Attractions around Varna

Attractions around Varna: A guide to unforgettable experiences

Varna is not only an important economic and cultural centre, but also one of the gems of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. This seaside city is extremely popular not only among Bulgarians but also among foreign tourists who want to combine their seaside holiday with visits to historical, cultural and natural landmarks.

In this article, we will take a detailed look at some of the most interesting and popular places in the surroundings of Varna that are definitely worth visiting. Whether you are a fan of culture, history, nature or adventures, Varna and its region offer something for everyone.

Contents

The Sea Garden
Aladzha Monastery
The Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani)
Kamen Bryag and Yailata
Cape Kaliakra
The Kamchia River and resort
Golden Sands and the nature park
The Botanical Garden in Balchik
Museums and cultural landmarks in Varna
Beaches around Varna
The Roman Baths in Varna
The resort St. St. Constantine and Helena
Map of the attractions around Varna

The Sea Garden

The Sea Garden is the heart of Varna and a place that embodies the spirit of the city. Located on the Black Sea coast, this park covers a vast area full of beautiful flower alleys, picturesque views and unique historical and cultural sites. The garden offers numerous attractions for people of all ages, including opportunities for active recreation.

Main attractions in the Sea Garden:

The Dolphinarium – one of the most famous places in the garden. It offers a unique opportunity to see dolphins in action, which delights not only children but also adults. The dolphins perform complex routines that demonstrate their intelligence and abilities. In addition to the shows, the Dolphinarium also offers special programs that allow visitors to interact with the dolphins.
The Aquarium in Varna – here you can see the rich diversity of the marine world of the Black Sea, including fish and other sea creatures. There are also special exhibitions that tell the story of life in different ecosystems and the role of the Black Sea for the region.
The Zoo – a small but diverse zoo. The zoo in Varna is suitable for families and gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about different animal species.

Aladzha Monastery

Aladzha Monastery is a rock monastery located about 17 km from Varna and is one of the most important Christian sites on the Northern Black Sea coast. It is believed that the monastery existed as early as the 4th century, and during the Middle Ages it was an important spiritual centre for the monastic community in the region. The monastery is situated on a rock cliff about 25 metres high, and the cells carved into the rocks offer a unique view of the sea.

Interesting facts about Aladzha Monastery:

Historical significance – Aladzha Monastery was inhabited during the Byzantine period and is considered one of the earliest monastic dwellings in Bulgaria.
Legends and myths – according to local legends, the monastery was inhabited by spirits and is believed to have secret underground passages.

The Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani)

The Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani) is one of the most mysterious places around Varna and one of the natural landmarks that leave a lasting impression. Located about 18 km west of the city, these strange stone columns are shrouded in mystery and offer an unforgettable sight. They rise from the ground in a desert-like area, as if placed there by an ancient civilisation. Pobiti Kamani are extremely interesting for geologists because their origin remains unexplained.

Highlights in the Stone Forest area:

Ecological significance – this area is the only natural “desert” in Bulgaria and is home to a variety of plant species typical of dry zones.
Mythology – legends say that these stones are petrified giants or that they were part of an ancient ritual.

Kamen Bryag and Yailata

Kamen Bryag is a place where the raw beauty of nature meets the mystique of the past. This area is a popular destination for nature lovers and for those who seek peace and incredible sea views. Yailata, located a short distance from Kamen Bryag, is an archaeological reserve known for its caves and historical remains from various civilisations.

What to see at Kamen Bryag and Yailata:

July Morning – every year on 1 July, thousands of people gather here to welcome the sunrise of the first July morning. This event, known as “July Morning”, symbolises freedom and is a deeply emotional experience.
Yailata – here you can see remains of fortresses and ancient civilisations that offer a unique insight into the history of the region.

Cape Kaliakra

Cape Kaliakra is a place that combines natural beauty and historical landmarks. Located about 70 km north of Varna, Kaliakra offers stunning views of the sea and is associated with numerous legends and historical events. According to one of the legends, 40 maidens jumped from the cliffs so as not to fall into the hands of the Ottoman invaders.

Highlights of Cape Kaliakra:

Medieval fortresses and caves – Kaliakra is home to many historical structures that bear witness to the different eras and peoples that inhabited this area.
Kaliakra Reserve – the reserve is home to many rare plants and animals, which makes it a popular place for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

The Kamchia River and resort

Kamchia is a small natural paradise located only 25 km south of Varna. Here the Kamchia River flows into the Black Sea and around it stretches a protected natural area with dense forests and rich flora and fauna. The resort of Kamchia is suitable for relaxation, fishing and boat trips, and the surrounding nature is preserved almost in its natural state.

Attractions in the Kamchia area:

Boat rentals – visitors can rent a boat and enjoy a trip along the river, experiencing the unique atmosphere of the protected territory.
Nature trails – in Kamchia there are specially built paths that allow tourists to explore the region and get to know its diverse plant and animal species.

Golden Sands and the nature park

Golden Sands is the most popular resort on the Northern Black Sea coast, located about 18 km from Varna. It offers a combination of golden sandy beaches, modern hotels, restaurants and attractions, which makes it suitable both for family holidays and for nightlife lovers. Near the resort is the Golden Sands Nature Park, which provides opportunities for eco-tourism and walks in nature.

Highlights in Golden Sands:

Aquapark – one of the largest aquaparks in Bulgaria, offering attractions for all ages.
Variety of bars and restaurants – the resort has numerous venues offering both traditional Bulgarian and international cuisine.

The Botanical Garden in Balchik

Located about 40 km north of Varna, the Botanical Garden in Balchik is one of the most famous gardens in Bulgaria. It is part of the architectural complex of the palace of Queen Marie of Romania, built in the 1920s. The garden offers a rich collection of plants, including over 3,000 species, some of which are exotic and rare.

Museums and cultural landmarks in Varna

Varna offers numerous cultural and historical sites connected to the rich heritage of the city and the region. Among the most important museums are the Archaeological Museum, the History Museum and the Museum of the National Revival. Each of these museums preserves artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region from antiquity to the present day.

Beaches around Varna

Varna is blessed with beautiful beaches that offer not only sand and sea waves, but also a variety of opportunities for sports, entertainment and relaxation. Some of them are close to the city centre, while others are a bit more remote and offer a calmer atmosphere. Among the most popular beaches are the city beach in Varna, Kabakum, Fichoza and Shkorpilovtsi.

Well-known beaches around Varna:

Central beach of Varna – convenient for tourists, this beach offers numerous bars and restaurants, as well as sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. Here is also the famous “Cuba” bar, where parties are often organised.
Kabakum Beach – located about 10 km north of Varna and known for its fine sand and calm waters. Kabakum is quieter than the city beach and attracts visitors who want to enjoy the sun in a more relaxed setting.
Fichoza – a quiet and peaceful beach located about 15 km south of Varna. It is preferred by locals and offers seclusion, making it ideal for families and nature lovers.
Shkorpilovtsi – one of the longest beaches in Bulgaria, located about 40 km from Varna. There are a few small bars, but nature dominates with its wide sandy strip and surrounding forests.

The Roman Baths in Varna

The Roman Baths in Varna are the remains of an ancient Roman complex dating back to the 2nd–3rd century AD. They are the largest Roman baths on the Balkan Peninsula and impress with their scale and well-preserved structure. The thermal complex was used as a place for relaxation and social gatherings in the Roman era and is connected to Roman bathing rituals.

Interesting facts about the Roman Baths:

Architecture – the baths have impressive architecture with thick walls, underfloor heating and various rooms such as the apodyterium (changing room) and caldarium (hot room).
Historical significance – these baths are evidence of Roman influence and the cultural development of the region during antiquity. They are an important archaeological site that enriches the cultural heritage of Varna.

The resort St. St. Constantine and Helena

St. St. Constantine and Helena is the oldest seaside resort in Bulgaria, located about 8 km from Varna. The resort combines the tranquillity of green parks with a variety of mineral springs used for balneotherapy. The complex is known for its luxury hotels, spa centres and cosy restaurants that attract tourists from all over the world. It is a wonderful place for relaxation and at the same time offers various entertainment options.

Features of the resort:

Mineral pools – the mineral springs in the resort have healing properties and are used to treat various conditions, including skin and joint problems.
The monastery St. St. Constantine and Helena – located in the heart of the complex, this monastery was founded in the 16th century and is dedicated to Emperor Constantine and his mother Helena. The monastery has beautiful architecture and brings a sense of peace and spirituality.

Map of the attractions around Varna

To make it easier to plan your trip around Varna, we recommend using an interactive map where all the attractions described in this article are marked. It may include the exact coordinates of each site, as well as useful information such as opening hours, entrance fees and contact details. The interactive map will allow you to organise your journey and choose routes that combine several sites in a single day.

Varna – your ideal destination for culture and relaxation

Varna and the region around it offer a rich variety of landmarks and attractions that can satisfy the tastes and interests of every tourist. From beautiful beaches and nature parks to historical sites and unique museums, Varna has a lot to offer its visitors. This seaside city combines modern comforts with centuries-old cultural heritage, which makes it an ideal destination for holidays and tourism.

This guide is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure around Varna, where you can create memories and experience the unique atmosphere of the Northern Black Sea coast.