Travel Guide for Varna

Varna, Bulgaria’s lively seaside city, sits along the glittering Black Sea coast. Steeped in history, it boasts Roman baths, ancient cathedrals, and charming promenades.

Visiting in late September means mild, sunny weather—ideal for exploring beaches, parks, and outdoor attractions with the family. Enjoy the Sea Garden, the Dolphinarium, and affordable seafood restaurants. Varna’s welcoming vibe, rich heritage, and gentle climate make it perfect for a budget-friendly, family escape.

Getting to Varna is easy and family-friendly, with Varna Airport (VAR) offering direct flights from many European cities, especially during the summer season. Taxis or affordable city buses can take you from the airport into the city center in about 15–20 minutes. For a budget option, international buses run from Bucharest, Istanbul, and Sofia, offering comfort and reasonable prices.

If you prefer train travel, daily trains connect Varna with Sofia and other Bulgarian cities, but the journey can be long (7–8 hours). Ferries operate from nearby ports across the Black Sea, though schedules are seasonal and weather-dependent. In late September, expect mild weather and minimal disruptions, but always check transportation timetables as services may reduce after peak summer.

Varna enjoys a mild climate, with warm summers and cool, breezy winters. The city is located on the Black Sea coast, making it a popular spot for beach outings and outdoor adventures from late spring to early autumn. Rain is spread throughout the year, but extreme weather events are rare.

From September 19 to September 26, expect pleasant early autumn weather. Daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with cooler evenings, and occasional light showers. This period is ideal for family activities, outdoor explorations, and visiting parks or the seaside, without the intense summer crowds or heat. Extreme weather is not common during this time.

For a family-friendly stay in Varna, look to the central city area near the Sea Garden. Hotels like Graffit Gallery Hotel and mOdus Hotel offer modern amenities, spacious rooms, and easy access to the beach and attractions. Golden Sands, a lively resort area nearby, offers larger resorts such as Melia Grand Hermitage, which include family-friendly pools and activities.

Booking.com and Airbnb are reliable options for comparing prices and finding deals. In September, accommodation is generally more available and affordable as the tourist crowds fade, but it's still wise to book ahead for your chosen dates. For a quiet location with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes, consider the Chayka neighborhood, just north of the center.

Varna’s cuisine is a flavorful mix of Bulgarian, Turkish, and Greek influences, with dishes like shopska salad, banitsa (cheese pastry), grilled meats, and fresh Black Sea fish. Try tarator (cold cucumber-yogurt soup) in summer and sip local wines or rakia, the traditional fruit brandy, with your meal.

For family-friendly dining, Happy Bar & Grill is a popular chain offering a wide menu at reasonable prices. For a taste of local seafood, check out Staria Chinar Port Varna. Sweet treats and coffee can be enjoyed at Patisserie Café Cherry by the Sea Garden.

Tipping around 10% is customary. Many places offer vegetarian options, but vegan and allergy-friendly choices may be limited; ask staff for recommendations and ingredient details.

Varna offers a range of family-friendly adventures perfect for an early autumn visit. Stroll through the Sea Garden, an expansive park with playgrounds, gardens, and fantastic sea views. At the Varna Aquarium and Dolphinarium, kids can learn about marine life and enjoy entertaining shows.

For outdoor fun, spend a relaxing afternoon on Varna’s sandy beaches or explore the natural trails in Euxinograd Park. The Archaeological Museum is a great place for curious minds to discover Bulgaria’s ancient treasures. These activities are affordable and enjoyable for all ages, making Varna an excellent choice for a memorable family trip.

For a unique Varna adventure, explore the eerie Aladzha Monastery, a medieval cave monastery carved into a cliff in the Golden Sands Nature Park. Venture deeper and you'll discover the Catacombs, an underground site rarely visited by tourists. Hike through the Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani), a mysterious desert of ancient stone pillars with a mystical atmosphere.

Dive into the Black Sea’s underwater world with shipwreck diving trips off Varna’s coast, a lesser-known thrill for certified divers. End your journey at Asparuhovo, where you can meet local fishermen and sample fresh-caught seafood at secret harbor spots, giving you a true taste of local life beyond the usual tourist routes.