Varna City Guide

Local dishes like shopska salad, tarator, kavarma, Tsa-Tsa fish, and Banica are popular. International options include Italian, Asian, and Turkish food. Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly common. Some late-night food spots operate mainly in the city center and summer season.

Nightlife is lively, especially in summer. There are beach bars, clubs, and pubs along the coast and downtown. Cubo is a popular beach bar.

Coffee scene mixes traditional cafes and emerging specialty shops. Local roasters and third-wave coffee options grow steadily. Coffee is strong and often served with water.

Tipping about 10% is common in restaurants if service is good. Taxi drivers appreciate rounding up the fare. Small tips are appreciated for other services like hairdressers.

Buy SIM cards at mobile operator stores in malls, city center, or airport. Major providers are A1 Bulgaria, Yettel, and Vivacom with good coverage and competitive prices. eSIMs are usually available. ID or passport needed for registration.

Central and tourist areas are generally clean. Residential parts can vary. Waste collection is regular, recycling infrastructure limited.

Some pharmacies open 24/7 on rotation. Many minimarts and kiosks are open late or all night. Emergency hospital departments operate 24/7. Some fast-food and restaurants in the center open late.

International products are available mainly in large supermarkets. Shops like Billa, Kaufland, Lidl, Fantastico are common. The Central Market offers fresh produce. Supermarkets are open from early morning to about 9-10 PM. Large stores stay open on Sundays; smaller ones may close. Bargaining isn't usual except at some markets.

Most big shops, supermarkets, and restaurants accept cards. Smaller shops, markets, and some taxis prefer cash. It's good to carry some Bulgarian Lev (BGN).

ATMs are common around the city at banks like UniCredit Bulbank, DSK Bank, Raiffeisenbank, and shopping centers. Check your bank for withdrawal fees.

Local schools mainly teach in Bulgarian; some private or bilingual options exist. Notable regional schools include First Language School. The American College of Sofia is an international school but located in Sofia.

Varna's digital nomad community is small but growing. Meetups happen occasionally, mainly via social media and co-working spaces. Nomad-friendly cafes and flexible workspaces support remote workers.

The Sea Garden is a large, shaded park with paths good for running and walking. It's the city's main green space and well maintained.

Running routes along the Sea Garden and Varna Lake are scenic and safe. Local running groups exist, and the city hosts marathons and races.

Several well-equipped gyms offer memberships and classes.

Tennis courts are available at sports clubs and hotels, with clay and hard surfaces. Equipment rental and coaching are common. Padel is growing but less common.

Padel is less common but slowly growing in popularity.

Several yoga studios offer different styles and meditation classes. Spa and wellness centers are common, many with English-speaking instructors. Drop-in and memberships are available.

Several gyms offer martial arts like Boxing, Kickboxing, Karate, Taekwondo, BJJ, and Muay Thai. Clubs have drop-in options and hold competitions. English-speaking instructors vary.

No ski resorts near Varna. Closest big resorts are several hours away in Bulgaria's mountains.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular in summer. Rentals and guided tours are common, with good quality equipment available.

Surfing is limited, mainly windsurfing and kitesurfing due to calm Black Sea conditions. Best in summer for warm water and in spring/autumn for wind. Mostly good for beginners or flat-water sports. Some schools offer lessons and rentals.

Diving spots focus on shipwrecks and artificial reefs. Visibility is moderate, water cooler than tropical. Suitable for all levels with some advanced wreck dives. Equipment rental and certification available. Best season is summer.

Private clinics and large hospitals like Acibadem City Clinic Tokuda and St. Marina University Hospital have English-speaking staff. Private care is higher quality with shorter waits than public options. Pharmacies are widespread, some open 24/7. Emergency number is 112.

Tap water meets safety standards and is generally safe to drink. Some prefer bottled water for taste reasons.

Varna has many playgrounds, especially in the Sea Garden. Many cafes are kid-friendly. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions like the Sea Garden, Dolphinarium, Aquarium, and Zoo are great for families.

Varna is somewhat open but Bulgaria is generally conservative. Some inclusive bars and cafes exist but no large gay scene or events. Discretion is advised in public.

Pet-friendly city with dog parks and many pet-friendly places. Vet clinics are available and pet supplies easy to find. Most outdoor areas welcome dogs.