of the underfloor heating system. Remarkably, the baths were in use for little more than a century before the cost of upkeep proved too much for a declining empire.

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Small (South) Roman Thermae

When the Large Roman Thermae fell into disuse in the 3rd century AD, the city didn't go without — the Small Thermae stepped in to fill the gap, remaining in use until around the 6th century. Covering some 2,400 square metres, they are considerably more modest than their northern counterpart, and today there is little to see beyond foundation walls and a walkway circling the ruins. Worth a quick detour if you are already in the area.

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Pobiti Kamani

Pobiti Kamani, also known as the Stone Forest, is a fascinating natural phenomenon featuring numerous limestone pillars, some as tall as 10 metres. These formations include hollow and solid cylinders, truncated cones, and scattered rocks and cliffs. The origin of this unique landscape remains a mystery, although evidence of human life dating back to the Mesolithic period has been discovered here. It's an intriguing destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in geological history. If you visit during the summer, make sure you bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, as the area can get quite hot. The Stone Forest is accessible by car or public transport.

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Aladzha Monastery

Aladzha Monastery is the most famous medieval rock monastery on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Carved directly into the cliffs, it offers visitors a glimpse into the ascetic life of monks who once lived there. Climbing the steps into the rock face is an extraordinary experience, providing both history and breathtaking views. While most of the interpretation is in Bulgarian, the site is still well worth a visit. Located just 3.7 kilometres from Golden Sands and 15 kilometres from Varna, it is an easy and rewarding trip from the city.

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Sea Garden

Varna's Sea Garden, stretching along the coast, is a beautiful public park that blends nature with seaside charm. This vast green space offers both relaxation and recreation, with shaded pathways, open lawns, and direct access to the beach. During the summer, you can swim in the Black Sea or browse stalls selling local souvenirs and handmade jewellery. The park is open year-round and it's free of charge.

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