Getting the most out of a day in Varna can be a challenge, especially if you’re visiting the city for the first time. Luckily the city is very pedestrian-friendly and many of the key sites and attractions are located in the centre and are easy to reach. Here are some of the best ways to spend 24 hours in Varna:
Quick breakfast stop…
The Social Teahouse
The Social Teahouse is one of the best places in the centre where you can enjoy a nice breakfast before beginning your day. The venue is very stylish and cosy and it also comes with an incredible coworking area. The menu offers some amazing wrap sandwiches, freshly baked croissants and muffins, their signature cheesecake with tea coating, and many types of teas and coffee.
Morning: Archaeological Museum and Roman Thermae
Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum is an absolute must-see if you’re ever in Varna! The museum features original exhibits dating back from the Paleolithic Age /about 100 000 years BC/ to the Middle Ages /7th – 8th/ century and the Bulgarian National Revival era. The highlight of the museums is without a doubt the Varna Necropolis which contains the oldest gold treasure in the world!
Roman Thermae
The Roman Thermae is the largest ancient building discovered in Bulgaria so far and your second stop. The ancient complex dates back to the late 2nd century AD when it used to be a popular public centre for the citizens of the Roman city of Odessus. The ruins of the ancient baths are amongst the best-preserved and largest in Europe.
Sightseeing tip: While in the centre make sure to stop by the busy public square "Sveti Sveti Kiril I Metodiy" and see the Cathedral. The stunning religious building is one of the most beautiful symbols of the city!
Noon: Centre & lunch at Pizza ‘’La Casa Al Mare’’
Varna Centre
The centre is a great place to stroll down, do a bit of sightseeing, shopping or just relax at one of the many cafes, bars and restaurants. Make sure not to miss the State Opera House as the building is quite stunning!
Pizza Bar La Casa Al Mare
Pizza - Bar "La Casa al Mare" is great place to stop by for lunch and enjoy some authentic Italian pizza. The restaurant is very cosy, with stylish decor and pleasant atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to sit down, relax and immerse yourself into Varna’s charming vibe along with a unique and modern food scene. You’ll find the venue just next to the beautiful Sea Garden which also happens to be your next stop!
Other sites worth visiting in the area…
The City Art Gallery "Boris Georgiev" is one of the best places in town to visit if you’re interested in getting to know Bulgarian art. The gallery displays a significant collection of Bulgarian art from the early 20th century onwards.
Afternoon: Sea Garden & Grand Mall Varna
Sea Garden
The Sea Garden is one of Varna’s symbols and a favourite for relaxation and fun for both citizens of the city and guests alike. The park boasts with long flowery lanes, areas for recreation, numerous sites, attractions and a much-needed shade for the hot summer days. The park is located along the shores of the Black Sea and the Sea Coastal Alley (and central beach) are just next door.
Some attractions in the Sea Garden…
Varna Zoo
The Dolphinarium is the only attraction of its kind in the Balkans. Make sure to stop by and see one of the amazing dolphin shows there. They are very entertaining for both children and adults! The Zoo is another stop worth making as you can see some really interesting animals such as lions and tigers! Those with children will surely love the Amusement Park that’s located inside the garden and for the lovers of history and navy - the Naval Museum will be a real treat.
Retro Museum
At Grand Mall Varna you can do a bit of shopping or visit the amazing Retro Museum. There you can see all kinds of items from the Communist era in Bulgaria as well as some very unique retro cars.
Evening: The Black Sheep Brewhouse & Port Varna
The Black Sheep Brewhouse
The Black Sheep Brewhouse is one of the best places in town where you can enjoy a local craft beer with friends. The venue comes with a bar, a restaurant, a game room and has a very cosy, pub-like setting. Here you’ll find over 40 types of craft and bottled beer from different corners of the world.
Port Varna
Why not end your day with a stroll down the Port of Varna? Similarly to the centre, the area around the port has been pedestrianized so you can enjoy a nice, romantic walk by the sea and you can even sit down at one of the restaurants there.
