After immersing yourself in the vibrant things to do in Varna, from lounging on the golden sands of its beaches to exploring the ancient Roman Baths, day trips from Varna offer a splendid extension to your exploration. These adventures introduce you to the rich tapestry of Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast and its hinterland, revealing historic sites, natural wonders, and quaint coastal towns.
Stepping out from Varna, you encounter a broader palette of things to do in Bulgaria, where the fusion of cultural heritage and natural beauty forms a compelling narrative. From the serene Botanical Gardens in Balchik to the mystic allure of the Madara Rider, each excursion unveils the diverse character and history of the region.
Deciding where to stay in Varna is pivotal for those wishing to seamlessly blend urban exploration with the ease of discovering the area’s surrounding attractions. The right accommodation not only positions you close to Varna’s highlights but also offers convenient access for day trips, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience of Bulgaria’s coastal charm.
Discover Best Day Trips from Varna, Bulgaria
1. Balchik, Bulgaria
Balchik is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful Botanical Garden and the Balchik Palace, once a summer residence for Romanian royalty. The town’s seaside promenade is perfect for leisurely walks.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Botanical Garden, Balchik Palace, seaside promenade
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Balchik Palace: €6
- Botanical Garden: €5
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Balchik Palace Gardens, Black Sea Coastline
Travel Tip: Visit the Botanical Garden in spring or early summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
2. Aladzha Monastery, Bulgaria
Aladzha Monastery, a medieval Orthodox Christian cave monastery complex, is nestled in a forested area just outside Varna. The site includes well-preserved frescoes and offers an insight into monastic life centuries ago.
Distance: Approximately 17 km
Travel Time: About 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Medieval cave monastery, frescoes, forest setting
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Monastery Entrance: €4
Budget: Approximately €15-€25 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Aladzha Monastery, surrounding forest trails
Travel Tip: Check out the small museum at the entrance for context before exploring the monastery.
3. Pobiti Kamani (The Stone Forest), Bulgaria
Pobiti Kamani, also known as The Stone Forest, is a natural phenomenon consisting of towering stone pillars. This desert-like formation creates a unique and almost otherworldly landscape.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Natural stone formations, unique desert-like landscape
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Site Entrance: €3
Budget: Approximately €10-€20 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Stone Forest formations, surrounding desert landscape
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a camera to capture the surreal landscape.
4. Kaliakra Cape, Bulgaria
Cape Kaliakra is a stunning, rocky peninsula jutting into the Black Sea, known for its breathtaking cliffs and rich history. It’s also a nature reserve where you can spot dolphins and various bird species.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 90 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Rocky peninsula, nature reserve, historical sites
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Cape Entrance: €3
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Cliff views, Black Sea coast, nature reserve
Travel Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching and dolphin spotting, especially during migration seasons.
5. Nessebar, Bulgaria
Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a historic town filled with ancient churches, medieval and Renaissance architecture, and narrow cobbled streets. It’s located on a small peninsula and is known for its romantic ambiance.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: UNESCO World Heritage site, ancient churches, cobbled streets
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Church Entrance: €2-€4 each
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Old town churches, coastal views, archaeological sites
Travel Tip: Explore the old town’s churches and archaeological remains early in the morning to avoid crowds.
6. Shumen and the Madara Rider, Bulgaria
Shumen offers a glimpse into Bulgaria’s history with attractions like the Shumen Fortress and the Tombul Mosque. Nearby is the Madara Rider, an early medieval large rock relief carved on the Madara Plateau.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Shumen Fortress, Tombul Mosque, Madara Rider rock relief
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Shumen Fortress: €3
- Madara Rider: €3
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Shumen Monument, Madara Plateau, panoramic views
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the panoramic view from the Shumen Monument, built to commemorate the 1300th anniversary of the Bulgarian state.
7. Devnya and the Roman Mosaics Museum, Bulgaria
Devnya, known for the Roman Mosaics Museum, showcases well-preserved Roman mosaics from the ancient city of Marcianopolis. The museum gives a unique look into Roman-era life through these colorful artworks.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Roman Mosaics Museum, ancient city of Marcianopolis
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Museum Entrance: €5
Budget: Approximately €15-€30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Roman mosaics, nearby Stone Forest
Travel Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Stone Forest for a full day of exploration.
8. Tyulenovo, Bulgaria
Tyulenovo is a small village known for its dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and excellent spots for fishing and diving. The rocky coastline offers stunning views and photo opportunities.
Distance: Approximately 85 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Dramatic cliffs, clear waters, fishing and diving spots
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free (for village access)
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Cliffs and sea views, rocky coastline
Travel Tip: Bring your snorkeling gear if you’re interested in exploring the underwater world along this rugged coast.
Plan Your Perfect Day Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
FAQ About Best Day Trips from Varna, Bulgaria
What are some recommended day trips from Varna?
From Varna, visitors often enjoy day trips to Balchik Palace and Botanical Gardens, the Aladzha Monastery, the Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani), and the ancient city of Nessebar.
Is a visit to the Balchik Palace worth it?
Definitely! The Balchik Palace offers a fascinating glimpse into Bulgarian royal history, set amidst beautiful botanical gardens with diverse plant species and stunning sea views.
Can I explore the Stone Forest near Varna?
Yes, the Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani) is a natural phenomenon worth visiting. These peculiar rock formations create a unique landscape that fascinates geologists and tourists alike.
Are there guided tours to the Aladzha Monastery?
Yes, guided tours to the Aladzha Monastery are available. This medieval cave monastery, set in a limestone cliff, offers insight into the region’s religious history and stunning views of the surrounding forest.
What can I see in Nessebar on a day trip?
Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its rich history, ancient ruins, and charming old town. It’s a perfect spot for those interested in Bulgarian history and architecture.
Is a day trip to the Kamchia Biosphere Reserve recommended?
Absolutely! The Kamchia Biosphere Reserve is a serene and untouched natural area along the Kamchia River. It’s ideal for bird watching, nature walks, and enjoying the tranquil riverside setting.
Can I visit a traditional Bulgarian village near Varna?
Yes, day trips to nearby traditional villages like Kranevo and Priseltsi offer a glimpse into rural Bulgarian life, with opportunities to experience local cuisine and customs.
Are there beach destinations near Varna for a day trip?
Varna is close to several beautiful beaches, such as Golden Sands and St. Constantine and Helena. These destinations are perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the Black Sea coastline.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/varna-l412?activity_type=dayTrip
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
