VARNA

Varna is an administrative, economic and cultural centre, the biggest seaport and a well-known international seaside resort. the third largest city in Bulgaria with a population of about 330 000 people. It is widely called the Seaside Capital of Bulgaria as it is for sure the biggest city along the Bulgarian coast, some 470 km away from Sofia eastwards. Varna is nestled in a deep valley between two plateaus and its structure follows the curves of the Bay of Varna. It sprang up in the 6th century BC as a Greek colony called Odessos, meaning “town upon water”. Over the next years Odessoswas ruled by the Persians, Thracians, Romans and Slavs. The town was renamed Varna by the latter in the 7th century. At the end of the 8th century the town was a part of the Bulgarian Kingdom and was an important fortress and seaport until 1386 when Varna was conquered by the Ottomans. In 1921 it was proclaimed a resort.

Varna offers a virtually unlimited number of accommodation facilities. Apart from the hotels in Varna, the numerous small family hotels and houses in the vicinity of Varna show their hospitality to the visitors. For reservations and additional information you can count on the tourist agencies. Private lodgings can also be found directly not through the lodging offices.Varna Black Sea coast offers a combination of marvelous conditions for sea tourism, rich cultural heritage and incredible nature.The sea capital of Varna gives opportunities for pleasant recreation at seaside, entertainment and cultural tourism. The town is rich in museums, theaters, art galleries, and monuments of culture, such as the archeological and historical museums, the cathedral of 'The Assumption', the Clock tower and etc. that are worth seeing. Not far away from the town is situated the natural phenomenon 'Pobiti kamani' ('Stone forest').
   To the north of Varna are located some of the most beautiful and luxurious Bulgarian sea resorts, such as 'St. St. Konstantin and Elena', 'Sunny day', 'Riviera', 'Golden sands', 'Albena', which offer excellent conditions for wonderful summer vacations, entertainment and water sports. They host many cultural and sport activities, as well as conferences and seminars.Due to the availability of curative mineral springs and modern recreation and spa centers in the resorts one can combine balneological treatment with relaxation at the seaside.
   To the south of Varna are situated small but picturesque settlements such as Byala and Obzor preferred by those looking for quiet and pleasant recreation away from the crowded, pretentious and luxury resorts. In Kamchia resort, situated on the bank of Kamchia river among a natural longoz forest, one will find unique combination of sea, river and cool forest. Not far from the resort is located the natural reserve of the same name that keeps unique flora and fauna.
   The Natural park of Golden sands, located close to Golden sands resort, not only preserves the bio diversity of the region, but also offers marvelous opportunities for eco tourism. On its territory there are 5 tourist routes that lead to old fountains, pleasant places for rest and marvelous natural sights. The cultural heritage of the park includes monuments from Ancient and Medieval times. The most interesting one is Aladja monastery.