Private day trips from Varna to places you'll never forget

The official currency in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian lev. While Bulgaria is part of the European Union, it has not yet adopted the euro. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and larger restaurants in Varna, but smaller establishments and beach vendors prefer cash. ATMs are readily available throughout the city.

The official language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian, which uses the Cyrillic alphabet. In tourist areas of Varna, many people in hotels, restaurants and shops speak English, especially younger generations. Learning a few basic Bulgarian phrases is appreciated, though most visitors navigate the city without significant language difficulties.

The best time to visit Varna is May through September when beach weather is ideal with temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees. July and August are peak season with warm waters but larger crowds. June and September offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists. The Varna Summer International Music Festival runs June through July.

Popular day trips from Varna include Ancient Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage seaside town with medieval architecture, and Cape Kaliakra for dramatic coastal cliffs and historic fortress ruins. Balchik offers the stunning Botanical Gardens and former royal palace. Golden Sands provides beautiful beaches, while Sozopol charms with cobblestone streets and Byzantine walls.

Varna is very safe for tourists with low violent crime rates. Petty theft can occur on crowded beaches during summer, so don't leave valuables unattended. When taking taxis, ensure the driver uses the meter. Solo female travelers should take standard precautions like not leaving drinks unattended in bars or walking home alone when intoxicated.

Varna is famous for the Gold of Varna, the world's oldest processed gold treasure dating back 7,000 years, displayed at the Archaeological Museum. The city is known for its Black Sea beaches stretching for miles, the largest Roman bath complex in Bulgaria, and the Sea Garden, one of the largest coastal parks in Eastern Europe.

Pack beach essentials including swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat for Varna's sunny Black Sea coast. Light, breathable clothing works for summer visits, with a light sweater for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are important for exploring. Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine environments.

Varna Airport (VAR) is located 5 miles (7 kilometers) west of the city center and serves both local and international flights.