Begin your tour at Cathedral Square, Varna’s central hub, dominated by the Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral, a 19th-century masterpiece with golden domes and intricate frescoes. Admire its grand façade and, if time allows, pop in for a quick look at the ornate interior (free entry). From here, stroll south along Bul. Knyaz Boris I, a bustling boulevard lined with shops and cafés, capturing Varna’s lively seaside charm.
After about 10 minutes, stop at Happy Bar & Grill (Bul. Slivnitsa 22), a popular local eatery with a casual vibe, perfect for a quick lunch of Bulgarian classics like kavarma (meat and vegetable stew) or meshana skara (mixed grill), affordable, no reservations needed, but arrive early to avoid the midday crowd. The relaxed atmosphere feels like a modern take on a European bistro.
Continue south to Primorski Park (Sea Garden), Varna’s sprawling seaside park, one of the largest in Europe. Wander along its tree-lined paths to the Palace of Culture and Sports, a modernist landmark, and admire views of the Black Sea. Head towards the Naval Museum, nestled in the park, for a quick 20-minute peek at maritime artefacts, including historic ship models (small fee), evoking Varna’s coastal heritage.
Proceed west to Nezavisimost Square, a lively plaza with the Varna Opera House, a neoclassical gem. Explore the nearby Slivnitsa Boulevard, a pedestrian-friendly street with boutiques and street performers. Stop at The Social Teahouse (Ul. Preslav 13) for a coffee or herbal tea with a slice of Bulgarian banochka (creamy layered dessert), no bookings needed, but arrive promptly to enjoy its bohemian vibe.
Head south along Ul. Dragoman to the Roman Thermae, 2nd-century ruins of Varna’s ancient baths, offering a glimpse into its Roman past (small fee or view from outside). From here, stroll north to Ethnographic Museum (Ul. Panagyurishte 22), housed in a 19th-century mansion, for a quick 15-minute look at Bulgarian folk traditions, from costumes to crafts (small fee).
Continue to Bul. Tsar Osvoboditel and visit Stoyan Bachvarov Dramatic Theatre, a grand 1920s building with an elegant façade, Varna’s cultural heart. For a sweet treat, pop into Dolce Amaro (Bul. Knyaz Boris I, 37), a stylish patisserie for a hot chocolate or a slice of garash (chocolate-walnut cake), no reservations needed, but expect a lively crowd.
End your tour at Sevastopol Square, near the waterfront, with views of yachts and the Varna Aquarium. For a final treat, visit Café Godzila (Bul. Slivnitsa 33), a local favourite for a glass of Bulgarian wine or a baklava, soaking up Varna’s coastal energy. Alternatively, relax at Café Olé (Sea Garden, near the Promenade), watching the Black Sea waves and Varna’s vibrant seaside life unfold.This 3-4 km route captures Varna’s historic depth, Bulgarian cuisine, and seaside allure, perfect for a four-hour stroll. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled paths in the old town and bring a light jacket for Varna’s breezy coastal weather
