Varna

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.

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.

Euxinograd, eight kilometres north of Varna along the Black Sea coast, was the summer residence of Bulgaria's post-Liberation monarchs — Alexander of Battenberg, Ferdinand, and Boris III. The palace is modelled on an 18th-century French château, complete with mansard roof, clock tower, and interiors furnished in mahogany and walnut. Look out for the chandelier gifted by the House of Bourbon and the sundial sent by Queen Victoria. The estate's winery, established in 1891, still produces well-regarded white wines and a French-style brandy called Euxignac, and the cellars hold bottles going back to 1904. Tours run three times daily but must be booked in advance by email. The limited access is precisely why the place feels so well preserved.

Contrary to popular belief, Varna is not just about beaches and sunbathing. If you love games and fun, the Amusement Park offers a variety of attractions and entertainment facilities. While primarily designed for children, adults can also enjoy the lively atmosphere, take a stroll, or grab a bite at one of the many eateries nearby.

The star attraction at the Varna Museum of Archaeology is the gold — specifically, more than 3,000 pieces of worked gold unearthed from the Varna Chalcolithic Necropolis, dating to around 4,600–4,200 BC and considered the oldest processed gold ever found. The necropolis was discovered by chance during construction works in 1972, and the finds rewrote what archaeologists understood about prehistoric societies. Beyond the gold, you can explore artefacts spanning from the Palaeolithic through to the Middle Ages, including Roman surgical instruments, Hellenistic tombstones, and a marble plaque listing, in Greek, the names of Varna's school graduates from AD 221. A collection of around 150 icons from the 14th to 19th centuries occupies the second floor. Everything is clearly labelled in both Bulgarian and English. The museum itself is housed in a handsome late Baroque former girls' school dating from the 1890s.

Golden Sands Nature Park stretches along nine kilometres of Black Sea coastline, 17 kilometres northeast of Varna, forming the western border of the Golden Sands resort. At just 13.2 square kilometres, it is the smallest nature park in Bulgaria, though you wouldn't know it from the variety of trails on offer. The paths are uneven and can get muddy after rain, so decent footwear is advisable. A natural highlight along the way is Aladzha Monastery, where a well provides drinking water. From there you can continue through the forest towards Vinitsa or drop down to the beach at Golden Sands.

Located on the hills of Varna, the Monument of Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship is a striking example of communist-era architecture. Built to honour the Soviet Army on Turna Hill, the monument now serves as both a historical landmark and a scenic viewpoint. You can climb its 305 steps for one of the best panoramic views of Varna or even use the climb as a workout, just as many locals do.

Balchik is a charming town and seaside resort on the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast, perfect for a day trip if you're staying in Varna. Despite its small size, this port city offers plenty of activities to fill your day. Stroll along the promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and gelato shops, explore the beautiful botanic garden, visit the historic Balchik Museum, or simply unwind on the beach. Balchik is easily accessible by bus from both Varna and Golden Sands.