Pre-Trip Checklist: Varna

Essential Preparations: Your Countdown to Varna

Organized steps for a smooth travel experience.

Planning Timeline

A phased approach to your pre-trip activities.

+ Months Out

Passport Validity

Valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date.

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements for Bulgaria based on your nationality; begin application if needed.

Flight & Accommodation Booking

Book international flights and peak accommodation well in advance for prices and availability.

Month Out

Itinerary Finalization

Solidify your Varna itinerary, including day trips and specific attractions.

Internal Transport

Reserve any internal flights, trains, or long-distance buses within Bulgaria.

Airport Transfers

Plan your transport from Varna Airport to your accommodation.

Week Out

Credit/Debit Cards

Inform your bank of your travel dates to Bulgaria.

Currency Exchange

Exchange some local currency (Bulgarian Lev) or plan initial ATM withdrawals.

Documents & Electronics

Print/save copies of essential documents; charge devices and pack adapters.

Health & Security

Important health and safety considerations.

Health Consultations

Consult a doctor on recommended vaccinations.
Discuss any health precautions for Bulgaria.
Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.
Cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Logistics & Home Preparations

Organize travel logistics and home arrangements.

Confirmations

Double-check all flight, hotel, and tour bookings.
Obtain International Driving Permit (IDP) if driving.
Charge electronic devices and pack necessary power adapters.
Arrange for mail/newspaper hold or pickup, finalize pet-sitting.

Pre-Trip Focus

Areas for dedicated attention before your journey.

Cultural Immersion

Learn about Bulgarian culture.
Practice a few basic phrases.
Read recent reviews of hotels and attractions.

Essential Bookings

International and domestic flights.
Popular hotels, especially beachfront ones.
Major tours or specialized experiences.
Rental cars for independent exploration.

Home Preparations

Inform trusted friend/family of itinerary.
Secure your home, check locks.
Set timers for lights if away long.
Finalize pet-sitting arrangements.

Important Travel Update

Prioritize booking popular accommodations and tours during high season for availability.

Arrival Checklist: Your First Steps in Varna

A smooth arrival makes for a positive trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs
Present passport and any required visa documents to immigration officials.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage claim.
3
Locate ATM/Currency Exchange
Find an ATM to withdraw local currency (Bulgarian Lev) or use a currency exchange office.

Orientation & Immediate Needs

Settle into Accommodation
Get settled into your hotel or apartment upon arrival.
Familiarize with Neighborhood
Take a short walk around your immediate neighborhood; identify facilities.
Tourist Information Visit
Visit a tourist information center in the city for maps, brochures, and current event listings.

Post-Arrival Actions

Initial Purchases

After withdrawing cash, purchase bottled water.

Get some local snacks (like Banitsa) or a public transport ticket.

Local Orientation

Identify the nearest pharmacy, supermarket, ATM.

Locate public transport stops for convenience.

Transport from Airport

Follow your pre-planned transfer method.

This could be bus, taxi, Bolt, or private transfer.

Traveler Tips

Prioritize bank ATMs for better rates and security over airport kiosks when withdrawing cash.

Departure Preparation: A Smooth Exit from Varna

Organized steps for a seamless departure from Varna.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Ensure enough space and weight allowance for purchased souvenirs.
If buying large items, arrange shipping with a courier (DHL, FedEx).
Alternatively, use the local post office (Bulgarian Post) in advance.
Gather all VAT refund forms from retailers if applicable.

Pre-departure Timing

Airport: 2-3 hours before international, 1.5-2 hours before domestic flight.
Return rental car with sufficient time for inspection procedures.
Factor in potential traffic to the airport or station.
Reconfirm return flight, train, or bus details 24-48 hours before departure.

VAT Refund Procedure

For non-EU residents with eligible purchases.

Steps for VAT Refund

Collect forms from retailersBefore Departure
Process at airport customsBefore Check-in
Show purchased itemsTo Customs Officials
Obtain necessary stampsFrom Customs

Return Trip Preparation

Check for any schedule changes or delays for your return journey.
Ensure all necessary documents for onward travel are ready.
This includes boarding passes, any required visas for layovers.
Check for any health declarations required for re-entry to your home country.

Final Reminder

Allow ample time for airport check-in and security procedures.

Account for potential traffic, especially during peak hours or summer.

Pre-Trip Checklist