Varna
Bulgaria
Attractions & Events in Varna
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Varna, Bulgaria
Top Attractions
Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral
Varna's largest church, known for its golden domes and intricate frescoes, completed in 1886.
Tips: Climb the bell tower for panoramic city views; best visited at sunset.
Euxinograd Palace
A former royal summer residence with French-style architecture and formal gardens, now a government property.
Tips: Guided tours available; check in advance for visiting hours and restrictions.
National Maritime Museum
Showcases Bulgaria's maritime history with exhibits including naval artifacts and the famous Drazki torpedo boat.
Tips: Located near the Sea Garden; suitable for history enthusiasts and families.
Pobiti Kamani (Stone Forest)
A natural phenomenon featuring tall limestone pillars, some up to 10 meters high, located 20 km from Varna.
Tips: Best explored at sunrise or sunset; wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain.
Roman Thermae
Ancient Roman baths from the late 2nd century AD, ranking as the fourth-largest preserved Roman thermae in Europe and the largest in the Balkans.
Tips: Open during summer months; check local schedules for guided tours and events.
Sea Garden
Varna's largest public park, featuring landscaped gardens, fountains, and cultural venues along the Black Sea coast.
Tips: Ideal for leisurely walks; visit during sunset for stunning sea views.
State Puppet Theatre Varna
Founded in 1952, hosting puppet performances and the annual 'Golden Dolphin' festival.
Tips: Primarily for children but enjoyable for adults; check the schedule for shows.
Varna Archaeological Museum
Houses artifacts from prehistoric to medieval times, including the world's oldest gold treasure from 4600-4200 BCE.
Tips: Allocate 2-3 hours; consider a guided tour for deeper insights.
Varna Necropolis
Prehistoric burial site where the world's oldest gold treasure was discovered, dating back to 4600-4200 BCE.
Tips: Artifacts are displayed at the Varna Archaeological Museum; plan a combined visit.
Varna Opera Theatre
Established in 1947, hosting opera, ballet, and musical performances in a historic building.
Tips: Check the schedule for performances; book tickets in advance.
Events & Festivals
Book Fair 'Alley of the Book'
An annual event where the center of Varna transforms into a vibrant book fair, featuring numerous publishers and authors.
When: August
Tips: Explore a wide range of books and attend author signings; it's a haven for book lovers.
Day of Varna - Dormition of the Theotokos
Celebrated on August 15th, this day features concerts, events, and a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
When: August
Tips: Participate in city-wide celebrations and enjoy the vibrant local culture.
International Fair of Crafts and Arts
The largest art exhibition in Bulgaria, combining traditional and contemporary arts with live demonstrations by artists.
When: August
Tips: Visit the Sea Garden to experience live art creation and purchase unique artworks.
International Folklore Festival 'Varna Summer'
Since 1992, this festival presents folklore performances from various countries, promoting cultural exchange and traditions.
When: August
Tips: Enjoy performances at the Summer Theatre and other open-air stages; arrive early for good seating.
International Film Festival 'Love Is Folly'
Established in 1993, this festival showcases over 90 films focusing on the theme of love, attracting international filmmakers and audiences.
When: August to September
Tips: Attend screenings at the Festival and Congress Center; check the program for film schedules.
International Jazz Festival 'Varna Summer'
Founded in 1992, this festival features world-famous jazz musicians from Bulgaria and abroad, offering high-quality jazz performances.
When: July
Tips: Attend concerts at various venues; check the schedule for specific performances and locations.
July Morning
An annual festival where people gather on the Black Sea coast to welcome the first sunrise of July, inspired by the song 'July Morning' by Uriah Heep.
When: July
Tips: Join locals on the beach for music and festivities; a unique cultural experience.
Varna International Ballet Competition
The world's first professional international ballet competition, established in 1964, discovering young ballet talents globally.
When: July
Tips: Witness future ballet stars; tickets are highly sought after, so book early.
Asparuhovo Sing and Dance Traditional Fair
A traditional fair held since 1966, featuring rock, pop, and folk performances in Asparuhovo Park.
When: June
Tips: Experience local culture and community spirit; free entry makes it accessible to all.
International Theater Festival 'Varna Summer'
Since 1993, this festival has showcased diverse theater performances from Bulgaria and around the world, attracting over 10,000 spectators annually.
When: June
Tips: Explore different theater forms and trends; early booking is recommended due to high demand.
International Music Festival 'Varna Summer'
Established in 1926, this is Bulgaria's oldest music festival, featuring classical music, opera, and ballet performances by renowned international artists.
When: June to August
Tips: Book tickets in advance and check the program for performances at various venues like the Opera House and Summer Theatre.
Francophone Holiday
Celebrated since 1990, this event honors French language and culture with free screenings of Francophone movies.
When: March
Tips: Attend free film screenings at the Festival & Congress Center; a treat for cinema lovers.
International Music Festival 'Sea and Memories'
A competition promoting Bulgarian and foreign pop music, focusing on compositions dedicated to the sea.
When: May
Tips: Support your favorite songs and enjoy performances by emerging artists.
Regatta Varna Channel Cup
A celebration of sailing, featuring yacht races and maritime festivities, attracting sailing enthusiasts and spectators.
When: May to June
Tips: Enjoy the races from Asparuhovo Park and Port Varna; live commentary and music enhance the experience.
CineLibri
An international book-to-film festival held every autumn, featuring films based on literary works and hosting renowned filmmakers and authors.
When: October
Tips: Attend film screenings and literary discussions; a must for book and film enthusiasts.
International Puppet Festival 'Golden Dolphin'
Held every three years since 1972, this festival presents the latest and most interesting puppet theater productions from Bulgaria and worldwide.
When: October
Tips: Ideal for families and puppet enthusiasts; check the schedule for performances suitable for all ages.
Golden Rose Bulgarian Feature Film Festival
Held in September or October, this festival showcases Bulgarian feature films, awarding the prestigious 'Golden Rose' prize.
When: September to October
Tips: Explore the latest in Bulgarian cinema; screenings are popular, so plan ahead.
Songs of Life Festival
A music festival commemorating the rescue of 49,000 Bulgarian Jews during World War II, featuring performances that honor this historical event.
When: Varies
Tips: Check the schedule for performances; a meaningful event highlighting history through music.