City of Varna
Varna is often referred to as the Seaside Capital of Bulgaria and is undoubtedly one of the best places to vacation on along the Black Sea. This charming city has long been a much-loved destination for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re visiting for the amazing beaches, culture, lively night scene or delicious cuisine, you’ll find that there’s plenty to see and do around Varna! Here are the top 5 places to visit while in the Sea Capital:
1. Sea Garden (Primorski Park)
Sea Garden, Varna
The Sea Garden is one of Varna’s most prominent symbols and an incredible example of landscape architecture. The garden is the local’s favourite place for recreation and it’s close by to the centre, the beach and the Sea Coastal alley. Many key attractions and museums are also located inside the garden such as the Zoo, Dolphinarium, Naval Museum and the Museum of Natural Sciences. The Sea Garden is the ideal place for a stroll any time of the day and provides a much need shade and a place to sit down and rest during hot, summer days.
2. Port Varna
Port Varna
The Port of Varna is the ideal spot to spend an afternoon with family and friends, just walking around, enjoying the sea views and fresh breeze. The area around the Port has been pedestrianized so you can enjoy a nice stroll down and refresh at one of the many cafes, and venues there. For some delicious local seafood, visit the restaurant ‘’Captian Cook’’ which is located inside the Port. If you go further down to the lighthouse you can spot some dolphins sometimes or you can just watch a sunset as the view from there is quite marvellous.
3. Varna Centre
Varna Centre
The centre of Varna is undoubtedly one of the best places that you can visit while in town. The main street has been entirely pedestrianized so it’s very easy to get around and see many of the key sites on foot. During the warmer months, the centre is a lively, vibrant place where you can enjoy spending time with your family and loved ones and really get a sense of the charm and atmosphere of the city. The entire area boasts with shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and many entertainment venues so you’re not likely to ever get bored there.
4. Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral
Varna Cathedral
The Cathedral in Varna is one of the most beautiful symbols of the city and an absolute must-see site! If you’re walking around the centre it’s unlikely that you’ll miss it as it’s located on the busy public square - "Sveti Sveti Kiril I Metodiy". This stunning religious building is breathtaking both in the daylight and at night when you’ll have a chance to marvel at its golden domes as they light up just beautifully! The architecture of the cathedral was inspired by the church in Peterhof Palace in St Petersburg, Russia. The atmosphere inside the church is quite intimate and you can see some very unique (and detailed) murals, frescoes and other religious items.
5. Panoramic Site Galata
Panoramic Site Galata
The Panoramic Site ‘’Galata’’ offers some incredible panoramic views of Varna, the Black Sea and the surrounding region. This stunning spot has certainly grown in popularity through the years and it has become a favourite place for the citizens of Varna as well as guests of the city. The site is located about 2 km from the centre of town and it’s the perfect spot to visit and appreciate the beauty of the Sea Capital while escaping the somewhat hectic lifestyle of the big city. People often go there to just relax, socialize and marvel at the infinite beauty of the seaside. Snack and drinks are available at the nearby Snack Bar ‘’Fantastico’’ and the panoramic platform features some binoculars (for better visibility) as well as benches for recreation.
