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Resort Golden Sands Bulgaria panoramic top view of the beach in summer. Children's entertainment on the beach.

Things to Do in Golden Sands: A Guide to Top Activities, Attractions, and Hidden Gems

Attractions and things to do in golden sands, bulgaria, plan your perfect trip with our trusted travel partners, golden sands, bulgaria: ratings, beyond the city: exploring surroundings and stays in golden sands, bulgaria, faq about things to do in golden sands, bulgaria.

Golden Sands, situated on Bulgaria’s northern Black Sea coast, is a premier seaside resort known for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife. For those considering things to do in Golden Sands, lounging on its sun-kissed shores and indulging in water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing are popular choices.

The resort’s natural park, with its lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna, offers a refreshing escape from the beach’s hustle and bustle. The area’s mineral springs, renowned for their therapeutic properties, attract visitors seeking wellness and relaxation.

Beyond its natural attractions, Golden Sands is a hub for entertainment, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to diverse tastes. For those exploring the best places to visit in Bulgaria , Golden Sands offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and lively experiences.

1. Golden Sands Nature Park

Golden Sands Nature Park is a lush woodland area cascading from the Franga Plateau. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots in Eastern Europe, offering a blend of hot mineral water springs and beautiful landscapes. The park turns the town into a family-friendly, green, and largely pedestrian place.

Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park’s pedestrian malls and landscaped gardens, and don’t forget to explore the nearby Holiday Club Riviera luxury resort.

2. Aquapolis Water Park

Aquapolis is a renowned water park in Golden Sands, offering a variety of water attractions, slides, and pools. It’s a fun destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Travel Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds, and remember to pack sunscreen and swimwear.

3. Aladzha Monastery

The Aladzha Monastery is a historic grotto located in the vicinity of Golden Sands. This ancient monastic center offers a glimpse into the religious practices from antiquity through the Second Bulgarian Empire.

Travel Tip: Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the rich history and significance of this unique site.

4. Golden Sands Beach

Known for having the purest quartz sand on the coast, Golden Sands Beach is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. The beach is a part of the larger resort area, offering various amenities and water sports.

Travel Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, and explore the nearby villa communities like Panorama and Chaika.

5. Eiffel Tower Replica

In Golden Sands, you can find a 1:10 replica of the Eiffel Tower, complete with an observation deck and a restaurant. It’s a unique attraction that offers a taste of Paris in Bulgaria .

Travel Tip: Enjoy a meal at the restaurant for a romantic experience with panoramic views of the surrounding area.

6. Golf Courses

For golf enthusiasts, Golden Sands offers three 18-hole golf courses designed by Gary Player and Ian Woosnam. These courses are located around Balchik and Kavarna, a short drive to the north.

Travel Tip: Book your tee times in advance, especially during the peak season, to ensure availability.

7. INTERNATIONAL Hotel Casino & Tower Suites

This towering structure is the tallest building in Golden Sands and houses a luxurious hotel, casino, and tower suites. It’s a symbol of modernity and luxury in the resort town.

Travel Tip: Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, consider visiting the casino or dining at one of the on-site restaurants for a taste of luxury.

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Kid-Friendly Activities in Golden Sands: 8/10 – Golden Sands is an excellent destination for families with children. The resort offers sandy beaches with safe swimming areas, several water parks, mini-golf courses, and amusement parks. Additionally, there are kids’ clubs and various family-oriented activities available.

Nightlife in Golden Sands: 8/10 – Golden Sands boasts a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, nightclubs, and beach parties. The nightlife scene is lively, especially during the summer months, attracting a mix of locals and tourists looking for a fun night out.

Sport in Golden Sands: 7/10 – The resort provides a variety of sports activities, particularly water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing. There are also facilities for beach volleyball, tennis, and hiking in the nearby nature park, making it a good spot for active travelers.

Culture and Attractions in Golden Sands: 6/10 – While Golden Sands is primarily known for its beaches and entertainment, it also offers some cultural attractions. Nearby, you can visit the Aladzha Monastery, an impressive rock monastery. However, the cultural offerings within the resort itself are limited.

Gastronomy in Golden Sands: 7/10 – The gastronomy in Golden Sands includes a mix of Bulgarian and international cuisine. There are numerous restaurants, beach bars, and cafes offering a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes and budgets. Fresh seafood and local specialties like kavarma and shopska salad are popular choices.

Shopping in Golden Sands: 6/10 – Shopping in Golden Sands is focused on souvenirs, beachwear, and local products. There are numerous stalls and shops along the promenade, but for more extensive shopping, visitors might need to travel to nearby Varna .

Prices in Golden Sands: 8/10 – Golden Sands is a budget-friendly destination with reasonable prices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment. The overall cost of living is low, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

Average price for a hotel night: 70 € Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 10 € Price of a beer: 2 € Price of a coffee: 1.50 €

For those looking to explore beyond the golden beaches, top day trips near Golden Sands invite visitors to uncover the beauty and history of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. From the tranquility of the Aladzha Monastery to the cultural richness of Varna, these excursions promise a day of adventure and exploration.

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Golden Sands accommodations range from lavish resorts offering all-inclusive options to cozy guesthouses that promise a more intimate experience, ensuring every visitor finds a home away from home along this vibrant stretch of coastline.

What are the top attractions in Golden Sands?

Golden Sands is renowned for its pristine beaches, Aquapolis water park, Aladzha Monastery, and the Golden Sands Nature Park.

Is Golden Sands only about the beach?

While the beach is a major attraction, Golden Sands offers much more. From nature trails in the national park to nightlife and dining, there’s something for everyone.

Can I enjoy water sports at Golden Sands?

Absolutely! The beachfront offers various water sports, including jet-skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing.

Are there any historical sites in Golden Sands?

Yes, the Aladzha Monastery, a medieval orthodox Christian cave monastery complex, is a significant historical site close to Golden Sands.

What family-friendly activities are available?

Families can enjoy the Aquapolis water park, mini-golf courses, and various entertainment centers along the beach promenade.

How is the nightlife in Golden Sands?

Golden Sands boasts a lively nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties during the summer season.

Are there any natural attractions nearby?

Yes, the Golden Sands Nature Park, a protected area surrounding the resort, offers hiking trails and diverse flora and fauna.

When is the best time to visit Golden Sands?

The best time to visit Golden Sands is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm, and the resort is most lively.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Sands

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.

David Zacik

I like to travel and I run a website about interesting places, food, countries and customs, sharing practical tips and inspiring others. Follow me on YouTube and Instagram .

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Golden Sands - 10 attractions to visit!

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General info 1. Golden Sands Beach 2. Aladzha Monastery 3. Aquapolis Water Park 4. Riviera Beach 5. Treta Buna Beach 6. Golden Sands Nature Park 7. Cabacum Beach 8. Euxinograd Palace 9. Varna Archaeological Museum 10. Palace of Culture and Sports (Varna)

A trip to Golden Sands

Golden Sands Beach - Top attractions in Golden Sands -1

Golden Sands is a vibrant and popular beach resort located in Bulgaria, known for its picturesque coastline and sandy beaches. Here, you can enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation, water sports, and fun-filled entertainment. This resort town offers a wide range of tourist attractions, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. One of the main highlights of Golden Sands is its beautiful beach, stretching over 3.5 kilometers and lined with golden sand. The beach is lined with numerous beach bars, where you can soak up the sun, enjoy refreshing drinks, and indulge in delicious beachside cuisine. For those seeking adventure, Golden Sands offers a variety of water sports activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. The crystal clear waters provide the perfect conditions for snorkeling and scuba diving, allowing you to explore the underwater world filled with colorful marine life. If you're looking to explore beyond the beach, Golden Sands also offers several top attractions. One of the must-visit sites is the Aladzha Monastery, an ancient cave monastery carved into a cliff. This historical landmark provides visitors with a glimpse into Bulgaria's rich cultural heritage. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Golden Sands Natural Park is highly recommended. This protected area is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for hiking and wildlife spotting. Golden Sands also offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and casinos. You can enjoy live music, dance the night away, or try your luck at the tables. In conclusion, Golden Sands in Bulgaria is a top beach destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or entertainment, this resort town has it all. With its stunning beach, water sports activities, cultural sites, and lively nightlife, Golden Sands is a must-visit destination for your next holiday. You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday !

Aladzha Monastery - Top attractions in Golden Sands -2

The Aladzha Monastery is one of the top attractions in Golden Sands, Bulgaria. Located about 14 kilometers northeast of Varna, this historical and cultural landmark is nestled within a beautiful natural setting. Dating back to the 12th century, the Aladzha Monastery is an orthodox Christian cave monastery carved into the rocks of a vertical karst cliff. It offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Bulgaria's medieval past. The complex consists of a chapel, a living area, a kitchen, and a small cemetery. The interior walls of the chapel are adorned with beautiful frescoes that depict religious scenes and stories. The unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere create a serene and enchanting experience for visitors. To reach the monastery, visitors need to climb a steep staircase carved into the cliffside. Once at the top, they can explore the various rooms and passages, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding forest and the Black Sea. Besides its historical significance, the Aladzha Monastery is also a popular hiking destination. The area surrounding the monastery offers several hiking trails through the lush forest, providing an opportunity to enjoy nature and get closer to Bulgaria's natural beauty. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history and significance of the monastery. It is recommended to check the operating hours and availability of tours before visiting. Overall, the Aladzha Monastery is a must-visit attraction in Golden Sands, Bulgaria. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and serene natural surroundings make it a memorable destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a unique cultural experience.

Aquapolis Water Park - Top attractions in Golden Sands -3

Aquapolis Water Park is one of the top attractions in Golden Sands, Bulgaria. Located near the beautiful Black Sea coast, Aquapolis offers a thrilling and fun-filled experience for visitors of all ages. The water park boasts a wide range of exhilarating water slides, pools, and attractions that cater to both adrenaline junkies and those seeking a more relaxed day out. With over 30 different water slides, including high-speed slides, tunnel slides, and tube slides, there is something for everyone at Aquapolis. One of the standout slides at the water park is the Kamikaze, where visitors can reach speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour as they experience an adrenaline rush like no other. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, the Lazy River is the perfect option, allowing guests to float along in a peaceful and scenic environment. Aquapolis also features a dedicated area for younger children, with a variety of shallow pools, splash pads, and mini slides. Kids can enjoy hours of fun and excitement in a safe and supervised environment. When visitors need a break from all the water activities, they can relax on the spacious sun decks or in the shaded seating areas. The park also offers a range of food and drink options, including restaurants and snack bars, ensuring that guests are well-fed and hydrated throughout their visit. Overall, Aquapolis Water Park is a must-visit attraction in Golden Sands. With its thrilling water slides, relaxing pools, and family-friendly atmosphere, it promises a memorable day out for all.

Riviera Beach - Top attractions in Golden Sands -4

Riviera Beach is one of the top attractions in Golden Sands, a popular tourist destination in Bulgaria. Located on the Black Sea coast, Riviera Beach offers visitors a stunning blend of natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and a range of exciting activities. The beach itself is the pride of Golden Sands, known for its soft, golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Stretching for several kilometers, Riviera Beach offers ample space for sunbathing, beach sports, and leisurely walks along the shoreline. The beach is well-equipped with facilities such as sun loungers, umbrella rentals, beach bars, and water sports centers. Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of activities like jet skiing, parasailing, banana boating, and snorkeling. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, there are plenty of beachfront bars and restaurants where visitors can unwind and enjoy the stunning views. Away from the beach, Riviera Beach also offers several other attractions. One of the highlights is the Aladzha Monastery, an ancient rock monastery nestled in a picturesque forest. This historical site offers a glimpse into Bulgaria's rich cultural heritage and is an intriguing place to explore. Additionally, Golden Sands is home to a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and nightclubs, making it a hub for nightlife in the region. Visitors can enjoy an array of cuisines, from traditional Bulgarian dishes to international flavors, and dance the night away at the vibrant clubs. For those interested in nature and outdoor activities, Golden Sands offers numerous hiking trails in the nearby surrounding hills. These trails showcase the region's natural beauty and provide breathtaking views of the sea and the coastline. Travelers visiting Golden Sands will find a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget-friendly resorts, and cozy guesthouses, all within close proximity to Riviera Beach. To summarize, Riviera Beach in Golden Sands, Bulgaria, is a must-visit destination for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in exploring the country's cultural heritage. With its stunning beach, exciting water sports, historical sites, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking natural surroundings, Riviera Beach offers something for everyone. To rent a car at the best price for Golden Sands, check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Treta Buna Beach - Top attractions in Golden Sands -5

Treta Buna Beach, located in the beautiful resort town of Golden Sands in Bulgaria, is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and sun enthusiasts. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft golden sand, this stunning beach attracts tourists from all over the world. Treta Buna Beach offers a wide array of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are looking to relax under the sun, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or engage in water sports, this beach has something for everyone. Rent a sunbed and umbrella, and unwind as you soak up the warm Bulgarian sun. The calm and shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families with children. For the adventure enthusiasts, various water sports such as jet skiing, banana boats, and parasailing are available at Treta Buna Beach. Get your adrenaline pumping as you explore the beautiful coastline and take in breathtaking views. Aside from the sun and sand, Treta Buna Beach is also surrounded by lush greenery, creating a picturesque and peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade lined with palm trees, or have a picnic in the shade of the pine forest. There are also several beach bars and restaurants where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine and cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the Black Sea. Treta Buna Beach is conveniently located near the resort town center, making it easily accessible for tourists. It is well-connected by public transportation, or you can choose to take a pleasant walk along the coastal path. With its pristine beauty and range of attractions, Treta Buna Beach is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Golden Sands, Bulgaria. So pack your beach essentials, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a memorable beach holiday at Treta Buna Beach.

Golden Sands Nature Park - Top attractions in Golden Sands -6

Cabacum beach - top attractions in golden sands -7.

Cabacum Beach is one of the top attractions in Golden Sands, Bulgaria. Located on the Black Sea coast, this stunning beach offers pristine white sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking views. Cabacum Beach is known for its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and serenity. With its secluded location and natural beauty, it is a popular choice for couples and families looking for a quieter beach experience away from the bustling crowds. Visitors to Cabacum Beach can enjoy a range of activities, such as swimming in the calm waters, sunbathing on the soft sand, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. The beach is also a great spot for water sports enthusiasts, with various options available including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. There are several beach bars and restaurants along Cabacum Beach, where visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks while taking in the mesmerizing views of the sea. Some establishments offer beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable beach experience. If you're looking to explore beyond the beach, Cabacum Beach is conveniently located near other popular attractions in Golden Sands. The resort town offers a variety of entertainment options, including water parks, casinos, and vibrant nightlife. Additionally, there are hiking and biking trails nearby where visitors can discover the stunning natural landscapes of the area. Overall, Cabacum Beach in Golden Sands, Bulgaria, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and idyllic beach experience. With its stunning scenery, calm waters, and nearby attractions, it is the perfect spot for a memorable holiday.

Euxinograd Palace - Top attractions in Golden Sands -8

Euxinograd Palace, located in the popular beach resort town of Golden Sands, Bulgaria, is a must-visit attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts. Situated on the picturesque northern Black Sea coast, this stunning palace offers visitors a glimpse into the country's rich royal past. Originally built in the late 19th century as a residence for the Bulgarian royal family, Euxinograd Palace exemplifies a unique blend of architectural styles, including Baroque, Renaissance, and Neoclassical. The palace's exquisite design, with its elegant facades, ornate decorations, and grandiose interior, truly reflects the opulence and sophistication of its former occupants. Surrounded by lush gardens and a beautiful park stretching over 80 hectares, Euxinograd Palace provides a serene escape from the bustling beach atmosphere. Visitors can take pleasant walks through the well-manicured gardens, enjoying the scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance of this exquisite palace complex. While the interior of the palace is not open to the public, the palace's exterior and its vast grounds can still be explored and admired. Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined avenues, marvel at the impressive architectural details, or simply relax on one of the many benches scattered throughout the park. Adjacent to the palace is the charming Euxinograd Winery, where visitors can indulge in wine tastings and learn about Bulgaria's winemaking traditions. This combination of history, nature, and viticulture makes Euxinograd Palace a popular destination for both culture lovers and wine enthusiasts. For those seeking a fascinating cultural experience in Golden Sands, Euxinograd Palace is a top attraction not to be missed. Take the time to immerse yourself in the opulent beauty of this historic landmark, explore its sprawling grounds, and appreciate the architectural mastery that has stood the test of time.

Varna Archaeological Museum - Top attractions in Golden Sands -9

The Varna Archaeological Museum is one of the top attractions in Golden Sands, Bulgaria. Located in the city of Varna, just a short drive from Golden Sands, this museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts that date back thousands of years. The museum is best known for its display of the world's oldest gold treasure, which was discovered nearby in the Varna Necropolis. This treasure, dating back to the 4th millennium BC, includes exquisite gold jewelry, ornaments, and weapons. It is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in ancient civilizations. In addition to the gold treasure, the Varna Archaeological Museum also features a wide range of other artifacts, including pottery, coins, and sculptures. These items provide a fascinating insight into the region's rich history and cultural heritage. The museum is divided into various thematic sections, allowing visitors to explore different aspects of ancient life in the region. There are also interactive displays and multimedia presentations that enhance the overall experience and provide additional information about the exhibits. Visitors can expect to spend a couple of hours exploring the museum, depending on their level of interest. Guided tours are available, providing visitors with expert insights and background information on the exhibits. The Varna Archaeological Museum is open year-round, and admission fees are affordable, making it accessible to both locals and tourists. It is a popular attraction in Golden Sands, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of the region. When visiting Golden Sands, be sure to carve out some time to visit the Varna Archaeological Museum. It is a captivating destination that will transport you back in time and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this part of the world.

Palace of Culture and Sports (Varna) - Top attractions in Golden Sands -10

The Palace of Culture and Sports is one of the top attractions in Golden Sands, Bulgaria. Located in nearby Varna, it is a popular destination for tourists seeking entertainment and cultural experiences. As its name suggests, the Palace of Culture and Sports offers a variety of activities and events for visitors to enjoy. The complex features a large concert hall that regularly hosts music performances, including classical concerts, rock and pop concerts, and even international music festivals. The acoustics in the concert hall are exceptional, making it a favorite venue among musicians and audiences alike. Aside from music events, the Palace of Culture and Sports also showcases theater performances, ballets, and various cultural exhibitions. The theater inside the complex regularly presents both national and international productions, including classics and contemporary works. In addition to its cultural offerings, the Palace of Culture and Sports is equipped with numerous sports facilities. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the modern gym with a wide range of equipment, as well as the indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Tennis courts, volleyball courts, and a mini football field are available for those who prefer outdoor activities. The Palace of Culture and Sports is conveniently located, making it easily accessible for visitors staying in Golden Sands. It is a short distance away from the beach, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of beach relaxation and cultural experiences. In summary, the Palace of Culture and Sports in Varna is a top attraction in Golden Sands, Bulgaria, offering a diverse range of cultural events and sports facilities. Whether you're interested in attending a concert, watching a theater performance, or engaging in sports activities, this complex has something to offer for every visitor. Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you! We are always happy to improve and we hope you have appreciated our list of the top 10 places to visit at Golden Sands :)

Here you can find a list of destinations in Bulgaria , each with a link to the page with detailed description about their top 10 tourist attractions: Sofia: top 10 attractions Bansko: top 10 attractions Plovdiv: top 10 attractions Varna: top 10 attractions Burgas: top 10 attractions Nessebar: top 10 attractions Veliko Tarnovo: top 10 attractions Rila Monastery: top 10 attractions Pamporovo: top 10 attractions Golden Sands: top 10 attractions Melnik: top 10 attractions Balchik: top 10 attractions Primorsko: top 10 attractions Sozopol: top 10 attractions Koprivshtitsa: top 10 attractions Belogradchik: top 10 attractions Stara Zagora: top 10 attractions Arbanasi: top 10 attractions Tryavna: top 10 attractions Devin: top 10 attractions

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8 Recommended things to do in Golden Sands, Bulgaria

I must mention that our vacation in Golden Sands was beyond our expectations. It’s a dreamy destination for a cheap, fun, spoiling, and awesome vacation (we have been to Cyprus , Greece, and Turkey in the past, and we think that the Golden Sands has the most value for money for a vacation).

We took a flight to Varna and from the airport we took a taxi that cost about 25 euro to the HVD Viva Club Hotel . The ride took about 40 minutes. There is also an option to take a bus from the airport but it’s a longer ride and we had landed in the afternoon so we wanted to be at the hotel as soon as possible in order to enjoy the rest of the day.

We arrived at the all-inclusive hotel around 6:30 pm. We got a room on the 4th floor with a sea view. We arranged our stuff and went down for dinner. The hotel cost us 140 euro per night, all-inclusive. A cheap price for a hotel at the end of August- start of September.

Golden Sands main season is from May – September.

How do you get to the golden sands?

Getting to the Golden Sands is by flight to the city of Varna and from there you can take a taxi like we did or take public transportation and use route 409 which is a bus that goes from the airport to the Golden Sands (costs about 2 Lev per person, the trip should be about 40 minutes fast in total and according to what I checked during the season a bus leaves every 15 minutes between 5 am and 11 pm and less frequently during the off season – every half an hour and 6 am) or rent a car and get to the Golden Sands. About half an hour from the airport to the Golden Sands area.

Link to the timetable of line 409 (the website is loading slowly so you need patience)

You can also use the Moovit application that updates the location of the buses in real time.

Stay at an all-inclusive hotel

We stayed at the HVD Viva Club Hotel . A high-standards hotel with amazing food. Great pool, good service, the entertainment staff put a lot of effort into activities and shows. The hotel has a private, all-inclusive beach too. I wrote a detailed post about the hotel. Click here to read more about the hotel .

Walk along the promenade

Wow, this promenade is so much fun. It has everything. Restaurants, bars, clubs, stalls, coffee shops, beaches, and loads of attractions for adults and kids.

You can walk for hours along the promenade and find many things to do there. There are great stalls with souvenirs, bags, things for the sea and pool, clothes, and more.

Because the promenade is very long, there is a train that you can jump on to and ride on it back and forth along the promenade (the train costs 4 leva).

Recommended bars in Golden sands

There are so many bars along the promenade and in the Golden Sands area in general. You can hop from bar to bar all day long. All the bars are high in quality and each one is designed in a cool and unique way.

Bars that we really liked:

Megapark Dolphin

A lively bar from the morning till the night which has a pool and foam parties. There is happy hour on drinks 1+1 and you can order a hookah in different flavors.

Cocktail bar Paris

it’s a bar that’s located in a mini copy of the Eifel tower. There’s a view from it to the promenade and in the evening it’s really nice to sit there and have a cocktail or glass of wine.

Located on the beach and there are different sitting options. To sit on the swing near the bar, or regular tables, or a cushion seat on the beach. During the sunset it’s a perfect place for a cocktail.

Mini golf is one of my favorite attractions. Not because I’m good at it, but because it’s a fun game, funny (especially if you don’t know how to play) and it’s a great way to pass time with friends.

The mini golf in Golden Sands is on the promenade and it’s good. It has 18 different stations and it’s shaded. So there’s not a problem to play there on a hot day. When we arrived at around 2pm we were the only ones there. We played for about 75 minutes.

The game for an adult costs 10 leva, and for a child (under the age 12) 5 leva.

Drink coffee with a yummy cake

One of our favorite things to do during a vacation is to drink a good coffee with a yummy cake in the middle day. There are many coffee shops along the promenade.

We really loved Cafe Wiener. It’s a high-standards cafe with amazing cakes. They also have gelatos. We ordered 2 cappuccinos with a carrot cake. The coffee was good and the cake was really tasty. You could feel the taste of the carrot and the nuts in each bite.

Clubs in Golden sands

There are many clubs along the promenade and also in the hotels area. We went to one club- Bonkers Club. This club was less fit for us, but if you are in your early 20’s I guess you would have more fun. The club’s price includes free alcohol from the bar.

We also saw a commercial for another club-Arrogance Club. Which seemed to have higher standards. But we didn’t have the chance to try it. According to the commercial this club has 5 different halls and each hall has a different music style.

Get a massage

Because there isn’t a perfect vacation without a massage (at least for me :)). I got a massage at the beach first. I love to be at the beach and to have the option to get a relaxing and quick massage. I chose the 20-minutes back treatment. I can’t say it was like a spa massage but it was good enough and definitely worth 20 leva.

The second time I got a massage, it was in the hotel that we were staying in Viva club .

Their spa is not the best in terms of decoration and atmosphere, but the massage itself was very good and the price was 70 leva for 50 minutes which was cheap for a 4-stars hotel.

Work out at the gym

Yes I know, not many of you will think that it’s something you should do on a vacation, but we did. We love to work out at the gym, especially in a gym like the one we found in the promenade area.

It’s a fitness club with a view to the sea. If you are a gym lover, you will love to work out there. The equipment is new and the view is beautiful. The entrance costs 6 leva and there’s a bathroom and a dressing room. Directions .

Beaches in Golden sands

There are many beaches along the entire promenade. Arranged beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas. We were at the private beach of the HVD Viva club hotel , but when we walked around the boardwalk we saw that there are many good beaches to be at: Riviera beach free zone Beach Golden Sands

Things to do with kids in the Golden Sands

As I wrote, on this trip it was just me and Roman, but I made a list of some things worth doing with children in the Golden Sands:

Play mini golf directions Walk the boardwalk and ride the train that passes there Go to the beach Travel with them to the city of Varna – Things to do in the city of Varna Go on a day trip with them to the town of Balchik Take a walk in Priroden Park Zlatni Pyasatsi, there are hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty, from easy to difficult. Directions

In conclusion, we went on vacation to the Golden Sands in Bulgaria as a couple, but it’s also an excellent vacation for families because of the all-inclusive resorts, the beaches, a promenade full of activities and a fun and light atmosphere. You can manage there without a car, which is an advantage when you come on vacation with children.

Hope my post helped you. If so, I would very much like you to respond here in the comments, and if you have any more questions, then you are also welcome to ask them in the comments or write to me on the blog’s social networks: Facebook and Instagram .

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Top Things to do in Golden Sands, Bulgaria

What to do in Golden Sands

• Things to do
• Cultural sights
• Enjoy the beautiful nature
• Things to do with kids
• Activities for rainy days
• Exciting things to do

Golden Sands is the biggest summer resort on the North Black Sea coast. It is located 19 km from the city of Varna. There are hundreds of hotels and apartments, a lot of bars and restaurants, attractions and things to do for every choice. Hot mineral water springs and lush woodlands turn the resort into one of the most preferable tourist cities. The air temperature from May to September is 18 – 28°C, and the water temperature is around 18-24°C. The resort welcomes visitors from May till October and offers excellent conditions for an unforgettable holiday.

What are the best attractions in Golden Sands resort?

Golden Sands provides attractions and things to do for everyone! Here you can not only relax on the beach and make a tan, but you can also try all kinds of beach and summer sports, diving, swimming, etc. You can book also day trips and sightseeing tours, or explore the area on your way. Golden Sands is an attractive resort not only for young people but for families with children. There are numerous attractions for kids.

1. The best things to do in Golden Sands

Walk along the promenade.

The promenade in the resort is the most popular place. It is very long, so you can walk for hours and find many things to do: there are stalls with souvenirs, bags, clothes, and many more, restaurants, bars and plenty of entertainment for adults and kids: ice karting, mini-golf, bungee (for kids), 6-D or even 9-D cinema. There is a special touristic train that you can jump on and ride on it back and forth along the promenade (the train costs 4 leva). In the central part of Golden Sands, you can enjoy the Ferris wheel and the Eifel tower with a café. 

Relax on the beach

The beach in Golden Sands is one of the biggest in Bulgaria. It is famous for its pure and fine golden sands, which gave the name to the resort. Along the promenade, you will see sunbeds and umbrellas, that are paid for, but there is also a free zone. Most of the hotels have their area. The beach is 4 km long, up to 100 m wide, and is known as one of the best sandy beaches in Europe. Here you will find everything you need for your best summer vacation – from basic facilities to various water and beach activities. Nearby you can choose among numerous restaurants, bars and nightclubs, some of them located on the very beach.

Sport in Golden Sands

The destination offers its tourist a lot of sea sports options – yachting, surfing, water skiing, jet skiing, balloons rides, etc. Diving centres, volleyball fields, tennis courts, paintball, horse riding, bowling hall, tennis courts, volleyball and basketball fields are available here.

Go to a gym with a sea view

If your perfect vacation includes workouts, you can not miss this place. “Fitness with a sea view” is located in the promenade area, just next to the beach. The equipment is new and the endless sea view is in front of you. The entrance is 6 BGN. 

2. Cultural sights

In the resort, there are no museums or historical places, but nearby, you will find some interesting places:

Aladzha monastery  

This is the most famous rock monastery on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, dating from the 13th and 14th centuries. It is only 3 km away. You can walk around the park, visit several caves or enjoy an audiovisual performance.

Book an excursion in the area

If you would like to explore the area and get to know some popular places in Bulgaria with cultural sights and museums, book online one of our tours from Golden Sands:

Nessebar (UNESCO)

The entire city is like a museum under the open sky. Nessebar is under the protection of UNESCO and a must for every tourist in Bulgaria.

Varna City Tour

The biggest city near Golden Sands. Here you can visit numerous museums, big shopping centres and attractions (the Sea garden, the Dolphinarium, the port etc).

Kaliakra & Costal Trip in Balchik

Visit both places in one excursion. Balchik is famous for its Botanical garden and the Palace; cape Kaliakra is a magical place with a stunning view and a museum. 

3. Enjoy the beautiful nature

The resort is surrounded by forest, which is a natural park. In close proximity you can enjoy:

• The beach in Golden Sands : one of the most beautiful wide sandy beaches that you can see;
• Nature park Golden Sands – the natural reserve Golden Sands have been a protected territory since 1943. It is on a surface of 1320,7 ha. The park consists of natural deciduous forests from various types of oak, such as moss-capped oak, Hungarian oak, swamp white oak, and hornbeam. The flora of the Golden Sands nature park consists of more than 500 species of plants. Most important among them are rare – the winter snowdrop, the Caucasian primrose as well as some orchids. Under protection are some endangered animals – 70 birds: common buzzard, goshawk, hawk finch, golden oriole, etc. and 25 species of mammals, including: badger, deer, and wild boar. A park is a perfect place for a day out around green nature and fresh air, enjoying a nice summer breeze.
• You can also book online day trips in the area: 

Excursion Cape Kaliakra and Balchik  – the entire nature on this route is beautiful! While travelling in the area, nobody can remain indifferent to the breathtaking views of the lavender, sunflower and green fields! The incredible scenery of Cape Kaliakra and the colourful Botanical Garden in Balchik are one-of-a-kind places.

All Excursions from Golden Sands:

Find here all excursions and trips with transport from Golden Sands and reserve online:

4. What are the most popular things to do in Golden Sands with children?

• The beach – time spent on the beach is the favourite activity for all children.
• Visit aquapark “Aquapolis” – your place for a day out with more fun and adrenaline. The water park is separated into 3 zones: “For adults”, “For kids” and “Extreme zone”. The “Wild river” is a wide slide, resembling a river water flow, where adventurous journeys await you. The four-track slide is perfect for competitions.
• Excursions : On our website, you can reserve an untraditional activity for kids: Pirate Party for Children . This excursion is the favourite one for every child! Members will meet sailors on the board of the ship and search for pirate treasure. Food and drinks are included on board, as well as transport and entertainment.
• Dolphin show in Varna – visit the Dolphinarium: the dolphins are of the “Tursiops truncates” kind, who live in the Black Sea. There you can enjoy the dolphin show, swim with them or take a picture with a seal. The show consists of high jumps, double flips, and triple-axle. Dolphins will sing, dance-rock n’ roll and waltz. You’ll see how they save a man in the water. Do not forget – dolphins love the applause of the public! 😉

Kids Pirate Party from Golden Sands

5. Best activities for a rainy day in Golden Sands

During the summer holiday, everyone is looking for hot sunny days. In case of bad weather, here are some things you can do:

• SPA – time to relax with SPA treatments and massage. Most of the hotels have Balneo & Spa centres or indoor swimming pools. The region is famous for its hot mineral springs with healing abilities. 
• Casino – play in the casino and try your luck. The 5 – stars complex “International Hotel Casino” offers over 130 slot games and the largest poker room in Bulgaria. It is located in the centre of the resort, you can not miss the 17- floor tower.
• Shopping in Varna – during rainy days you can spend the whole day in one of the shopping centres in Varna. There are 3 big shopping malls with cinema, cafes, restaurants, a play-zone and many boutiques or outlet shops with reasonable prices. Grand Mall Varna is a favourite place for shopping, Mall Varna is the oldest one in the city with premium shops & boutiques, and Delta Planet Mall is the newest one. 
• Visit the Dolphinarium in Varna – the dolphin show is performed 3 times a day so check the schedule in advance and have fun with friends or children.

6. Exciting things to do in Golden Sands for Thrill Seekers

• “ Aquapolis” – the most exciting experience in the water park is the “Kamikaze” high-speed slide. It is for people with strong feelings. It is launched from a platform at a height of 18 meters with a maximum speed of 60 km / h. “The black hole” is one of the most extreme slides in the park. 
• Diving – “Harry’s Diving Center” provides modern equipment for underwater adventures. It is good for beginners and experienced divers. 
• Kart Track Varna – is the largest karting race track in Bulgaria. It is certified by BFKC and offers Go-kart, Paintball, Buggy, and Sports bars . It is located 12 km from Golden Sands, which is 15 min. driving.
• Jeep safari – an off-road adventure in the nature park “Geranea” is available to book online on our website. 

7. Nightlife in Golden Sands

There are thousands of bars, restaurants, and fast food along the alleys of Golden Sands. They offer Bulgarian and international cuisine. The resort is famous for its nightlife, multiple beach bars and disco – clubs. All the bars are high in quality and each one is designed in a cool and fashionable way.

Some of the most popular bars in Golden Sands:

• “Megapark Dolphin” – party all day and night. There is a pool with foam parties, as well as happy hours for drinks.
• Cocktail bar “Paris” – this café is located in a mini copy of the Eifel Tower with a beautiful view of the promenade and the sea.
• “Cuba Bar” – a typical beach bar with refreshing drinks and cocktails. You can sit on the swing or on a cushioned seat on the beach. 

Some of the most popular nightclubs:

• “Bonkers” Disco – all night fun with free drinks and different promotions, neon party and many more; located in the centre of the resort, on the street behind the hotel “Astera;
• “Arrogance Music Factory”: 5 different halls with different music styles ;
• “PR Club” – in front of Hotel Casino International – popular DJs perform every night.

Check out in our website:

Party on a Boat “Sun & Fun” Out-of-the-way party on a boat with drinks & music on board!

No doubt that Golden Sands is one of the best seaside resorts in Bulgaria. With excellent conditions for summer vacation, recreation, things to do and attractions, it is the hottest place on the north Black Sea coast. Check out all excursions and tours from Golden Sands and reserve online on our website:

Testimonials

"Very peaceful and relaxing place! The boat trip to the island was nice and the island itself is quite small but interesting. We also visited the museum and it although its small, it's worth it. There is also a church, cafe and a restaurant on the island." Mr. Rehman, Germany Burgas & Island Trip "Visit Nessebar on a day trip, actually wish we were staying here, so beautiful and so many places to eat with amazing views. Would definitely recommend the guide!" Ms. Mueller, Austria Excursion to Nessebar

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Golden Sands Bulgaria – Things to do

Imagine spending time at one of the biggest resorts on the Black Sea Coast , sinking your feet in golden sand. You no longer have to imagine; make plans to visit Golden Sands, a resort town in Bulgaria within the Varna municipality. Its popularity grows every year with tourists traveling from all over the world to engage in various activities in the resort town. 

When to visit Golden Sands Bulgaria

Golden Sands has a mild climate that makes it an attractive destination all year round. If you love sunbathing and enjoy feeling the warm sunshine on your body, plan to visit the resort during summer. The season begins mid-May and gets better from June to September , making it the best time to visit.

The high season is from July to August, when the town experiences ten hours of sun daily . During these months, the weather is warm during the day and night, with temperatures reaching 30⁰C . The longer hours of sunshine give visitors more time to sightsee and enjoy beach activities.

How big is Golden Sands Bulgaria?

Considered one of the largest resorts in Europe, Golden Sands is a beautiful sight to behold. Located to the north of the Black Sea Coast, it has plenty of lush vegetation comprising bushes and trees that resemble a park.

The resort has a beach strip that stretches 4 kilometers and is 100 meters wide, giving it the title of “best beach in Europe.” Its pure sandy beaches filled with “golden sand” comprise gentle slopes with no sudden drops or rocks.

It proudly holds a Blue Flag resort badge which means that its beaches are clean and free from pollution. Besides the warm sand, visitors have an expanse of crystal-clear water perfect for cooling off by swimming or engaging in various water activities. 

The beachfront promenade has several bars and shops that are the perfect spots for shopping and winding down at the end of the day. Many hotels are located within the broad-leaved forests at the resort and offer services at different categories and prices.

Additionally, Golden Sands has an Aqua Park and various facilities perfect for water sport activities. Its massive size is also heightened by its virtual connection to other nearby resorts, namely Riviera Resort, Elena Resort, St Konstatin, and other villa communities. 

How far is Golden Sands from the airport?

Located 19km from Varna, Golden Sands is a leading seaside resort in Bulgaria that receives visitors throughout the year. Luckily, the area is served by two airports and several motorways, making it accessible to local and international travelers. The two major airports near Golden Sands are Varna International and Bourgas International. 

Varna International airport is the closest airport to Golden Sands, approximately 25 km away. Visitors will take about half an hour from the airport to the resort using a private vehicle. Although it is 150 km away from Golden Sands, Bourgas International airport is another option for travelers. It takes about 140 min to move from the airport to Golden Sands using a private car.  

Where to stay in Golden Sands Bulgaria – Hotels

As far as accommodation, Golden Sands in Bulgaria offers a great variety from which you could choose. Ranging from budget rooms, to posh hotels, this place has it all.

You will find that most of the hotels offer an All Inclusive stay. That make things so much easier, if it’s your first time visiting the Golden Sands.

RIU Astoria Hotel – 4 stars that feel like 5

When we first visited Golden Sands, we stayed at RIU Astoria – All Inclusive

We had a sea view room, and an all inclusive stay.

Cleanliness : 10/10 Everything was clean. From the entrance to the room itself, there was nothing to be said. Several times a day someone would clean the entrance of the Hotel, mop the floor and make sure everything was ready to receive guests. The room was clean, with fresh air, and the view was amazing! The cleaning staff came by everyday and made sure you had all you need in your room. If you didn’t want to be bothered, you just set the room to display ” Do not disturb”. In addition to that, the room had a doorplate with Please wait, Clean my room and a Bell.

Food : 10/10 Although we did see some reviews that were not so encouraging, we were lucky enough to be there when a chef was invited to cook. As a result, all we can say is the food was exceptional! But, the chef was there for only one evening, while we were there for 4 nights. Despite the reviews, we found everything to be tasty and fresh. They had everything from vegan to pulled pork, pizza and rabbit, and, of course, sea food. Everyone could tell those were made that day, and not reheated. Even the deserts tasted heavenly! So, despite some negative reviews, all we can say is that the food was actually like we’ve never had in an all inclusive stay!

Drinks : 5/10 Like all inclusive resorts, drinks are something that just don’t live up to anyone’s expectations. Coffee tastes like tea, beer tastes like water with an aroma, orange juice like chemicals and so on. As opposed to the overall feel of the Hotel, the drinks were not that great, would have expected a lot more. As a consequence, we had our coffee somewhere else every morning – which was great, considering it was by the sea side. Alcohol drinks and cocktails that we had were okay-ish, drinkable.

Location : 10/10 Perfect! It’s right by the sea side. You just get out of the hotel and there it is, right in front of you: the Black Sea. It also has a private beach, which is always a plus on my list! As the Golden Sands resort in Bulgaria is not that big, I cannot say if it was too far or close to other locations. It was a walkable distance to every spot (if you enjoy walking!).

Staff : 8/10 Don’t get me wrong, the staff was super-polite, everywhere you went. But not all the staff spoke English, which made it a bit difficult to understand one another. That’s why I’ve rated 8 out of 10. Nothing else to comment about that.

Other things to know : They have a program for kids , so if you’re thinking of bringing your toddlers, you’ll be just fine. They have a small pool for that, a playground and at night they have a whole dancing and singing program! You need to pay for your parking spot – either at the reception or when booking your stay. You can only have free drinks at the pool bar , after the daily meals end.

Grifid Hotels – Metropol , Vistamar , Bolero , Encanto and Arabella

Although we never actually stayed in Grifid hotels, we could tell from how they look that they are fabulous!

Their resorts look luxurious and high-end. Everything from top to bottom. Their wide sandy private beach is always clean and the sunbeds have a generous space between each other, so you’ll have your privacy.

The architecture from the outside looks amazing, as it is from the inside. The design is lavish, but has a cosy feel to it. It’s not in anyway intimidating or cheap!

All the Grifid hotel locations are highly rated. Rooms are spacious, pools both inside and outside are great, nice top terrace, restaurant at the beach remarkably good and tasty food.

As a consequence, we are not reluctant at all to recommend this hotel chain to you. If you’re looking to have an all inclusive stay in a wonderful place, then don’t hesitate to look at the Grifid Hotels.

Golden Sands restaurants – Where to Eat

Eating out is a great way to experience Golden Sands and interact with the local cuisine. Luckily, the seaside resort has several restaurants worth checking out regardless of your taste. 

Old Oak Restaurant

If you would like to try traditional Bulgarian food in a modest restaurant, Old Oak is the perfect spot. The eatery located between hotels Melia Grand and Admiral offers a wide variety of local meals prepared in Bulgarian cooking style.

Besides local dishes, you can try out their dishes in their fish menu and freshly made Mediterranean salads. The cost of meals at Old Oak is reasonable, making it an excellent stopover for delicious cuisine on a budget. 

Checkout the Coastal Town of Balchik – a Scenic Paradise

Golden Dreams Boat restaurant 

The towering boat with an eatery inside is an attraction and a great place to grab a meal. The restaurant’s exterior takes you back to earlier days in Bulgaria when boats were a major source of transportation. Once you step in, you are ushered into a beautiful space fitted with an inviting setting and affordable meals. The meals are a mixture of local and international cuisine, giving you a chance to sample great dishes while exploring the boat. 

Magdalena Restaurant 

Fish lovers say Magdalena is a “must visit” restaurant when visiting Golden Sands. The fish restaurant near Nirvana beach has a seaside ambiance and the best fish dishes in the area. Its location allows diners to enjoy a cool sea breeze as they enjoy various delicious specialties that include perfectly fried fish. Accompaniments such as roasted peppers combined with garlic and dill are a “must have” when in Magdalena. The prices of the seaside eatery are average regardless of the dish selected on the menu. 

La Mer Restaurant 

La Mer is the epitome of fine dining with an atmosphere of high-quality service and an excellent menu. It’s a great place to enjoy a summer meal selected from their wide range of Mediterranean dishes. Wine is also available on order with its in-house sommelier helping diners choose the right one. Besides the refined atmosphere, the service is top-notch and attracts restaurants looking for flawless service. 

Things to do in Golden Sands

Golden Sands has lots of activities worth trying out for those traveling alone or in a group. Some of the activities are accessible at no cost, while others require a minimal fee to be allowed in. Although the places to see in the seaside resort are many, some of the popular things to do are:

Visit Aquapolis

Have some fun in the water and cool down at Aquapolis, a waterpark at Golden sands. The 40,000 square meter park has numerous facilities that make it the perfect place to spend the day. Spend time at the pool, waterslides, waterfalls, towers, Jacuzzi, and ancient ruins, all within the park. Children get a chance to enjoy pony rides or play mini-golf at the park. Take a dip in the hot springs – Golden sands has several baths and mineral pools that are great for relaxation. The pools and baths are said to contain healing powers that leave your body feeling refreshed. Most hotels in the area have spa facilities that incorporate the hot springs as part of the offered services. 

Relax on the beach

Golden sands has several Blue Flag beaches with clear warm water, making it a hotspot for swimming and other water activities. You can decide to lounge on the available loungers that are placed on the beach or engage in games such as beach volleyball, football, or tennis. Walking along the promenade will lead you to restaurants, bars, and shops, where you can grab lunch or buy gift items for loved ones. 

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife

You can be assured of a memorable night out in Golden sands at its many nightspots. Start with cocktails in the evening at Mojito Beach Bar before proceeding to nearby bars for some live entertainment or karaoke. If you love dancing, make your way to Arrogance Music Factory and dance the night away. With many bars, discos, and nightclubs, the seaside resort is a fun destination in Bulgaria. 

Ultimately, Golden Sands is one of your best bets when it comes to an all-around summer vacation spot in Bulgaria!

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Best Things To Do in Golden Sands, Bulgaria

Have you ever visited a new place and felt ‘wow’ about it? For many visitors, it happens at Golden Sands.

Golden Sands may not be as popular as other cities in Bulgaria, but don’t let that fool you. Golden Sands is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.

You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Golden Sands.

If you have plans to visit Bulgaria and are not sure if Golden Sands should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Golden Sands and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.

• Adventure activities in Golden Sands
• Things to do with Family & Kids in Golden Sands
• Leisure Activities in Golden Sands
• Entertainment Activities in Golden Sands

Tourist Attractions in Golden Sands

Here is the list of things to do in Golden Sands and tourist attractions in city.

Address: Bulgaria

Arrogance Music Factory

Address: Astera Hotel & Spa, 9007 Golden Sands, Bulgaria

Kaliakra Palace

Hotel "central", international hotel casino & tower suites.

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• What to do in Golden Sands in 2 days

13 Unique and Fun Things to do in Varna, Bulgaria

Last Updated: September 24, 2024

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The seaside resort city of Varna is a Bulgarian destination best known for its sandy beaches, buzzy nightlife and overall laidback vibe. It’s a city I’ve now visited twice, both times on the tail end of hectic trips, and I can safely say: if it’s a chill and relaxed vacation you’re looking for, this is a nice option that doesn’t break the bank.

Granted, unlike other Bulgarian cities like Sofia , Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo , where the main draws are history and culture, I’d say Varna is (unashamedly) more of a party place. Sure, there are still museums and ruins to explore, but the main star of the show are its beaches, beach clubs and abundance of affordable food, drink, and places to go out.

So if you’re looking for a historical, culture-dense trip, you might want to look elsewhere. If however, your goal is to deepen your tan and and play mermaids in the sea, then Varna is a relaxing (albeit touristy!) destination to check out.

So, read on for a list of the best things to do in Varna, from thermal baths old and new to museums and unique side trips.

Save this list of Things to Do in Varna for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Enjoy a beach day

As one of the most popular seaside resorts in Bulgaria, it’s no surprise that the main thing to do in Varna is getting pruny by the sea.

There are more than 10 different beach clubs to choose from in Varna, many of which are well worth the small entry fees for sandy, well-kept oases close to drinks, food, and perhaps most importantly… bathrooms!

I enjoyed our time at Makalali Beach , but other popular picks include…

• Punta Cana : If you want to avoid sand then you can sit on decking and still enjoy the views, or relax on the beach on cushioned sunbeds. At night it’s a very popular cocktail bar.
• Moonlight : This beach bar is also home to a small hot spring type pool surrounded by a deck and is a lovely spot to relax during the day. At night it’s one of the biggest nightlife spots as well, with a huge outdoor stage.
• Seacrets : Here you can sit on loungers under umbrellas, in cute two-person cabanas or beanbags on the sand, as well as dining tables on a raised deck to look out over the water.

If you don’t mind venturing farther, many people recommend going to Golden Sands as well, but I feel like there’s plenty of nice beach spots in Varna that you don’t necessarily need to go out of your way.

2. Amble along the pedestrianized center

The pedestrianized center of Varna is the heart and soul of the city, where you’ll find tons of restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops along with a slew of pretty, colourful buildings. This is the most ideal way to get to the beach, and you’ll find no shortage of spots here to relax and grab a bite!

Starting from Nezavisimost Square, you can stroll along Knyaz Boris I Boulevard to reach the Sea Garden, with plenty of people watching and pretty colourful buildings to ogle along the way. Of course, this is one of the busiest strips in Varna as well (meaning a fair share of crowds and rowdier spots) but it’s definitely one of the best places to absorb Varna’s unique energy.

3. Explore the Sea Garden (Morska Gradina)

For one of the prettiest spots along Varna’s coastline, make sure to visit the Sea Garden, the oldest and largest park in the city.

Spread across about 85 hectares, the garden’s origins date back to the late 19th century when Czech gardener Anton Novak began its development. Over time, it has grown to include an open-air theatre, an aquarium, and even a zoo.

Highlights here include…

• Pantheon Monument: A monument dedicated to notable Bulgarian figures, consisting of two warriors (one of whom is wounded) standing on a stone platform with various scenes on the outside. Once an ossuary but now just a peaceful spot to remember those who’ve died.
• National Maritime Museum: AKA the navy museum, featuring an impressive collection of naval artifacts, ships, and historical exhibits.
• Museum of Natural History: Filled mostly with dioramas of lots of stuffed animals in their native habitats.
• The Fountain of the Sirens: A cool fountain that is illuminated at night and features three figures on top that look more like cherubs than sirens to me, but it’s still a nice fountain!
• Public Astronomical Observatory and Planetarium Nicolaus Copernicus: A public planetarium with displays on space in Bulgarian, although they do sometimes have lectures in English.

4. See the Roman Baths (Thermae)

For those looking to delve into Varna’s historic side, one of the best places to visit is the old Roman baths.

These baths were constructed in the 2nd century and today the preserved ruins are apparently the fourth-largest in Europe and the largest in the Balkans. So, if you like wandering around Roman ruins, this place is for you! There are signs around to explain the different parts of the site so you can imagine how it would have looked in its heyday.

There’s also the Roman Baths of Odessos that you can visit, which are smaller but can mostly be seen from the street. If you choose to pay the small entry fee to go in, you can read the information panels. The Varna Museum of Modern History is right next door if you’d like to also learn some more modern history after seeing this ancient site.

5. Enjoy a thermal bath yourself

Of course, while ogling ancient baths is a fun exercise for the imagination, another (even more fun) thing to do in Varna is actually enjoying a thermal bath for yourself.

While the grand Roman-style baths of centuries past no longer exist, there are quite a few options. As a free option, I went to this spot (aptly named “the Hot Water” on Google Maps) that was like a natural infinity pool overlooking the sea. It wasn’t glamorous by any means, but with a glorious sunset and luxuriously warm water to soak in, I had no complaints.

Will you surely be sharing the space with confused locals wondering why you’re crashing their evening bath? Probably – but it’s worth every bit of dodged eye contact!

There are of course many more thermal baths dotted along the coast, so have a quick search to see what’s near you. For a fancier option, there’s the paid option of going to the Aquahouse Thermal & Beach a bit outside of Varna. I haven’t been, but it looks amazing!

6. Stop by the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral 

One of the most eye-catching landmarks you will notice as you wander around Varna is the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral, also known as the Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral, which is the third largest cathedral in all of Bulgaria.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1880, shortly after Bulgaria’s liberation from Ottoman rule, and was completed in 1886. The foundation stone was laid by Prince Alexander I of Battenberg and dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, a major feast in the Eastern Orthodox Church that commemorates the Virgin Mary’s ascension into heaven.

Architecturally, the cathedral is an impressive blend of Neo-Byzantine and Neo-Russian styles, with a design influenced by the Peterhof Palace Church in St. Petersburg, Russia, which is evident in its ornate decoration and the use of golden domes. The interior boasts beautiful icons, frescoes, stained-glass windows and a richly decorated altar, so while a photo from outside is a must, it’s also well worth going inside to admire this magnificent building!

7. Ogle the Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship

One of the more unique and striking monuments I saw during my visit to Varna was the Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship.

This massive monument was built as a tribute to Russia’s support of Bulgaria during the 1828-29 Russo-Turkish War. Constructed where many of the Russian soldiers had fallen, it depicts four Russian soldiers coming to the aid of three Bulgarian women. It used to be illuminated at night, with music playing around it and an “eternal” flame at the front but after the revolutions of 1989 it fell into disrepair, with many parts stolen.

While these days, there’s not much to do there apart from wander around and see the monument from various angles, it’s a very unique spot and home to some excellent views over the sea, so I’d definitely recommend stopping by.

8. Head to the Varna Archaeological Museum

Looking for nerdier things to do in Varna? The Varna Archaeological Museum is home to an extensive collection of Thracian, Greek, and Roman artifacts, including the world-famous Gold of Varna that was found in the Varna Necropolis.

This is one of the largest museums in Bulgaria, so there’s plenty to keep you occupied on a rainy day, or maybe a sunny day if you need to cool off!

The building originally housed a girl’s high school and was built in the beautiful neo-Renaissance style. Inside you can easily spend hours exploring all the exhibits, particularly the Gold of Varna, an exquisite collection of gold artifacts dating back to 4600-4200 BC, which are considered to be among the oldest gold treasures in the world.

Along with the fascinating exhibits there’s a library, children’s study museum, gift shop and cafeteria to enjoy, while the lapidarium in the courtyard is where Varna’s International Jazz Festival is held every summer.

9. Visit the Retro Museum Varna

Another place to dive into Bulgaria’s past is the Retro Museum Varna. Here, visitors can explore a treasure trove of memorabilia, including vintage cars, Soviet-era electronics, and nostalgic artifacts.

This museum has been set up to show what life was like in Bulgaria during the Soviet-era, with items mainly from the period 1944-1989 along with waxworks of notable figures from the time like Fidel Castro, Che Guevera, Stalin and Lenin. Car enthusiasts in particular will find it interesting as there are a lot of restored cars, but also household items such as Polish cosmetics, Russian vacuum cleaners and Bulgarian cigarettes.

The museum location is kind of random, in a big shopping centre outside of the city proper but it’s easy to get to via bus and there’s free parking if you’re coming by car. If you like museums that take you back in time, add this one to your list!

10. See the Varna Ethnographic Museum

Another great museum for going back in time is the Varna Ethnographic Museum, which looks at the lifestyles of people in Varna during the second half of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century.

There are some lovely traditional clothing examples of the kind worn by Bulgarians from varying geographic groups, along with objects showing the main livelihoods of people from Varna, like beekeeping, fishing, farming, copper-smithing and tailoring. The building housing the museum is also quite striking, built in the Revival style in 1860.

While the Retro Museum looks specifically at the more recent Communist-era in Bulgaria this one is much more focused on earlier periods, so if you want a thorough overview of Bulgarian history and culture then it’s well worth visiting them both.

11. Day Trip Out to Pobiti Kamani (The Stone Forest)

Pobiti Kamani, also known as the Stone Forest is a popular day trip from Varna. This area is known for its natural rock formations that resemble petrified trees, giving the area a quite eerie/otherworldly feel.

The formations, believed to be over 50 million years old, are made of limestone and have sparked numerous geological and mystical theories about their origins. Yep, that’s right, nobody really knows how they were made, although popular scientific theories include erosion, natural gas or a kind of paleo-hydrocarbon seep system.

There’s nothing in particular to do here, aside from wander among the weird formations, and maybe take some interesting photographs. While it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you do have to pay to visit, there isn’t anything stopping you from climbing in or on some of the structures.

To be honest, as someone who’s not particularly into geology, I wasn’t wowed by this activity, but if you’re looking for something extra to do then just know that it’s an option!

12. Venture Out to Euxinograd Palace

Just north of Varna is another side trip worth considering – the elegant Euxinograd Palace, a former royal residence surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Built in the late 19th century as a summer residence for the Bulgarian royal family, the palace has an intriguing backstory. It was originally a monastery before being transformed into a grand estate by Prince Alexander I of Battenberg. Over time, it became a favorite retreat for Bulgarian monarchs, particularly King Ferdinand I, who made significant additions to the palace and its gardens, drawing inspiration from the French style.

The palace itself is beautiful, with elegant facades and richly decorated interiors that echo the opulence of its royal past. The lush gardens, stretching over 800 acres, are meticulously landscaped with rare plants, serene fountains, and charming pathways.

Do be aware though that you can only explore the palace and gardens as part of a tour, which needs to be organised in advance by calling or emailing the property.

13. Visit Aladzha Monastery

Finally, about 14km north of Varna, you’ll find the mysterious Aladzha Monastery, a rock-hewn complex dating back to the 12th century.

This medieval Orthodox Christian monastery is carved directly into a limestone cliff, where it’s said that the monks once lived in a series of small caves and niches, complete with chapels, and even a small church.

The name Aladzha (Alaca) means “motley, bright” in Turkish, likely referring to the vivid frescoes that originally decorated the walls, some of which have survived the passage of time. The site also features a small museum that provides deeper insight into the monastery’s history and the daily lives of its inhabitants.

BONUS: Go Karting

Okay, is it the most unique or cultural thing to do in Varna? No, but I’d be neglecting my travel blogger duties if I didn’t mention that Varna is actually home to the largest go karting course in Bulgaria.

So… if you’re looking for something to spice up your itinerary, then be sure to look into it here.

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Varna?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more of the best Varna activities to the list. Happy and safe travels! 🙂

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20 Gorgeous Towns and Cities in Bulgaria You’ve Never Heard Of

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Bulgaria has been a hidden gem but is now becoming a popular holiday destination. With golden beaches next to the Black Sea, a mountainous landscape and many historic sites, it’s not difficult to see why people are travelling to Bulgaria. Another advantage of visiting this country is that it is reasonably priced, much more so than the resorts along the Mediterranean. The Bulgarian Black Sea coastline is 378 km (235 miles) long, and beaches cover around a third of this, 11 of them having a Blue Flag. You can still find quiet beaches but some have become more popular, not only for swimming and sunbathing but also for watersports.

History buffs will be in their element in Bulgaria. There are museums galore, over 100 monasteries, thousands of churches, historic castles and ancient ruins. The country is one of the world’s largest winemakers, producing about 145 million litres a year. Try to visit a winery during your stay. The national drink is Rakia, a clear spirit but be careful as the ABV can be anything between 40 and 95%!

The variety of food found in Bulgaria stands out. Being next to Turkey, a lot of their food is made with herbs and spices and has a distinct Middle Eastern taste. Influences have also been taken from Greece which is to the south of the country but the Bulgarians have put their twist on them. Their version of Greek moussaka is made with potatoes and pork mince rather than eggplant and lamb mince. Their famous salad, Shopska Salata, is like Greek Salad but grated sirene cheese is used instead of cubes of feta cheese.

Summers in Bulgaria are long and hot while autumn is usually pleasantly warm and is a popular time for people who want to tour historic sites and visit museums. Winters are long and cold, but because of the mountains, there are excellent skiing opportunities on offer. If you feel Bulgaria could be your holiday destination, read on. Here are 20 Bulgarian cities to get you started. 

5- Veliko Tarnovo

11- stara zagora, 12- haskovo, 13- dobrich, 18- pazardzhik, 19- velingrad, 20- nessebar, towns and cities in bulgaria, 20 bulgarian cities to visit.

Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria and is in the western part of the country, close to the Vitosha Mountain, where you can hike in the summer and ski in the winter.

It is home to around 1.28 million people and like most capital cities, it is buzzing with life.

There is an excellent choice of restaurants, great shops, and a lively nightlife.

One of the main reasons for visiting Sofia is its historical significance and attractions.

In the centre of the city, you will find the remains of the Serdica Fort which was constructed in 2000 BC by the Thracians.

You can also see the Roman-Byzantine church of St George, built in the 4th century AD.

Over 80% of the Bulgarian population are Eastern Orthodox Christians, and churches in Sofia are plentiful.

If you only have time to visit one church, it should be The Saint Sofia Church. 

It is ornate and has a magnificent dome, but the real pull is the necropolis underneath the church.

You will see many ancient Roman tombs, some even having frescoes painted on them. 

There is a museum here as well.

You will see evidence of the other religions practised if you head to Sveta Nedelya Square where there is an Eastern Orthodox Church, a Catholic Church, a Jewish Synagogue, and an Islamic Mosque.

Museum-lovers will be in their element in Sofia.

Museums include the National Archaeological Museum, the National Art Gallery in the former Royal Palace, the Museum of Socialist Art, and the National History Museum, which houses some famous gold artefacts.

You should take a day trip from Sofia to Rila Monastery, 117 km (73 miles) away. It is the monastery dedicated to Saint Ivan of Rila and is the world’s most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery built in the 10th century and houses beautiful frescoes.

Recommended tours:

• Sofia: Small Group Walking Tour
• From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Day Trip

Stay at: Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia

Varna is the third-largest city in Bulgaria and one of the country’s tourist hotspots on the Black Sea coast in the north. 

It has beautiful beaches and there are even a couple of places where you can go surfing.

The best beach is Rapangi Beach because it is well-kept and doesn’t get too busy.

If you want a break from the beach, the town is full of history.

There are some ruins of Roman Baths to visit, Orthodox churches and monasteries, and museums such as the History Museum and the Archaeological Museum.

Walk along Kraybrezhna Aleya, a coastal path that goes by the beach past seafood restaurants, where cocktail bars and nightclubs open in the evening, and the place comes alive.

Most of these places close for the winter, as Varna is a summer resort.

Varna loves to host festivals and each year there is a music festival, a folklore festival, a jazz festival, and a ballet competition.

Recommended tour: Varna: Guided VIP Tour

Stay at: City Boutique Inn

Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria and sits on seven hills between the Rhodope Mountains and the Balkan range.

It is in the country’s south and is one of the oldest cities in Bulgaria that has been continuously inhabited.

It was founded in the 6th century BC and is a city for history lovers.

Plovdiv has been occupied by many races, including the Thracians, Macedons, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottoman Turks.

You can see these influences in the architecture throughout the city.

The Roman influence is evident; you can still see the ruins of the Roman Stadium, the Forum and the Eirene Residence.

The Roman Amphitheatre is still used as an open-air theatre.

The Old Town has cobblestone streets and brightly coloured National Revival houses.

It is built on three of the seven hills, and you get lovely views of the rest of the city from the Old Town.

The city is known for its artsy atmosphere, and you may be lucky enough to be there when there is an art or music festival on.

There are plenty of traditional Bulgarian eateries and international restaurants, such as Mexican, Italian, and Bavarian.

Nightlife is lively and especially popular with youngsters in their early 20s.

• Plovdiv: 2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour
• From Sofia: Group Day Trip to Plovdiv by Bus
• Plovdiv: Perperikon, Haskovo and Thracian Tomb Full-Day Trip

Stay at: Gallery 37 Powered by ASTON

Burgas is on the Black Sea’s southeastern coast and is Bulgaria’s fourth-largest city.

Most of the beaches around Burgas are small and tucked into sandy bays with crystal clear and calm waters.

The Sea Garden, right next to the main beach, has a lovely promenade and well-kept gardens, fountains, playgrounds, tennis courts, cafes and a theatre.

It’s a lovely place to spend a couple of hours.

For those interested in learning about the area’s ancient history, head to the Archaeological Museum, where you will see artefacts from as far back as 1,600,000 BC to 1.600 BC.

Housed in the museum are tools, pottery, ritual items, and even the valuables found in the tomb of a Thracian princess.

If you want to shop ‘til you drop, head to Burgas Galleria, which is a three-storey shopping mall.

Here you will find both Bulgarian shops and international high-street stores and a food court on the second floor.

Stay at: Hotel Residence Promenade

Veliko Tarnovo is in central Bulgaria and is one of Europe’s oldest cities.

If you are either a nature lover or are interested in the history of Bulgaria, you will have a fantastic holiday here.

22 km (13.6 miles) outside the city is the Emen Canyon which takes around two hours to walk.

It leads to a spectacular waterfall, 10 metres (32 feet) high.

86 km (54 miles) away from the city is the Devetashka Cave which is an enormous cave two km (1.2 miles) long.

It is an intricate network of tunnels with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes.

The tunnels themselves measure seven km (4.3 miles) and you need to book a tour in advance to visit the caves.

The city of Veliko Tarnovo was the capital of Bulgaria between the 12th and 14th centuries.

The Yantra River flows through the city and the Stambolov Bridge takes you to the Asenevtsi Monument, which celebrates the power of the Medieval Bulgarians and from here, you get a beautiful view of the city.

Other city highlights include the King’s Castle, which was used when the city was the capital, and the Charshia Art Gallery, which focuses on arts and crafts.

There are museums in the city, such as the Regional History Museum, the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Illusions.

Recommended tour: From Sofia: Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi Tour with Transfer

Stay at: Bey House Royal Hotel

For more cities in Europe, read:

• 20 Best  Cities in Greece
• 20 Best Cities in Poland
• 20 Best Cities in Spain
• 20 Best Cities in Portugal
• 20 Best Cities in Turkey
• 20 Best Cities in Scotland
• 20 Best Cities in Italy
• 20 Best Cities in Ireland
• 20 Best Cities in Germany
• 20 Best Cities in Austria
• 20 Best Cities in Wales
• 20 Best Cities in Hungary
• 20 Best Cities in Serbia
• 20 Best Cities in Bulgaria
• 20 Best Cities in Slovakia
• 20 Best  Danube River Cities
• 20 Best Cities in Romania
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Ruse is in the northeast of the country along the river Danube.

It has an Austrian feel due to its architecture and is known as ‘Little Vienna’ It is a city of firsts.

The first Bulgarian newspaper was printed here, the weather service was established here, and the first railway in Bulgaria was completed here.

It is also the largest port city in the country, so it wouldn’t be difficult to spend a whole week here and still not see everything.

It has 19 museums, including the Regional Historical Museum of Ruse.

Other highlights include the churches of Ivanovo, 20 km (12.4 miles) south of Ruse, which are little monasteries hewn out of rock, and the Sveta Troitsa Cathedral, built in the 17th century and houses many holy relics.

The Basarbovo Monastery is unique as it is entirely built inside caves.

Head to Freedom Square to see the Monument of Liberty, dating back to the beginning of the 20th century.

Here, the architecture is of different styles and there are statues and fountains to be seen.

On the edges of the square are bars and restaurants.

It is lovely here after dark as many fountains and statues are lit up.

Stay at: NC Apartment Ruse

Shumen is in the northeast of the county and is 88.6 km (53.4 miles) from Varna and would make a nice day trip.

The city’s highlight is the Shuman Monument on Ilchov Hill, which commemorates the 1300th anniversary of the creation of Bulgaria in 681 AD.

It is enormous, and you need at least an hour to see all of it.

It has been designed in the cubism style, which is quite unusual as cubism is generally used in paintings.

Eight concrete blocks are built at different angles, showing pictures from Bulgarian history between the 6th and 10th centuries.

Three of the blocks are covered in mosaics.

To get to the monument, you will need to climb 1,300 steps, representing the 1.300 years of Bulgaria.

Take a taxi if you don’t have the energy to climb the steps.

Shumen houses the largest mosque in Bulgaria, the Tombul Mosque, which is worth visiting for the beautiful paintings.

In the centre of the city, you will find restaurants and cafes.

Much of the area is pedestrianised.

Less than 20 km (12.4 miles) from Shuman is the Madara Rider, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is a rock relief from around the 8th century and depicts a man on a horse spearing a lion, with a dog running behind him.

Stay at: MiTRa Luxury Apartments

If you are looking for sea, sand, and watersports, you won’t go wrong with Sozopol.

Located on the southern coast of the Black Sea, the beaches are sandy, and holidaymakers enjoy swimming, sunbathing, scuba diving, windsurfing, water skiing, and sailing all day long.

It gets busy from June until September, but if you want somewhere quieter, you can always drive a little out of town and find a cosy cove.

Sozopol is one of the oldest cities in Bulgaria, its history going back 2,500 years.

You will find more than beach life here.

The Old Town is lovely, with narrow streets, churches, old houses, and authentic restaurants.

In 1974, it was given the prestigious honour of being an architectural and historical reserve.

Sozopol has an archaeological museum and an art gallery, and just outside the city is Ravadinovo Castle which is well worth visiting.

The castle is beautiful and, on the grounds, there is a waterpark, a lake with swans, and a zoo.

It’s an excellent place for the whole family.

If you are in the city at the end of the summer, you can enjoy the Apolonia Festival.

On offer are theatrical performances, films and open-air concerts.

• A Romantic Escape to Sozopol: Bulgaria’s Seaside Heaven
• Magical Christmas Tour to Sozopol: A Winter Wonderland!

Stay at: Apolonia Apartments

Vratsa is the biggest city in the country’s northwest and is an excellent base for outdoor activities.

Just 10.5 km (6.5 miles) away is Vracansky Balkan National Park, which has more than 500 caves to explore.

In the park, you can cycle or even mountain climb; in winter, you can ski.

There are hotels, restaurants and cafes within the park.

It is the second-largest park in Bulgaria and is a haven for flora and fauna.

There are over 1,100 species of plants to be found as well as birds of prey, including the griffon vulture.

16 km (9,9 miles) from Vratsa is the Ledenika Cave which has stunning stalagmites and superb acoustics.

Because of this, concerts are held here.

If you want a day in the city, there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and a few museums.

Stay at: Spacious Apartment with a view SUNNY DAY

Pleven is in the country’s north and is Bulgaria’s seventh most populous city.

It is known to be the city of museums, so if you are more interested in history and culture than beach life, this is the place for you.

The Regional History Museum is particularly spectacular as it has over 250,000 artefacts from ancient, Medieval, and more recent times.

There is even a collection of 25,000 old coins.

For a moving experience, visit the St George the Conqueror Chapel Mausoleum, built between 1903 and 1907 and dedicated to the Russian and Romanian soldiers who died during the Liberation of Bulgaria in 1877.

Stay at: Hotel Villa Kaylaka

Exploring Eastern Europe? You may also like:

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• 15 Things Hungary Is Famous For
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• 20 Cities in Poland
• 20 Things To Do In Warsaw
• 20 Things To Do In Krakow
• 20 Things To Do In Krakow At Night
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• 20 Castles in Romania
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Stara Zagora is an ancient city in central Bulgaria, and while it is not considered a tourist destination, there is enough to experience for a day or two.

If you are staying in Plovdiv, drive there for a change of scenery 101.8 km (63 miles) away.

The Regional Museum of History is a must-see, as is the Neolithic Dwellings Museum, which houses the remains of a Neolithic house from the 7th century BC.

There is also an art gallery with over 4,000 artworks, a Museum of Religions, and a Museum of Beer.

The beer museum is housed in the Zagorka Brewery, and you can take a tour and then have a tasting.

You will find the ruins of a Roman Forum and an ancient main street close to the promenade.

Stay at: Park Hotel Stara Zagora

Haskovo is a city in southern Bulgaria, near the Greek and Turkish borders 97 km (60 miles) from Plovdiv, and it would make a nice day trip.

The city is best known for its religious sites.

Climb the hill in the city just above the Jewish Quarter and see the monument dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

As well as being able to admire the statue, you will get great views over the city.

The Haskovo Regional History Museum is worth spending an hour or two and houses over 120,000 artefacts from the region going as far back as prehistoric times.

Close to Haskovo, in the village of Uzundzkovo, you will find the Church of the Assumption, the largest rural church in the country.

It is worth visiting as it was restored in 2007 and has some beautiful stained-glass windows, icons and frescoes, and one of the largest iconostases in the country.

Haskovo has an excellent range of restaurants, including traditional Bulgarian, Mediterranean, Greek, Italian and Chinese.

Stay at: Hotel Bohemi

Dobrich is in the northeastern part of the country.

It is 30 km (18.6 miles) from the Black Sea coast and resorts such as Golden Sands, the largest resort in the north.

If you are staying at the coast, Dobricht is a lovely place to go for a change of scenery.

Some museums in Dobrich are worth visiting, including the Old Dobrich Ethnographic Museum and the History Museum, which houses 163,000 exhibits, many from prehistoric times.

If you have children, they will enjoy the zoo with 350 animals from 70 species and more room for them than in other zoos in the country.

Stay at: Park Hotel Izida

Sliven is in central Bulgaria in the foothills of the eastern Balkan Mountains, popular in the winter with skiers.

If you are here at other times of the year, there are plenty of museums to visit.

Check out the Regional History Museum, which houses artefacts dating back to the 7th century, and the Museum of Popular Customs.

Sliven is an excellent base to explore Blue Stones National Park, where you can see waterfalls, visit caves and marvel at the rocks that turn blue in certain lights.

The park is 38 km (23.6 miles) from Sliven.

Stay at: National Palace Spa & Wellness Hotel

In southwestern Bulgaria, Melnik is in the heart of Bulgaria’s best wine-producing area.

The region has plenty of wineries to visit for tours, wine tasting, and there is a wine museum in the city.

It is very cheap to go to the museum, and the entry fee includes a tour of the museum and tasting of four wines and a rakia.

You can buy a bottle of your favourite wine and even bottle it yourself!

If you only have time to visit one winery, it should be Villa Melnik which has won many awards for its wines.

It offers different tours ranging from a simple tasting to a tour of the vineyards and winemaking facilities and a tasting of six wines.

The emphasis on wine doesn’t stop here.

If you visit the 18th-century Kordopulov House Museum, which used to belong to a Greek trader who produced wine, you will get a free tasting.

A 10-minute drive from the city is Rozhen Monastery, the largest monastery in the Pirin Mountains.

It dates to the 13th century and has lovely 16th-century frescoes.

Recommended tour: Full-Day Tour to Rila Monastery and Melnik

Stay at: Manoleva House

Pernik is 30 km (19 miles) southwest of Sofia and is a lovely place to go for a day trip.

Here you will find Kraka Fortress dating back to Medieval times.

You can tour the ruins, discover the secrets of the fortress and admire wonderful views of the area.

The fortress is not the only place where will find fantastic views. Another place to go is the Tower of Saint Dimitar.

There is a museum in the city, the Pernik History Museum which shows artefacts relating to the history of Pernik.

If you have time, visit the traditional village of Lomnitsa, close to Pernik, for pretty houses and shops selling handmade pottery and other homemade goods.

Stay at: Apartment G17

If you are staying in Stara Zargora, Yambol makes a pleasant day trip to see something different 87 km (54 miles) away.

For military enthusiasts, The Museum of Combat Glory has an extensive collection of tanks, photos, documents, belongings, medals, decorations and other artefacts relating to the people who fought in the Balkan Wars and the two World Wars.

In Yambol’s Synagogue complex, you will find the George Papazoo Gallery, which displays artworks from both Bulgarian and international artists and a collection of religious icons.

If you enjoy a glass of wine or two, visit MarVin Vineyard for a tasting just outside the city.

Stay at: HomeViza

Pazardzhik is on the banks of the beautiful river Maritsa, in the country’s south, 113 km (70 miles) from Sofia.

It is another city suitable for a day trip or maybe a weekend as there is enough to see to warrant a couple of days.

The Church of the Dormition houses impressive icons by master artists from the Debar School and wooden carvings showing scenes from the Bible.

The city has a History Museum with an exhibition about sport development in Bulgaria, an Ethnographic Museum and a Clock Tower.

Also worth visiting is the Konstantin Velichkov House Museum, the former home of Velichkov, a political activist and writer.

In the Stanislov Dospevski Gallery, you will see some of Dospevski’s spectacular icons.

The city has some beautiful squares where you can while away the hours over a coffee or wine.

Stay at: Lux Apartment

Velingrad is known as Bulgaria’s spa resort and is in the country’s south.

It has an abundance of mineral waters, excellent hotels and a mild climate year-round.

Around 200,000 people come here yearly to take advantage of the 80 mineral springs.

There are many spas and treatment centres, and you are welcome whether you are trying to cure ailments or want to boost your health.

In the city, you will find the Velingrad Museum of History, which has more than 19,000 archaeological artefacts, icons, old, printed books, and even a whole exhibition dedicated to Easter eggs.

In the winter, you can come here for skiing.

Stay at: Hotel Arte SPA & Park

Nessebar is a large resort on the Black Sea and is always busy during the summer.

There are two beaches bordering the Old Town, and a 10-minute drive takes you to Sunny Beach, which is 5 km (3.1 miles) long and has a golden beach.

There are many restaurants, cafes and bars here, and the nightlife is lively.

The Old Town of Nessebar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it has several old churches and historic buildings, including original 19th-century Bulgarian Revival houses.

The Old Town is on an island connected to the rest of the city by a causeway.

There are 40 monasteries and churches in the city of Nessebar.

The frescoes in the Church of the Holy Saviour are impressive and show scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.

See the Black Madonna icon in the Church of the Dormition of Theotokos and the well-preserved frescoes and icons in St. Stephens Church.

Recommended tour: Nessebar: “FunForTwo”, adventure and city walk for couples

Stay at: Apartment Complex Rich

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