Tourist Information for The Bulgarian Sea Capital of Varna

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Varna is one of the most rapidly developing regions of Bulgaria in terms of economic and social activity. The population of Varna is currently around 360,000.

Varna is known as Bulgaria's "Sea Capital", and it has the largest harbour in the country. It is used for both the navy and for commercial shipping. It is also a large industrial, cultural, educational and scientific centre in Bulgaria. Varna is a cosmopolitan city, with literally thousands of shops selling both locally-produced and imported goods. Major international stores are being attracted to the city. Companies such as Mr Bricolage, Praktiker, Metro and Kaufland have already opened stores in Varna. Clothes shops abound in Varna, particularly in the city centre where stylish boutiques sell Italian and French designer imports.

There is a vast range of hotels, restaurants and bars in Varna. In addition to restaurants offering Bulgarian cuisine, you will find Australian, Turkish, Italian, Chinese, Indian and, of course, McDonalds and Kentucky Fried Chicken. (Take a look at our blog Life In Bulgaria, which includes reviews of some of our favourite eating places.) Amongst the city's attractions is the only dolphinarium on the Balkan peninsula. Other places of interest are the planetarium, the old museum of Black Sea flora and fauna -the Aquarium, the newly-built water attraction - the Aquapolis aqua park, a go-kart track, a children's fun-park in the Sea Garden, the opera house, a theatre, a cinema, plus many night-clubs and discotheques.

The History of Varna

Modern day Varna evolved from the ancient town of Odessos, which was one of the largest colonies on the coast. Because of its location - on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, close to the River Danube - the town soon turned into a trade and strategic centre. Odessos' political status was that of a city state.

In the museums of Varna you will find evidence of the once glorious Odessos, as well as the oldest gold treasury in the world (IV millenia B.C.), which was discovered near Varna lake.