What to visit near Varna?
Varna is Bulgaria’s third-largest city, nestled on the beautiful Black Sea coast, popular with the stunning beaches, vibrant culture and rich history. Many people say that if they ever go to Varna, they can’t forget the beauty and vibrance of the city, and we strongly believe them! In the city, and around it, you can see many captivating destinations each of them offering great blend of natural beauty, cultural experience and history throwbacks. If you are in Bulgaria in the sunny and warm seasons, you must visit Varna, and once you do, here are the TOP locations you should see.
Sea Garden Varna – a walk by the sea
A Walk by the Morska Gradina, or the Sea Garden in Bulgarian, is a pretty park that runs along the coast of Varna. The views are beautiful, there are nice restaurants and coffees you can enjoy, and some other pretty good locations that you must visit.
You can get up close and personal with marine life at attractions like the Varna Aquarium and Dolphinarium in the Sea Garden. For those interested in astronomy – there is also a planetarium. Overall – Sea Garden is absolutely a ‘must’ visit if you are in Varna!
Varna Archaeological Museum – journey into the past
The Varna Archeological Exhibition hall is a mother lode of verifiable relics that gives understanding into the district’s rich history. It is one of Bulgaria’s оldest museums and has a rеmarkable collection of Greek, Roman, and Thracian artifacts, including sculptures, jewelry, and pottery.
The Gold of Varna – a collection of ancient Thracian gold artifact – including intricate jewelry and ceremonial objects, is one of the museum’s highlights. Through the museum’s exhibits – you can learn about the many different cultures that have shaped Varna’s history.
Balchik – beautiful city with a white palace
Simply a beautiful drive along the coast from Varna, you’ll track down the beguiling town of Balchik. The stunning Balchik Palace, also known as the White Palace, is what makes Balchik one of the ultimate best locations you can visit near Varna. Yes, you need to drive 30 km, but it is worth it! This palace, once the summer home of Romanian Queen Marie, is a mesmerizing combination of Ottoman, Moorish, and Gothic architectural styles – sounds amazing, right?
Nature lovers will adore taking a walk through the palace’s lush botanical gardens, and enjoy all the beautiful plants- cacti, palms, and water lilies are among the impressive plant species found in the gardens. You can take in breathtaking views of the Black Sea below from the palace terraces. This is one of the most beautiful places you can visit around Varna – so it is surely worth doing that.
Kaliakra Cape – history meeting the breathtaking scenery
A visit to Kaliakra Cape is a must for anyone who is interested in history or simply enjoys breathtaking views of the beautiful Bulgarian sea. This cape is just in the Black Sea and offers panoramic views of the coastline, a view that you will surely never forget as it is absolutely astonihisng. It is about an hour’s drive from Varna, and it is surely worth visiting.
Kaliakra is also steeped in history thanks to the numerous Roman and Thracian fortifications that dot the area. The medieval fortress that sits atop the cliffs at the tip of the cape is what makes it so famous. You will find yourself transported back in time as you explore the fortress, imagining the lives of those who once defended this strategic point.
Aladzha Monastery – glimpse into the past
The Aladzha Monastery is a one-of-a-kind architectural and historical treasure that can be found approximately 15 kilometers from Varna. This ancient monastery complex, carved into the limestone cliffs, dates back to the 12th century.
As you investigate the cavern cells, churches, and catacombs – you’ll acquire understanding into the devout existence of the past. Despite being weathered by time – the site’s frescoes still provide a glimpse of medieval religious art. It is like entering a living history book when you go to the Aladzha Monastery, where the rocks themselves tell stories of devotion and perseverance.
Pobiti Kamani – a wonder of the geology
The Stone Forest, also known as Pobiti Kamani to locals, is about 20 kilometers west of Varna and offers a truly bizarre experience. This regular peculiarity comprises of gigantic limestone segments ascending starting from the earliest stage, a woods frozen in stone.
The Stone Forest is unlike any other place in Europe, and its geological origins remain a mystery perfect for people that want to go beyond the simple beauty of the nature. It’s where you can climb among the transcending stone support points and feel like you’ve ventured into a different universe. The warm tones of the setting sun illuminate the rocks in an otherworldly glow at sunset, making the location even more magical.
Black sea beaches – golden sands and crystal water
Obviously – no visit to Varna and its beautiful places would be finished without enjoying the sheer delight of the Dark Ocean’s sea shores. The city beaches of Varna are easily accessible and provide a variety of amenities, including beachside cafes and water sports.
However – if you’re looking for a more quite and pristine coastal experience – you might want to check out some of the less well-known beaches close to Varna. Some of these beaches are Byala Beach and Irakli Beach – they have a more peaceful atmosphere, making them ideal for those who want to get away from the crowds and take in the natural beauty of the Bulgarian coast. Oh, and the sands are so gold and warm – absolutely amazing!
Traveling from Sofia to Varna – which is your best option?
If you are located in Sofia, and you want to get to Varna, you should know that you have a few nice options: a plane (fast, simple, but pretty expensive one), a bus (cheap, but pretty slow one), or a train (always nice experience, but taking too long). Of course, you can also enjoy another amazing option – private taxi.
By choosing a private taxi with Around Bulgaria, you can be certain that you have nothing to think about, but to sit back and relax while enjoying your amazing journey. A car with a private driver will take you from your location, and it will be perfectly suited to your needs, meaning that it will have space for your company, pets, and baggage. The personal driver will take you to the location you are going to, in that case – Varna, and all you need to do is enjoy the ride.
Varna is captivating destination that is surely worth visiting, and if you do that – you will fall in love forever. While the city itself is vibrant and offers astonishing views and locations, the surroundings also offer a diverse array of experiences that will always stay in your heart. The places near Varna promise a journey filled with discovery, beauty, and cultural immersion. So – do not hesitate to enjoy an amazing Bulgarian experience by visiting one of the most beautiful Bulgarian cities near the coast of Black Sea.
Return to the main post or visit these and more attractions on one of our private day tours.