Approximately 30 km (18.6 miles) north of Varna.
Balchik is famous for Queen Marie's Palace and Botanical Garden. This unique complex was the summer residence of the Romanian Queen Marie in the early 20th century. The palace, with its lovely architecture, contrasts beautifully with the sprawling botanical garden, which boasts among europe's's largest collections of cacti and succulents. The garden also includes waterfalls, traditional houses, and scenic terraces with a view of the sea.
Discover more of Bulgaria''s wide range of options with a range of excursions from Varna.
Approximately 100 km (62 miles) south of Varna. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Nessebar is special. Its historic town is on a picturesque peninsula, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. It is renowned for its numerous well-preserved medieval churches (some from the 5th century), cobblestone streets, and unique wooden houses from the Bulgarian Revival period. Wandering through Nessebar feels like stepping back in time.
Golden Sands is about 17 km (10.5 miles) north of Varna, and St. Constantine & Helena is about 8 km (5 miles) north. These resorts offer a contrasting experience to Varna's urban vibe, focusing purely on beach relaxation and what the resort offers.
Venture beyond Varna's city limits to explore more of Bulgaria's places of history and culture, or consider longer adventures.
Approximately 14 km (8.7 miles) north of Varna, near Golden Sands. This medieval cave monastery is unique, carved into a towering limestone cliff. It dates back to the 13th-14th centuries.
Archaeological reserves of the first and second capitals of the First Bulgarian Empire, near Shumen (approximately 80-100 km west of Varna). They hold immense historical value.
Explore smaller villages in the Varna region for an authentic glimpse into traditional Bulgarian rural life, older customs, architecture, and a slower pace of life.
People can explore the monastic cells, the church, and the crypts carved into the rock face. There is also a nearby catacombs section. The site features stunning natural surroundings.
Pliska features the ruins of grand palaces, a basilica, and defensive walls. Veliki Preslav used to be a center of culture and literature, with ruins of palaces, churches, and monasteries.
