# 🇧🇬 Varna — Bulgaria

> Varna is the Bulgarian summer escape Israelis love: a short flight, Black Sea beaches, good-value hotels and an easy mix of relaxation and city life. Spend the day at Central Beach, Aquahouse Thermal & Beach or nearby Golden Sands, then stroll through the Sea Garden, shop along Knyaz Boris Boulevard and visit a casino after dark.

## Quick facts

- **Country:** Bulgaria
- **Currency:** BGN (лв)
- **Time zone:** זהה לתל אביב, למעט פערים קצרים במעבר לשעון קיץ
- **Language:** בולגרית
- **Power plug:** C / F · 230V
- **Visa for Israelis:** אין צורך בוויזה לישראלים לשהייה של עד 90 יום בתוך 180 יום באזור שנגן
- **Safety:** יעד נוח ובטוח יחסית; באזורי חוף, בילוי ותחבורה ציבורית כדאי להישמר מכייסות וממוניות לא מורשות
- **Main airport (IATA):** VAR
- **Trips from:** ₪1,690 / 4 nights
- **Traveler rating:** 4.4/5

## Best time to visit

- **Recommended months:** June, July, August, September

## Weather by month

Measured in Varna.

| Month | Avg. temp | Conditions |
| --- | --- | --- |
| ינו | 7°C | Cool |
| פבר | 8°C | Cool |
| מרץ | 12°C | Cool |
| אפר | 17°C | Recommended |
| מאי | 22°C | Excellent |
| יונ | 26°C | Excellent |
| יול | 29°C | Excellent |
| אוג | 29°C | Excellent |
| ספט | 25°C | Excellent |
| אוק | 19°C | Recommended |
| נוב | 13°C | Cool |
| דצמ | 8°C | Cool |

## Where to stay

- **Varna City Centre** — Best for: Couples, dining and shopping lovers, and travelers who prefer not to rent a car. A convenient urban base around the Dormition Cathedral, pedestrian streets, and restaurants, with quick access to the Sea Garden and beach.
- **Varna Beach and the Sea Garden** — Best for: Couples and families looking to combine beach time with city life. A long green promenade with an urban beach, seafront bars, and family attractions all within walking distance.
- **Golden Sands** — Best for: Young travelers, nightlife seekers, groups of friends, and families who enjoy resort hotels. A lively resort strip about 17 km north of Varna, with a broad beach, all-inclusive hotels, bars, clubs, and a casino.
- **Sts. Constantine and Helena** — Best for: Couples, families, and travelers seeking a relaxed, polished holiday. A greener, quieter resort than Golden Sands, known for small coves, spa hotels, and warm mineral pools.
- **Albena** — Best for: Families with children and travelers who prefer an organized, peaceful resort. A resort town about 30 km north of Varna with a long sandy beach, shallow water, children’s activities, and less late-night noise.

## Getting around

- **Airport to city:** Varna Airport is about 9 km from the center. An official taxi to central Varna usually takes 15–20 minutes and costs around ₪30–50; Golden Sands takes roughly 35–45 minutes and ₪80–130. Bus 409 links the airport with the center, Sts. Constantine and Helena, and Golden Sands for just a few shekels.
- **Do you need a car?** You do not need a car when staying in central Varna or at a resort and focusing on beaches, dining, and shopping. A one- or two-day rental is worthwhile for Aladzha Monastery, Cape Kaliakra, Balchik, or Nessebar, though summer parking near the beaches can be difficult.
- **Transport tips:** Use the Triumf Taxi app or the official taxi rank, and avoid drivers approaching passengers inside the terminal. Bus 409 is useful but crowded in summer; check the final departure before an evening trip between Varna and Golden Sands.

## What it costs (for Israeli travelers)

- **Round-trip flight from TLV:** ₪550-1,300 (summer: ₪1,700+)
- **Mid-range hotel night:** ₪250-500 (double room)
- **Restaurant meal:** ₪45-90
- **Local beer:** ₪8-16
- **Coffee:** ₪6-12
- **Short taxi ride:** ₪12-25
- **Rental car per day:** ₪100-220 (excluding fuel)
- **Daily budget per person:** ₪250-480 (excluding flight)

## Kosher food, Chabad & Jewish community

- **Chabad house:** A seasonal Chabad House operates in central Varna, mainly during summer and periods with significant Israeli traffic. It generally provides prayers, Shabbat meals, and sometimes pre-ordered kosher food; its address, hours, and availability can change, so advance contact and registration are essential. The city also has a historic Jewish community synagogue, but it should not be treated as a substitute for an active Chabad center or kosher restaurant. — Rating 4.5/5 (87 reviews) · Address: Varna CenterOdesos, ul. "Ticha" 5, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=9253178539341369828)
- **Kosher food:** Varna does not have a broad, dependable selection of kosher restaurants, and travelers should not expect readily available kosher food in Golden Sands without pre-ordering. Observant visitors typically arrange meals through Chabad, book an apartment with a kitchenette, and buy sealed products bearing a recognized certification at Lidl, Kaufland, or BILLA. Those comfortable with kosher-friendly rather than certified food can find Shopska salad without meat, grilled vegetables, potatoes, pasta, or vegetarian pizza, but the kitchens and utensils are not kosher.

## Attractions

- **Sea Garden** (Duration: 2–3 hours) — Rating 4.8/5 (856 reviews) · Address: PrimorskiOdesos, bul. "Primorski" 91, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=6604142680251739790)
- **Roman Thermae of Varna** (Duration: 45–60 minutes) — Rating 4.4/5 (3,461 reviews) · Address: Varna CenterOdesos, ul. "San Stefano", 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=14195960150360929730) · [Website](https://www.museumvarna.com/muzeyni-obekti/rimski-termi/)
- **Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral** (Duration: 30–45 minutes) — Rating 4.7/5 (9,490 reviews) · Address: Hristo BotevOdesos, pl. "Sveti Sveti Kiril I Metodiy" 2, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=18407580619899393852) · [Website](http://mitropolia-varna.org/)
- **Varna Archaeological Museum** (Duration: 1.5–2 hours) — Rating 4.7/5 (4,257 reviews) · Address: Varna CenterOdesos, бул. „Княгиня Мария Луиза“ 41, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=13409687876051586807) · [Website](https://www.museumvarna.com/)
- **Kabakum Beach** (Duration: Half day) — Rating 4.5/5 (603 reviews) · Address: Kabakum Public Beach, ChaykaPrimorski, 9007 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=7324497635333632064)
- **Riviera Beach** (Duration: Half to full day) — Rating 4.4/5 (878 reviews) · Address: Riviera beach free zone, Golden SandsPrimorski, 9007 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=11589933878844456679)
- **Aladzha Monastery** (Duration: 1–1.5 hours) — Rating 4.6/5 (6,469 reviews) · Address: Primorski, Абай 61, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=3111878590051915208) · [Website](https://www.museumvarna.com/muzeyni-obekti/aladzha-manastir/)
- **Aquapolis** (Duration: 4–6 hours) — Rating 4/5 (1,508 reviews) · Address: Golden SandsPrimorski, 9007 Golden Sands, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=7284843851840536196) · [Website](http://www.aquapolis.net/)
- **Festa Dolphinarium** (Duration: 1–1.5 hours) — Rating 4.3/5 (11,143 reviews) · Address: Dolphinarium Varna, Primorski Park, Saltanat district, СалтанатПриморски, 9000 Варна, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=10598377494997483971) · [Website](https://dolphinariumvarna.bg/)

## Restaurants

- **Staria Chinar Preslav** (מרכז וארנה, רחוב פרסלב, ₪₪) — A popular Bulgarian institution for Shopska salad, grilled vegetables, fish and chicken. Kosher-observant guests should confirm ingredients and preparation. — Rating 4.7/5 (4,265 reviews) · Address: Varna CenterOdesos, ul. "Preslav" 11, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=714271888663279050) · [Website](http://www.stariachinar.com/preslav/)
- **Happy Bar & Grill Center Varna** (מרכז וארנה, כיכר נזאוויסימוסט, ₪₪) — The central branch of the popular Bulgarian chain, serving salads, fish dishes and vegetarian options. — Rating 4.6/5 (15,178 reviews) · Address: opposite Cherno More Hotel, Varna CenterOdesos, bul. "Slivnitsa" 22, 9002 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=6335670828944269) · [Website](https://happy.bg/)
- **Captain Cook Varna** (הנמל הימי של וארנה, ₪₪₪) — An elegant marina-facing restaurant suited to an evening of fish, salads and wine. — Rating 4.5/5 (2,997 reviews) · Address: Morska gara Морска гара, Pristanishten kompleksOdesos, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=12272582101785801050) · [Website](http://www.captaincook.bg/)
- **The Sea Terrace** (החוף המרכזי, ליד גן הים, ₪₪₪) — One of the city's most sought-after sunset terraces for coffee, salads and fish dishes. — Rating 4.5/5 (3,481 reviews) · Address: Централен плаж, Ресторант Морска Тераса, PrimorskiOdesos, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=788088295886237624) · [Website](http://www.theseaterrace.bg/)
- **Parmy Family Restaurant** (אזור צ'ייקה, וארנה, ₪₪) — A well-known family restaurant with generous salads, pasta, vegetables and fish dishes. — Rating 4.4/5 (609 reviews) · Address: SaltanatPrimorski, 9010 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=16988757234333426823) · [Website](http://www.parmy.bg/)
- **BM Olea** (רובע בריז, וארנה, ₪₪₪) — A garden villa with a calm atmosphere and a Mediterranean menu featuring vegetables, salads and fish. — Rating 4.6/5 (2,138 reviews) · Address: AkchelarPrimorski, bul. "8-mi Primorski Polk" 1743, 9010 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=16767285016812931215) · [Website](https://bmrestaurants.com/en/olea-restaurant/)

## Nightlife

- **PR Club** — Club — Rating 3.6/5 (1,013 reviews) · Address: Golden SandsPrimorski, 9007 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=889062014769956303) · [Website](http://www.facebook.com/Prclub.bg)
- **Arrogance Music Factory** — Club — Rating 3.9/5 (562 reviews) · Address: Astera Hotel & Spa, Zlatni pyasatsiPrimorski, 9007 Golden Sands, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=7736244569842550802)
- **Mojito Beach Style** — Beach bar — Rating 4.4/5 (1,007 reviews) · Address: Golden SandsPrimorski, 9007 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=3202066201458862653) · [Website](http://www.facebook.com/mojitobeachstyle?ref=bookmarks)
- **Cubo** — Beach bar — Rating 4.6/5 (7,078 reviews) · Address: PrimorskiOdessos, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=12725145714995482249)
- **Menthol** — Beach bar — Rating 4.5/5 (2,679 reviews) · Address: PrimorskiOdesos, ul. "Kapitan Georgi Georgiev", 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=12154162757408586610) · [Website](https://www.facebook.com/MentholBar/?ref=page_internal)
- **The Brick Port** — Bar — Rating 4.4/5 (2,128 reviews) · Address: Pristanishten kompleksOdesos, pl. "Petko R. Slaveykov" 1, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=9582875878347928040) · [Website](https://thebrick.bg/)

## Casinos

- **Casino International** (In hotel INTERNATIONAL Hotel Casino & Tower Suites) — The area’s standout casino sits in the heart of Golden Sands, about 25 minutes from central Varna, with a large selection of tables and slots; bring your passport and dress smartly in the evening. — Rating 4.6/5 (7,342 reviews) · Address: Front Beach Alley, 72MV+V7, Zlatni pyasatsiPrimorski, 9007 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=18233666389400094557) · [Website](https://www.hotelcasinointernational.com/)
- **Casino Black Sea** (In hotel Hotel Cherno More) — The convenient choice for travelers staying in central Varna, inside Hotel Cherno More near Knyaz Boris pedestrian street, offering tables and slots in an urban setting with passport required for entry. — Rating 4.3/5 (630 reviews) · Address: Hotel “Cherno More”, Greek NeighborhoodOdesos, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=3641013716134825070) · [Website](https://sesameclubs.sesameclubs.com/casino_sesame/)
- **Havana Casino** (In hotel Havana Hotel Casino & SPA) — A hotel casino in Golden Sands, around 25–30 minutes from central Varna, ideal for combining an evening of gaming with the resort’s hotels and bars. — Rating 4.2/5 (1,035 reviews) · Address: хотел ХАВАНА, Zlatni pyasatsiPrimorski, 9007 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=1188364859552319729) · [Website](http://www.hotelhavanabulgaria.com/)
- **Admiral Casino** (In hotel Admiral Hotel) — A casino in a prime position on the Golden Sands promenade, about 30 minutes from Varna, especially convenient for resort guests seeking slots and tables within walking distance of the beach. — Rating 4.2/5 (3,135 reviews) · Address: Golden SandsPrimorski, 9007 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=5912022850440863212) · [Website](http://www.admiral.bg/)
- **Casino Astera** (In hotel Astera Hotel & Spa) — A hotel casino in Golden Sands, a short walk from the promenade and beach and roughly 30 minutes from Varna, with a somewhat calmer atmosphere than the large International casino. — Rating 4/5 (1,977 reviews) · Address: Golden SandsPrimorski, 9007 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=5941926364735318186) · [Website](http://www.asterahotel.com/)

## Shopping

- **Grand Mall Varna** (Mall, Area: Central Varna, near the bus station) — The major mall combining fashion, dining and entertainment under one roof. — Rating 4.4/5 (4,275 reviews) · Address: Mladost, ul. "Akademik Andrei Saharov" 2, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=5919569556655750425) · [Website](http://grandmall-varna.com/)
- **Delta Planet Mall** (Mall, Area: Western Varna) — A spacious modern mall with international brands and a large food court. — Rating 4.5/5 (10,098 reviews) · Address: g.k. TroshevoMladost, bul. "Slivnitsa" 185, 9009 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=12493952179648440928) · [Website](http://deltaplanet.bg/)
- **Mall Varna** (Mall, Area: Vladislav Varnenchik Boulevard) — An established shopping and leisure center convenient for local retail. — Rating 4/5 (11,138 reviews) · Address: g.k. TroshevoMladost, бул. „Владислав Варненчик“ 186, 9009 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=12714140861196277415) · [Website](http://www.varnamall.bg/)
- **ZARA Grand Mall Varna** (Brand store, Area: Grand Mall Varna) — A standard fashion stop, often with more attractive pricing than Israel. — Rating 4.3/5 (633 reviews) · Address: Mladost, ul. "Akademik Andrei Saharov" 2, 9009 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=16146063140108322296) · [Website](https://www.zara.com/bg/en/stores-locator/zara-varna-%D0%B7%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0-%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B4-%D0%BC%D0%BE%D0%BB-%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%BD%D0%B0-s3913)
- **Bershka Grand Mall Varna** (Brand store, Area: Grand Mall Varna) — Popular with younger Israelis for denim, tops and seasonal collections. — Rating 4.3/5 (196 reviews) · Address: Mladost, ul. "Akademik Andrei Saharov" 2, 9009 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=10748391776742826646) · [Website](https://www.bershka.com/bg)
- **Pull&Bear Grand Mall Varna** (Brand store, Area: Grand Mall Varna) — Casual fashion and collections for men and women in a central location. — Rating 3.8/5 (55 reviews) · Address: Mladost, ul. "Akademik Andrei Saharov" 2, 9009 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=8957344881619637522) · [Website](https://www.pullandbear.com/bg/en/stores-locator/varna/grand-mall-varna-s13932)
- **Mango Grand Mall Varna** (Brand store, Area: Grand Mall Varna) — A useful stop for womenswear, dresses and accessories. — Rating 3.4/5 (14 reviews) · Address: VladislavovoMladost, bul. "Slivnitsa" 185, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=8735187160305722272) · [Website](http://mango.com/)
- **Central Market Varna** (Market, Area: Central Varna, near the cathedral) — A local market for fruit, spices, cheeses and Bulgarian products; check kosher suitability where required. — Rating 4/5 (6,470 reviews) · Address: Varna CenterOdesos, ul. "Drin" 65-51, 9000 Varna, בולגריה · [Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=16931740817389537957) · [Website](http://pazarivarna.com/)

## Suggested itinerary

1. **Day 1: Central Varna and the Sea Garden** — Start at the Dormition Cathedral, continue along Knyaz Boris I Boulevard, and pause at Nezavisimost Square. In the afternoon, walk through the Sea Garden to the city beach, then finish with sunset and dinner near the promenade.
2. **Day 2: Beach and Nightlife in Golden Sands** — Spend the morning on Golden Sands’ broad beach, trying water sports or relaxing on a sunbed. Walk along the resort promenade in the afternoon, then choose between beach bars, clubs, and the casino in the evening, or return early if traveling with children.
3. **Day 3: Aladzha Monastery and Sts. Constantine and Helena** — Visit Aladzha Monastery, a medieval monastic complex carved into a cliff and surrounded by forest. Continue to Sts. Constantine and Helena for a swim in a calm cove or time in the mineral pools at Aquahouse Thermal & Beach.
4. **Day 4: Balchik and Cape Kaliakra** — Take a rental car or organized tour to Queen Marie’s Palace and the terraced seaside Botanical Garden in Balchik. Continue to Cape Kaliakra for a walk among the fortress remains and dramatic views over the Black Sea cliffs.
5. **Day 5: Ancient Ruins, Shopping, and Free Time** — Visit the impressive Roman Baths and the Archaeological Museum, home to Varna’s Chalcolithic gold treasure. Finish with shopping at Grand Mall Varna or return to the Sea Garden; families can swap the museum for the Festa Dolphinarium.

## VAYULOR tips

- 📍 For a holiday combining the city, restaurants and beach, stay near the center or Sea Garden, while Golden Sands is better for travelers who want a resort, pools and nightlife in one place.
- 🚕 From the airport, use only the official taxi rank or bus 409, and never accept a ride from a driver approaching you inside the arrivals hall.
- 💳 At card terminals and ATMs, choose to be charged in the local currency and decline conversion to shekels, which can add several percent to the transaction.
- 🌊 In July and August, reach Central Beach or Rappongi Beach by 10:00 if you want a well-positioned sunbed without searching in the heat.
- ✡️ Kosher travelers should contact Chabad Varna in advance regarding meals and Shabbat, and stock up on sealed supermarket products because the city's kosher selection is limited.
- 🎟️ On summer weekends, reserve Aquahouse admission and popular beach-bar seating in advance, especially if your group wants to sit together at sunset.

## Frequently asked questions

**Do Israelis need a visa for Varna?**

Israelis do not need a visa for Varna for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day Schengen period, but the passport must remain valid for at least three months after departure and ETIAS requirements should be checked before flying.

**When is the best time to fly to Varna?**

The best time for Varna is from late May to mid-September, with July and August bringing warm water and lively nightlife alongside peak crowds and prices.

**How many days are enough in Varna, and is it better for families or couples?**

Four to five days in Varna are enough for the beach, Sea Garden and a day at Golden Sands, while its attractions suit families and its hotels, spas and seafront bars work well for couples.

**Are there direct flights from Tel Aviv to Varna, and how long is the flight?**

Direct flights from Tel Aviv to Varna usually operate during spring and summer and take about two hours and fifteen minutes to two and a half hours, with fewer options in winter.

**How do you get around Varna, and is renting a car worthwhile?**

Central Varna is easy to explore on foot, by bus or with taxi apps, while a rental car is mainly useful for trips to Balchik, Cape Kaliakra or beaches outside the city.

**How much does a holiday in Varna cost?**

For a comfortable four-night stay in Varna, budget roughly ₪1,600 to ₪2,800 per person excluding flights, including a shared double room, meals, transport and attractions.

**Is Varna safe for Israeli travelers?**

Varna is generally safe for Israeli visitors, but it is wise to watch for pickpockets in crowded areas, book taxis through an app and follow beach warning flags.

**Where are Varna’s beaches, attractions and nightlife, and is kosher food available?**

In Varna, travelers can combine Central Beach and Sea Garden with Golden Sands, bars such as Cubo and Menthol, and pre-booked kosher meals through the local Chabad during the summer season.

## Book through VAYULOR

- [Flights to Varna](https://vayulor.com/en/destinations/bulgaria/flights/varna)
- [Vacation packages to Varna](https://vayulor.com/en/destinations/bulgaria/packages/varna)
- [Hotels in Varna](https://vayulor.com/en/destinations/bulgaria/hotels/varna)
- [eSIM data for Varna](https://vayulor.com/en/esim)
- [Web version of this guide](https://vayulor.com/en/destinations/bulgaria/varna)
- [המדריך הזה בעברית](https://vayulor.com/he/destinations/bulgaria/varna.md)

_Last updated: 2026-09-06_  
_Source: VAYULOR (vayulor.com) — an Israeli travel platform: destination guides, flights, packages, hotels and eSIM. Prices on the site are live; any price in this document is an indicative starting price only._