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Europe Bulgaria Varna Do & See Golden Sands

Overview

Golden Sands

The guide was updated: 2025-03-28

Golden Sands is famous for its stunning golden sand and expansive beaches along the Black Sea. It's located 18 kilometres north of Varna, close to Golden Sands National Park. The resort boasts several kilometres of beachfront. The southern end is the more recently developed and less crowded, while the northern end features numerous bars and small shops. You can reach Golden Sands by public transport. Bus number 109 connects Varna city centre to the resort, although the journey typically takes a little over an hour. Taxis are also available, but they tend to be on the pricier side.

Useful Information

Address: Златни пясъци, Varna Province
Website: www.visit.varna.bg/en/golden_sands.html

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship

Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship

Located on the hills of Varna, the Monument of Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship is a striking example of communist-era architecture. Built to honour the Soviet Army on Turna Hill, the monument now serves as both a historical landmark and a scenic viewpoint. You can climb its 305 steps for one of the best panoramic views of Varna or even use the climb as a workout, just as many locals do.

Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral

Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral

The Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral, located in the heart of Varna, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Built in the 19th century, it features stunning golden domes, intricate murals, and beautiful stained glass windows. Inside, you can admire the finely carved iconostasis and the bishop's throne. Entry is free, but visitors can purchase small candles at the reception as a contribution to the church, following the local tradition of lighting them while praying.

Sea Garden

Sea Garden

Varna's Sea Garden, stretching along the coast, is a beautiful public park that blends nature with seaside charm. This vast green space offers both relaxation and recreation, with shaded pathways, open lawns, and direct access to the beach. During the summer, you can swim in the Black Sea or browse stalls selling local souvenirs and handmade jewellery. The park is open year-round and it's free of charge.

Varna Fun Port

Varna Fun Port

Contrary to popular belief, Varna is not just about beaches and sunbathing. If you love games and fun, the Amusement Park offers a variety of attractions and entertainment facilities. While primarily designed for children, adults can also enjoy the lively atmosphere, take a stroll, or grab a bite at one of the many eateries nearby.

Varna Museum of Archaeology

Varna Museum of Archaeology

The Varna Museum of Archaeology houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the pre-Neolithic, Thracian, Scythian, Greek, and Roman periods. As one of the most important historical sites in Varna, it is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The exhibits are well-presented, with detailed explanations in English, offering a fascinating journey through Bulgaria’s ancient past.

Aladzha Monastery

Aladzha Monastery

Aladzha Monastery is the most famous medieval rock monastery on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Carved directly into the cliffs, it offers visitors a glimpse into the ascetic life of monks who once lived there. Climbing the steps into the rock face is an extraordinary experience, providing both history and breathtaking views. While most of the interpretation is in Bulgarian, the site is still well worth a visit. Located just 3.7 kilometres from Golden Sands and 15 kilometres from Varna, it is an easy and rewarding trip from the city.

Roman Thermae Varna

Roman Thermae Varna

Located in the southeastern part of Varna, the Roman Baths are the largest ancient public building discovered in Bulgaria. This remarkably well-preserved site offers visitors a chance to walk through history and admire the intricate details of the original structure. The affordable entrance fee makes it an excellent value, and it is considered one of the most important historical sites in Varna. After exploring, visitors can relax at the museum café.

Roman Baths of Odessos

Roman Baths of Odessos

The Roman Baths in Varna are the third-largest Roman ruins in Europe and the largest in Bulgaria. Built in the II century AD, these impressive thermal baths were once a central part of Roman social life, where people gathered to bathe in both hot and freezing cold water. The site is well-preserved, easy to access, and offers an affordable entrance fee.

Varna Seaport Lighthouse

Varna Seaport Lighthouse

The Varna lighthouse is easily accessible on foot, about a 20-minute walk from the eastern port. Once there, you can enjoy panoramic views of Varna Beach, Bulgarian navigation ships, and the bustling port. It remains an interesting landmark, where graffiti artists have left their mark on the structure, adding a layer of urban character.

University Botanical Garden Ecopark Varna

University Botanical Garden Ecopark Varna

This is a peaceful botanical garden and park perfect for a quiet stroll, offering shade during hot weather and a chance to spot native butterflies and other local wildlife. Popular among locals, it provides a relaxing escape from the city's hustle. Within the park, you can explore various attractions, including a charming chapel and an ancient Roman tomb. It's conveniently accessible by public transport.

Pobiti Kamani

Pobiti Kamani

Pobiti Kamani, also known as the Stone Forest, is a fascinating natural phenomenon featuring numerous limestone pillars, some as tall as 10 metres. These formations include hollow and solid cylinders, truncated cones, and scattered rocks and cliffs. The origin of this unique landscape remains a mystery, although evidence of human life dating back to the Mesolithic period has been discovered here. It's an intriguing destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in geological history. If you visit during the summer, make sure you bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, as the area can get quite hot. The Stone Forest is accessible by car or public transport.

Golden Sands

Golden Sands

Golden Sands is famous for its stunning golden sand and expansive beaches along the Black Sea. It's located 18 kilometres north of Varna, close to Golden Sands National Park. The resort boasts several kilometres of beachfront. The southern end is the more recently developed and less crowded, while the northern end features numerous bars and small shops. You can reach Golden Sands by public transport. Bus number 109 connects Varna city centre to the resort, although the journey typically takes a little over an hour. Taxis are also available, but they tend to be on the pricier side.

Balchik

Balchik

Balchik is a charming town and seaside resort on the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast, perfect for a day trip if you're staying in Varna. Despite its small size, this port city offers plenty of activities to fill your day. Stroll along the promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and gelato shops, explore the beautiful botanic garden, visit the historic Balchik Museum, or simply unwind on the beach. Balchik is easily accessible by bus from both Varna and Golden Sands.

Tyulenovo

Tyulenovo

Tyulenovo is a picturesque small village located near the Romanian border in northern Bulgaria. While it’s not accessible by public transport from Varna, its breathtaking cliffs and mesmerising sunsets make it well worth the effort to visit. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Shabla Lighthouse, a historic landmark situated about 6 kilometres north of Tyulenovo.

Durankulak Beach

Durankulak Beach

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from crowded beaches and want to soak up the sun in a secluded spot, Durankulak Beach is the perfect destination. Located in the Shabla Municipality, about 106 kilometres from Varna, this tranquil beach offers a serene atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle. Like many other northern Bulgarian Black Sea destinations, having your own vehicle is essential to reach Durankulak Beach, as there is no public transport available from Varna or Golden Sands. As an added bonus, you’ll be just 2 kilometres away from the Romanian border.

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