7-Day Varna Itinerary: Explore Bulgaria’s Coastal Gem

Day 1: Arrival & Beach

Varna, Bulgaria on May 3, 2025

12:00pm

Check-in at Varna hotel

Settle into your centrally located hotel in Varna, ideal for accessing key attractions and the beach.
Variable, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Staria Chinar

Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine at this cozy restaurant, known for fresh seafood and local dishes.
BGN25, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Varna Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding on the sandy Varna Beach, soaking in the Black Sea scenery and warm sun.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Happy Bar & Grill

Dine at this popular spot offering a diverse menu with excellent local and international options.
BGN30, 1.5h
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Day 2: Culture & Gardens

Varna, Bulgaria on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast served at your hotel to fuel your exploration.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Varna Archaeological Museum

Explore Bulgaria’s rich history, including the famous Gold of Varna exhibit, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
BGN10, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Fabrika Daga

Enjoy modern Bulgarian cuisine with a creative twist in a trendy setting near the city center.
BGN30, 1h

1:30pm

Sea Garden Walk

Stroll through the beautiful Sea Garden park by the coast, visiting statues, fountains, and the Varna Zoo.
Free, 2.5h

4:00pm

Coffee Break at Moreto Café

Relax with coffee and cakes overlooking the Sea Garden.
BGN10, 0.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Sea Terrace Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and Bulgarian wine with a fantastic sea view at this elegant spot.
BGN40, 1.5h
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Day 3: Monastery & Stone Forest

Varna, Bulgaria on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Breakfast served to start your day early for excursions.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Aladzha Monastery

Explore this fascinating medieval rock monastery located about 17 km from Varna, open 9:00am-6:00pm.
BGN5, 1.5h

11:00am

Pobiti Kamani (Stone Forest)

See the natural rock formations often called 'Stone Desert,' a remarkable geological site just a short drive away.
Free, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at nearby Bistro

Refuel with traditional Bulgarian lunch options near Pobiti Kamani.
BGN20, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Varna and relax

Enjoy some leisure time at your hotel or nearby cafes.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Archiv

Try this fine dining restaurant in Varna with a charming ambiance and international menu.
BGN45, 1.5h
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Day 4: Aquarium & Cathedral

Varna, Bulgaria on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast before your city exploration.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Varna Aquarium

Visit Bulgaria’s largest aquarium showcasing marine life of the Black Sea, open 9:00am - 5:00pm, closed Mondays.
BGN8, 1.5h

11:00am

Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral

Explore the iconic Varna Cathedral with its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mr. Baba

Sample authentic Bulgarian dishes in a friendly atmosphere near the cathedral.
BGN25, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Roman Baths

Explore the ruins of ancient Roman baths dating to the 2nd century, open until 6:00pm.
BGN6, 1h

3:30pm

Relax at Sea Garden

Enjoy the park’s calm spots or rent a bike to explore more.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Morsko Chudo

Feast on seafood delicacies at this highly recommended coastal restaurant.
BGN40, 1.5h
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Day 5: Balchik Day Trip

Varna, Bulgaria on May 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast for your day trip outside Varna.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Balchik

Drive north along the coast to Balchik, about 40 km from Varna, known for its botanical garden and palace.
Approx. BGN20 taxi fare, 1h

9:30am

Balchik Botanical Garden and Palace

Visit the beautiful palace and extensive botanical garden of Queen Marie, open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
BGN10, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Villa Kazayak

Enjoy lunch in a charming spot with sea views and Bulgarian specialties.
BGN25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Balchik town

Stroll through the quaint streets and visit local shops before returning to Varna.
Free, 1.5h

3:30pm

Return to Varna

Travel back to your hotel and unwind.
Approx. BGN20 taxi fare, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Navona

Close your day with Italian-inspired cuisine in a cozy Varna restaurant near the beach.
BGN35, 1.5h
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Day 6: Dolphinarium & Lakes

Varna, Bulgaria on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Breakfast to prepare for your aquatic adventures.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Varna Dolphinarium

Enjoy a popular dolphin show, typically at 10:30am, open 10:00am to 6:00pm, great for families.
BGN15, 1h

11:30am

Varna Lakes Walk

Explore the scenic lakes around Varna with walking paths and birdwatching opportunities.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Free Style Bar

Enjoy light meals and fresh juices in a modern local hangout spot.
BGN20, 1h

3:00pm

Shopping at Varna’s Mall Varna

Shop for souvenirs, fashion, and more at one of Varna’s largest shopping centers.
Variable, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mill

Enjoy a rustic dining experience featuring Bulgarian and European dishes in an indoor setting.
BGN35, 1.5h
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Day 7: Shopping & Departure

Varna, Bulgaria on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Final breakfast at the hotel to enjoy before your departure.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Varna Flea Market

Explore local crafts, antiques, and souvenirs in this bustling market, perfect for last-minute gifts.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Light Lunch at Picnic Coffee & Snacks

Grab quick and tasty snacks like sandwiches and coffee before heading to the airport.
BGN15, 0.5h

1:00pm

Check-out and travel to Varna Airport

Ensure timely arrival at the airport considering local traffic time to catch your returning flight.
Variable, 1h
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