With holidays only increasing in price, Brits planning their 2025 getaways are looking for budget-friendly options, and one great option is the Bulgarian city of Varna.
Varna, located along Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, is a great lesser-known destination to explore this year, whether you’re planning a family holiday or a romantic getaway.
Flights from London Gatwick to Varna cost just £26.99 with Wizz Airlines, and it’s not just the flights where you’ll be saving money with hotel rooms available from the low cost of just £21 a night.
Food and drink are also cheap, with a pint of beer costing around £2 to £3, while a meal out at a budget-friendly restaurant can set you back just £7.60.
There’s also plenty to do in this stunning coastal city, with one highlight being Primorski Park, which is thought to be the largest and oldest park in Bulgaria.
Also known as the Sea Garden, Primorski Park is full of sweeping sea views and 19th-century fountains, along with its own aquarium, zoo, and planetarium.
Varna’s coastline is full of glorious beaches, many of which are home to lavish beach resorts, perfect for a relaxing getaway. While Bulgaria’s coastline may not be the most famous in Europe, it’s certainly on that shouldn’t be missed.
Varna is home to Bulgaria’s third-largest Cathedral, the beautiful Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin, which was built in the 19th century and opened on 30 August 1886 when the first church service was conducted.
The Cathedral houses an intricate bishop’s throne, which was created by Niko Mavrudi and was placed in the Cathedral eleven years after its opening. There is also a stunning iconostasis, alongside some stained glass windows, depicting the Saints Cyril and Methodius.
History fans visiting Varna should be sure to make a beeline to the city’s Archaeological Museum, where you can see some of the world’s oldest gold jewellery, which was excavated in 1972 and dates back to 4600-4200 BCE.
The Roman Thermae, the largest ancient building discovered in Bulgaria, is also located in Varna. The thermae also has the distinction of being one of Europe’s best-preserved Roman Baths.