The town of Varna, in Bulgaria, has flights from London three times a week and offers the perfect alternative to the busy holiday destinations of Barcelona, Mallorca and Tenerife
There is a little-known seaside town that has a lovely beach garden and pints only costing £2. The town of Varna, in Bulgaria, has flights from London three times a week and offers the perfect alternative to the busy holiday destinations of Barcelona, Mallorca and Tenerife. The town attracts two million tourists a year, mostly from Romania, Poland, and Germany.
Varna, a city with a rich history of change, was once a crucial port under the ancient Romans. Over the course of more than a thousand years, it has been ruled by Byzantine, Russian, Ottoman and Soviet powers; for a brief seven-year period from 1949, it was even renamed Stalin.
A salty sea breeze sweeps across Varna, meandering through its charming streets and over the distinct Bulgarian architecture. The scent of the sea engulfs the stunning landscape with the intensity of an ocean wave crashing against a wall.
It seeps into the historic Roman bath complex; it brushes past the doorways. One whiff of the air here and you’ll grasp why Varna is hailed as Bulgaria’s maritime capital.
With a history rich enough to keep even the most passionate historian or archaeologist engaged for years, this is a top-notch holiday spot that seamlessly blends natural beauty with a fascinating past, while also offering plenty of modern conveniences for your comfort. Strangely enough, the bus ride from the airport to Varna might just be one of the highlights of your trip, as you traverse the breathtaking scenery that makes Bulgaria so unique.
With turquoise waves on one side and the untamed landscape on the other, you’ll be torn between where to look. Varna boasts excellent connectivity with local resorts like Sveti Konstantin and Balchik, both fantastic options for day trips.
If you’re travelling between them, chances are you’ll pass through Varna. Bus tickets typically cost 24 euros for a 24-hour ticket or 6 euros for six hours.
However, it’s worth noting that English signage in many of the bus depots is lacking, and you may need to ask for directions. If unsure, taxis are plentiful and usually a faster way to reach your destination.
While Varna might not be renowned for its shopping, there are several spots worth visiting if you’re eager to spend those euros. Start with the Capricorn Gallery, located just off Plaza Ekzarh Yosif, where you’ll discover a delightful collection of shops selling unique pieces from local artists.
The prices might be steep, but if you’re hunting for a high-quality gift for someone fussy, this is your go-to place. Also worth checking out is the Grand Mall Varna, home to over 220 shops, late-night eateries, a supermarket, and even an eight-screen cinema.
If you can’t find what you’re after here, it’s probably not worth having. Regular promotions also make it a must-visit for shopping enthusiasts.
Bulgarian cuisine is a real delight, especially in the coastal city of Varna. Nestled on the Black Sea coast, expect seafood to feature heavily on most menus.
Grilled fish, a Bulgarian speciality, is a must-try. During the peak season, the beach is buzzing with open-air bars and restaurants that serve freshly caught squid and salmon.
However, if you’re visiting outside of the high season, it’s best to dine in the city centre where a plethora of top-notch eateries offer a range of traditional local dishes. From meatballs and risotto to salads, Bulgaria boasts a diverse and tantalising food culture.
The influence from neighbouring countries has allowed it to develop an array of delectable meals.
